Is it possible that an English translation transformed the Ten Commandments? The answer to these questions suggests that a not so accurate translation significantly impacted theology and contemporary beliefs. To understand how this happened, the initial inquiry is the Hebrew Bible. Before doing so, an understanding of how the Hebrew phrase for the Ten CommandmentsContinue reading “In Search of The Ten Commandments”
Author Archives: biblelifestudies
A Biblical Moment Literacy, #2, Mishpatim- Plus A Bonus Rant
Biblical Literacy pays off. Both socially and professionally, a snappy poignant Hebrew Bible passage can be a game-changer. Whether for writing or conversation, scripture is loaded with insightful quotes on a panoply of topics. This “Blog Post Series” is meant to offer up some meaningful and employable lines to enhance ones rhetorical toolbox. Practice WhatContinue reading “A Biblical Moment Literacy, #2, Mishpatim- Plus A Bonus Rant”
The Answer: Mishpatim’s Ten Commandments’ Moment
Why are no punishments listed within the Ten Commandments? This often asked Decalogue question is partially answered in the Torah Portion Mishpatim. The answer is two-pronged, one part is complex while the other is simple. The complex part of the answer pertains to the concept of Community vs. Individual Code of Conduct. Since the DecalogueContinue reading “The Answer: Mishpatim’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”
The Off-the-Books Law
Is it possible to have both a Written and an Oral Law? The answer is yes! While the concept is enigmatic, from a legal standpoint, it makes complete sense. The events in the Torah Portion Yitro reveal that an Israelite legal system existed prior to the Ten Commandments. Beyond that, a body of Oral LawContinue reading “The Off-the-Books Law”
A Brief Moment of Biblical Literacy: Beshalach
The Torah’s contemporaneous composition is a misconception. The Torah itself dispels the assumption that the totality of its passages were crafted in temporal proximity to the events. One of these instances is in the Torah Portion Beshalach. A Beshalach passage illustrates a writing style with a pedagogical purpose. The Passage The Beshalach passage at issueContinue reading “A Brief Moment of Biblical Literacy: Beshalach”
Message’s Multiple Meanings: Beshalach’s Ten Commandments’ Moment
Each according to what he needs Exodus 16:16 Messages produce multiple meanings. Once transmitted, the communicator loses control. It’s the audience that captures, formulates and re-shapes the message. Pandora’s microphone anyone? In essence, one never just communicates a point. Rather, they communicate far more; they ignite a multitude of impressions, concepts or viewpoints. The TorahContinue reading “Message’s Multiple Meanings: Beshalach’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”
Community Rules: Bo’s Ten Commandments’ Moment
All of the congregation of Israel shall do it Exodus 12:47 Thanksgiving is celebrated across the United States. The Thursday event is when family and friends join in a smorgasbord-like meal with traditional offerings. Many take a moment on the day to express gratitude. Then, some turn on the television to watch the Detroit Lions’Continue reading “Community Rules: Bo’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”
The Tipping Point in Real Time: Va’era
Posting on current events can often be futile. As many news items have limited shelf-life, a post’s utility evaporates rapidly. With the ongoing Iranian uprising, however, this is not the case. What is transpiring aptly connects into the political theories espoused by the Hebrew Bible. Specifically, the Torah Portion Va’era touches on an ongoing conflict;Continue reading “The Tipping Point in Real Time: Va’era”
The Book of Lamentations’ Ten Commandments Moment
Sometimes, it’s over. A nation is crushed. With that, people must query: “is there is anything left?” With the populace in despair, other questions arise: “How did it come to this?”; “What is to become of us?”; and “Who are we?” These questions weight heavy on a nation eternally covenanted-by Decalogue- to a Deity. Writings,Continue reading “The Book of Lamentations’ Ten Commandments Moment”
Moses’ Three Chapters
You said you’d stand by me in the middle of Chapter Three Elvis Costello To fully appreciate Moses’ story and accomplishments, earlier scriptural themes must be considered. Long before his birth, during the time of the Patriarchs, biblical themes emerged. Three of these themes are embedded within the three chapters in Moses’ life- the Palace,Continue reading “Moses’ Three Chapters”
The Ten Commandments Project 