You think that I don’t even mean a single word I say, it’s only words and words are all I have Bee Gees Words are not equal. In the world of scripture, it is even possible to assert the word “equal” is not equal to itself! In antiquity, perhaps due to the combination literacy rate,Continue reading “The Power of the Word- Matot’s Ten Commandments’ Moment”
Tag Archives: bible
A Prophet’s Revealing Ten Commandments’ Moment
Unlike other prophetic books Jeremiah’s richly addresses the Ten Commandments. Understanding both the book’s content as well as the Prophet’s background allows one to appreciate Jeremiah’s significance. Upon review, it is easy to see that the Prophet is one of the most compelling post-Torah scriptural figures. While Jeremiah’s writings are outside of the Pentateuch, thereContinue reading “A Prophet’s Revealing Ten Commandments’ Moment”
Moments
The Torah Portion Pinchas is a study of the moment. With moments, we might wax poetically. After all, moments are the moments in which something special happens. This something special happens in time. Thus, it is a moment. We, however, does not have to engage in such frivolity to make a point. Rather, the eventsContinue reading “Moments”
Changing Narratives: Balak
Due to the attempted assassination of Presidential Candidate Donald Trump, I thought it would be fruitless exercise to finish and post anything this weekend. An act of political violence which left one spectator killed and two others were seriously wounded certainly consumes a country’s psyche. With this event, the talking heads abound have come forwardContinue reading “Changing Narratives: Balak”
Psalm 23a
What does it take write an epic song? Historically, the Hebrew Bible contains many historically enduring compositions. Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known. The famous opening line is “The Lord is my shepherd.” The Psalm, traditionally recited at funerals and memorial services, connects with people in that moment of reflection and grief. No ironyContinue reading “Psalm 23a”
Polemic Pedagogy: Learning from The Hebrew “Greek Tragedy” of Chukat
Animal species’ ability to teach creates a competitive advantage. Outside of Humans, Parrots and Corvids most notably enjoy success by their ability to share and transfer knowledge. One comical moment of this pedagogy comes from African Grey Parrots. At an animal park, some salty speaking African Greys caused problems. After these foul-mouthed birds realized thatContinue reading “Polemic Pedagogy: Learning from The Hebrew “Greek Tragedy” of Chukat”
Is Preference Lost In Translation?
With Louisiana’s Ten Commandments’ Law requiring the posting in public school classrooms moving towards enaction, critics are raising concern that the language used for the Commandments’ sign constitutes a form of “choice”. In essence, the “choice” of words constituted a preference towards a particular religion or religious sect. “Choice”, in this instance, is nonsensical. TheContinue reading “Is Preference Lost In Translation?”
The Art of Leading: Korach, A Ten Commandments’ Moment
” The Lord said to Moses: Put Aaron’s staff back in front of the Testimony as a keepsake [and] a sign for rebellious ones. Then their complaints against Me will end and they will not die.” Numbers 17:25 Shortly after passing the bar examination, lawyers are promptly sworn-in and can immediately practice law. Despite havingContinue reading “The Art of Leading: Korach, A Ten Commandments’ Moment”
A Secular Education Lesson Plan for The Ten Commandments: Law vs. Moral Code
Originally, the Ten Commandments served as part of the Legal Code for the Israelite Nation. The Ten Commandments was an important legal document for the country. It was if the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution and other laws were placed all into one document. The Ten Commandments include matters involving morals and values.Continue reading “A Secular Education Lesson Plan for The Ten Commandments: Law vs. Moral Code”
The Lies of Spies
Lies can be impactful. They can shape a nation’s fate. When articulated by the well-respected, they are particularly dangerous. Deception is a form of lying; it uniquely provides the employer the cover of deniability. The polemical Torah Portion Shelach captures a nation suffering severe consequences as a result of deception. Shelach’s tale begins with MosesContinue reading “The Lies of Spies”