Tuesday: Repitition, Word Patterns and Meaning
In Hebrew thought, there are a number of ways to express ideas that reinforce meaning and emphasize the importance of concepts. Unlike European languages, Hebrew contains no punctuation marks in the original language, so the language structure developed other ways to communicate such ideas.
Read Genesis 1:26-27; and Isaiah 6:1-3. What words are repeated in these passages? How are these repeated words enhanced by different concepts that are introduced through repetition?
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One of the ways that the Hebrew writer could emphasize a certain attribute of God was by repeating it three times. As the Creation account comes to the apex of God’s creative work, the text emphasized the unique importance of created humanity. The term bara’, “to create”, always has only God as its subject. That is, it is only God that has the power to create without being dependent on pre-existing matter. Here the text describes the creation of man: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Gen. 1:27, NKJV). Notice the three-fold repetition of the word “create”. Moses, thus, emphasized that human beings are created by God and that they are created in His image, as well. These truths were his emphasis.
In Isaiah’s vision and call, the seraphim repeat the words “Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts” (Isa. 6:3). The emphasis is on the holiness of an awesome God whose presence fills the temple. We also see this holiness through the words of Isaiah, as he stands in the presence of the Almighty: “Woe is me, for I am undone!” (Isa. 6:5, NKJV). Even a prophet like Isaiah, confronted with the holiness and character of God, cringed at his own unworthiness. Thus, even here, long before we have Paul’s exposition on human sinfulness and the need of a Savior (Romans chapters 1-3), we can see the Bible giving expression to the fallen nature of humanity, even in a “good” person like Isaiah.
In Daniel chapter 3, we have a repetition (with variations) of the phrase “the image which Nebuchadnezzar set up” (Dan. 3:1-3, Dan. 3:5, Dan. 3:7, Dan. 3:12, Dan. 3:14-15, Dan. 3:18, NKJV). This phrase, or variations of it, is repeated 10 times in the chapter to contrast Nebuchadnezzar’s action in defiance of the image God revealed to him through Daniel (Dan. 2:31-45). The emphasis here is on humanity’s seeking to make itself into a god to be worshiped, in contrast to the only true God, the only One worthy of worship.
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Luke 15 Lost sheep an illustration every shepherd of his day could relate to that story. Lost coin again illustrates the point about everyday life occurrence. Lost son makes the point the longing of a father over his lost son. Here three different illustrations are used to emphasize the lost condition but a loving savior rejoices over finding that which was lost. No judgment, no scolding, and no punishment rather the joy of being found back in to the family of God.
Our pastor CJ, in one of the sermons shared, God I would like to see my initials to remind me of your presence in my life. Then he shared how often he saw the initials CJ. In the simplest way through his sermon he taught us seek him you shall find Him.
Perhaps today, in the written language, repetition of words may not be such a trend. As culture thoroughly influences the way we communicate, and although it may be common in a written and formal message the repetition of an idea, it is normal to express it, repeatedly, but in different words.
However, in the spoken language for example, when we truly want to emphasize something, I doubt that none of us constantly repeat words, as an expression of desire, like a child seeking attention!
May the repetition of the fact that a lethal plague is all-around, giving us more consciousness, about our finitude and total dependence of existence! Thus, may we all be positive and grateful for the opportunity of being alive just one more day!
One of the reasons for the use of repetition also which the lesson didn't mention is the relatively few adjectives found in Old Testament Hebrew compared to other languages. So what will normally be taken care of with an adjective in English, for example, "supremely holy" is substituted with repetition, "holy, holy, holy."
Another way of explaining a thought is to have two phrases, where the same thing is said in a different way. Here in Isa 32:17 'shalom' (translated as peace) meaning safe, well, happy or friendly; is explained by the second phrase as quietness and assurance.
Isa 32:17 KJV And the work of righteousness shall be peace;
and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.
There are several Greek words that are translated as peace in English.
"eirene" is translated as "peace" in Matt 10;34, its meaning is prosperity or quietness or rest and it is put as the opposite to the word "sword" - "machaira" which means knife or judicial punishment
Mat 10:34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
The same Greek work is used in Rom 5:1 which helps us understand what Jesus meant when He used it.
Rom 5:1 KJV Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
"siopah" in Mat 20:31 is also translated as peace but it means silence, or involuntary stillness
Here comparing translations also helps us to understand what 'peace' in this text means.
Mat 20:31 KJV And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David.
Mat 20:31 MKJV And the crowd rebuked them, saying that they should be silent. But they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David!
The basic meaning of the English word peace is clear, using the tools available doesn't change the meaning, but it gives a richer understanding of what the author is conveying.
hermeneutics -
1. Plural form but singular or plural in construct. The study of the methodological principles of interpretation. (as of the Bible)
2. A method or principal of interpretation.
methodological -
Of or relating to method or methodology
As one can see by reading the definitions, there are multiple ways to read/study the Bible. A Bible Scholar can read the Scripture in two ways - he can read/study it as a scholar and apply methodological principles for interpretation regarding the construct of the text to correctly understand its composition;
Or, he/she can read it like everyone else - with the heart, a receptive mind and the help of God's Holy Spirit which will turn the reading of His word into a feast that nurtures the whole man/woman.
Reading it this way will remove many obstacles related to 'construct' and allows God's Light to shine directly into the readers heart and mind.
Each approach to reading God's word has a proper place and application. The scholar focuses his attention on establishing the correct methodological principles of interpretation of the written form/text of the Scripture.
This approach does not necessarily interpret the text's spiritual message, though. It just makes sure that the words are placed in their proper relationship with each other.
The other approach when reading the Scripture is to discover/learn/see/understand the underlying message of God's Truth as revealed by His Word. This underlying message uses the same words, but, in a way, speaks its own language.
So many words in the Scripture are used as a metaphor, desiring to express the spiritual application/hidden meaning of the written word. Clarity and proper interpretation/understanding is often reduced due to the limitations associated with the use of words.
To fully appreciate the Power of God's Word is difficult, because man's every day affairs are expressed with the same words that express God's mysteries - Who He is, His goals, His methods and how He plans to redeem mankind. He is Spirit and we are flesh, though He established a connection between both.
Which way do we, the average reader, approach the reading of the Scriptures? I am sure it is the second way! If we place too much emphasis on establishing correct hermeneutics, we overlook that God's Word is the powerful 'manna' which we depend on to feed our Spirit and soul.
I think I see your meaning here, but I don't believe applying mythological principles negates a heart receptive to truth. I know it often can appear that way, but to learn proper techniques when reading the Scriptures with an open heart can prevent one from gallivanting across the pages of Sacred Writ in a haphazard and damaging way. In my many years of being a student of the Word I have encountered many versions by those that believe they have the spiritual insight everyone else is missing. Had they applied proper techniques, and probably a better attitude in study, it would have prevented much confusion.
My experience in life is that value comes from systematic thoughtful effort to achieve an objective. I have found this especially true when seeking the Truth as it is in Jesus through the guidance of his Spirit. A person mining for gold would only at peril to life and limb fail to provide supporting structure and to have a plan as he mines deeply the earth’s veins for treasure.
This is just as true for the person who searches deeply God’s word as it is for the miner. I have often been rewarded by diligent effort with insights that naturally and easily would never have come to my mind, and can only conclude these insights came through God’s Spirit because God “rewards those who diligently search for him.” [Hebrews 11:6, ISV.]
The apostle Paul’s counsel to Timothy is of note: “Do your best to present yourself to God as an approved worker who has nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of truth with precision.” [2 Timothy 2:15.] Precision needs the right tools used properly. As any apprentice in the trades knows, learning to use the right tools for the work at hand is crucial to the success of the job. Just so, the Bible student.
As a tradesman, I have seen those who used tools incorrectly lose body parts and been badly injured. As a Christian, I have seen the results of poor study: pointless destructive controversy. Continuing with Paul’s counsel to Timothy:
Here is a quotation worthy of consideration:
Christ’s Spirit and Word will lead to the Way, the Truth and the Life. Only trust him and he will lead you.