Studying the Bible is tricky. It’s got different translations, different interpretations, and different meanings behind words. We assume that the Bible means in English what it meant in its original language, but is that altogether true?
The Bible was originally written in three languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Hebrew makes up the Old Testament, portions of Daniel and Ezra were primarily written in Aramaic, and Greek makes up the New Testament.
In knowing your fair share of Greek and Hebrew terms, the context of the Bible becomes clearer. It’s like learning the history of America. Sometimes you feel it may not be relevant, but we study it because it helps us learn, grow, and empathize.
Look at the word love: In Hebrew, the word is Ahavah. Ahavah doesn’t necessarily mean the emotional feelings. It’s an act of doing. For application, Deuteronomy 6:5 says,
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” This love is an action word. It’s not simply to profess that you love God, or feel like you love God, but show that you love God.
Love God with all that you are. In the way you treat others, in the way you conduct yourself when someone cuts you off in traffic, in the way you hold yourself when your faith is being challenged. In other words, don’t talk about it, be about it.
Concerning the Greek language, there are four types of love:
Eros - Romantic love
Storge - Familial love
Philia- Brotherly love
Agape - The love God has for us (considered to be the greatest kind)
In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, we’re reminded that love is patient, love is kind, and love does not boast among other things. This isn’t referring to the romantic or brotherly love, but rather the agape love God has for us. It's the highest form of love we are called to extend out to humanity.
In John 11:33-35, A man named Lazarus has died and Jesus witnesses his sisters weeping. Deeply moved, Jesus weeps with them also. Jesus’ love for Lazarus is philia, a brotherly love. Weep with those who weep. Have compassion towards fellow humans.
The Hebrew and Greek translation of biblical words makes all the difference in applying the scriptures to modern life. Love with action. Love with the divine love God has shown to us. Love your brothers and sisters. Love the human race.
It's not easy or quick to learn tidbits of a different language. It takes some discipline and persistence, but those are two virtues the Bible commends, and it will pay dividends to your walk with Christ.
(A GREAT resource is The Bible Project. It is super informative yet captivating, and I always learn something new.)
Take joy,
Abby
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