Anyone who knows more than one language understands that translating languages can be very difficult. The same is true for the Bible. The Bible was originally written in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramic. Due to the difference in language syntax, translating the original documents into modern languages can sometimes prove to be challenging. Because of differences in vocabulary and grammar, translators will either choose to translate word for word (like the KJV), or thought for thought (like the NIV). As best as we try to translate the original writings, unspoken understandings or contexts can be left out.
One example is the Hebrew word "chesed." "Chesed" is closely associated with English word "mercy," but as N.HSnaith describes, it is also with the phrase "loving kindness" comes from,. Snaith says, "God's loving-kindness is that sure love which will not let Israel go. Not all Israel's persistent waywardness could every destroy it. Though Israel be faithless, yet God remains faithful still. This steady, persistent refusal of God to wash his hands of wayward Israel is the essential meaning of the Hebrew word which is translated loving-kindness."
Understanding the greater context of the word "mercy" helps us to understand our God better. "Chesed" shows us a God who actively pursues us in mercy. It shows us that God shows mercy and kindness to us, long before we regret or even realize what we are doing.
Living Life
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment