Category Archives: bible

Psalm 18

Picture him now, marching victoriously at the head of his column of troops. It’s a long hike, and David is full to bursting with thanksgiving. With his natural grand talent for what was music and poetry among Hebrew people, he … Continue reading

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Psalm 17

In Ancient Near Eastern feudalism, one would present before the sovereign emperor a petition against injustice. The natural assumption is not that the Lord doesn’t know, but that He won’t necessarily act if you think you can handle it. Delegation … Continue reading

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Song of Solomon 7

Sometimes it’s all a matter of taste. This chapter is by far the most risqué language in the Bible, but it’s obscured by euphemisms and symbolic references. The groom describes his bride, starting from her feet. Some of the references … Continue reading

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Psalm 16

In the Hebrew mind, the highest good was shalom. More than simple absence of distress or conflict, it was much broader. Perhaps a better term would be “social stability” — a combination of salient factors working together to provide a … Continue reading

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Song of Solomon 6

The bride continues conferring with her support network. The maidens ask if the bride knows where her man went. The question refers more to the kind of place, rather than some specific location. The bride answers that he is downright … Continue reading

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Psalm 15

Between the ineffable spiritual truth and mere legalistic literalism is a place of moral commitment in the soul touched by eternity. In the Hebrew mind, spiritual birth was not necessary for obedience when the entire cultural slant assumes feudal obligations … Continue reading

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Song of Solomon 5

Blunt lesson here: Once you have surrendered to your man, you are no longer your own. As he is yours, you are his. That’s how God sees it. The chapter begins with the groom declaring he is making love to … Continue reading

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Psalm 14

In Hebrew thinking, the concept of “fool” is someone devoid of moral perception. Almost every other human talent can be present in abundance, but without using God’s revelation as a reference point, you cannot possibly be acceptable to Him. The … Continue reading

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Song of Solomon 4

This is the one day in a woman’s life when she is queen of all who gaze upon her, the day of her wedding. This chapter describes the ornate garments and jewelry which bear little resemblance to Western brides. Should … Continue reading

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Psalm 13

It’s not a question of whether the Psalmist is close to literal death, but that he faces an experience of death on a broader level. David could live without his crown, but was altogether worried that his situation signaled he … Continue reading

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