The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes his covenant known to them. (Psalm 25: 14)
Older translations use the word "secret" instead of friendship. The Hebrew is cowd which, depending on context, can also mean a meeting, counsel, or intimate conversation.
We cherish meetings with our best friends. In these intimate settings we can share our secrets and seek their counsel.
The Hebrew for fear (yare') can also be translated as respect, honor, or be astonished. True friendship is astonishing. Friendship includes a full encounter with the otherness of our friend and yet despite this difference we discover sharing so much. The love of friends can transform our lives.
Covenant is a profoundly important concept of faith and theology. The original Hebrew is ber-eeth. This is also the term for a treaty between nations, or a marriage, or the alliance of friends. It is derived from the Hebrew for eating. A friendship fills and satisfies us.
Given the importance of our relationship with God we have developed an exalted language to discuss it. This is appropriate. It can also be an impediment.
We might also understand this verse as, "God's friendship is available to all who treat God as a friend." In our best friends we may also experience some of God's love.
Older translations use the word "secret" instead of friendship. The Hebrew is cowd which, depending on context, can also mean a meeting, counsel, or intimate conversation.
We cherish meetings with our best friends. In these intimate settings we can share our secrets and seek their counsel.
The Hebrew for fear (yare') can also be translated as respect, honor, or be astonished. True friendship is astonishing. Friendship includes a full encounter with the otherness of our friend and yet despite this difference we discover sharing so much. The love of friends can transform our lives.
Covenant is a profoundly important concept of faith and theology. The original Hebrew is ber-eeth. This is also the term for a treaty between nations, or a marriage, or the alliance of friends. It is derived from the Hebrew for eating. A friendship fills and satisfies us.
Given the importance of our relationship with God we have developed an exalted language to discuss it. This is appropriate. It can also be an impediment.
We might also understand this verse as, "God's friendship is available to all who treat God as a friend." In our best friends we may also experience some of God's love.
posted by Didymus | 5:53 AM
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