Many religions teach that the Bible is history. But in assuming a historical context, we miss the point. By understanding the Bible as a historical document, we dismiss the intended allegory. To understand the meaning behind the text, we must understand it from the mindset and culture of those who wrote it.
I will have to comment on this later. But I thought I would share the latest tidbit of ridiculous news to come across my desk.
VATICAN CITY (AP) - The Vatican on Tuesday issued a "Ten Commandments" for motorists to keep them on the road to salvation, warning drivers against the sins of road rage, abuse of alcohol or even simple rudeness.
The unusual document from the Vatican's office for migrants and itinerant people also warned that automobiles can be "an occasion of sin" - particularly when used to make a dangerous passing maneuver or when used by prostitutes and their clients.
[A response to a sermon given at Mt. Zion Temple in St. Paul, MN by a visiting Rabbi September 9, 2005]
Growing up, my family was poor. My parents continued to pay off their creditors even after filing bankruptcy not because they had to, but because they realized that it was their debt that they incurred by themselves. To them, not doing so was tantamount to stealing. Because of the financial hardships that they had encountered, there was very little in the way of luxury in the house. At one point, the only furniture was the beds that my sister and I slept upon. We considered ourselves lucky because we had a roof over our heads.
On the first Shabbat of each month, our synagogue moves the time of services up by one hour to facilitate participation of our younger members and children's choir. The sermon is generally more tailored for the youthful aspect of the audience and made kid friendly. But is that any reason to sacrifice accuracy or inject political commentary? I don't think so.