As someone about to start a PhD in ancient Hebrew theology, it would be REALLY HECKIN NICE if they hadn't lost GOD'S NAME by refusing to say it. I get it, I'm a Christian and I know God should be spoken of with respect, but he wouldn't have told us just for us to never say it again!!!

by Ydurgan 1 week ago

"Do not take the Lord's name in vain" DOES NOT MEAN "Do not speak God's name." Sadly I was not around ~2,000+ years ago to slap that sense into someone. I know I'm oversimplifying (and off a roughly fifth-hand translation to make matters worse), but to take someone's name implies impersonation IMO, meaning that passage is better interpreted as "don't pretend to be God" or "don't be a false prophet." The in vain part could be argued as direct support of that interpretation OR as specific permission to break that taboo if the need is great enough. IE, "Hey guys, we should really evacuate before that volcano erupts..." "Who says?" "GOD says, OK Jerry? Now get the wife and kids, let's GO."

by Anonymous 1 week ago

I'm just kinda hung up on that paradox you pointed out of "how to tell someone to not talk about something if you aren't supposed to talk about it" lol

by Anonymous 1 week ago

"First rule of Fight Club" problem, for sure.

by Anonymous 1 week ago

Maybe the people in these cultures are ok with these specific ideologies and beliefs being forgotten over time. It's their choice at the end of the day.

by Gennarobartell 1 week ago