The Power of Words

Ephesians 4:29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. NLV

Ephesians is credited to the disciple Paul, but some scholars argue that it could have been written by one of followers. If this and other passages were not written by Paul, does that change our view of these texts? Here are just a few things to consider regarding the power of words as we read our Bibles and use our own words to create community.

First, that the Bible was written in several languages. The Old Testament in Hebrew with some sections in Aramaic.  Christ’s primary language was Aramaic, but scriptures (The Torah) would have been in Hebrew, that Greek rule meant Greek language, and that Latin was the official language of the Roman administration. If a writer wanted to have greater reach, they would have chosen Greek, the lingua franca of Roman times. New Testament was written in Greek.

Second, we know that translations can may not capture subtle nuances, word order use and structures which often contribute to further and deeper meaning to the written words.  For example, having studied German I know there are reflexive verbs that do not exist in the English language, and a translation does not carry the weight of the concept in its original language. This is why word for word translations can sound off, odd or laughable.

Third, that as educated people we can be curious to know and explore the original source and context of writings when and where possible.

One example of this is the South African term “Ubuntu” which translates to “humanity toward others” (hmm sounds like the golden rule), but has also been translated to “I am, because we are”.  Which is again a bit of what I hope “we” are trying to create in our daily lives. When I re-explored this on the web the description, “Emphasizes that a person’s identity, humanity, and well-being are inherently tied to their relationships and community,” and this cannot be better said.

As we interact with each other, our words have power. Do you choose your words with care? Was there ever a time your words landed badly? A time when you heard just the right thing and just the right time? How does The Word lift your spirit?

To further illustrate the power of words, the below link as another translation of The Lord’s Prayers, which I found beautiful. Click the link below and let me know if you agree?

https://redeemerbaltimore.org/interpreting-the-lords-prayer-from-the-aramaic/