WORDS OF CURRENT INTEREST

[The words in this issue are related to the Lesson-Sermon in the Christian Science Quarterly designated to be read in Christian Science churches on March 21, 1965.]

Return, ye backsliding children and i will heal your backslidings (Jer. 3:22) The Hebrew verb shuv (return) means also "turn." while at the same time it is the root of tie words translated "backsliding" and "backsliding." Streane in commenting on this passage, notes: "The Hebrew is striking in its play on the word turn. Turn, ye turned children; I will heal your turnings."

Cursed he the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm (Jer. 17:5) Since in the Bible "arm" was constantly used to symbolize strength or power, as was " flesh" to indicate materiality or material man, Moffatt's rendering well suggests the prophet's thought, "A curse on him who relies on man, and leans upon mere human aid."

The lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16) Phillips renders the verse, "For the whole world-system, based as it is on men's primitive desires, their greedy ambitions and the glamour of all that they think splendid, is not derived from the Father at all, but from the world itself."

Crude (adjective) (krood'—on as in food) . Marked by the primitive, gross, or elemental or by the most readily apprehended; wanting subtlety, nuance, or complexity; low in analysis, perception, or appreciation. Rough or inexpert in plan or execution; wanting advanced technical skill in contrivance and elegance in effect.

Seances (sa'ans'ez—first a as in ace, second as in arm, e as in silent; or sa'ans'ez). From the Latin, through the French, the word "seance" means strictly "sitting." While it is often used to describe a meeting for the purpose of receiving spirit communications, it can also mean a coming together or session (as of a public body, a learned society, a class) for a particular purpose (as deliberation discussion, recitation).

Mysticism (mis'ti-siz'm—first and third is as in is, second as in chanty). The experience of mystical union or direct communication with ultimate reality reported by mystics. "Mysticism" is sometimes used as a synonym for vague speculation; a belief without foundation.

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit