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“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain.” (Exodus 20:7)
I have invested a fair amount of time thinking about this commandment (specially after LS drew my attention to the fact that I was taking God’s name in vain, when commenting one of his intellectual delicatessens) and I would like to invite you to ponder upon this unusual topic…
It is not uncommon to hear that God’s name is not to be taken lightly nor to be written if we know that there is the slightest chance of it being deleted or burned (N.B: any text or book containing God’s name is to be buried).
And now there are two pertinent questions that I would like to share with you:
In this context, what does “in vain” mean exactly?
It means “without due reverence, honour or respect”; but if one uses expressions such as “oh, my God!” “Oh, Lord!” “Oh, my sweet Lord!” with respect, honour or reverence (i.e. if one wishes God to partake in his actions, emotions, thoughts and words; if having conscience of God’s presence is vital to one’s endurance, patience) then calling for Him should not be considered taking His name in vain.
On the other hand if ones makes use of the afore mentioned expressions just for the sake of exclamation; thus depleting God’s name of Its sanctity, awe and high regard; if one feels no deep love for Him nor acknowledges His authority, then perhaps His name is utterly being taken in vain.
In these examples, unless we know the person well (and I hold a theory that we never know people that well) there is no way to predict the intention behind his/her words, therefore it is up to God to judge if they are taking His name in vain or not.
There is, though, a sound example (one that people can actually judge) of taking the Lord’s name in vain: when you know that a person is lying, you hold proof of his deceit and lie, yet this individual has the nerve to say “I swear by God that I am being truthful!”…
Why the need to constantly utter God’s name?
For those who believe in Him it could be said that they seek comfort, support, strength, well-being, and sense of belonging, of being on the right track…
For those who believe in Him and purposelessly speak His name it could be upheld that they ignore the depth of the 3rd commandment and thus are in deep need of immediate spiritual and intellectual guidance.
For those who claim to not believe in Him, it could be stated that their Id recognises its Source and so it keeps reminding their Super Ego of His existence, notwithstanding their Ego refuses to accept the Truth. And since they decided to refuse the Existence, the Authority of God and still keep taking His name in vain, they won’t be able to escape punishment (be it either under the form of direct misfortune or through the cycle of re-birth, until they become fully cognisant of God’s Omnipresence, Omniscience and Omnipotence).
Before invoking His sacred name, and presence, people should be absolutely certain of the reasons that lead them to execute such invocation.
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Hello Max;
ReplyDeleteThis should be VERY interesting!!!
Actually Max, I didn’t exactly say you were taking the Lord’s name in vain…Now technically if a person does not show proper respect to the True Living God then yes they are abusing god’s name, so from a Christian perspective this would include not showing Jesus the same respect as God since He is God from the Christian perspective…BUT our conversation was not taken in that manner by me…
Another way of literally translating Exodus 20:7 into modern English is:
"You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
- - TNIV
Here it is interestingly paraphrased:
No using the name of GOD, your God, in curses or silly banter; GOD won't put up with the irreverent use of his name.
-- The Message
The paraphrase actually does a good job of properly translating the meaning in the Hebrew.
The section of John 20:28 for example that we were talking about when Thomas calls Jesus “My Lord and my God!” has an exclamation mark because the Greek linguistics demands this from the English, if Thomas was not directing this at Jesus Who was standing right in front of him then it would have been sin….and Jesus should have corrected Thomas but instead He actually receives and acknowledges this worship…However if Thomas had been saying this t o a mere human then it would be sin…
There is however an aspect missing in this conversation, when speaking of the “Name”. The name of God does not simply mean the tetragrammaton (YHWH, Yahweh God’s name), when the name is used it includes the character and nature of the one addressed, therefore it goes beyond even using it as an expletive…Or indeed if a person is doing it in reference to another “god” then this is still sin…as it attacks the One True God. It is sin to call anybody or anything God except for the One True God; it is also sin to ascribe characteristics to Him that are false…these kinds of things are all wrapped up in how we regard His Name….just as our rejection of God in relationship is also sin…
You said:
I hold a theory that we never know people that well
I respond:
I agree Max, however God knows everybody better than they know themselves…
You said:
there is no way to predict the intention behind his/her words, therefore it is up to God to judge if they are taking His name in vain or not.
There is, though, a sound example (one that people can actually judge) of taking the Lord’s name in vain: when you know that a person is lying, you hold proof of his deceit and lie, yet this individual has the nerve to say “I swear by God that I am being truthful!”…
I respond:
In order for a person to be deemed as lying are you willing to concede there is absolute truth? There must be absolute truth if there is lying, is not absolute truth the standard by which you are measuring this as the “proof” you speak of? This also requires judging, is it proper to judge if a person is lying?
Jesus explains to us about oaths or “swearing”….
33 “You have also heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the LORD.’34 But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, ‘By heaven!’ because heaven is God’s throne. 35 And do not say, ‘By the earth!’ because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, ‘By Jerusalem!’ for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. 36 Do not even say, ‘By my head!’ for you can’t turn one hair white or black. 37 Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.
- - Matthew 5:33-37
You said:
For those who believe in Him it could be said that they seek comfort, support, strength, well-being, and sense of belonging, of being on the right track…
For those who believe in Him and purposelessly speak His name it could be upheld that they ignore the depth of the 3rd commandment and thus are in deep need of immediate spiritual and intellectual guidance.
I respond:
There is no prohibition against using God’s name, we are simply to regard it reverently and respectfully.
I will go a step further here, I believe it is incorrect for Jewish and Christian scholars to not translate God’s name or at the least the tetragrammaton should be used and not LORD for example. This replacing of the tetragrammaton with LORD was started out of legalism on behalf of the Jewish scribes and has continued with Christian translators, however some Bibles do render God’s name as “Yahweh”…..
People abuse the name of God at their own peril, just as worshiping a false “god”…
You said:
For those who claim to not believe in Him, it could be stated that their Id recognises its Source and so it keeps reminding their Super Ego of His existence, notwithstanding their Ego refuses to accept the Truth. And since they decided to refuse the Existence, the Authority of God and still keep taking His name in vain, they won’t be able to escape punishment (be it either under the form of direct misfortune or through the cycle of re-birth, until they become fully cognisant of God’s Omnipresence, Omniscience and Omnipotence).
I respond:
When you say “claim to not believe in Him” are you inferring that they do indeed believe even if they say they don’t?
Christians would say that God is knowable, in that you can have a personal relationship with Him, God loves us, yet people prefer darkness…they like their sin…they like their pride to do as they will in rejection of Him…
I love cycling but I don’t believe in the cycle of reincarnation, I do believe in the Biblical concept of resurrection…this conversation seems familiar (LOL I thought you would like that).
Do you mean if I wasn’t so stupid and/or ignorant I would not be reincarnated? I must be a real dumb bunny…
You said:
Before invoking His sacred name, and presence, people should be absolutely certain of the reasons that lead them to execute such invocation.
I respond:
I agree, of course proper relationship is imperative with addressing God…Invoking a false “god” is sin…
By the way Max, you know one of the interesting things about the human looking cylons is that when they are “killed” they download into a duplicate body on a “resurrection” ship. They keep all their memories….
Max….fantabulous article!!! You are on your game!!! Very thought provoking….
Max,
ReplyDeleteSpectacular photo.
I think that there will always be a level of misinterpretation of the bible. One can read it a thousand times and misinterpret it as many times. So the question is how does one interpret the bible? Is it only as good as it's interpreter's view or do we step back and ask our inner God how to interpret it?
"In this context, what does “in vain” mean exactly?
It means “without due reverence, honour or respect”; but if one uses expressions such as “oh, my God!” “Oh, Lord!” “Oh, my sweet Lord!” with respect, honour or reverence (i.e. if one wishes God to partake in his actions, emotions, thoughts and words; if having conscience of God’s presence is vital to one’s endurance, patience) then calling for Him should not be considered taking His name in vain."
I agree. It is the intention and inflection behind the words we use and what is in our heart when we use words.
The tone of language in general can be misconstrued. Take for instance the words that rappers use; (the B word, The N word, The F word, etc.) the words are highly distasteful, disrespectful, despicable to some, but to others the words are readily accepted as a part of the spectrum of language and they don't find them offensive. So in essence, it is like splitting hairs. (that's not to say that I agree with rappers, it's just an observation.)
We can't learn the secrets of life, love and behavior at their deepest core from a book. Books are only stepping stones to open discussion, to bridge the gap of understanding and to perhaps offer a different perspective. I believe the main purpose is to cause us to discover the deeper truths within us, to face ourselves unflinchingly and to have no fear in what we uncover.
"On the other hand if ones makes use of the afore mentioned expressions just for the sake of exclamation; thus depleting God’s name of Its sanctity, awe and high regard; if one feels no deep love for Him nor acknowledges His authority, then perhaps His name is utterly being taken in vain."
I don't think we can say who is taking the name in vain. Is our call as mortals to point the finger and to insinuate that we are the judge and jury of other mortals? We have to concentrate on our garden of love and grow in compassion, benevolence and benefaction. If we keep our garden well maintained, then it will be an example of what others can do in their own gardens. (Get your green thumb ready.)
"There is, though, a sound example (one that people can actually judge) of taking the Lord’s name in vain: when you know that a person is lying, you hold proof of his deceit and lie, yet this individual has the nerve to say “I swear by God that I am being truthful."
Exactly and that is between him and God and his karmic circumstances.
Outstanding post my dear. Applause. Encore. Curtain call.
Godly Cheers
Hello LS!
ReplyDelete“This should be VERY interesting!!!” – I agree…let’s see what gift you brought me :D!
“Actually Max, I didn’t exactly say you were taking the Lord’s name in vain…Now technically if a person does not show proper respect to the True Living God then yes they are abusing god’s name, so from a Christian perspective this would include not showing Jesus the same respect as God since He is God from the Christian perspective…BUT our conversation was not taken in that manner by me…” – well, you did say something like “I believe you are taking God’s name in vain” you may have been joking, which is fine, but I remember telling you that we had to have this conversation, and it was then when I had the idea of writing this article :). I understand your Christian perspective, but as you know I do not view Jesus as God, to me he is a servant sent to perform a task.
And speaking of which…do you consider people who use the expression “Jesus!!!” all the time to be taking his name in vain (under the Christian perspective)? Cause to me that expression is a cultural one (people who grow up in Western countries and yet profess other religions, often use the “Jesus!!!” expression as an expression for cultural reasons)…just like “Oh Christ!!” instead of the “s” word and other similar locutions…
“Another way of literally translating Exodus 20:7 into modern English is:
"You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. - - TNIV” – thank you, my friend…still, it doesn’t alter what I have written, does it?
“The paraphrase actually does a good job of properly translating the meaning in the Hebrew.” – it did; thank you *bowing*!
“The section of John 20:28 for example that we were talking about when Thomas calls Jesus “My Lord and my God!” has an exclamation mark because the Greek linguistics demands this from the English, if Thomas was not directing this at Jesus Who was standing right in front of him then it would have been sin….and Jesus should have corrected Thomas but instead He actually receives and acknowledges this worship…However if Thomas had been saying this t o a mere human then it would be sin…” – Jesus was a mere human, although with special powers; but let’s not get back into this…
I have already told you that Thomas recognised the “Royal ring” of God on Jesus (who was speaking on His behalf, since he was sent to fulfil the first part of God’s plan)…but I understand that this may be a little bit hard for a Christian to swallow…
“The name of God does not simply mean the tetragrammaton (YHWH, Yahweh God’s name), when the name is used it includes the character and nature of the one addressed, therefore it goes beyond even using it as an expletive…” – I am so glad that you brought this up! Nobody’s name is just the tetragrammaton, it also englobes one’s character and nature (this is why naming a person is so important, and most parents take this task extremely lightly). But let’s continue the issue at hand…
“Or indeed if a person is doing it in reference to another “god” then this is still sin…as it attacks the One True God. It is sin to call anybody or anything God except for the One True God; it is also sin to ascribe characteristics to Him that are false…these kinds of things are all wrapped up in how we regard His Name….just as our rejection of God in relationship is also sin…” – I agree that rejecting God in relationship is a huge transgression! I also agree that calling God to anybody or anything except for the One is despicable and an utter disrespect, not to mention a huge transgression! Now, what characteristics would be ascribed to Him that are false?
“I agree Max, however God knows everybody better than they know themselves…” – true, but I was saying that since we do not know people well we cannot judge; whereas God, He Who Knows everything, can (and will) judge everybody.
“In order for a person to be deemed as lying are you willing to concede there is absolute truth? There must be absolute truth if there is lying, is not absolute truth the standard by which you are measuring this as the “proof” you speak of? This also requires judging, is it proper to judge if a person is lying?” – courts catch liars everyday (although they also convict people who tell the truth, but that is another subject) due to evidence of their misdemeanour, lie, deceit, counterfeit, major crime etc…do they uphold to an absolute truth? No…
If there is lying there is truth. The standard by which many times proof is measured is “truth” but that doesn’t mean that it is absolute.
Yes, it is proper to judge a person who lies when there is proof that goes beyond any reasonable doubt (still it doesn’t make it absolute). If a person lies and there is no proof, then it is up to God to judge it, not us (since reasonable doubt withstands).
“- - Matthew 5:33-37” – he does have a point. What I do not feel comfortable with is when he seems to contradict the Law, it feels funny…
“There is no prohibition against using God’s name, we are simply to regard it reverently and respectfully.” – yes, but there is where it lies the problem: not always reverence and respect are applied when using His name. And it is up to us to carefully measure it, it is our responsibility to ensure that when we utter His name we are doing it respectfully…now, is it possible for me to see how reverent you are being when saying His name, or vice-versa? It’s difficult; and as such I think we should leave it to God to judge it…
“I will go a step further here, I believe it is incorrect for Jewish and Christian scholars to not translate God’s name or at the least the tetragrammaton should be used and not LORD for example. This replacing of the tetragrammaton with LORD was started out of legalism on behalf of the Jewish scribes and has continued with Christian translators, however some Bibles do render God’s name as “Yahweh”…..” – well, I do not find it incorrect cause I believe to be their way of showing God their respect and reverence. I only write God’s name if I am absolutely sure that it won’t be deleted, but I do write it, I have no problems with that. As I said, I leave those things for God to judge, as long as people show their respect to God, and acknowledge His authority: it is quite fine by me.
“People abuse the name of God at their own peril, just as worshiping a false “god”…” – I hear you…When God says that He is the God of gods, to which gods is He referring to? And if He is their God, isn’t He acknowledging the existence of other gods? And if so, who are these “God accepted” gods?
“When you say “claim to not believe in Him” are you inferring that they do indeed believe even if they say they don’t?” – I am saying that their essence, spirit, knows that God exists, yet for some “obscure” reason they decide to claim that they don’t believe in Him. And then internal battles occur, a million questions raise, a thousand arguments are designed…fruitless ones, though.
“Christians would say that God is knowable, in that you can have a personal relationship with Him, God loves us, yet people prefer darkness…they like their sin…they like their pride to do as they will in rejection of Him…” – I see…it all comes down to people making a choice indeed…
“I love cycling but I don’t believe in the cycle of reincarnation, I do believe in the Biblical concept of resurrection…this conversation seems familiar (LOL I thought you would like that).” – LOL LOL you do not have to believe in the cycle of reincarnation cause that is not your path. Your path is to be a non-reincarnation believer Christian (cause there are the Spiritists who believe in Jesus as the Messiah, and yet believe in the cycle of re-birth).
Now, you say that Jesus is coming for the second time: will he reincarnate? Or will he fly down the sky to fetch his church?
“Do you mean if I wasn’t so stupid and/or ignorant I would not be reincarnated? I must be a real dumb bunny…” – no, I mean that one of the reasons why you reincarnate is to learn things (being the other the fulfilment of your mission), and in the section of learning is included acknowledging God despite the distractions of matter…but of course, reincarnation is much more complex than this, this is just a micro explanation of it :)
“I agree, of course proper relationship is imperative with addressing God…Invoking a false “god” is sin…” – I am curious to see your reply to my question on gods…
“By the way Max, you know one of the interesting things about the human looking cylons is that when they are “killed” they download into a duplicate body on a “resurrection” ship. They keep all their memories….” – LOL LOL that is one of the cutest descriptions of reincarnation I have ever heard…cause all we take when we change bodies is our memory :)! Well done, LS…you are beginning to grasp the concept…If I knew that all it took is to use Sci-fi lingo…..LOL….
“Max….fantabulous article!!! You are on your game!!! Very thought provoking….” – thank you so much, LS *bowing*!
This was a great conversation, I must admit…It is always a pleasure, LS :)!
Cheers
"Oh God", oops, did I say that? Forgive me father for I have sinned (again).
ReplyDeleteI like your new layout Max, very nice indeed.
oh max, sorry to hear about your computer crashing. i tried reloading the page, it was ok.
ReplyDeletedon't worry, it's ok if you can't do the tag :)
take care :)
Dear Alexys,
ReplyDelete“Spectacular photo.” – thank you :)!
“So the question is how does one interpret the bible? Is it only as good as it's interpreter's view or do we step back and ask our inner God how to interpret it?” – let you inner voice guide you (and you know that that little voice is His voice communicating with us)! It is good to read about other interpretations however I like to be guided by my own reason and inner voice.
“I agree. It is the intention and inflection behind the words we use and what is in our heart when we use words.” – yes, indeed, darling!
“The tone of language in general can be misconstrued. Take for instance the words that rappers use; (the B word, The N word, The F word, etc.) the words are highly distasteful, disrespectful, despicable to some, but to others the words are readily accepted as a part of the spectrum of language and they don't find them offensive. So in essence, it is like splitting hairs. (that's not to say that I agree with rappers, it's just an observation.)” – I understand what you mean, and I agree: it was a great example!
Can you believe that I recently found out that I do not have the patience to listen to rap that contains the B word more than 4 times (in the whole song) anymore? I was listening to Busta Rhymes’ song “I love my B, I love my N” and it felt like poison to my system, what a terrible song!!!
“I believe the main purpose is to cause us to discover the deeper truths within us, to face ourselves unflinchingly and to have no fear in what we uncover.” – beautifully put!!! And of course: I agree!
“I don't think we can say who is taking the name in vain. Is our call as mortals to point the finger and to insinuate that we are the judge and jury of other mortals?” – we shouldn’t point the finger at anyone; however God cannot be disrespected under no circumstance, but even so I leave it to God to do the finger pointing (while in the back of my mind I say: you are disrespecting Him and it is not good lol).
“We have to concentrate on our garden of love and grow in compassion, benevolence and benefaction. If we keep our garden well maintained, then it will be an example of what others can do in their own gardens. (Get your green thumb ready.)” – this is so beautiful, darling…I will get my green thumb ready :)!
“Exactly and that is between him and God and his karmic circumstances.” – Amen! And Karmic consequences!
“Outstanding post my dear. Applause. Encore. Curtain call.” – thank you so much, sista *bowing*! *Bowing again*! *receiving the flowers and bowing* lol! *sending kisses to everybody*!
Alexys, as always: great conversation!! :)
You are a jewel, girl :D!
Angelic Cheers
Scott,
ReplyDeleteLOL LOL I believe the Father will forgive you *nodding* lol! Did you say with respect? If you did you are off the hook LOL!
Thanks, I am glad you liked it *bowing*! :D
Cheers
Dear Liza,
ReplyDeleteDon't worry! I will try again tomorrow, ok? :)
Cheers
Well, of course I have a totally different take on this. lol
ReplyDeleteI do agree that we should speak God's name reverently. But there is more to this commandment than meets the eye.
In our religion, when we are baptized, we take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ. That means we agree to follow Him and do nothing to bring shame to His name. We might think of it in the same way that our parents would not want us to do anything to dishonor our family name. In addition, when we are baptized, and take upon ourselves His name, we make covenants to keep the commandments. Those who make those covenants (sacred promises) but do not live up to what they way they will...are taking the name of God upon themselves..in vain.
Max,
ReplyDelete“...let you inner voice guide you (and you know that that little voice is His voice communicating with us)! It is good to read about other interpretations however I like to be guided by my own reason and inner voice."
I am with you on that.
"Can you believe that I recently found out that I do not have the patience to listen to rap that contains the B word more than 4 times (in the whole song) anymore? I was listening to Busta Rhymes’ song “I love my B, I love my N” and it felt like poison to my system, what a terrible song!!!"
Yes. I can believe it. So your cut off is 4. (LOL) I haven't heard that song. I like some raps songs with those incredible beats and samples, but some of the lyrics are so misogynistic, disrespectful ad nauseam that it is too much for my precious ears. That energy lowers one's spiritual vibration. I saw an interview with Dr. Dre once and he said he makes music for other people, but he doesn't want his kids listening to it. (So you want to poison other people's kids.) He had a great song called, "I Just Want To...." It has one of the tightest base lines and productions in a rap song, but I can't listen to it. I like when they replace certain words with love. At least in my head, it is acceptable, but I digress.
"We shouldn’t point the finger at anyone; however God cannot be disrespected under no circumstance, but even so I leave it to God to do the finger pointing (while in the back of my mind I say: you are disrespecting Him and it is not good lol)."
Preach it sista.
"Thank you so much, sista *bowing*! *Bowing again*! *receiving the flowers and bowing* lol! *sending kisses to everybody*!"
Speech. Speech. Speech. Ah, I can hear it now. They like me, they really like me.
"You are a jewel, girl :D!"
Ah shucks, thanks, but I'm just me. Btw, do you think the name Godzilla is taking God's name in vain?
Heavenly Cheers
Hello Max!!!
ReplyDeleteCome to Life on the Blade to pick up your Life on the Blade Fantasy Hockey Prize!!!!
http://lifeontheblade.blogspot.com/2008/04/life-on-blade-fantasy-hockey-final.html
Alexys,
ReplyDelete"Yes. I can believe it. So your cut off is 4. (LOL) I haven't heard that song. I like some raps songs with those incredible beats and samples, but some of the lyrics are so misogynistic, disrespectful ad nauseam that it is too much for my precious ears." - yeah, 4 lol. You haven't? It is a how-low-can-you-go song *nodding*! Yeah, me too! But when I am mad (it happens), and feel like punching somebody, do you know what I listen to? Tupac's "R U still down"...and everything goes away lol lol....
"That energy lowers one's spiritual vibration." - true!
"I saw an interview with Dr. Dre once and he said he makes music for other people, but he doesn't want his kids listening to it. (So you want to poison other people's kids.) He had a great song called, "I Just Want To...." It has one of the tightest base lines and productions in a rap song, but I can't listen to it. I like when they replace certain words with love. At least in my head, it is acceptable, but I digress." - LOL he said that? LOL LOL wow, so other people's kids can be poisoned, huh *nodding*? But I know where he is coming from; I mean if those kids' parents let them listen to it, it is their responsability...
"I just want to..." 2001 CD...great song (if we ignore the f word)! In that CD there was this intro where a young man was explaining who the real pimps are (moms: "make sure he got a good job, girl! Make sure he got a good car, girl") lol it made me crack for hours and I thought "who writes these things?" lol....
"Preach it sista." - can I get an Amen!?
"Speech. Speech. Speech. Ah, I can hear it now. They like me, they really like me." - LOL LOL "oh, I think they like me! Oh, I think they like me!" LOL...I had brought a speech with me, but I am so nervous that I think it fell somewhere lol...*nodding*...
"Ah shucks, thanks, but I'm just me. Btw, do you think the name Godzilla is taking God's name in vain?" - you are just jewel you :D! LOL LOL no, Godzilla is not taking God's name in vain LOL LOL...
Divine Cheers
Hey D!
ReplyDelete"Well, of course I have a totally different take on this. lol" - lol it is ok, your take (no matter how different it might be) is quite welcome in here :)!
"I do agree that we should speak God's name reverently. But there is more to this commandment than meets the eye." - please, do share...
"In our religion, when we are baptized, we take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ. That means we agree to follow Him and do nothing to bring shame to His name." - this is interesting!
"We might think of it in the same way that our parents would not want us to do anything to dishonor our family name." - I can totally appreciate that!
"In addition, when we are baptized, and take upon ourselves His name, we make covenants to keep the commandments. Those who make those covenants (sacred promises) but do not live up to what they way they will...are taking the name of God upon themselves..in vain." - so, Mormons go beyond the use of expressions, they consider that not putting into practice the vows made is also taking God's name in vain! This is extremely interesting...but I have a question: when you refer to the commandments, you mean the 10 only?
D, thanks for your take on this! As you know your opinion matters *bowing*!
Cheers
LS,
ReplyDeleteI am on my way! Thanks, buddy :D!
Cheers
I was referring to the 10 commandments, but in our church we believe in continuing revelation. We don't believe that God only spoke with people in ancient days, but refuses to speak today. God can at any time give a commandment, and we would of course want to obey it.
ReplyDeleteHey D!
ReplyDelete" was referring to the 10 commandments, but in our church we believe in continuing revelation. We don't believe that God only spoke with people in ancient days, but refuses to speak today. God can at any time give a commandment, and we would of course want to obey it." - I see! I also believe that God speakes to us until today, however the ancient prophets are extremely important to me. I think that until their prophecies become true we should focus on their message first. But your belief is quite interesting, indeed...
Thanks for having answered my question, D :D!
Cheers
Max,
ReplyDelete"...when I am mad (it happens), and feel like punching somebody, do you know what I listen to? Tupac's "R U still down"...and everything goes away lol lol...."
Music therapy is marvelous. They say music soothes the savage beast. It's because of the tonal vibrations and the stimuli it provides to the brain.
Did you hear about the woman who had seizures after listening to Sean Paul's 'Temperature?' She had epilepsy. It got so bad that she'd sometimes have as many as 10 grand mal seizures a day. A year and a half ago, she collapsed at a barbecue when Paul's music was played. She had one surgery to implant electrodes in her brain to pinpoint the problem. She had a second surgery to take out the electrodes and repair the abnormal part of her brain.
"I know where he is coming from; I mean if those kids' parents let them listen to it, it is their responsability."
True. I know most parents don't know what their kids are listening to.
"I just want to..." 2001 CD...great song (if we ignore the f word)! In that CD there was this intro where a young man was explaining who the real pimps are (moms: "make sure he got a good job, girl! Make sure he got a good car, girl") lol it made me crack for hours and I thought "who writes these things?" lol...."
Yes, that's the song. It is a great song, but hard to ignore the F word. I am so glad that I didn't have to spell it out and I am equally impressed that you knew the reference. (Standing ovation.)
"LOL...I had brought a speech with me, but I am so nervous that I think it fell somewhere?"
Not to worry, the best speeches are unplanned.
"Godzilla is not taking God's name in vain LOL LOL..."
Divine Godzilla Cheers
Alexys,
ReplyDelete"Music therapy is marvelous. They say music soothes the savage beast. It's because of the tonal vibrations and the stimuli it provides to the brain." - indeed it is! If it soothes the savage beast then there are lot of people who are not listening to enough music *nodding*!
"Did you hear about the woman who had seizures after listening to Sean Paul's 'Temperature?' She had epilepsy." - what? :O...really? And to think that Sean Paul's music is so tight to dance!!! Do you like him? Did you know that he is half Portuguese?
"It got so bad that she'd sometimes have as many as 10 grand mal seizures a day. A year and a half ago, she collapsed at a barbecue when Paul's music was played. She had one surgery to implant electrodes in her brain to pinpoint the problem. She had a second surgery to take out the electrodes and repair the abnormal part of her brain." - that is awful!! But all of Sean Paul's songs do that to her? Did anyone explain why it happens?
"True. I know most parents don't know what their kids are listening to." - come again? How can you not know what your kid is listening to? My mom knew every little song we listened to (she even submitted herself to torture: Dr Dre, Snoopy Doggy Dog - The Chronic LOL LOL and she used to dance with us and all...)!
"Yes, that's the song. It is a great song, but hard to ignore the F word. I am so glad that I didn't have to spell it out and I am equally impressed that you knew the reference. (Standing ovation.)" - lol lol hard to ignore it, but doable lol. Thank you *bowing*!! I used to be a rap and hip hop fan, back in the days (when I was younger, no wrinkles on my face LOL) I used to listen to a lot of it! And West-side rap was on!!!
"Not to worry, the best speeches are unplanned." - lol true! Does this mean, I am not off the hook? You still want it? LOL...
Heavenly Cheers
Max,
ReplyDelete"If it [music] soothes the savage beast then there are lot of people who are not listening to enough music *nodding*!"
Ha ha ha ha ha ha! Still ROFL.
"And to think that Sean Paul's music is so tight to dance!!! Do you like him? Did you know that he is half Portuguese?"
I like Sean Paul, especially "Give It Up To Me." He is a little manic at times and his style is interesting, like in Get Busy. I read that he was born to a Portuguese-Jamaican father and a Chinese-Jamaican mother, but any way you slice it, he is cute.
"But all of Sean Paul's songs do that to her? Did anyone explain why it happens?"
It has something to do with the BPM (beats per minute) and the vibration of that particular song, if I remember correctly. It was incongruent with her vibration and it caused a malfunction in her brain.
"My mom knew every little song we listened to (she even submitted herself to torture: Dr Dre, Snoopy Doggy Dog - The Chronic LOL LOL and she used to dance with us and all...)!"
Your mother is so cool - and BRAVE. LOL.
"I used to be a rap and hip hop fan, back in the days (when I was younger, no wrinkles on my face LOL) I used to listen to a lot of it! And West-side rap was on!!!"
I know what you mean.
Sean Paul Cheers
Hi! To start off with I’m guilty of this offence many times over. Not so much now but it does slip out when the blood pressure rises.
ReplyDeleteBut when did I first start? From the very first time I was able to talk.
As children we repeated what was said in front of us. We took it for granted that it was alright to repeat what others said. Do as I say not as I do, now comes to my mind.
Mind you, repeating it within the hearing of my mother brought instant rebuke and threats of violence or even worse, being banished to my room. Remember there were no XBox or computer access back then, just boring old educational books and comics.
But having said that it may have been good for me, as it gave me time to think about what got me into trouble in the first place.
Perhaps that may be the trouble with the kids of today as they can divert, if left to their own devices, from punishment to enjoyment in a flash.
It was not until I learnt that it was wrong that I started to think twice about quoting others, whether it was blaspheming God or not.
So you would imagine that once we (I) learnt the difference between right or wrong, we should know better and refrain from doing wrong. Wrong!
At times, without thinking of the consequences, all the wrong quotes that have been justifiably placed way back in our minds can and do arise unfortunately.
It’s not until we think twice that we realise we shouldn’t have said them.
We then turn to cursing ourselves in silence and in thought.
From the very first time I started my education within a catholic school, I was taught God’s rules and the different forms of punishment awaiting us all if we did wrong.
No matter whether it was a result of the bad things we said or thought, we were told we were doomed.
But that didn’t stop us as long as we didn’t get caught. If we were then it was off to the big Sister’s / Big Brother’ s room for a caning or a strapping. But hey, that didn’t stop us either.
So why do we do it now that we’re adults? Three thoughts come to mind. One is that it is far easier and far more convenient to blame someone else for our own mistakes; the second is to punish ourselves out loud when we know we’ve done wrong and the last, some of us are thick as a brick!
Take Care,
Peter
Hi, Max! I'm here to tag you...
ReplyDeleteRED
Have a nice weekend!!! :)
It's funny but this is one thing that bothers me with religious people here in North American. I think people in general tend to use God's name in vain.
ReplyDeleteI'm not religious as you already know and it sometimes bother me. Believing in your faith is great, but why calling God's name for insignificant moment of your life? "I caught my bus, thanks God", "Thanks God he called me" etc.
English language uses these expressions a lot. Maybe too much... it lost its meaning.
As usual, this is another fascinating subject. First a quick aside...I love the new look of your site and what an awesome picture.
ReplyDeleteFrom my perspective, as you know, my understanding of "god" is a little different than yours, however, the third commandment, is for the individual to interpret for him/herself. It is all in the indention of the statement, and only the individual knows his or her intention. As an example, if some says "G_d d__n you" .... if the intention is to express frustration, then alright, even if I disagree,...it's not for me to jusdge. However, if the intention is for G_d to intervene and actually damn the person, then "God help him." (LOL) That person I have no room in my life for.
Everyone must live with their own words and action, however, I don't have to live with their words or actions.
I would counsel someone in a friendly manner if I thought they were misusing God's name, but never judge them. If I am uncomfortable with how they speak, I would distance myself. It is all my own choice. but then you know that about me.
MAX:
ReplyDeleteYou see, that's why I can't go along with a discussion like this. I refuse to allow some mortal human being to tell me what the true meaning behind the Scriptures is. Whose to know? Vain? What is vain? First we invent the word, and then we give it a meaning, and then we say that this is how God understands it to be. Rubbish! Here's a hot news flash for everybody - God looks at the Big Picture. We wallow around in the minutiae. Amen.
Alexys,
ReplyDelete"Ha ha ha ha ha ha! Still ROFL." - LOL LOL...
"I like Sean Paul, especially "Give It Up To Me." He is a little manic at times and his style is interesting, like in Get Busy. I read that he was born to a Portuguese-Jamaican father and a Chinese-Jamaican mother, but any way you slice it, he is cute." - "Give it Up to Me" is such a tight sound (love it) - I have it! "Get Busy" is awesome, one of his best songs! He is definitely cute!! The Portuguese are not that beautiful but when they mix with other people they make gorgeous beings...
"It has something to do with the BPM (beats per minute) and the vibration of that particular song, if I remember correctly. It was incongruent with her vibration and it caused a malfunction in her brain." - oh my...that is odd to say the least.
"Your mother is so cool - and BRAVE. LOL." - LOL LOL yes, she is and is LOL...
Sean Paul's Like Glue Cheers
Hi Peter!
ReplyDelete"Not so much now but it does slip out when the blood pressure rises." - lol lol...I hear you!
"But when did I first start? From the very first time I was able to talk." - really? Tell us more...
"Mind you, repeating it within the hearing of my mother brought instant rebuke and threats of violence or even worse, being banished to my room. Remember there were no XBox or computer access back then, just boring old educational books and comics." - lol lol...true, I still remember when we had no internet: the world seemed gloomier. I am not a fan of XBox, I confess!
"It was not until I learnt that it was wrong that I started to think twice about quoting others, whether it was blaspheming God or not." - I hear you!
"So you would imagine that once we (I) learnt the difference between right or wrong, we should know better and refrain from doing wrong. Wrong!" - *positively nodding*!
"At times, without thinking of the consequences, all the wrong quotes that have been justifiably placed way back in our minds can and do arise unfortunately." - fantastically put!
"It’s not until we think twice that we realise we shouldn’t have said them." - right again *positively nodding*!
"We then turn to cursing ourselves in silence and in thought." - LOL LOL LOL I know how that is like LOL!
"From the very first time I started my education within a catholic school, I was taught God’s rules and the different forms of punishment awaiting us all if we did wrong." - I always found that Catholic method all too harsh...poor kids *nodding*...
"No matter whether it was a result of the bad things we said or thought, we were told we were doomed." - I know...shocking!
"But that didn’t stop us as long as we didn’t get caught. If we were then it was off to the big Sister’s / Big Brother’ s room for a caning or a strapping. But hey, that didn’t stop us either." - LOL I hear you! Kids are relentless lol...
"So why do we do it now that we’re adults? Three thoughts come to mind. One is that it is far easier and far more convenient to blame someone else for our own mistakes; the second is to punish ourselves out loud when we know we’ve done wrong and the last, some of us are thick as a brick!" - Amazing! *clap clap clap*...BRAVO!!!
Peter, my mate, I am in absolute awe! I bow to you *bowing*! Fantastic!
Thank you so much for this pleasurable comment; I loved reading it :D!
Always a pleasure to have you here....
Cheers
Hi Crystal,
ReplyDeleteSo nice to see you :D!
A tag? Let me check it out...thanks!
Cheers
Salut Zhu!
ReplyDeleteÇa va mieux :)?
"It's funny but this is one thing that bothers me with religious people here in North American. I think people in general tend to use God's name in vain." - I hear you! religious people in North America (at least the ones I know) are nicer than the ones here in Portugal (they drive people crazy) *nodding*!
"I'm not religious as you already know and it sometimes bother me. Believing in your faith is great, but why calling God's name for insignificant moment of your life? "I caught my bus, thanks God", "Thanks God he called me" etc." - lol I know what you mean! Well, it depends on the reason behind having caught that bus: was it vital for a job interview (and you really need that job and you do not want to be late)? Or are you really just saying it for the sake of saying?...
"English language uses these expressions a lot. Maybe too much... it lost its meaning." - the Portuguese language uses it even more, trust me! You may very well be right...
Merci, Zhu...I loved this comment, as always :D!
Cheers
My dear Mel,
ReplyDelete"As usual, this is another fascinating subject. First a quick aside...I love the new look of your site and what an awesome picture." - thank you so much *bowing*! Thanks, I am so glad you loved it :D!! Isn't that picture cute? Caravaggio was an incredible artist!
"From my perspective, as you know, my understanding of "god" is a little different than yours, however, the third commandment, is for the individual to interpret for him/herself. It is all in the indention of the statement, and only the individual knows his or her intention. As an example, if some says "G_d d__n you" .... if the intention is to express frustration, then alright, even if I disagree,...it's not for me to jusdge." - I totally know where you are coming from!
"However, if the intention is for G_d to intervene and actually damn the person, then "God help him." (LOL) That person I have no room in my life for." - LOL LOL God help him indeed lol. I have no room for that person either...
"Everyone must live with their own words and action, however, I don't have to live with their words or actions." - *bowing* extremely well said!
"I would counsel someone in a friendly manner if I thought they were misusing God's name, but never judge them. If I am uncomfortable with how they speak, I would distance myself. It is all my own choice. but then you know that about me." - I am against judging others myself; I leave it to God. I'm with you! Yes, I know your position about these things :)!
Mel, this was a delightful comment and I thank you for having bestowed upon me such an interesting reading :D!
Cheers
Hello SWb!
ReplyDeleteWell, I think that words were meant to express thoughts, and these are meant to be shared; and that is exactly what we are doing here.
About the scripture: I have endless discussions about it with other people (including blogger-friends and fellows) and it is only a form of exchanging ideas and reaching some sort of enlightenment. We do not agree with each other yet we respect each other's view on it.
God doesn't think like we do, He said so Himself; so what He really means is obscure to us to a certain point (since the Bible reveals the stream of His thoughts, although it does not include everything that IS).
I agree with you when you say that He looks at the Big Picture, but even that picture may not be the one you are thinking of...
Thank you so much for your most interesting comment :D!
Cheers
Ohhh, what an impressing comment discussion!
ReplyDeleteHere to thank you for your visit - I'm glad you liked our Norwegian slow food delight :-)
Hey Renny,
ReplyDeleteAh yes, my guests are incredible communicators :D!
You are most welcome, Renny :D! I did, I am learning new things in your blog :D!
Cheers
I found your blog in big bang game
ReplyDeletehave a nive day..
by the way got tag for you
Very thought-provoking as always, Max. I've tried to stop myself from using God's name in vain. :-))))
ReplyDeleteAnyway, the test is done and I'm only 50% sure of it, but it was to be expected anyway. I mean...I've only been here for a year and I've only had the full-time course for two months he he...but if I do pass, then it's a miracle HA HA HA HA HA HA...
Hey Toby,
ReplyDeleteWelcome to the MAX :D! Big Bang is still around? Wow...
Thank you, I wish you a very nice day too :)!
Well, I would be delighted to check the tag out but since you didn't leave your URL...it is a bit impossible! But thanks anyway :)!
Cheers
Hello Amelia,
ReplyDeleteHow are you, girl? :D
“Very thought-provoking as always, Max. I've tried to stop myself from using God's name in vain. :-))))” – thank you, darling *bowing*! I hear you lol….
LOL I do hope you have passed, girl!! I am crossing my fingers already :D!
Thanks for the update…BTW when are the grades out?
Cheers
Hey Bonoriau,
ReplyDeleteWelcome to the MAX! :D
Wow...Big Bang is really getting Big lol! Welcome aboard and thanks for joining us :)!
Informative blog? Thank you so much, my guests and I do try :D!
And you are welcome to join us if you wish :)!
Cheers
The grades will be out in 2 months (max.). I'll let you know about it when it comes out, OK? ;-D
ReplyDeleteHey Amel,
ReplyDeleteAh, ok!! Yes, please...thanks, darling!! :D
Meanwhile I am sending good vibes towards you ;D!
Cheers