Category Archives: The Eastern Eye

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He Shook Off The Viper

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

On his way to Rome, the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked and ended up on the island of present day Malta, which is referred to as Melita in the Bible.   It was miraculous that in the midst of a horrendous storm, everyone made it to shore safely.

On that cold, rainy night, Paul and others were gathered around a fire to warm themselves.  The barbarous people of the island kindled the fire.  Barbarous simply means that they spoke a different language.

The account in Acts 28 goes on to say that Paul gathered a bundle of sticks, but after putting them on the fire, a viper came out of the fire and fastened itself on his hand.

In the lands and times of the Bible, those warmed by a fire were expected to contribute to the firs.   This is why Paul contributed to the fire by placing a bundle of sticks on it.

A Deadly Viper

This viper that attacked Paul was very deadly; it was six to eight inches long with a very pointed head.  According to Bishop Pillai, these vipers could sink their fangs an inch deep into your skin, and then release their deadly poison.  After this type of viper strikes, it dies.  It is very difficult to pull the viper out even after it is dead.

Easterners believed if a man murdered and then ran away, escaping the law, a viper would hunt him, find him, and justice would be served.  That is why when the people of Malta saw the viper hanging from Paul’s hand, they assumed he was a murderer who had escaped justice and was now getting what he deserved: death.

But Paul did not die; he operated a power that is far greater than deadly viper poison – the power of God.  The record says he simply shook off the viper into the fire and felt no harm.  It was miraculous to shake it off, considering how vipers attach to the skin, and it was also miraculous that he was not harmed at all from the viper.

Can We Shake Off?

What about the circumstances and situations that we are confronted with?  Can we shake off the venomous vipers of negatives and remain unaffected by them?  We have the ability to put off, or cast down, whatever thoughts we choose, and then to replace those thoughts with the truth of God’s Word.  We also have the ability to operate the power of God.

The type of viper which bit Paul would typically leave the victim dead within 20 minutes after the strike. There was no cure, and there was no way to pull the viper off.  And yet, Paul just shook it off, and the people of the island couldn’t believe that he didn’t fall over dead.

It was after a period of time, when Paul showed no signs of any harm, that the natives changed their minds and declared that Paul was a god.  That is certainly understandable, isn’t it?  They believed that their god would send a viper to execute justice, and since in this case the deadly viper had no effect, they concluded the man must be a god.

Stranded For Three Months

Paul and those with him were stranded on that island for three months waiting for another ship.  But Paul ministered to the people on the island, including bringing healing to the father of the chief man on the island.  The incident with the viper certainly opened some doors for Paul to minister and teach.

A number of years ago, while briefly visiting the island of Malta, I took a trip to what is called, St. Paul’s Bay, the area they believe Paul and the rest from the ship landed.  It was exciting to be where Paul may have been in what was an awful, life threatening situation.

But, God delivered him and everyone else on the ship from a very deadly storm.  He ended up on the shore, obviously soaking wet on a cold rainy night.  Then, as he tried to get warm by a fire, a viper attached to his hand!

What happened in Paul’s mind in the few seconds from the attacking to the shaking off, I do not know.  I do know that in one sense, because of everything that had just happened, it wouldn’t seem like the ideal time to be peaceful.  But he obviously trusted and believed God.

And even though we may not end up with a viper hanging on our hand, we still do face our own circumstances and situations, some more serious than others.  We must choose to mentally shake off the fear and worries, and replace them with the promises from God.  We have the ability to put off whatever thoughts we choose, and then to replace those thoughts with the truth of God’s Word.

Acts 28:1-11
And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called Melita.

And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.

And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.

And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffers not to live.

And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.

Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.

In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.

And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.

So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:

Who also honored us with many honors; and when we departed, they laded us with such things as were necessary.

And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.

Mike Verdicchio
2012

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Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

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Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Beware Of The Leaven

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

There was an occasion when Jesus told his followers, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”  On another occasion, he compared the kingdom of God to leaven.  Understanding the leaven of Bible times gives us great insight to what he was communicating to them.

When reading the word “leaven” in the Bible, many people think of the properties of yeast, that which causes the dough to rise. But that is not the purpose of the leaven used in Bible times.  In fact, their bread was flat and as such, causing the dough to rise was not a concern.

Leaven was very thin dough, made from flour and water; kind of a soupy substance. They would take this thin dough and put it into a two or three gallon pot, and tie off the top with a piece of linen.

For eleven days they put that pot outside in the sun from 6 am to 6 pm.  After the eleven days, the pot was then brought into the kitchen.  Whenever they would bake bread, they added two or three spoonfuls of leaven to the dough.

Why Did They Add Leaven?

The leaven was added to the dough to sweeten the bread.  The two or three spoonfuls would permeate the dough.  It quite literally changed the dough.

The dough they prepared for bread was no longer just pure dough.  The properties of the leaven sweetened the dough.  It is important to recognize that leaven changes something.

In our modern dictionary, there are a number of definitions for the word “leaven.”   Most people think leaven and yeast are the same thing. However, one of the definitions that I have found says, “an element that produces an altering or transforming influence.” That definition is very accurate when considering the leaven used in Bible times.

Beware!

When Jesus gave his warning about the leaven of the Pharisees as recorded in the gospel of Matthew, his disciples got a little confused, and thought he was talking about bread.  However, he explained to them that he was talking about the “doctrine of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.”

Jesus compared their doctrine to leaven. They were supposed to be teaching people about God and the things of God.  Jesus quite clearly indicated that they had added their own ideas to the pure right doctrine of God.

In fact, you can read of Jesus confronting the religious leaders of his day and time directly.  On one occasion, he told them that they were worshiping in vain, teaching as doctrine the commandments of men.  Their message, what they were teaching, was no longer pure; they had changed it.

What Happened?

Have you ever wondered what happened to the pure doctrine of Christianity taught in the first century?  So many things that Paul taught and that are recorded in the epistles have changed.  How did that happen?

What happened to the pure doctrine in the book of Romans that says that nothing can separate us from the love of God?  Or, that there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus?  And what happened to the pure doctrine recorded in Ephesians that states that we are saved by grace, “not of works?”

Through the years and even unto this day, leaven – the ideas, theories and commandments of men – continue to be added to the pure Word of God.  That is why we ought to ask ourselves why we believe what we believe.  Is it because someone said it, or is it because we can read and understand it from the Scriptures?

Another Comparison

Jesus also used the comparison of leaven with the kingdom of heaven.  The kingdom of heaven, sometimes referred to as the kingdom of God, includes all that God made available through the completed work of Christ. Because God so loved the world, the results of what Christ accomplished, has changed and continues to change the lives of men and women.

By accepting Christ as lord of all men and believing that God raised him from the dead, someone lost and without hope becomes saved.  They are forever changed.  They are now born from above, a child of God!

Specific information and details for those who are born again are found in the Church Epistles: Romans through Thessalonians.   In the book of Galatians, Paul, endeavoring to help them believe rightly, addressed some errors in their thinking and actions.

He told them that they had been doing well, but then something happened.  They were now thinking that they were right before God by doing the works of the Law; in other words, that they were made righteous by their good works.

In correcting that error, Paul pointed out to them that this kind of thinking came in from somewhere else.  It had permeated that group of believers.  Paul then told them, “A little leaven leavens the whole lump. “

We ought to do our best to rightly understand the Scriptures that are addressed to us as Christians.  We really need to ask ourselves, “Why do I believe what I believe?”  We can take Jesus’ warning seriously, and, at the same time, rejoice that his accomplishments continue to bring great change to those who are lost and without hope.

Matthew 16:6, 11, 12
Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

How is it that you do not understand that I spoke it not to you concerning bread, that you should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?

Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Matthew 15:7-9
You hypocrites, well did Esaias [Isaiah]prophesy of you, saying,

This people draws nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honors Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me.

But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

Romans 8:38 and 39
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus

Ephesians 2:5, 8 and 9
Even when we were dead in sins, has quickened us together with Christ, (by grace you are saved;)

For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Matthew 13:33
Another parable spoke he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid [mixed] in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

Romans 10:9
That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you shall be saved.

Galatians 5:6-9
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which works [is energized] by love.

You did run well; who did hinder you that you should not obey the truth?

This persuasion comes not of Him that called you.

A little leaven leavens the whole lump.

Mike Verdicchio
2012

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Calling Someone A Fool

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

In our culture, there are things we say and do that are insulting.  We call people “stupid,” or “idiot.” In the lands and times of the Bible, there were also insults.

Jesus said calling someone, “Raca,” is in danger of the council.  The word “raca” is an Aramaic word.  It was such an insult to say this to a Judean that you could end up in court and go to jail.

To say “raca,” was considered the same as spitting in someone’s face.  To them it was extremely degrading.  The offense was punishable by the ruling council, the Sanhedrin.

However, Jesus indicated that calling someone a “fool” was even worse.  “Fool” in the Bible times, and even in some places today, means “bald head.”  It has nothing to do with how much hair one has, but rather with having nothing in the head; no sense, no intelligence.  In other words, it is a way to call someone an idiot.

In that culture, they believed that God was in them.  So, to call someone a fool was not only insulting the person, but since God was in them, it meant that God was also an idiot, which would obviously be a great insult to God.

There is a record in II Kings 2 of some people calling the man of God, Elisha, “bald head.”  This they said that to him as he was on his way to worship God.  That was indeed a very, very grave insult to both Elisha and God.

In our day and time many people say many insulting things to each other.  We ought to remember that because of the completed work of Christ, God is truly in us by way of His spirit which He gave us.  The Bible says that God dwells in you, that God is at work in you.  God’s gift of holy spirit is also described by the phrase, “Christ in you.”

We, as born again Christians, have the spirit of God dwelling in us; it is a part of us.  And while we may at times disagree or even do things that are unkind or unloving, perhaps we should think twice about the names or insults we are tempted to voice to one another.  Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one to another.”

Matthew 5:22
But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

II Kings 2:23
And he went up from thence unto Bethel: and as he was going up by the way, there came forth little children [Idiomatic use – it means, “people,” and in this case most likely, “men.”] out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head.

I John 4:13
Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit.

Romans 8:9
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

II Corinthians 6:16
And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.

Philippians 2:13
For it is God which works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.

Colossians 1:27
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

John 13:35
By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one to another.

Mike Verdicchio
2012

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Go Into Your Closet

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

There is an abundance of verses in the Bible relating to the topic of prayer.  Jesus spoke of it often.  In the Matthew’s gospel, Jesus talked about praying in your closet.

When he spoke about going into a closet, he was not referring to a literal closet,  but he was making a very great point about our prayer life.  Right before suggesting going into the closet, he told them how not to pray.

He told them to not be like the religious hypocrites of the day, those who loved to have everyone see them pray.  Those who prayed like that wanted people to see just how “spiritual” they were.  Jesus said that was their reward.

Where Is Your Closet?

But he then told his followers to go into their own closet, shut the door and then pray.  The closet is the closet of your mind where you can be quiet – not just physically quiet, but more importantly, mentally quiet.

The spirit of God dwells in us and we can get quiet.

Shutting the door refers to getting rid of, or shutting out, foreign thoughts, negative thoughts, worrying thoughts and wandering thoughts.  In getting rid of those thoughts, we can then keep our minds stayed upon God.  We can talk with Him and listen for His still small voice.

You would probably agree that there are times when it may be a little difficult to simply shut the door.  Situations we are dealing with can cause stress and anxiety.  Obstacles we face can cause worries and fears.

How Can You Close The Door?

When you are faced with challenges that make it difficult for you to get quiet mentally, so that you can go into your closet and shut the door, you need to “cast all your cares upon Him for He cares for you.”  There are two different words translated “care” in that verse.  The first word “care” means anxiety, mental pressure.

The second word, “care,” means to take the action necessary so as to provide what it is needed.  So we cast, throw out, give all our anxiety, worry, fears, etc to God.  He then observes the situation and we are confident that He will provide a solution.

The Bible talks about putting off and then putting on, casting down, laying aside, etc.  When we are endeavoring to go to our closet and shut the door, we may need to put off the worries and fears by casting them all upon our God.  Then we replace those damaging and discouraging thoughts with the truth, the words of God.

We can get quiet by first addressing the negative thoughts of worry and fear; we release those thoughts by casting them upon our loving God and Father, knowing He cares for us.  We replace them with the truth of what God’s Word says about us.  Then we can have quiet prayer time with our Father, talking and listening.

Shutting the door would also include wandering thoughts.  Our minds do like to jump here and there and everywhere sometimes.  When you are in prayer time in your closet, keep the door closed; don’t let your mind wander.

What a much better method it is to pray this way, instead of like the hypocrites Jesus talked about who just loved for people to see them praying.  Which method would you rather do?  Which method do you think produces better results?

Mathew 6:5 – 7
And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites [are]: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen [do]: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

I Peter 5:7
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Mike Verdicchio
2012

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Strangers In The Street

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

You may have read something in the Bible that seemed a bit odd: people lodging in the street.  In our culture, thinking of someone spending the night in the street conjures up all sorts of unpleasant pictures.  But, when reading the Bible, we must always remember their culture.

A verse in the book of Job states that “the stranger did not lodge in the street.”  Instead, someone opened his doors to the traveler.  This was very common in the lands and times of the Bible.

In small villages there was usually a village common that was similar to what we would call a park.  That is the area referred to in the book of Job and other places in the Bible as “the street.”  In the late afternoon or early evening, it was very common for travelers to rest and spend the night in that area of the village.

In the Bible times and culture, hospitality was very important.  They believed that if they showed kindness to someone in need, they were showing kindness to God. They believed that if they gave something to someone, even a cup of water, then it was understood that it had been given as unto God.

In that culture they believed that the more they served you, the more they served God.  That is why it was common for them to invite travelers, who would be total strangers to them, to spend the night in their home instead of in “the street.”  They invited them to their home so that they could show them hospitality.

This reminds me of a verse in the book of Hebrews.  There it talks about remembering to show kindness to strangers as there have been some who did so, not knowing those strangers were in fact angels.  That is something to think about, isn’t it?

Job 31:32
The stranger did not lodge in the street: [but] I opened my doors to the traveler.

Genesis 19:1-3
And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground;

And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant’s house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.

And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat.

Hebrews 13:2
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Mike Verdicchio
2012

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Reeds And Flax Part 2

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

In Part 1, we looked at the eastern idiom of, “a bruised reed.”  If you haven’t read that yet, just scroll down and read Part 1 first.

What Is The Smoking Flax?

The second idiom in Isaiah 42:3 is “the smoking flax.”  The verse says, “…and the smoking flax shall he not quench.”

In the times of the Bible, the people believed if there was a light in their home, God was there; the light represented God’s presence.  And so, every home always had a light in the house, even through the night. In Bible times of course they didn’t have electricity, so they utilized oil lamps.

They would put oil into the shallow container and then use a flax wick.  If the oil ran out then the wick would be smoking and stinking because of no oil.  Specific duties for men and women were important, and one of the woman’s duties was to keep oil in the lamp.

If on occasion the oil ran out during the night, the husband, smelling the smoke would wake his wife so that she could go and add oil.   If the woman was tired or lazy, instead of finding the oil and adding it, she would just take off the burned smoldering part of wick. Quenching the smoking flax and just throwing that part out was simply a temporary solution.  And, she might even light the fresh part of the flax wick.  But it would then still be a burning empty wick and it would still stink.

What Makes Us Stink?

Being negative is to stink.  Here in the United States we have an idiom: change your stinking thinking.  In the east the saying is, “a negative person is the biggest stink there is in the world.”

“I can’t; I can’t.”  “This is too hard.”  “Nothing works out for me.”  “Things in my life just don’t go right and they will probably get worse.”  All negative.

Negative people are always disturbed, dejected, and full of despair.  Their problems continue to sink them lower into stinking negativity.

In this stinking condition, they don’t think properly; they are full of fear and anxiety.  They epitomize despondency.  And beware: they are not the kind of people you go to for advice!

Smoking flax refers to being miserable.  But when we reflect on the completed work of Christ we can see that he did not provide us a temporary solution.  He didn’t just quench the smoking flax; he didn’t just take off the burnt part and relight it.  Instead, he filled container with oil to overflowing!

Who Are We?

The Bible states that as born again Christians, we are complete; there is nothing lacking.  We have all received all spiritual blessings.  We have all been filled with His spirit; it is all in all.  The love of God has been shed abroad in our hearts by the holy spirit which was given to us.

When we look at the blessings God has freely given all of us because of the completed work of Christ, we can choose to change from negativity.  We can refuse to live with fear and anxiety, and instead live by faith.  We really can be people of joy and gladness.

The work of Christ was a complete work.  No matter how bruised you are today, you will never be thrown away.  And Christ’s work was not a temporary fix, but an eternal solution; you have been given the gift of eternal life.  Nothing can separate you from God’s love.

If you are a bruised reed or smoking flax, look to Christ, the author and finisher of our salvation, who died so that you could live abundantly.  A bruised reed cannot have an abundant life. Smoking flax stinks, and smoke cannot have abundant life.  We can chose to accept what Christ has accomplished for us, claiming the victory that is ours: in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

Isaiah 42:3
A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.

Colossians 2:10
And you are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

Ephesians 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Romans 5:5
And hope makes not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the holy spirit which is given unto us.

Romans 6:23b
The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 8:37-39
In all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Mike Verdicchio
2011

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Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

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To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Reeds And Flax Part 1

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

Figures of speech in the Bible are used for emphasis and are not what they appear on the surface.  Idioms are a figure of speech.  An idiom is a way of saying something that is peculiar to a people or culture.  Once you understand the idioms in the Bible, the true meaning becomes very clear.

There are two idioms in Isaiah 42, verse 3:  a bruised reed and the smoking flax.  To those unfamiliar with the culture of the Bible, the meaning of those idioms is not known. Here in Part 1, we’ll look at the first idiom.

Reeds grow wild. Although related to the sugar cane, which is solid, reeds are hollow in the middle.  They grow 3 to 4, and sometimes 5 feet high.  During the heat of the day they droop to the ground, but in the cool of the evening, they rise back up, straight and tall.  It was something beautiful for people to watch in the evening.

Jesus made reference to reeds in asking the people what they went out to see, John the Baptist, or the reeds.  In other words, he was asking them if they were paying attention to what John was saying, or if they were distracted by the reeds.

Ancient oriental flutes were made from the reeds.  The verse in Isaiah says, “A bruised reed shall he not break.”  If you know the idiom, “bruised reed,” then it makes the verse much clearer.

What Is A Bruised Reed?

If someone’s flute fell to the ground, it could easily break. It was then referred to as a bruised reed; that’s the idiom. A broken or bruised flute could no longer be used to play, and so, it was thrown away and another one was made.

Eastern shepherds often carried flutes and they would play them. However, they would not toss out their broken flute and make another, even though it didn’t cost anything to make a new one and it was very easy to make.  The reason the shepherd would not do that is because it was handed down to him for generations; it had a sentimental value.

So when the shepherd’s flute, or reed, was bruised, he would use wax or string to repair it.  He loved his flute just as he loved his grandfather who may have passed it on to him. He loved it so much that he repaired it and kept it for keepsake.

In this chapter, Isaiah is talking prophetically about the coming redeemer, Jesus Christ, who is of course referred to, in other places in the Bible, as the good shepherd.  He redeemed us, he laid down his life for us; he paid the full price for all sins.

Are You Bruised?

When a person is broken or bruised by sin or by indifference, that person loses the joy of having salvation; they lose their peace; they are mentally bruised and unhappy; they have no song of joy.

The invitation to salvation is simple and easy because all the work was accomplished for us by Christ.  One simply accepts Jesus as the savior, acknowledging that he is lord of all men, and that God raised him from the dead.  They then receive redemption, salvation, eternal life, forgiveness, and a lot more.

But accepting Christ does not mean that one becomes perfect, never to fall short; we all miss the mark.  When someone is in that position they need to remember Christ’s complete redemptive work.  Our falling short and missing the mark bruises us.

When we get in that position, we need to look to Christ, at his complete work.  He has cleansed us, repaired us, renewed us. He bought and paid for our forgiveness.

Jesus said, “And him that comes to me I will in no wise cast out.”  He doesn’t throw us out or toss us away because of our sins; his blood cleansed us from sin.  In the book of Hebrews it says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Jesus will not throw us out and God will never toss us away.

What Will You Choose?

When we are unhappy, miserable, and bruised, and we look to Christ and reflect on what he has done for us, he, as the good shepherd, will not break us, meaning throw us out so that we end up completely crushed.  And so we have a choice.

Our adversary would have us go through life looking at all our faults, weaknesses, and failures.  “Look what I have done; I have failed again, I have messed up again; look at how lousy I am.”  Or instead, we can stop looking at our faults, and look to Christ.

Our loving God and Father is not condemning us.  He loves us so much that He gave His Son to die, to pay the full price for all sins.  In one of the Psalms, David wrote, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts. And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”  He was asking God to help him to get his heart right.

Too often religion condemns the one who misses the mark, and then has a list of “good” things for him to do in order to make up for the bad that he has done, all the while ignoring the real issues of the heart.  And so, people go around doing all sorts of things so that God won’t toss them out.

The Bible says that Jesus Christ is not ashamed to call us brethren.  In God’s eyes we are His children having His righteousness.  We can be confident that we will never be tossed out because of our shortcomings.  So, why not believe in Christ’s complete redemptive work and open your heart to God?

Next time, in Part 2, we will look at the second idiom in Isaiah 42:3, the smoking flax.

Isaiah 42:3
A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.

John 10:11
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.

Romans 10:9 and 10
That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you shall be saved.

For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

John 6:37
All that the Father gives me shall come to me; and he that comes to me I will in no wise cast out.

I John 1:7b
the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin.

Hebrews 13:5b
for He has said, I will never leave you, nor forsake you.

Romans 8:1
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 139:23 and 24
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

Hebrews 2:11b
For which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.

Mike Verdicchio
2011

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Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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The Cursed Fig Tree

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

There is an incident in the Gospel of Mark where Jesus saw a fig tree and went over to the tree, hoping to find something to eat.  But the record says that he found nothing but leaves.  It was not the time or season for figs.  So Jesus cursed that tree by saying, “No man eat fruit of thee hereafter forever.”

One might wonder why Jesus would go over to a tree when it was not the season for fruit.  Certainly you or I would not approach a fruit tree hoping for fruit when it was not the season for that particular fruit, would we?  But once again, understanding the life and times of the Bible make it more than clear.

This type of fig tree is the one referred to as “the people’s tree,” meaning anyone may help themselves to the fruit.  The figs on the tree mature in June.  However, in early spring, there are buds (which later turn into mature figs) on the tree.  These buds are very sweet and make a nice snack.

Jesus wasn’t ignorant of the fruit trees in his land, nor was he confused by what season it was, thinking that it was summer time.  He simply approached the tree for a little snack.  However, this tree had no buds.

No Buds

Having no buds meant that it would have no fruit.  This tree had become a fruitless barren tree.  His cursing of the tree was not in disappointment of not finding any sweet buds.  Rather, his statement was true of that tree, but there was a deeper meaning as well.

The nation of Israel, God’s chosen people, is represented figuratively by the fig tree many times in the Old Testament.  This particular incident recorded in the Gospel of Mark occurred shortly before the arrest and execution of Jesus Christ.  God sent His Son to Israel and they rejected him.  Israel had become spiritually fruitless and barren.

All Have Been Invited

Not long after Jesus Christ completed mankind’s redemption and salvation, God’s people were no longer solely inclusive to the nation of Israel, as all others outside of Israel were invited to be part of God’s family.  God literally threw the doors wide open: “…whosever believes in him [Jesus] should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Even further, because of the completed work of Christ, the Bible declares that now it doesn’t make any difference if you are a Jew or a Gentile, bond or free, male or female.

The invitation is to every person on earth.  All those who confess Jesus as lord and believe that God raised him from the dead are saved, have eternal life, and are now literally children of God.

Mark 11:13 and 14
And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.

And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek [Gentile], there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Mike Verdicchio
2011

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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Coals Of Fire

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

There is a verse in the book of Romans that talks about doing some things for your enemy that will “heap coals of fire on his head.”  Some think that this is referring to some sort of revenge.  No, it means nothing of the sort.

Understanding the culture and how coals from a fire were carried unlocks this simple verse.  A young boy would take hot coals in the morning from the first fire in the village.  Those coals would be put into a piece of pottery.

The young boy would then carry the pottery, with the hot coals inside, balanced upon his head to the other households.  They would in turn take a hot coal to start their own fire.  The young boy would then go to the next family so they could get a coal to start their fire.

Doing this task on cold mornings would be a very pleasant task.  The heat from the coals in the pottery would warm the young boy.  As he went from family to family, he was very warm while performing this simple duty.

The scripture talks about doing certain things for your enemy, and that by doing those things, you are heaping coals of fire on their head.  This doesn’t mean revenge, but rather, in doing those things you might warm his or her heart and they just might change.

You and I may never know how a smile, a kind word, or a loving action may impact someone else’s life.  As God’s children we endeavor to exhibit our Father’s love to everyone we come in contact with.  The Bible instructs us that, if at all possible, live peaceably with all people.

Romans 12:18-21:
Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all men.

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.

Therefore if your enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing you shall heap coals of fire on his head.

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Mike Verdicchio
2011

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles

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A Partridge Not Hatching Her Eggs

From the Category, “The Eastern Eye”

[The Bible is an “Eastern” book. It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.

In understanding the Scriptures it is important for us to understand the culture, but it doesn’t mean that we should necessarily follow that culture. Rather, it is in the understanding of the Eastern culture that we gain light and understanding about many things in the Bible.]

There are many, many verses in the Bible that talk about money. There are no Scriptures that denounce having wealth.  There are, in fact, many wonderful believers in the Bible who were wealthy.

Those who honestly study the Bible know that it is the love of money that is the root of all evil.  Money itself is not evil.  However, obtaining riches the wrong way is addressed in the Bible.

There is a verse in the book of Jeremiah that uses a partridge to address obtaining riches the wrong way.  The verse talks about a partridge sitting on her eggs, but then not hatching them.  Understanding why the partridge would not hatch the eggs gives great insight about seeking riches the wrong way.

Partridges are birds in the pheasant family.  They are a non-migratory Old World group. They are medium-sized birds, intermediate between the larger pheasants and the smaller quails. Partridges are native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Partridges are ground-nesting seed-eaters.

Why Would They Not Hatch Their Eggs?

In the lands of the Bible, the partridge would lay its eggs in a small hole in the sand, and then sit on them.  However, they are very skittish, fearful birds.  If they are startled, they will flee and abandon their eggs.

Those who seek to obtain riches the wrong way, by unethical means, such as  using others, will lose those riches.  Just as a partridge will leave her eggs and not return, so shall it be for those who get riches unethically.

Rich People

The Bible says that those who will be rich will fall into many temptations. There will be things that tempt them that those who do not have riches will not be tempted with.  While that is a great caution, it is certainly not an admonition to not be wealthy.

The Bible also talks about instructing those who are rich not to be egotistical and not to trust in riches because those riches are always uncertain.  Instead, like everyone else, they should trust in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Those believers who are rich should do good, be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to share.

There are those who believe that money is evil and people who have wealth and prosperity need to give it all to those less fortunate.  The Bible teaches that giving of one’s abundance is a choice each one of us makes, and it is not to be compulsory.

I realize there are a number of different positions on the topic of wealth.  The point of this article is not to debate those, but rather to show from the Scriptures that obtaining riches the wrong way will have consequences.   Perhaps we can all agree, and we really should, that God is the Giver and the Supplier.

Jeremiah 17:11
As the partridge sits on eggs, and hatches them not; so he that gets riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.

I Timothy 6:9 and 10
But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

I Timothy 6:17 and 18
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy;

That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;

II Corinthians 9:6-8
But this I say, He who sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

Deuteronomy 8:18
But you shall remember the LORD your God: for it is He that gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish his covenant which he swore unto your fathers, as it is this day.

Mike Verdicchio
2011

Leave A Comment!
Do you have some thoughts about this?  We’d love to hear what you think.  To leave a comment if you are receiving this post via email or RSS, just click the title above and scroll to the bottom of the post and type in your comment.  If not, just scroll to the bottom of this post and type in your comment.

Share This Article!
To share this article on social media, like Facebook, or, Twitter, there are links below.

Resources
 There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to many recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon. The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics)

More Eastern Eye Articles