Category Archives: The Eastern Eye

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Paul’s Girdle

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 very interesting event that is recorded in Acts 21. The Apostle Paul was staying in Caesarea at the home of Philip the Evangelist.  Paul was on a journey to Jerusalem.

A prophet from Judea, named Agabus, came to the house with a message for Paul.  However, the message he had for Paul was given to him in a rather dramatic fashion.  Agabus took Paul’s girdle, bound his own hands and feet, and then told Paul, “Thus says the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owns this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.”

What was Paul’s “girdle?”  We would call it a belt, or a sash or a cord.  In many cases in Bible times, it was hollow, so the girdle served not only to secure flowing garments but also to carry money in.

There are other records in the Bible that show prophets delivering a message in a very dramatic way adding to their words something very visual.  Isaiah, Ezekiel and others used this form of communication to call attention, to give a distinct and impressive idea of the subject, and, by engaging the imagination, to fix it in the memory.

What Was The Will Of God

So was Paul not supposed to go to Jerusalem?  Was he wrong in going?  Did he disobey God’s specific instructions?

Just a few days before arriving at Philip’s house, Paul was in the city of Tyre.  While he was there, some disciples told Paul, through or by way of the Spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem.

In the previous chapter, you can read of Paul getting information from God that if he went to Jerusalem, bonds and afflictions were waiting for him.  God had warned him.  Yet, Paul was determined to go to Jerusalem.

It is also very clear in Chapter 20 that it was Paul who decided to go to Jerusalem.  It says that he determined to not go to Ephesus so that he could be in Jerusalem at the day of Pentecost.  He was the one who decided to go to Jerusalem.

While in Miletus, he told them that he was going to Jerusalem, but that he was bound in the sprit.  He was not free in the spirit, but rather he was bound.  He even told them that God was revealing to him every day the consequences that would happen if he indeed went to Jerusalem.

So he proceeded on his journey.  In Tyre, disciples told him by way of the Spirit not to go to Jerusalem.  Then, the prophet Agabus gives Paul a message from God in a very dramatic fashion.  The will of God for Paul is very clear.

The Conflict Over The Commas

Most Christians do not want to admit that Paul made a mistake by going to Jerusalem.  So they ignore all the clear verses that show how God is trying to keep Paul out of Jerusalem, and instead focus on one verse, and let a punctuation mark settle the argument.

After all the daily warnings from God to Paul, as well warnings from others by way the spirit telling him not to go, then comes the dramatic warning from Agabus.  Those who saw and heard what Agabus did began to cry and beg Paul not to go.

Paul’s reaction was very courageous.  He asked them why they were crying and breaking his heart.  He then told them he was not only ready to be bound at Jerusalem, but also to die.

Paul was very committed. His response to them at Phillip’s house sounds very courageous, but what good could Paul do for God if he were dead?  How hindered would his ministry be if indeed he were bound as Agabus had foretold?

But alas, the next verse has a comma or two that many people use to “prove” that Paul going to Jerusalem was really the will of God.  The verse, in the King James Version, says, “And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.”  I don’t want to argue about commas, especially because in the original texts, there were no commas.

Adjusting the commas in that verse, or, even ignoring them, it could very easily read, “And when he would not be persuaded we ceased saying the will of the Lord be done.”  In other words, Paul was not to be persuaded, so we stopped saying what the will of the Lord was.

Ignoring the many verses that clearly show what the will of the Lord was, and then using a comma or two to try and prove a point is a dishonest handling of the Scriptures.

Foretelling The Future

What Agabus foretold did indeed come to pass.  That is the measure of a true prophet: what they declare will happen, does indeed happen.  If it doesn’t come to pass, the Scriptures say to pay no attention to that prophet.

Today there are many voices coming from many places that are predicting and foretelling the future.  Especially in reference to the worldwide economic crisis, you hear people making their predictions every day.  Who are you listening to?

I do not claim to be a prophet; I am not predicting the future.  But, like many, many people, I do believe there are some very serious days ahead before things can ever begin to turn around.  And, I also know that our God is a very personal God.

Look at how God tried to get through to the Apostle Paul to save him from serious trouble.  God did so much to keep him from going to Jerusalem.  But, God did not overstep Paul’s free will.

God can give you guidance for your life, especially in these treacherous days that we live in.  God’s love for you, just like His love for Paul, is unconditional and nothing can ever separate you from His love.  But remember, God will not overstep your free will.

Put your confidence in God.  Pay attention to His still small voice.  Never be afraid to shift your direction for His direction.

Dueteronomy 18:22
When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD has not spoken, but the prophet has spoken it presumptuously: you shall not be afraid [have reverence or regard] of him.

Acts 20:15 and 16
And we sailed there, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.

For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

Acts 20:22-24
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

Save that the Holy Ghost witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me [if I go there].

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Acts 21:3 and 4
Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.

And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

Acts 21:8-15
And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.

And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus says the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owns this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him [Paul] not to go up to Jerusalem.

Then Paul answered, What mean you to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.

And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.

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.

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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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You Are The Salt Of The Earth

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.]

Jesus Christ, while teaching his disciples, told them that they were the “salt of the earth.” That phrase is still used today.  Many who use that phrase use it as a compliment, and rightly so.  Understanding biblical culture helps us not only understand that phrase, but the next phrase Jesus spoke as well.

Jesus taught his disciples many things on the occasion referred to as “the sermon on the mount.”  At one point, he compared them to both salt and light.  He told them that they were the salt of the earth and that they were the light of the world.  He then elaborated on both of those comparisons.

In a previous Eastern Eye article I wrote about the significance of “salt” in the Bible:

Salt is a necessity of life. Since ancient times it has been used in many cultures as a seasoning, a preservative, a disinfectant, a symbolic part of ceremonial offerings, and as a unit of exchange.  The Bible contains numerous references to salt. In various contexts, it is used metaphorically to signify permanence, loyalty, durability, fidelity, usefulness, value, and purification.

Jesus compared the disciples to salt, but also pointed out that salt can lose its savor, in which case it would then be good for nothing.  So how does salt lose its savor?  Understanding the biblical culture gives us a better understanding.

Salt Jars

In Bible times, salt was kept in large earthen jars.  Whenever salt was needed one would simply go to the salt jar and get what was needed. However, it was common that when water would get on the floor, it would seep into the bottom of the jar, causing the salt at the bottom to lose its saltiness.

When the jar was nearly empty and one would find the now unsalted salt, they would simply toss it out into the street.  It was no longer good for any purpose.

While Jesus told his disciples that they were the salt of the earth, he also warned them that they could lose their salty savor. In other words, the great qualities of salt, like, loyalty, durability, permanence, etc. were qualities that one must continue to maintain.

You Are The Light Of The World

He also told them that they were the light of the world, but reminded them that they needed to let their light shine and not hide their light.  In Bible times, light came from oil lamps.  These oil lamps were often in a house, on small lamp stands, thus giving light to all in the room.

In comparing the disciples to being the “light of the world,” he instructed them to not hide their light.  They were to let their light so shine that others could see their good works and end up glorifying the heavenly Father.

We can let our lights shine too.  We can let people see the light of the truth of God’s Word.  We can let them see what God is doing in our own lives so that our heavenly Father gets the glory.

We can also keep our savor.  We can choose to not compromise on our character and the qualities of life that really matter.  Without those great qualities in our lives, we would lose our savor and our effectiveness in bringing a message of deliverance to a world that desperately needs it.

Matthew 5:13-16
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

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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Blind Bartimaeus

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 record in the Gospel of Mark about a blind man receiving healing from Jesus.  The man’s name was Bartimaeus.  There are some very interesting details in the record that are often overlooked due to misunderstandings of the Eastern culture.

Beggars In The Bible

In our modern world it is common to see people on various corners holding up signs asking for help.  It is rightly assumed that these people are begging for money.  But in the lands and times of the Bible, there were people who begged who did not have a financial need.  So, when we read about someone begging in the Scriptures, we cannot automatically assume that they were in financial need.

There were three main areas where it was common to find beggars: at the gate of a temple, holy rivers, or other bodies of water, and, on the highway or public thoroughfares.  The latter is where Bartimaeus was begging when he called out to Jesus.

In the lands and times of the Bible, people who did not have a financial need would beg for their healing.  The Scriptures tell us that Bartimaeus was blind, but was he poor?

The Scriptural account says, “Blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.”  If he were begging out of financial need, in other words, poor and destitute, there would have been no mention of his lineage; his father’s name would have not been given.

Therefore, Bartimaeus was on the highway begging for his healing.  People in the lands and times of the Bible did this to obtain mercy from God.  They became as low as a beggar in a public place, hoping that a holy man might pass by and they could receive healing.

What About His Robe?

When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by, he cried out saying, “Jesus thou son of David, have mercy on me.”  And then those around him told him to shut up.  But instead he kept crying out for Jesus to have mercy on him.

Jesus then stopped and called for the man.  Those who had been telling him to shut up were now telling him, “Be of good comfort, rise; he calls you.”  (I guess they were wrong in telling him to shut up before!)

The Scriptural account next includes another detail that is often overlooked, but has great significance.  The Bible says, “And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.” No one told him to cast away his garment.

The garment he cast away was his robe.  Those who begged for healing as opposed to financial need often wore their robes.  Seeing someone begging in a robe instead of rags would be a very obvious indication the person was begging for healing.

A person’s robe indicated his status, his authority, his position in the community, his standing, as well as his dignity.  When Jesus called for Bartimaeus, he cast away his robe and went to Jesus, empty.  He came before Christ empty of all pride, dignity, standing, and status; he stood before him with great humility, to obtain mercy.

Cast Away Your Pride

Isn’t it inspiring to see Bartimaeus choosing to lay aside all his pride?  No one told him he should do that.  It was his choice.

You and I can do the same thing.  We can choose to empty ourselves of pride.  We can approach our loving Father with humility.  And yes, even though we are His dear children, we can still choose to get rid of our ego and self righteous bravado.

The Bible teaches us that God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.  Being humble does not mean being a doormat that every one walks on all day.  Bartimaeus going before Jesus, empty of all pride, is a great example of humility.

We can approach our God with the confidence and open entrance that we have as His children, and with the humbleness of Bartimaeus.

Mark 10:46-52
And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.

And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.

And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called. And they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good comfort, rise; he calls you.

And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.

And Jesus answered and said unto him, What will you that I should do unto you? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight.

And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way.

I Peter 5:5b-7:
For God resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Casting all your care upon him; for he cares for you.

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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Walking In The Light Of Your Own Sparks

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 Isaiah that speaks of farmers walking in the light of their own sparks. In the lands and times of the Bible, farmers did not live on the farm.  Rather they lived in the village.  Thus, they would rise very early in the morning.

Around 4AM, the time of the first cock crowing, those going to work in the fields would rise.  A fire in the village would be lit.  Many would gather to warm themselves before heading out.

They would then need to gather their farm animals and tools and head to the fields.  They would be walking, barefoot, in the dark.  Many times the paths they walked were very narrow.

It Was Dark

In order to have some light, they would light the end of a piece of rope at the village fire.  Then, as they walked, they would blow on the rope producing a small shower of sparks.  This provided a little bit of light for them until they reached the fields.

In Isaiah 50:11, it talks about walking in the sparks, walking in the light of your fire, resulting in sorrow.  To those living in that culture, the meaning was very clear.  Rejecting the light of God’s Word, and walking in your own light, will produce sorrow.

On the other hand, Psalm 119, verse 105 talks about God’s Word being a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path.  In the dark, would you rather walk by the light of sparks or a lamp?

Discouraged And Defeated

Many people are discouraged and defeated, and, as it says in Isaiah, they are lying down in sorrow.  Why?  They try to walk by the light of their own sparks, but our own sparks are not enough.

It reminds me of the verse in Jeremiah that talks about God’s people forsaking Him, the fountain of living waters.  Instead they chose broken cisterns that can hold no water. People have free will to choose, but when they forsake God’s wisdom they will be disappointed.

So, if you were thirsty, wouldn’t you rather rely on a fountain instead of a broken cistern?  A fountain is an unlimited supply, whereas a cistern has limited capacity.  But a broken cistern is pretty much empty!

The Light Of The World

Our own light and our own wisdom will always come up short compared to the light and wisdom of God.  As smart as we are, the best we can do is sparks; God can provide a lamp.  We think we are doing something great by building a broken cistern; meanwhile, God is a fountain!

Jesus Christ declared that he was the light of the world.  He also said that no man comes to the Father but by him.  In other words, the only way to the Father is through accepting and believing that Jesus is indeed the Christ.

There are those who have rejected Jesus Christ, the light of the world.  The Bible says that there are those who love darkness.  They choose to walk in their own light.  Jesus was rejected by many when he walked the earth, and there are those today who reject him.

We Have a Choice

We can make a decision and choose to walk by the light and lamp of God’s Word.  We can adopt an attitude of saying, “What does the Bible say about that?”  Or, we can choose to walk by our own sparks, walk by our wisdom.  The latter produces sorrow, the former produces rejoicing.

Isaiah 50:11:
Behold, all you that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that you have kindled. This shall you have of mine hand; you shall lie down in sorrow.

Jeremiah 2:13
For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.

Psalm 119:105:
Your word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

John 3:19 – 21:
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

For every one that does evil hates the light, neither comes to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

But he that does truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

Mike Verdicchio

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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Renewed Like The Eagle

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 the fifth verse of Psalm 103, God promises to satisfy us with good things so that our youth is renewed like the eagle is renewed.  In order to understand this verse of Scripture, let’s first consider the eagle.

It is both interesting as well as noteworthy that eagles are mentioned and used as a comparison numerous times in the Bible. The eagle, like other comparisons, is mentioned in places where its characteristics help make the point. Understanding some characteristics of eagles helps us to understand the comparisons.

For instance, Deuteronomy Chapter 32 refers to God as an eagle, fluttering over the young, spreading out His wings, and then bearing them on His wings.

A mother eagle will stir up the nest and let the babies drop and then catch them with her wings.  This is how she teaches them to fly.  God wants us to fly and soar.  He is so willing to catch us, help us, and carry us until we can indeed fly.

In Exodus 19:4, God reminds Moses that He bore the nation of Israel on eagle’s wings.  In other words, He carried the whole nation on His wings, just as a mother eagle would carry her young on her wings.  That is quite a picture of God’s great power, care, and concern.

There are numerous comparisons in the Bible using the eagle.  One such case is Psalm 103, where it talks about our youth being renewed as an eagle is renewed.  How is the youth of an eagle renewed?

I have read of different methods that different types of eagles have to shed their old feathers.  One method I read was that of the eagle plucking out every feather on his body until he is completely bare. He stays in a hiding place until he has grown new feathers, then he can come out.

Another method I have read about is when an eagle will shed his old cumbersome feathers by entering into a body of water.  At that point the old feathers are shed.  The eagle then stays close to shore protecting himself and eating what food he can, waiting for new feathers.  Once he has his new feathers, his strength is renewed, and it is compared to his youth being renewed.

The book of Isaiah says that those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Our “youth,” or specifically, our spiritual walk with God, can be renewed, as we shed the old, and get the new.  There are a number of verses in the New Testament that refer to putting off, and putting on.  We are to put off the old man and put on the new man.

Just like the eagle cannot get his new feathers until he gets rid of his old feathers, we too must put off, cast down, or lay aside the old and then put on the new.

We make a conscious mental effort to put off the actions of the old nature.  We determine mentally that those old things will no longer be a part of our lives.  And then we replace them with what the Bible declares to be our new nature.

For example, in Ephesians it says to put away lying and speak every man truth with his neighbor.  Lying is part of the old nature.  Speaking the truth is a characteristic of the new nature.

So we can mentally determine to put away lying; we can shed those old feathers. And in it’s place we make a conscious mental decision to speak the truth. In doing so, we can then walk with God unencumbered by the old.

As we shed the old feathers and put on the new in their place, we are renewed.  We can walk with Him and not faint.  We can run with Him and not be weary. We can be renewed and mount up with wings of eagles.

Psalm 103:5
Who satisfies your mouth with good things; so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Deuteronomy 32:9-12
For the Lord’s portion is His people; Jacob is the lot of His inheritance.

He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; He led him about, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye.

As an eagle stirs up her nest, flutters over her young, spreads abroad her wings, takes them, bears them on her wings:

So the Lord alone did lead him, and there was no strange god with him.

Exodus 19:4
You have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.

Isaiah 40:31
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Ephesians 4:22- 25:
That you put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

And that you put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another.

II Corinthians 10:5
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

Hebrews 12:1
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

Mike Verdicchio

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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No One Can Pluck You Out Of His Hand

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 the Gospel of John, in teaching about eternal life, Jesus Christ said that those having eternal life would never perish, and that no one would be able to pluck them out of his hand or His Father’s hand.

To “pluck out of the hand” refers to a game young children played in the lands and times of the Bible.  This is something that those listening to Jesus would have easily understood; it painted a clear picture for them.  Once we understand the game the children played, we too will have a clear picture of what he said.

The Game

Here is the simple game the children played. One of the youngsters would put a coin in his hand, close his fist, and then keep it closed as tightly as he could.  Another child would then try to open the tightly clenched fist, and if he could, he would get the coin.

In referring to eternal life, Jesus was saying that no one was going to “open his Father’s fist.”  In other words, eternal life cannot be changed or altered.  This gives us a little added insight to a verse in Colossians that says that our life is hid with Christ in God.  The life being referred to is eternal life.

Not Perish

It is noteworthy that when Jesus spoke of eternal life, he used the word “perish.”  He didn’t say that those who have eternal life would not die, but rather that they would not perish.  There is a difference.

The Greek word translated “perish” means to be completely abolished, ruined and lost.  While one may die, if he or she is born again, that person will not perish, because they have eternal life.  The Bible says that those who die are asleep and will be made alive when Christ returns.

An Open Invitation

Because of God’s great love, He has freely extended the invitation to all people to accept His Son, to believe that Jesus is the savior and lord of all men, and that God raised him from the dead.  Accepting these two truths, one becomes saved and receives eternal life.

And, once you receive eternal life, nothing can change it!  No one is going to pluck you out of Christ’s hand, or out of his Father’s hand.

Once again, with a little understanding of the times and culture in which the scriptures were written, the Bible becomes clear, and its richness shines brightly.

John 10:28 and 29
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

Colossians 3:3b
Your life is hid with Christ in God

I Thessalonians 4:15-17
For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

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

Mike Verdicchio

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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Bewailing Virginity

PLEASE NOTE – THERE WILL BE A REVISED ARTICLE WITH SOME ADDED INSIGHT COMING SOON. ONCE IT IS POSTED, THERE WILL ALSO BE A LINK ON THIS  PAGE TO THE REVISED ARTICLE.

I have recently posted, on the Home page, a revised version of what I posted here a number of years ago.
The new post is titled, Bewailing Virginity – Revised.

The revised article contains added insight along with additional resources.

Here is the link to access Bewailing Virginity – Revised

At the end of the article is a link to a recent teaching I did in which I shared a good portion of this revised article.

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Turn The Other Cheek

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.]

Many people are familiar with the expression, “turn the other cheek.”  However, when it comes to understanding what that means, there is a fair amount of confusion.

Jesus Christ taught that whosoever shall smite you on your right cheek, you should turn to him the other cheek also.  Thus we end up with the expression, “turn the other cheek.”

Some say this is a metaphor meaning that if someone does you harm, you just walk away.  Others have a literal point of view and believe that if someone physically hurts you, then you allow them to keep hurting you. Perhaps that’s where the expression, “door mat for Jesus” came about.

What Does Smite Mean?

The Greek word that is translated, “smite” does not necessarily mean to inflict pain or injury.  It can also mean to touch, and it’s important to note that Jesus mentioned the “right cheek.”

Once again, understanding the culture in the lands and times of the Bible opens up the meaning of the scriptures.   Yes, Jesus Christ brought a new message.  But we need to always remember that the words he spoke and the words he employed were known and understood by the people he spoke to.  His message was new, but the words and phrases he used to convey that message were not new.

But to our minds, not being familiar with that culture, many times we misunderstand those words and phrases.  Gaining an understanding of the words and phrases used in that culture helps us to then understand the meaning of what Jesus taught.

A Great Insult

In Bible culture, one of the greatest insults was for someone to touch your cheek with their hand.  This is what Jesus meant when he said if someone were to smite you on your right cheek.  If someone did in fact touch you on the cheek, it would be a very great insult.  It would be one of the most insulting things that someone could do to you.

The message is clear.  Do not retaliate. Do not respond back with an insult.  It may be very humiliating; it may make me look like dirt.  But, I can let someone touch the cheek on the other side, too.

Jesus was surely not saying that if someone smacked you in the face and jarred your teeth loose, that you should then allow them to smack you again on the other side of your face.  That is just ridiculous.

Bless And Curse Not

Jesus said that we should take his yoke upon us, “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”  It is certainly not easy nor is it light to let someone break your jaw, and then let them break it again.

But if someone does insult you, then by the grace of God you can “turn the other cheek,” and bless them instead of retaliating against them.  The Bible teaches, “Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.”

Matthew 5:39:
But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Matthew 11:28 and 29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls.

For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Romans 12:14
Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

Mike Verdicchio

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

Posted on

Dumber Than An Ox?

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.]

There is an expression we use today when referring to someone who is not very smart.  They say that the person is as dumb as an ox.  I don’t know if oxen are really stupid or not.  But there is a place in the Bible where God makes reference to His people saying that they were actually dumber than oxen!

donkeyIn the lands and times of the Bible, in the small villages, early in the morning a young boy would lead the animals out to the fields.  He would go to the different owners of the animals and lead them out to the field to graze.  He would lead the asses from their cribs.   He would lead the cows and oxen from their mangers.

Returning Home

In the evening the young boy, called a “cowboy,” would not bring the animals back to the owners’ crib or manger.  He would simply bring them to the village and let them go.  The cows, asses and oxen would then find their own way to their own master’s crib or manger.

I guess those animals weren’t so dumb after all.  The asses knew where their masters’ crib was and the oxen knew where their masters’ manger was located.  They had the sense to return home.

My People Do Not Know

In the Bible in the book of Isaiah, there is an idiom where God talks about how the ass and ox know where their masters are, but Israel does not know or even consider.  This is certainly far from a compliment.

God is saying, rather bluntly, that His own people have forgotten who their Master is.  They do not even have the sense of an ass or an ox.  Those “dumb” animals knew where their masters were, but God’s own people did not.

Instead of returning to their Master, to God, Israel was putting their trust in other gods.  They had, as the book of Jeremiah states, forsaken God, an unlimited fountain, and built for themselves broken cisterns that can hold no water.

Blistering Reproof

Understanding the culture in the Bible, one can easily see that this verse in Isaiah is a blistering statement of reproof.  God is telling His people that they don’t even have the sense of an ass or an ox.

God is trying to show them very pointedly, using something they are familiar with, that they really ought to remember who God is and how He can provide for them.  If they would remember that, then they wouldn’t need to go chasing after other gods, putting their trust elsewhere, instead of in God.

Our God is a God who provides for His people.  He provides solutions, liberty, peace, joy,donkey-anim healing, abundance, and all that we need.  Those who are complaining and looking for sympathy and pity need to have at least the smarts of an ass and turn to God.

Return To God

Too often people want to have it their own way.  They many times even know what the Word of God says, but they have their own way of doing things; they have their own plan.  They think that they are right and don’t realize that in doing that they are not even as smart as an ox.

But for those who choose to return to God, those who return to the Master, God will indeed provide for them as they put their trust in God.

Isaiah 1:3
The ox knows his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel does not know, my people do not consider.

Malachi 3:7
Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them.  Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says the LORD of hosts.

Mike Verdicchio

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)

Posted on

Was Rahab A Prostitute?

[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.]

Most people are adamant that Rahab, in the story of Joshua and Jericho, was a prostitute.   Scholars point out that the Hebrew word used in the Old Testament, as well as the Greek word used in the New Testament clearly indicate that fact.

The meaning of words is very important, but one also needs to consider figures of speech and the culture in which the Bible was written.  For example, Jesus Christ referred to Herod as a “fox.”  While Herod may have had many attributes of a fox, he was still a man.  Understanding the figure of speech, we can understand what Jesus was talking about when he called Herod a “fox.”

Rahab_of_JerichoWhen it comes to Rahab, we really need to take a step back and consider the culture.  First, we need to understand women in the times of the Bible.  They covered their faces with veils.  They did not talk to any men except their husbands and relatives.  For them to be unveiled or to talk to strangers was a deviation from the standard.

Next, we need to understand “inns” in Bible times. They were located either on the roadside or at the gate of a city, which was the case in the story of Rahab.  These inns were publicly funded and there was no charge for the travelers.

It was not common for a woman to be an innkeeper.  The job would first be offered to men. If there were no men willing to take the job, it was then offered to women.  Any woman taking the job would of course not be veiled.  This would be breaking her culture.

She would then be serving the public, meaning that she would talk to strangers.  She would be unveiled talking to strange men. She had made the choice to get rid of her veil and serve anybody and everybody.

Her Occupation Did Not Make Her A Prostitute

Prostitutes in that culture were not allowed to live in the city.  They, along with swineherds, lepers, and alcohol shops were kept a good distance from the city, in some cases as far as 3 miles away.

The Bible tells us that Rahab lived on the town wall, at the gate of the city.  This is of course where the inn would have been.  We also learn from the Scriptures that Rahab’s family lived with her, which was typical for innkeepers.

Because of this very unique situation that was so contrary to their culture, the word, “harlot” became a title for women who were innkeepers.  She was serving the public, talking to strangers.  She was unveiled talking to strange men. She had made the choice to get rid of her veil and serve anybody and everybody.  She was an innkeeper, not a prostitute.

There are those who do not like to say that Rahab was a prostitute because they feel that would make her a filthy sinner, and God would never employ her help.  Others like the idea that she was a prostitute because it shows that God loves everyone.

All arguments and opinions aside, we must always take into account the culture in which the Bible was written.  Regardless of what anyone, including myself, thinks, Rahab is listed in Hebrews 11, right there with some of the great believers of all time.

Joshua 2:1- 21
And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot’s house, named Rahab, and lodged there.

And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country.

And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country.

And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were:

And it came to pass about the time of shutting of the gate, when it was dark, that the men went out: whither the men went I wot not: pursue after them quickly; for ye shall overtake them.

But she had brought them up to the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax, which she had laid in order upon the roof.

And the men pursued after them the way to Jordan unto the fords: and as soon as they which pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate.

And before they were laid down, she came up unto them upon the roof;

And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.

For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed.

And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.

Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have showed you kindness, that ye will also show kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token:

And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.

And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.

Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall.

And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way.

And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear.

Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household, home unto thee.

And it shall be, that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will be guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood shall be on our head, if any hand be upon him.

And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear.

And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.

Joshua 6:21-23
And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the sword.

But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot’s house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her.

And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp of Israel.

Hebrews 11:31
By faith [believing] the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.

Mike Verdicchio

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)