Theological Reflection on ABRAHAM II

Reflection: What is the importance of the story about Abraham offering Isaac as a sacrifice?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 9).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of ZEBULUN and the secondary influence of the tribe of ISSACHAR: Place + Work = Threshing Floor.

Goren (go’-ren) in Hebrew means the “threshing-floor.”

The text associated with Goren in the Hebrew Scriptures is associated with the story about Gideon and the sign of the fleece (see Judges 6:36-40).

This story appears in the Reaction section of the reflection cycle, which means that it was done as a test.

EXAMINATION

The first time Gideon sets up a test for YHWH, the answer is affirmative. This is the same for the faithfulness of Abraham.

CHANGES

The second time Gideon sets up the test; it is the reverse of the time before, and YHWH reverses the decision to sacrifice Isaac.

OUTCOME

The final outcome is a covenant promise for the descendants of Abraham through Isaac.

TODAY’S WORLD
Moral issues akin to Abraham prepared to kill his son for God is the moral issues regarding assisted suicide and harvesting organs of deceased persons for transplant. When is a person considered to be clinically dead: When the patient is brain dead, or when the heart stops: critical for successful organ transplant.

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on ABRAHAM I

Reflection: Further understanding on the importance of Abraham?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 8).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of LEVI and the secondary influence of the tribe of BENJAMIN: Sacred + Guard = Festival.

Chag (khag) in Hebrew is the name for a “festive gathering.”

The text associated with Chag in the Hebrew Scriptures is associated with the description of appointed Festivals (see Leviticus 23:33-44).

This story appears in the Action section of the reflection cycle, which means that it is ongoing. The inference we can draw from this is that festivals are a memorial of an important religious event.

REACTION

Festivals regarding Abraham may be different in different religions but there reason for their existence is similar.

EXAMINATION

There are three festivals regarding the Rock where Abraham was reported to obey the Lord in sacrificing his son. The Rock is Temple Mount in Jerusalem, which is a holy place for Jews, Muslims and Christians. The temple built by King Solomon was on that spot. In Judaism, during Rosh Hashanah, the story of Abraham and Isaac is recited. This same episode takes place in Islam, but with Ishmael as the sacrifice rather than Isaac, at “Id al-Adha,” the Feast of the Sacrifice. In Islam the Rock is also the place where Mohamed ascended to Paradise, where the Dome of the Rock stands today. For Christians the festival associated with the Rock is Easter, the day of Jesus resurrection: This time the sacrifice was God’s son. ⁽¹⁾

CHANGES
The three festivals take place during the holist times of each of the three religions.

OUTCOME

These three festivals remind Jews, Muslims and Christians of their connection with Abraham and with each other.

TODAY’S WORLD

Three of the greatest religions on earth today recognize a common Patriarch, Abraham: History’s first monotheist. God is One.

References:
1. “Abraham  ̶  A Journey to the Heart of Three Faiths” by Bruce Feiler
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on THE TOWER OF BABEL

Reflection: Further understanding on the meaning of the story of the Tower of Babel?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 7).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of SIMEON and the secondary influence of the tribe of ISSACHAR; that is,  Knowledge + Work = Understanding.

Binah (bee-naw’) in Hebrew signifies “discernment”, “truth” or “understanding.”

The text associated with Binah in the Hebrew Scriptures is associated with the story of Ezra summoning the people to obey the law (see Nehemiah 8:1-10).

This story appears in the Action section of the reflection cycle, which means that it is just beginning. The inference we can draw from this is that the story of the Tower of Babel is an ongoing saga.

REACTION

Traditionally, the Tower of Babel is another type of creation story explaining the reason why the world has multiple languages and not just one language. Nevertheless, in the text from Nehemiah, Ezra is reading the laws of Moses, which had been lost for many generations, to all who could understand. This signifies that communication and agreement through understanding the law is at the heart of the lesson to be learnt by all nations.

EXAMINATION

Ezra stands on a platform so all can see him. The Tower of Babel and the Twin Towers are similar in this respect. The Word Trade Centre in New York was not just the most conspicuous symbol of US capitalism, it was also intended to be a symbol of human unity and human greatness.

CHANGES

The terrorists flew the airplanes into the World Trade Center because it was the symbol of Babel, which was in the heart of Islamic Mesopotamia. Now, for all nations, 9/11 is a day to remember, similar to the day when Ezra read the law and the governor commented on its meaning: on 9/11 the Governor of New York, "Rudi" Giuliani, led the people from the towers out of the danger zone.

OUTCOME

In the story of Ezra he tells the people not to grieve for YHWH is their joy and their strength.

TODAY’S WORLD

This is the story of the many heroes who gave up their lives rescuing people trapped in the towers: may their sacrifice and courageous acts be remembered forever.

With respect to the law, new immigrants agree to follow the laws of the land when they swear allegiance to their new country. The laws of Moses can be found in almost every system of law throughout the world. In a multicultural country containing multi-faiths, communication, tolerance, and understanding are necessary for justice to be available to every citizen pursuing their God given right of freedom and happiness.

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on THE FLOOD

Reflection: What meaning can be found in the story of FLOOD?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 6).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of Dan and the secondary influence of the tribe of RUEBEN; that is,  Judgment + Power = Command.

Tsavah (tsaw-vaw’) in Hebrew has the sense of “giving orders” or “taking charge.”

The text associated with Tsavah in the Hebrew Scriptures is associated with the story of Israel crossing the Jordan (see Joshua 3:5-13)

This story appears in the Examination section of the reflection cycle, which means that analysis of the situation has already taken place and CHANGES and OUTCOME are still process. The inference we can draw from this is that the story of The Flood is about the judgment has already taken place but the outcome depends on following the commands of YHWH.

CHANGES

The story of the flood and cataclysms is very much a story of today due to recent tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods. Cosmic forces are also potential causes of cataclysms. Asteroids have come close to the earth and astronomers have identified others to be on their way.

OUTCOME
In the story of Israel crossing the Jordan the priests carried the Ark of the Covenant into the Jordan and the waters were cut off and stood as single trough: meaning the flood was controlled. The Ark of the Covenant represents the Laws of YHWH. If we follow them then the effects of cataclysms will be abated.

TODAY’S WORLD
Stephen Hawkin says that the universe is a very dangerous place and a day will come when the earth will be destroyed. Hawkin also point out that Jupiter is our cosmic guardian, due to its massive gravitational field, which assures a low number of impacts from asteroids. I believe that Jupiter’s orbit may be considered to be God’s Providence. However, human beings are the ones who are mainly responsible for an increase in greenhouse gases, which has contributed to global warming. Human activities, therefore, may also be responsible for increased flooding and polar ice caps melting. If this trend continues we will need God’s Providence (divine intervention) to save human life on the earth. What is needed is repentance ¾ social justice: illuminate carbon dioxide emissions ¾ and prayer ¾ creative research: finding ways to survive that do not to hurt the planet in the process.


References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on CAIN & ABLE

Reflection: What is the meaning of the story of CAIN & ABLE?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 5).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of Ephraim & Manassah and the secondary influence of the tribe of Judah; that is,  Produce + Praise = Thanksgiving.

Yadah (yaw-daw’) in Hebrew means “throwing down thanks.”

The text associated with Yadah in the Hebrew Scriptures is associated with the story of the Ark of the Covenant being brought into the temple (see 2 Chr 5:11-14).

This story appears in the Reaction section of the reflection cycle, which means that EXAMINATION, CHANGES and OUTCOME are still in process. The inference we can draw from this is that the story of Cain and Able is about reaction and its consequences.

In the Cain and Able story Cain kills Able because of jealousy that Able’s offering of thanksgiving to YHWH was accepted but Cain’s was not.

EXAMINATION
The related scriptural text refers to the Ark being brought into the temple and the priests praising and thanking YHWH for all that is good.

CHANGES
This story has more to do with what kind of offering is acceptable more than it is about the first murder. Cain’s offering as a hunter and gatherer was a subtraction. He only took something; he did not give back or create anything.  

OUTCOME
When the offering to YHWH comes from an addition (farming or sustainable energy) then the offering is acceptable and fills the temple with glory.

TODAY’S WORLD

Jealousies continue to take place all over the world, as do the deaths of innocent victims. This reflection also applies to the morality (acceptable offering) of sustainable energy, such as hydroelectric, solar, wind turbine and so forth; whereas consumption of fossil fuels, such as oil and coal are subtractions, and has negative consequences to the environment. Atomic energy also comes under this category: where energy is created from depletion (unacceptable offering) rather than from creative additions.

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on THE FALL

Reflection: What further understanding can get from the story of THE FALL?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 4).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of Dan and the secondary influence of the tribe of Asher; that is,  Judgement + Favor = Partial.

Hadar (haw-dar’) in Hebrew indicates being “partial” in the sense of being “honored.”

The text associated with Hadar in the Hebrew Scriptures is the commands regarding “Justice for all (Exodus 23:1-9).”

These commands of YHWH appear in the Reaction section of the reflection cycle, which means that EXAMINATION, CHANGES and OUTCOME are still in process. The inference we can draw from this is that the story of The Fall is a turning away from the right way and because of that there are consequences.

We are always more partial to those we have an intimate relation with.  However, in terms of the commandments we should apply justice to all equally.

EXAMINATION
The text says that we should not even rob an enemy.

CHANGES
The metaphor illustrated in The Fall has sexual implications. Not that sex is bad because our bodies are made to reproduce, which is an act of creation. It is the partiality that sexual love brings that is in question here. In the actual story of Eve disobeying YHWH and eating the fruit that was forbidden, Eve reacts to being denied. That is she felt left out: YHWH was withholding partiality (favor) from her. She had to learn that there are GOOD actions and BAD actions in the material world. As we all do. Not everything that feels good is necessarily good. Love and partiality can have negative consequences.

OUTCOME
With respect to GOOD and BAD remember the Golden Rule: treat others as we would have them treat us.

TODAY’S WORLD
Society understands that we are partial to those we love and this is understood. In courts of law the testimony of a spouse is considered to have less weight or validity because of this partiality.

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on CREATION

Reflection: What can we learn from the Creation Story?

This question was posed for those studying the Old Testament in Year One of Education for Ministry (WK 3).

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of Judah and the secondary influence of the tribe of Dan; that is,  Praise + Judgement = Respect.

Masso (mas-so’) in Hebrew signifies “respect” or “high regard.”

The text associated with Respect in the Hebrew Scriptures is the story about “corruption of the priesthood (see Malachi 1:6-2:6).”

The story appears in the Action section of the reflection cycle, which means that this is the beginning of the process. The inference we can draw from this is that the Creation Story is still in progress.

The general sense of a corruption in the priesthood and the beginning of a new creation gives the idea, first of respect for the awesome might of the Creator, but also that this is a new creation to replace one that had been corrupted: not exactly orthodox thinking but food for thought.

REACTION
Creation is a new beginning to do away with the corruption.

EXAMINATION
The text says that YHWH is great amongst all nations and everywhere people make offerings out of respect.

CHANGES
Making offerings that are not the best brings disrespect. That is why the scripture in Genesis say that YHWH saw what had been created and said it was GOOD. Changing what had been corrupted to something better.

OUTCOME
Humankind needs to understand that the action of creation is a good action and they need to follow in the same manner as co-creators.

TODAY’S WORLD
Technology is the act of co-creation but the repercussions of technology often bring a negative side effect. Respect for the creation must be considered at all times.

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on the stories of GENESIS

Reflection: What are the central themes contained in the stories of Genesis?

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of Gad and the secondary influence of the tribe of Ephraim & Manassah; that is,  Warrior + Produce = Profit.

Betsa (beh’-tsah) in Hebrew means “gain by force” or “profit.”

The text associated with Profit (betsa) in the Hebrew Scriptures is the story about “Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers (see Gen 37:25-27).”

The story appears in the Changes section of the reflection cycle, which means that Outcome is still in process. The inference we can draw from this is that the end of the story regarding making a profit is still in process.

What profits us might be considered to be the prime directive of humanity. It is the intelligence underlying creation in its multiplication phase. Survival of the fittest is driven by the motivation to increase. Whether we can conclude that this was the prime motivation of the Tribes of Israel in their relationship with YHWH might be highly speculative. Nevertheless, it appears that the relationship the Hebrews had with YHWH was to gain Strength in battle and Abundance in life.

CHANGES
The text says, “Then Judah said to his brothers, ‘What profit is there if we kill our brother and conceal his blood? Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and not lay our hands on him, for he is our brother, our own flesh.’ And his brothers agreed.”

OUTCOME
The outcome was that Joseph became a great man in Egypt and eventually prospered his brothers as well. Later, the situation changed again and began another episode in the ongoing saga.

TODAY’S WORLD
The saga continues in the Middle East…

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Theological Reflection on the origin of the OLD TESTAMENT

Reflection: What do we need to know about the origin of the Hebrew Scriptures?

The Sacred Tools of Discernment indicated that the answer to this question may be obtained by reflecting on the primary influence of the tribe of Issachar and the secondary influence of the tribes of Ephraim & Manassah; that is, Work + Produce = Possess.

Yarash (yaw-rash') in Hebrew means “inherit” or “take possession.”

The text associated with Possess (Yarash) in the Hebrew Scriptures is the story of “The marriage of Isaac and Rebekah (see Gen 24:55-67).”

The story appears in the Examination section of the reflection cycle, which means that Changes and Outcome are still in process. The inference we can make from this is that the promises of YHWH in the Hebrew Scriptures are still in effect if we continue to be guided by them.

The Hebrew Scriptures were therefore about the inheritance given to the Twelve Tribes of Israel; and contains stories about their relationship with YHWH with respect to their ancestors and their inheritance in the form of promises of land and wealth. The text of the reflection refers to the lineage of Isaac and Rebecca, which indicates that the writings of the Hebrew Scriptures came from that source.

EXAMINATION

It so happens when the Tribes of Israel took possession of Canaan, the land acquired by the tribes of Issachar, Ephraim and Manassah were the larger portion of the Northern Kingdom on both sides of the Jordan.

The text says, “And they blessed Rebekah and said to her, ‘May you, our sister, become thousands of myriads; may your offspring gain possession of the gates of their foes.”

CHANGES
Changes take place in our lives by reflecting on the stories of YHWH’s relationship with the Hebrew people and their heirs.

OUTCOME
The outcome is that the Hebrew Scriptures provide comfort to all the descendants of Isaac and Rebecca.

TODAY’S WORLD
The Old Testament remains the basis of three great monotheistic religions Judaism, Christianity and Islam. 

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder

Introduction to the SACRED TOOLS OF DISCERNMENT

This blog uses the Sacred Lots of the Twelve Tribes, which are tools of discernment based on the Urim & Thummim. 

According to the book of Genesis the nation of Israel are descendants of twelve tribes: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulum, Joseph’s sons Ephraim and Manasseh, and Benjamin. I have developed a system containing 144 characteristics based on the combined meaning of the names attributed to each of the Twelve Tribes.

The Hebrew Scriptures contain hidden meanings that inquiry and reflection can reveal. There are five themes that continually come to the surface through inquiry:

1. [YHWH] Worship of the One God.
   
   
2. [ISRAEL] Chosen people sanctified as a light to the nations.
   
   
3. [TANACH] Instruction on how to live and be protected from destructive forces.
   
   
4. [COVENANT] Promise of land.
   
   
5. [MESSIAH] Anointed ruler sent by YHWH.
   
   

These themes are repeated throughout the Hebrew Scriptures along with underlying themes regarding YHWH’s relationship to the Tribes of Israel and the constant cycle of creation, sin, judgment, repentance and redemption. This is reiterated in the structure of the text of the Hebrew Scriptures and the structure of the reflection method outlined in this blog:

1. [ACTION] The story — creation.
   
   
2. [REACTION] The people’s natural contrariness — sin.
   
   
3. [EXAMINATION] The circumstances surrounding the story and instruction regarding it — judgment.
   
   
4. [CHANGES]  Recognising a problem and trying to correct it — repentance.
   
   
5. [OUTCOME] The transformation that occurs — redemption

References:
See Bibliography: Sacred Tools of Discernment by Jonn Lavinnder