I had a wonderful time during my morning Bible study today. The verb "revel" comes to mind. This word (rarely used today) means to take part in a noisy celebration or to enjoy something very much. The term implies both abandonment and enjoyment. Synonyms include celebrate, indulge, and even carouse. I'm never in a hurry to get through my time in the word. Sometimes words sort of lie down in the grass and become hidden. When you come across words like this, take notice of them. Become a careful student of words.
When I read the Bible, I feel like a word vulture as I hover over statements made and even connotations of words. Words are my craft. They mean everything. I teach in a place that is thoroughly committed to training men and women for the hard work of Bible study. Remember, the difference between reading and studying is pen and paper. O may my students learn to "revel" in such study!
May I give you an example from this morning's time in Mark 5?
The passage I was reading is frequently referred to as "The Raising of Jairus's Daughter." It's found in Matt. 9:18-26, Mark 5:21-43, and Luke 8:40-56. It's closely interwoven with another pericope called "The Healing of a Bleeding Woman." In verse 23 of Mark 5, we encounter the word thugatrion. Jairus literally says to Jesus, "My little daughter [thugatrion] has it lastly," that is, "is at her end." Now, thugatrion is a diminutive of thugatēr, "daughter." The term connotes special affection, much like the suffix "-li" in Swiss German. Diminutives convey smallness, affection, or intimacy. In Spanish, perro (dog) becomes perrito (little dog) and mamá (mom) becomes mamita, showing great endearment. Diminutives are a versatile linguistic tool that can enrich communication by adding emotional depth and ninace.
So how do English versions handle this word? (Remember, I'm a word vulture!) Here are some examples:
- CSB: "My little daughter."
- ESV: "My little daughter."
- Phillips: "My little girl" (that's better!).
- MSG: "My dear daughter" (very nice!).
Here's how I might render verse 23:
"My precious daughter is at death's door. Please come and lay hands on her so that she will be healed and live!"
Interestingly, Luke 8:42 adds that she is Jairus's "only daughter." O the pathos! Moreover, she was 12 years of age. That was the age in Jewish society when a son or a daughter was on the verge of young adulthood. Imagine what fun we could have if we simply slowed down and observed the words of Scripture!
Would you like to read the Bible with eyes like that?
Observation is the first step in Bible study.
The point is, do whatever it takes to approach the word with a fresh perspective. One of the greatest killers in Bible study is the statement, "O, I already know that"!