Daily Bread – June 29, 2022 (The Fourth Day – Genesis 1:14-19) 1 Corinthians 12:10 – And by another, workings of miracles; and by another, prophecy; and by another, discerning of spirits; by others, diversities of tongues; and by others, the ability to put the tongues into words. Putting Tongues Into Words The Greek word translated “interpret” (diermhneuo) is recognized by the experts in linguistics as not being adequately translated by the word ‘interpret.’ Thiselton argues this verse should be translated, “He who speaks in a tongue should pray for the power to produce articulate speech” (Thiselton, A. C. (2000). The First Epistle to the Corinthians : A commentary on the Greek text (1098)). When Josephus was trying to express the wonders of Herod’s temple, he used this word to express his inability to put into words the beauty of the gardens and lavish decorations (Josephus, Jewish Wars 5.176) . Philo describes the meaning of the word in relation to a poet who is divinely inspired, and is lifted above the mind to speak higher inspiration. Philo also understands the meaning of this word based on Aaron’s relationship with Moses. Aaron did not interpret what Moses said as though he spoke another language; but instead, Aaron “put into words” – articulate communication – what Moses felt himself unable to express (Philo, Quod Deterius Potiori Insidiari Soleat 15, 16; cf. Thiselton, “The ‘Interpretation’ of Tongues,” 20–25). Blessings, Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Daily Bread 6/29/2022
