Main news for 12 June 2006

This direct testimony of the heavenly Father about Jesus Christ includes the words en o eudokesa, which are difficult to understand and translate. The Russian Synodal translation "in whom is My good pleasure" is far from perfect. Closest to the Greek original is the Slavonic "in Him I was well pleased," but this translation too is not ideal. The Latin in Quo Mihi bene conplacui, "in whom I found satisfaction," is not much better, and the translations into European languages follow it. Evidently a translation that follows the Greek phrase exactly does not convey the meaning of the words of the Almighty with sufficient clarity.

What, then, does God want to tell Christ's disciples about Jesus before commanding them to listen to Him? Each translation offers its own shades of meaning. Western translations imply that the Son is the only One who is obedient to the Father's will, who keeps "His commandment," as Jesus Himself says in the Gospel of John. This is important because only together with Him can we fulfill the Father's commandment.

The Russian Synodal translation implies that in Jesus Christ, and only in Him, the Father's favor toward the world and people is given to us. The Father's love is expressed in the fact that He gives Him to us, as Jesus Himself also says in the Gospel of John. But besides this, the Russian translation also implies what comes to the foreground with special brightness in the Slavonic text: "This is My beloved, whom I love," or in other words, "This is My Son, My Love." What is important here is that the Father's love itself abides in the Son and comes to us in Him. St. John of Damascus calls Christ "hypostatic Life"; using this device, one can, following Damascus, call Him "hypostatic Love." Then one can try to render this verse with the words "This is My beloved Son, My Love; listen to this Love."

Mat 17:5

NOTES

Christ was transfigured while remaining human, but by opening to the disciples a small part of His divinity, He gave them the opportunity to touch another reality, incomprehensible to all those who...

The most important encounters between God and humanity took place on a mountain peak...

This episode of the Transfiguration of the Lord has inspired many theologians, preachers, and icon painters. The fact that Christ revealed His glory to the disciples is a very important moment in the relationship between God and people...

${currentDateString}


	After registering, you can subscribe to any Bible reading plan. Personalized settings and other services for registered users are planned, so we recommend registering now. Registration is free.