They regarded most modern learning with suspicion. You had to be able to read 17th Century English, of course, so you could read the Bible. But science was seen as deeply suspect. Mathematics was encouraged as how else could you calculate the end of the world? But you could forget anything approaching geology or human biology.
Greek and Hebrew were regarded as unnecessary, as the Bible had already been translated perfectly. And Modern Languages were generally held to be deeply suspect, as doubting the power of God as revealed at Pentecost.
And in fact it was the languages stuff that caused me all the trouble. It was a great internal struggle. I knew I would get disfellowshipped. I liked many of the people, and knew I would have to leave them. But, you know, in the end I knew I had to be true to myself, however horrified they would all be.
So I did it. I came out as bilingual.
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Today's first reading, though, reminded us of the dangers of too much thinking...
ReplyDeleteDoes bilingual involve any physical exertion? Because it seems a strange name for an Arch Druid's belief system.
ReplyDeleteAnd given that Anglicans believe in so many different things, how does bilingual fit into the liberal-traditionalist mix?
Answers on a Post Card too....
What is the significance, if any, of St Paul's choice of the verb lalein (as opposed to legein) in 1 Cor 34-5? What nomos is he referring to?
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on coming out as bilingual! I once read somewhere that if you can speak (and presumably understand) two languages you add an extra four years to your life. So carry on learning languages and you could in theory live for ever.
ReplyDelete