Studying the Bible
I love studying the Bible. It takes me to areas I have never considered. Let me tell you what is happening this week!
My Sermon preparation is from Numbers 21:4-9 regarding the bronze or copper serpent Moses created.
This week I am considering snakes. I have pulled down professional articles regarding snakes in the Middle East. I am amazed how many articles are about 'Snakes in the Bible' or similar themes.
Another place to seek information is to glean names from expert databases, faculty lists, or from articles. Many of these folks are just waiting for someone to have an interest in their area of interest. It is kind of like a farmer who is just waiting to tell you about his 'back 40' acres... if only you will ask.
This week I am waiting for a return email in response to my questions from a Herpatologist (reptile expert). I did some research and discovered a Herpatologist at a major university in Israel. I asked him the following question:
"I have a theory in regards to Number 21:4-9. I believe the Israeli's walked into a communal nest of vipers. I know some snakes live in communes (dens). Therefore, I asked him if a communal type of snake is predominant in the desert south of the Dead Sea and over towards Sinai desert." In other words, I am trying to identify the type of snake in this passage from the Bible.
I have other questions too. I want to ask him about the horn viper that literally looks like our cartoon characterization of the devil with horns.
I will let you know when I hear back.
Here is the point of this blog... with the Internet you have access to a world of documents, resources and experts to study virtually any subject. So go be a Bible detective! It's fun!
See you tomorrow!
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