Monday 13 July 2015

Whenseeking A Spiritual Road, Consider Agalliao

By Jana Serrano


There are words in scripture that are so profound that they become almost like mantras for those who understand the often many faceted definitions. Bible scholars present them as guideposts for meaning in every day living. These are the terms that, when well explained, have a literal meaning, and then a much more complex interpretation based on context. It is true that they very often excite the spirituality of those who come to know them.

Most astute Christians will recognize some of the more popular terms. The word agape has had generations of believers following its God given gift to share love with others. The family kind of love is something anyone can comprehend. The sharing of it unconditionally is more difficult. In the same way, the Greek agalliao has moved to center front in the thoughts of many. With so many cultural disasters, people are seeking alternative ways to live less troubled lives.

This power packed word is defined as the acts of being glad, exulting and rejoicing. These are preceded with recommendations that all three should be done to the excess and far beyond. But it is not simply for the purpose of feeling happy. The feeling comes with implied action to empower life with good and solid joy regardless of what may come.

There are several books named with this inspiring Greek words. A series of books by David Sherman seeks to help people understand the many facets of meaning while applying these to daily life. He uses one literal meaning of the word, which is jump for joy, to describe an attitude toward life that looks for good in all things. Author Aaron Cornett also uses this inspirational word in his writings about practical uses for living within its definitions. Many Internet pages offer literary discussions about the original Greek understanding for life within positive action, each giving credit to God for the gift of being able to understand and live following its ideals.

Organizations have also adopted the literal meaning of jumping for joy as a way to inspire their charitable works. There is a non profit organization in Nigeria that hopes to eradicate illness, hunger, illiteracy and pervasive poverty from the children and mothers they serve. There is a church in North Carolina proclaiming itself as a place of exceeding gladness. A music praise worship team leads its congregations with rejoicing. Each of these groups uses this spirited word significantly when naming themselves.

There are essays, dissertations and sermons published on the Internet which have this Greek word as thematic material. It is no wonder that so much has been written about it. Many believers understand it to be a top contender for what writers refer to as power words. These are the ones that catch the imagination, evoke feelings of empathy or encourage readers to continue on with a particular book.

Regardless of all the many thoughtful interpretations it carries a depth of meaning that can stand multiple study sessions. It can encourage people seeing better lives to find useful ways to incorporate its wisdom in times of difficult decisions. Those struggling with difficulty can look at its exhortation to remain positive regardless of circumstances because God gifts his followers with strength to do so.

Encouraging curiosity, this word gathers believers toward a common path. They learn to walk that path with joy. It is a way of living that offers positive contrast to an often difficult world.




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