Makarioi oi ptochoi

I foresee a fun Church of Satan lawsuit coming. https://t.co/NeHZaEclhO

— Schooley (@Rschooley) April 21, 2023

Yeah, we were here just 2 weeks ago.

But I can’t pass up a chance to re-up the Lukan beatitudes. As a Christian I have nothing against the law of Moses, but if we’re going to have Christian statement of values posted in public buildings (which is what this is about; and no, I don’t support it), it should be the words of Christ. In a modern translation, not a 17th century one. 

Makarioi is the word Luke uses. It alliterates in the first line, not unlike the opening words of John’s gospel, often called the “hymn to the logos” because they are so clearly lyrics.

Makarioi, Jesus says. And ptochoi, which means not just poor, but dirt poor. Destitute. Those with nothing. It’s important to know who is being congratulated. Of course that won’t be clear in the translation into “poor.” But “Congratulations” is much clearer than the 17th century “blessed.”

“Congratulations, you poor! God's domain belongs to you! 

“Congratulations, you hungry! You will have a feast.”

“ Congratulations, you who weep now! You will laugh.”

I actually think those are a lot clearer than “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s ass.” Which, like “ Don we now our gay apparel,” means something quite different than it did originally.

And of course, we have to include the curses: 🤬 

“Damn you rich! You already have your consolation! 

“Damn you who are well-fed now! You will know hunger.  

“Damn you who laugh now! You will learn to weep and grieve.”

I’m sure there’d be some initial objection to the language itself. But it would be instructive to have a discussion on what these curses mean. As well as the clear symmetry of the congratulations and the damnations. These are also easier to understand on their face than what “taking God’s name in vain” means; or what adultery is; or what “graven images” are (and why we allow them).

Of course, all of this actually belongs in the context of a faith community. These are not words to be bandied idly, turned into false idols, worshipped for how we think they give us power. That’s why I prefer makarioi over “Thou shalt not.” But I also prefer the word of God not be treated like advertising slogans or virtue signals. It ignores their meaning entirely, and disrespects their purpose.