beat #13 - jasmine (Thursday, May 10, 2012 / 7:16 AM)
praus and hesychois
the greek words for gentle and quiet.
two words i've always hated in the bible,
because every time i see them, i am reminded of what i have tried to do but cannot be.
because i always thought that those words were like fetters and chains around my ankles,
and that these words would drag behind me for the rest of my life - a visual cue of my failures.
but no.
praus - to not be overly impressed with oneself, to be humble, considerate and meek, to be kind.
that is what it means to be gentle.
it is the biblical voice of the godly woman,
it is not about a culture's belief in elegance defined by long legs and a sultry sex appeal.
it is not about speaking as though we owe the world and men everything.
it is not about being able to pick up a cup of tea without praying you don't spill a drip on yourself.
it is not an indication of my failure, but a reminder to look at the One who died for me, and remember that love was for everyone i will ever meet.
it gives me reason to rethink my anger, to relinquish my bitterness and to forget the wrongs of others.
hesychois - to be well ordered, to lead a peaceable and discreet life, lightening the task of one in authority
nowhere in the definition of quiet is a call to be silent.
it is the biblical attitude of the godly woman,
it refers to a wife in particular, but i believe it extends into every other aspect of ourselves,
as students, to hand in assignments on time for the sake of professors,
as children, to stay close, safe and sensible for the assurance of our parents,
as societal members, to be actively engaged in how the community should be governed,
and as women of God,
to follow Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength
so that God can use us in His work.
i love how gentleness gives a woman the way to a voice, and quietness gives a woman the way to live.
an interesting flip, from the regular perceived definitions.
1 Peter speaks of unfading beauty
this is a new rhythm i am finding,
gentle and quiet.
