The Bible, a sacred text with a history spanning thousands of years, holds within its pages a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and intriguing stories. While many are familiar with its most famous tales, there’s a trove of lesser-known details and nuances that often go unnoticed. In this exploration, we’ll uncover ten fascinating facts about the Bible that might surprise you, all drawn from lively discussions on social media threads.
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#1 Crucifixion and the Origin of “Excruciating”
“Crucifixion is said to be the worst pain imaginable. This is why we have the word “Excruciating” which derives from the Latin word crux or cruces.”
The term “excruciating” indeed derives from the Latin word “crux” or “cruces,” meaning “cross.” So, next time you use the word “excruciating,” you’re directly referencing the intense pain associated with this ancient form of execution. It’s a vivid reminder of the suffering endured in the past and the enduring impact of historical events on our language.
#2 The Forgotten Brother, Seth
“Cain and Abel had a brother named Seth, and no-one cares about him.”
In the biblical tale of Cain and Abel, it’s easy to overlook their less-talked-about brother, Seth. While the spotlight often shines on the dramatic clash between Cain and Abel, Seth plays a vital role as well. He continues the lineage of Adam and Eve after Abel’s tragic murder. So, even if no one cares about him, Seth’s presence is a crucial thread in the tapestry of biblical genealogy.
#3 Money and the Root of Evil
“The Bible doesn’t say that “money is the root of all evil”. It says “the LOVE of money is the root of all KINDS of evil”.”
This nuance emphasizes the danger of an unhealthy attachment to wealth rather than labeling money itself as inherently evil. So, the next time you’re tempted to hoard your allowance, remember that it’s not the money but the excessive love for it that may lead to trouble.
#4 Abimelech and the Rock
“There is a good story about a guy named Abimelech who had a rock dropped on his head by a woman. As he was dying, he begged his servant to run him through with his own sword just so people would say that he wasn’t killed by a girl.”
In Judges 9:52-54, Abimelech’s fate takes an unconventional turn when a woman drops a rock on his head, leading to his impending demise. What makes this tale particularly intriguing is Abimelech’s final request. As he lay dying, he implored his servant to run him through with his own sword. Why? Just to ensure that people wouldn’t say he was killed by a girl! It’s a curious mix of pride and circumstance that makes this biblical story one for the books.
#5 Charitable Acts and Humility
“.. You aren’t really doing charity if you publicize your charitable acts at all.
But when you do merciful deeds, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand does.”
This biblical quote underscores the importance of sincerity and humility in acts of charity. So, while social media might tempt us to showcase our philanthropic efforts, the Bible reminds us that the purest form of charity is one done quietly and without seeking recognition. It’s a timeless lesson in modesty and genuine compassion.
#6 “Go the Extra Mile”
“Go the extra mile – the third call of Jesus in the same passage. Today, we use this saying in the same way we say ‘Give 110%’, but it actually has a much different meaning. “If anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile” is the actual verse, and the ‘anyone’ that Jesus is referring to are Roman soldiers, who would often force the lower classes to carry their armor. As you can imagine, this sucked for the civilians. Roman law actually dictated that soldiers could force people to carry their armor for no more than one mile. If the Roman soldiers made people go over that one mile, severe punishments were handed out by commanding officers.”
The phrase “Go the extra mile” has become a common saying today, often used to encourage giving more than 100% effort. However, its origin in the Bible, specifically in Matthew 5:41, carries a much more literal and historical meaning, as shown in this comment. So, when you hear this phrase today, remember its historical roots in Roman occupation and Jesus’s call for a unique form of endurance and resilience.
#7 Lesser-Known Verses on Hate
“I tend to see a lot of Bible verses coming from extremist Christians quoting things/types of people God hates, but I strangely never see this one:
There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
Ironically, while some individuals may claim to be good Christians and criticize other faiths and communities, they might overlook the fact that the Bible itself condemns those who sow discord within their own community. It’s a reminder that genuine faith goes beyond mere words and involves fostering harmony and unity rather than discord and division.
#8 The Meaning of “Bible”
“The term Bible comes from the Greek Βιβλίο which literally just means “book”.
This direct and unadorned name reflects the Bible’s early roots and the simplicity of its designation as the ultimate sacred text. It’s a reminder that the origins of the Bible, like its message, can often be traced back to fundamental and straightforward concepts. So, every time we say “Bible,” we’re paying homage to its ancient Greek beginnings as “the book” of all books.
#9 The Ark’s Animal Pairs – More Than Two
“The Ark had more than two of each animal. Genesis 7:2-3 2 Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts that are not clean by two, the male and his female. 3 Of fowls also of the air by sevens, the male and the female; to keep seed alive upon the face of all the earth. People just like the two by to story. Noah ate beef on the Ark.”
Contrary to the popular notion of only two of each animal on Noah’s Ark, Genesis 7:2-3 reveals a different arrangement. This lesser-known detail suggests a more diverse animal population aboard the Ark than commonly depicted. Some users might prefer the simplicity of the “two by two” story, but the Bible’s account provides a more nuanced and varied representation of the animals on board. And as for Noah eating beef on the Ark, it’s a humorous reminder that the Ark was, in many ways, a self-sustaining vessel during the flood!
#10 The Challenge for the Rich
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“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Quite funny when you consider all the ultra-rich Christians.
This verse, found in the Bible, poses a thought-provoking challenge for those who possess vast wealth. It prompts reflection on how individuals reconcile their material wealth with spiritual values and the teachings of their faith. It’s a reminder that faith and wealth can sometimes make for an interesting balancing act, leading to questions about priorities and values.
Source: Reddit.
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