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February 02, 2007
On the Theology of Swearing
The latest edition of Biblical Studies Carnival reminded me of an abnormal exchange between Chris Tilling and Jim West on swearing. I find it hard to believe that either one of them is much of an expert on the subject. I am sure that to the extent that either one of them has attempted to participate in this noble enterprise it was at a very low and degrading level and never came close to the amazing heights reached by seasoned experts. They both seem to see some theological connotations in the general neighborhood of swearing. In fact, Jim suggests that Chris may be going to hell. I take that to be a theological statement. Not being a theologian, I could be wrong.
Having read both their posts, I decided to consult my own favorite theologian, who, as it turns out, was also an expert in the skill under consideration in this post. Mark Twain placed these two observations in his 1898 Notebook
Let us swear while we may, for in Heaven it will not be allowed.If I cannot swear in Heaven, I shall not stay there.
In Mark Twain, a Biography, Albert Bigelow Paine tells of Twain having made this important theological observation,
Under certain circumstances, urgent circumstances, desperate circumstances, profanity provides a relief denied even to prayer.
I am a little surprised that Twain didn't add "frequent circumstances." But perhaps I am unduly influenced by the work that we have been doing to prepare our house for new carpet.
I have written of Twain's skills and observations about this art before but I thought a little refresher course was in order.
Posted by DuaneSmith at February 2, 2007 07:16 PM | Read more on Mark Twain |
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Comments
A refresher on Twain is always enjoyable. I personally, would never complain about it, but then Twain is my favorite so I could be biased.
Posted by: afarensis at February 2, 2007 07:57 PM
Chris is a Brit living in Germany, so he not only swears but he drinks beer!!!!!
Posted by: Jim at February 3, 2007 05:19 AM
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