The meaning of the word Israel is = 'struggle with God' which helps one to understand the conflict that has continued in this region. Words are so powerful and more potent then most people realise. Words have many meanings in Hebrew and another meaning of Israel is 'being straight with God'. So i thought it would make for an interesting discussion of how people understand these words 'being straight with God'.
What does 'Being straight with God' mean to you?
Divine Love
RE: Israel
DL
You seem to be one who brings a great deal of thoughtful questions to these forums.
This is one I have not met before;)
Being straight with God means to me to be honest in a total way - for example, if you know you have done a wrong act, say, perhaps you acted against someone in business or in friendship, you must admit this to God, for in doing so you admit in your soul and your heart and in every way that you regret this action.
It is understanding that there is nothing God does not see.
It is understanding that you have fraility and need protection and help.
We are only human[:-]
Dino
RE: Israel
Dear Dino, I do my best;)
Hmm...thats an interesting view of it and I just love being human, that is why we are here after all isn't it; to have this earthly experience......
You have made me think more about this now......hmm....
In the context that you have shared 'being straight' to me is being upright and living in integrity.
On a spiritual level it means not having any intermediates between myself and the divine e.g. direct communion.
Hope you had a good break away and good to see you back in full swing....
Divine Love
RE: Israel
DL - we did indeed have a good break - thank you - it was Italy and almost too hot - and we come back to this heat - far more humid than where we were.
So I made you think also;)
I am pleased.;)
Dino
RE: Israel
Hi
Israel was the name given to Jacob, after he successfully wrestled with God. Israel means " A prince with God "
There are other variations of the name Jehovah located in the first Book of your King James Bible, Genesis.
The story of Jacob's name being changed to Israel is located in Genesis chapter 32. It's quite an amazing chapter to read. You'll enjoy it much.
BTW, it's a good thing King James ordered this Bible translated; much of England and North America would be pretty sad indeed, without it.
RE: Israel
Hi DL,
Being "Straight with God" , to me means "Doing my Best" .....not always well but the best "I" can, then knowing in my own heart that it's only "ME" or ,God that "I" have to answer to...ultimately.....
Oakapple
RE: Israel
good question.
Being straight with god could mean being honest and straightforward. Like, "give it to me straight, man!" It could also mean, walking a straight path thanks to the guidance of god. Like, staying on the 'straight and narrow'. It could also mean paying up when you owe, or returning a favor. Like after paying someone back, "Are we straight now?" It could mean understanding god correctly or perfectly, or god understanding you. Like, "The name is Jacob! Get it straight, man!" And it is probably all these things and more. All in all, to me, it's about getting right with god, getting to where your purpose is god's purpose, and your actions god's actions. Getting to where god can work through you, to where you channel god.
RE: Israel
ORIGINAL: Divine Love
The meaning of the word Israel is = 'struggle with God' which helps one to understand the conflict that has continued in this region. Words are so powerful and more potent then most people realise. Words have many meanings in Hebrew and another meaning of Israel is 'being straight with God'. So i thought it would make for an interesting discussion of how people understand these words 'being straight with God'.
What does 'Being straight with God' mean to you?
Divine Love
To me, it means 'being true to one's own self'.
But then I am not a Jew.
I am advaitin, from Sanatana Dharma (usually but incorrectly called 'Hinduism')
Regards.
Prashna