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| =Discussion Questions= | | =Discussion Questions= |
| ==What do the letters א and ב tell us about the word "father"?==
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| The statement "They show that a father is someone who gives life (through creation) and reveals Himself (through teaching)" encapsulates two foundational roles attributed to fatherhood, especially when viewed through a biblical and theological lens:
| | # What do the letters א and ב tell us about the word "father" and its symbolic connection to both life-giving and revelation? |
| | # How does the concept of "giving life through creation" apply to both God as the Creator and earthly fathers? |
| | # In what ways does the role of a father as a "revealer through teaching" reflect both God's relationship with humanity and the relationship between earthly fathers and their children? |
| | # How can the idea of giving life and revealing truth be understood in the context of God’s work in Christ, particularly through the roles of creation and revelation? |
| | # What is the connection between the word אב and life and growth, and how does this symbolism deepen our understanding of fatherhood? |
| | # What does the metaphor of footprints in the sand teach us about how God reveals Himself, and how is He different from what we can see or touch? |
| | # How does reversing the letters of אב ('ab') to בא ('bah') transform the meaning of the word "father," and what does this change suggest about God's invitation to reveal Himself more fully? |
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| === 1. '''Giving Life Through Creation''' ===
| | [[Discussion hints: ELTBefore Father אב]] |
| This aspect emphasizes the generative power of a father, as seen in the physical, spiritual, and creative dimensions. In a theological context:
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| * '''God as the Creator''': God, as the ultimate Father, is the source of all life. Genesis 1:1–2 portrays Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth, giving life and existence to everything.
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| * '''Earthly Fathers as Life-Givers''': Earthly fathers participate in the act of giving life biologically and metaphorically, by nurturing and supporting the growth of their children.
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| * '''Spiritual Fathers''': In a broader sense, fatherhood extends to those who mentor or guide others in spiritual growth, leading them to new life in understanding and faith.
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| === 2. '''Revealing Through Teaching''' ===
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| Revealing oneself through teaching reflects the nurturing, instructive, and relational side of fatherhood:
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| * '''God Reveals Himself''': God reveals His nature, will, and love through His Word (Scripture), His Son (Jesus Christ), and His Spirit. Teaching is central to this revelation, as seen in the giving of the Law to Moses and the parables and lessons of Jesus.
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| * '''Fathers as Teachers''': Earthly fathers are called to guide their children, not only by imparting knowledge but also by revealing their own character, values, and wisdom. This teaching builds a relationship of trust and understanding.
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| === Symbolic Integration in Sensus Plenior ===
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| From a '''sensus plenior''' perspective, this dual role reflects a deeper unity between creation and revelation:
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| * '''Giving Life''' corresponds to the generative Word of God, symbolized by water (life-sustaining and creative).
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| * '''Revealing Through Teaching''' aligns with the Spirit (guiding and enlightening). Together, they form a picture of God’s work in Christ, who gives life and reveals the Father (John 14:6–9).
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| Thus, a father is seen not only as a source of life but also as a relational being who imparts understanding and wisdom, fostering growth and intimacy with those he nurtures.
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| <br />
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| :How is the word אב related to life and growth?
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| ::אב is connected to new life, like a green shoot, and growth, like fruit on a tree. This shows how fathers give both physical life and teach spiritual life.
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| :What does the metaphor of footprints in the sand teach us about God's revelation?
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| ::It shows that while we can see evidence of God in creation and teaching, He is not limited to those things. He is bigger than anything we can see or touch.
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| :How does reversing the letters of אב ('ab') to בא ('bah') change the meaning?
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| ::Reversing the letters turns "father" into an invitation for God to come closer and reveal Himself more fully.
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