Here we offer idioms used in the Bible that are explained refreshingly by Dr. George M. Lamsa and Dr. Rocco Errico (see links to learn about their lives and work), with some added paraphrasing by rah, and a few additions from Dr Neil Douglas-Klotz (see links). The initial words in each little section, in quotation marks, are the traditional ones used in most western Bibles. In most cases, the words were taken literally, as the Westerners were not conversant with Aramaic idioms. This would be as though you said: "I'm bushed. I'm going to hit the hay." Someone not versed in English idioms might easily misinterpret your words. Understanding the colloquial meaning of Jesus' words can empower and awaken us to our Christ nature. We will be adding to this list monthly, and please feel free to contact us if you wish us to research some words that do not make sense to you in the conventional translations.

"born again:" to change ones thoughts and habits, become simple, to start all over, to learn anew, to be born from above, born from the Source.

"breathed on them:" (he) gave them courage.

"I will destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up:" i.e. "destroy Jewish doctrine, tradition false beliefs and ritual and build a new temple not made with hands." (George Lamsa)

"drink my blood:" be willing to suffer for my truth.

"eat my body:" share my suffering, make my teaching a part of you.

"heaven;" everywhere, symbol for inner and outer state of harmony.

"I come in my Father's Name:" "I am God's messenger;" "God recommends me."

"if your right eye offend thee, cut it out:" if you are lusting after someone who is not your partner, stop the behavior.

" if your right hand offend you, cut it off:" i.e. if you are stealing, stop it.

"if your foot offends you, cut it off:" if you are going where you don't belong, quit it
(rah).

"in my name:" in, through, with, or by my teachings, my way, my atmosphere or vibration; within the authorization of Eshoa/Jesus.

"let the dead bury the dead:" let the community take care of the elder (the man's father).
(When people were over 70 and past the age of productivity, they might be referred to as dead).

"my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" can equally be understood as "My God, my God, this is my destiny," or "for this I have been left here." (see Tomas's essay called Abandonment)

"only begotten son:" unique and precious son, of a single kind, beloved first son who carries on the work of the father and is heir to father's possessions, craft, name, glory, home, and responsibilities.

"poor in spirit:" the word "rucha" can mean spirit, breath, pride, wind, and rheumatism. Lamsa feels that what is meant here is "poor in pride," i.e. humble (not thinking one had it made because one was Jewish, ie one of the chosen people). Dr. Errico suggests "surrendered to God," and Dr. Klotz interprets this as poor in breath or spirit, i.e. seeking more connection with the breath, and with the spirit of Life.

"pure in heart:" pure in mind, free from concepts, dogma, and judgment.

"raised up:" come through, succeed, achieve ones purpose in life.

"son of God:" one who exhibits divine qualities, such as being loving, healing, wise, generous, compassionate, forgiving, just, and joyful.

"walking on the sea:" walking along the sea, by the sea.