Hanukkah is an annual Jewish festival celebrated for eight days and nights. It typically falls in November or December on the secular calendar. Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the 2nd century BCE. Here is an overview of the history, traditions, and significance of Hanukkah: History of Hanukkah The story of Hanukkah dates back over 2,000 years to around 167 BCE. At that time, Judea was part of the Seleucid Empire ruled by the Syrian-Greek king Antiochus IV Epiphanes. He outlawed Jewish religious practices and desecrated the Jerusalem Temple. A group of Jewish rebels known…
Author: Aaron Chin
Overcoming evil with good is one of the most challenging but important teachings in the Bible. Romans 12:21 says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Though simple in wording, this verse contains profound truth that requires faith and wisdom to apply well. Here is an in-depth look at what the Bible says about overcoming evil with good. The Context of Romans 12:21 To properly understand Romans 12:21, we should first look at the context surrounding it. Romans 12 comes after the theological treatise of Romans 1-11. In Romans 1-11, Paul lays out the gospel message…
The concept of a “necessary evil” is the idea that sometimes morally questionable actions or means can be justified if they achieve a positive outcome. This raises complex ethical debates around whether the ends can justify the means. What does the Bible have to say about this difficult issue? At first glance, the Bible seems to condemn evil unequivocally. Passages like Romans 12:9 say to “hate what is evil” and 1 Thessalonians 5:22 say to “avoid every kind of evil.” However, a closer look reveals a more nuanced perspective. For example, the Bible recognizes that we live in a fallen…
The story of Jacob and Esau is found in the book of Genesis chapters 25-36. It involves twin brothers born to Isaac and Rebekah, who were the son and daughter-in-law of Abraham. Even before the twins were born, God told Rebekah that “the older will serve the younger” (Genesis 25:23). This came to pass as Jacob, the younger twin, received the blessing and birthright that customarily went to the firstborn, which was Esau. The Bible says that God “loved Jacob but hated Esau” (Malachi 1:2-3; Romans 9:13). Why did God choose Jacob over Esau even before they were born? A…
The statement that the Holy Spirit will guide believers into all truth is found in John 16:13, where Jesus tells his disciples: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” This verse teaches us several key things about the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers into God’s truth: 1. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as…
The practice of palm reading, also known as chiromancy, has ancient origins and involves foretelling a person’s future by studying the palm of their hand. While some view it merely as a curious pastime, the Bible contains clear teachings that caution against divination practices like palm reading. Leviticus 19:26 states, “You shall not eat any flesh with the blood in it. You shall not interpret omens or tell fortunes.” The Hebrew words translated here as “omens” and “fortunes” refer to occult divinatory practices. The following verses warn against similar activities: “When you come into the land that the Lord your…
The Bible does not explicitly state that a couple must be financially stable before getting married. However, it does offer principles and wisdom that are applicable to this question. Ultimately, the decision depends on the specific circumstances and calling of each couple, as they seek to honor God in their relationship. Biblical Principles Related to Finances and Marriage Here are some biblical principles that relate to finances and marriage: God calls most people to marriage (Genesis 2:18, 24; 1 Corinthians 7:2). Therefore, believers should not avoid marriage simply due to financial reasons. Couples should seek wisdom and counsel about major…
Genesis 6:4 states “The Nephilim were on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of man and they bore children to them. These were the mighty men who were of old, the men of renown.” This verse references a race of giants called the Nephilim who lived on the earth prior to the flood. Their existence raises some important questions and implications. Who were the Nephilim? The Nephilim were a race of giants who lived on the earth prior to the flood. The verse states they were the offspring…
Christian fanaticism refers to excessive and extreme devotion to Christianity that leads to irrational or unreasonable beliefs and behaviors. While having faith and being dedicated to one’s religion is normal for religious followers, fanaticism takes it to an unhealthy level. Some key aspects of Christian fanaticism include: Literal Interpretation of the Bible Christian fundamentalists tend to interpret the Bible in an extremely literal way. They believe the Bible is the direct, inerrant word of God and should be taken literally in all cases. This leads to very rigid and uncompromising views about faith, morality, science, history and politics. For example,…
The Bible does not specifically mention how to be a good student in today’s modern education system. However, there are many verses and passages that provide wisdom and guidance for those seeking to excel as learners. By applying biblical principles, students can develop habits and attitudes that will help them make the most of their educational opportunities. Work hard and use your talents The Bible encourages diligence and using one’s talents and abilities. Students who apply themselves to their studies and work hard will see positive results (Proverbs 13:4). God has gifted each person with natural talents and abilities that…