I saw the movie Atonement tonight. Interesting. I liked it, but I probably wouldn’t make a return visit. Stunning period costume etc. and Keira Knightly is quite good (Despite being consistently annoying).
I was trying to recall what I knew about the word ‘Atonement’ before I went in. The straightforward term is as such: Satisfaction or reparation for a wrong or injury; amends. That’s okay, it’s the theological application of it.
I recall a few years back – at my one year of Bible college. Reading a detailed analysis on the confusion of the understanding of atonement. It was fascinating. Of course cannot remember most of it. The dictionary defines it so: the doctrine concerning the reconciliation of God and humankind, esp. as accomplished through the life, suffering, and death of Christ.
It’s always interesting when Christian terminology takes a center stage despite being with it’s more useful definition – suddenly the word launches itself into public familiarity.
I cannot remember when this has happened before – I’m fairly sure something along the lines has, because this is not a new thought.
But does it leave scope for the actual use of the word when you find yourself in those ad hoc conversations where your fluid mouth takes over and you’re spouting brilliance that you only half understand?
To be honest, Christian theological terms are tripe {Upon Geoff’s questioning I admit that this is not 100% true – they do sometimes have their place – for the sake of the argument :P}. Give me ordinary every day understandable English that is easy to share and explain. Not words to explain concepts that need words to explain the words. It’s a useless wheel.
Although be kind and leave some of the poetry. It’s such a tightrope.
