The Effects of Biblical Violence on Readers' Behaviors - Essay Example

 Yes, violent content in music or Psalm 137 can be used to encourage non-violent behavior as the excerpt from the African American Lectionary mentions, the disturbing verses, when examined would reveal the consequences of violent acts. However, such materials should be exposed to children under the guidance of a person in authority who is able to teach and explain efficiently the meanings or implications of the words or images used. With the easy access to violent materials readily available on the web for teenagers and very young children, the pressure of parenting has become more intense, challenging them to be vigilant especially to the music children listen to or watch. Although studies from the American Academy of Pediatrics give a low rate on the effects of music to listeners’ behaviors, that lyrics are generally not given much attention or in the case of children, are not fully understood because of their limited understanding and experience, researchers are open to the idea that somehow songs suggest certain undesirable actions. In a world where violence abounds, it is not a wise action for a person to isolate himself or for parents to isolate their children only to avoid the evils of this world. It is then important for every individual to educate one’s self and others about the consequences of a certain thought or action. For instance, the last lines of the aforementioned psalm speak about revenge to those who have done the Jews harm. However if one examines the verse closely, it is not the Jews who want to avenge themselves but that there would be another who would stand up against their enemies. This reveals their belief in the golden rule, that those who have wronged them will get their just punishments somehow. Such understanding could lead people to avoid doing evil towards others. II Yes, the Liturgy of the Hours should include the end of Psalm 137 however; it should be with the explanation or interpretation like that of St. Augustine’s, Origen’s, St. Ambrose’s and the like. The Bible could be interpreted literally and figuratively so it could not be treated similarly to lyrics of modern music where promiscuity and violence are explicitly expressed. As it is always advised by professionals in the case of children, parents should guide their children in the choice of songs they listen to and clearly explain tot hem what is good and what is not. Indeed, words have psychological effects on people so that even adults should choose their songs or meditate on the good implications of the songs rather than its evil suggestions. The Bible is actually full of stories of violence and promiscuity and surely, God did not like such stories to be exposed just for the sake of telling a story about a person rather have been narrated along with the consequences experienced by the people involved. They seem to be words from a parent saying, “Look, this is what happens to you if you do this and that.” This world is full of so many evils and that is just the way the God of the Bible wants people to look at it so that they would know how to prepare for the dangers they face each day. Therefore, preachers should do likewise, presenting all the truths and not just the things people want to hear from them. They have to send the people from the church to the world, armed with the necessary attitude and words of guidance that will keep them strong to avoid being involved in violent acts. III A group of students associated with campus ministry at CUA want to have a liturgical service which includes a reading of Psalm 137, which they understand through the lens of St. Augustine’s interpretation: Jerusalem represents the kingdom of God and Babylon represents the corruption of this world. Some students think the language at the end of Psalm 137 is too violent to be read or prayed, and point out that the Catholic Church has removed these verses from the Liturgy of the Hours. Others object that Scripture should not be censored and that, anyway, the Church has a long tradition of interpreting this language in ways that are consistent with the “rule of faith,” or sound faith and morals. If the violent ending of Psalm 137 is read, how would you recommend that the verse be explained by whoever delivers the homily/sermon at the liturgy? (2-3 paragraphs)   Probably, one of the best approaches to explaining the last verse of Psalm 137 is the means that St. Augustine embraced, concentrating on the figurative meaning of the verse, pointing to the death of evil desires while they are newly born, being totally destroyed, dashed to the Rock who is Jesus. There might be no more convincing message than that has been carefully considered, pointing to the death of evil deeds and having the Old Testament verses linked to the message of the saving grace of Jesus for the New Testament believers. Another approach in giving the sermon would be taking on the history of the psalm, explaining the truths behind the brutality of wars, that even children are not spared rather are killed to make sure that a certain race will have no remnants to be left to stand against their enemies in the future. In fact, some leaders have been instructed by God himself in the Old Testament to destroy their enemies completely meaning, even children and old women should be killed. Maybe in a little twist the preacher may explain the holy and wrathful nature of God. That God is love but He is holy so He hates sin and no sinner can enter His presence therefore anyone who enters the grace of God through Jesus Christ should discipline himself in avoiding sin as Paul did. Read More