This article explores the dead universe theory as a novel interpretation for the origin and evolution of the universe, suggesting that our cosmos may have originated from the remnants of a preceding universe. This per...This article explores the dead universe theory as a novel interpretation for the origin and evolution of the universe, suggesting that our cosmos may have originated from the remnants of a preceding universe. This perspective challenges the conventional Big Bang theory, particularly concerning dark matter, the expansion of the universe, and the interpretation of phenomena such as gravitational waves.展开更多
Exod 23:10-12 enjoins Israel to keep both a seventh-year Sabbath and a seventh-day Sabbath. The juxtaposition of these two Sabbaths in the text suggests a connection between the Sabbath and ecology, since rest and no...Exod 23:10-12 enjoins Israel to keep both a seventh-year Sabbath and a seventh-day Sabbath. The juxtaposition of these two Sabbaths in the text suggests a connection between the Sabbath and ecology, since rest and nourishment are required both the land and its inhabitants (i.e., humans and beasts). This article exegetically analyzes Exod 23:10-12 and suggests some possible ecological implications. Accordingly, it is argued that while the biblical sabbatical year seems to have required a rest for the whole land--a practice which may seem impossible today--in modern times heavily cultivated portions of land could be allowed to lie fallow. Instead of overusing particular portions of land with the aid of agro-chemicals, farming systems such as land rotation could fruitfully be practiced. Such a practice may not only allow cultivable lands regain fertility, it may also contribute towards the sustenance of the wild including endangered species. This study may be particularly useful in the African context.展开更多
The terms "soul," "spirit," "breath," and "life" occur several times each in the Book of Job. A proper understanding of these terms in Scripture, especially "soul" and "spirit" is integral to understanding...The terms "soul," "spirit," "breath," and "life" occur several times each in the Book of Job. A proper understanding of these terms in Scripture, especially "soul" and "spirit" is integral to understanding the state of the dead, among others. These terms are used in diverse contexts with interchangeable nuances in the Book of Job. A living ("life") person ("soul") consists of the body/flesh plus the life principle ("spirit") of which "breath" is a concrete expression. In poetic contexts, the terminologies denote the physical ("soul"/"life"), appetitive ("soul"/"life"), psychical ("spirit"/"breath"), and emotional ("soul"/"spirit") characteristics of the human being. While "soul" and "life" tend towards physieality and therefore can be used synonymously for the whole person, "spirit" and "breath" tend towards non-physicality and express such phenomena as intellection and wind. A study of these terminologies in other poetic texts in the Hebrew Bible may evince similar semantic configurations as found in the Book of Job.展开更多
Cultural heritage does not have direct economic benefits. However, if properly managed it can stimulate social cohesions, improving the environment and have beneficial economic spin offs for the local communities. Thi...Cultural heritage does not have direct economic benefits. However, if properly managed it can stimulate social cohesions, improving the environment and have beneficial economic spin offs for the local communities. This paper discusses the role of communities in the formulation of the policies concerning their local environment. It argues that community engagement by policy makers is important in giving legitimacy and ownership of the policies. Furthermore, this paper discusses the potential of cultural heritage in diversifying the economy in Botswana. This paper recommends for the re-assessment of the relationship between the state and local communities which is critical in resuscitating the seemingly ailing community business organizations. In conclusion, it argues for the sustainable management of cultural heritage as a social and economic resource in the next 50 years of Botswana's independence.展开更多
文摘This article explores the dead universe theory as a novel interpretation for the origin and evolution of the universe, suggesting that our cosmos may have originated from the remnants of a preceding universe. This perspective challenges the conventional Big Bang theory, particularly concerning dark matter, the expansion of the universe, and the interpretation of phenomena such as gravitational waves.
文摘Exod 23:10-12 enjoins Israel to keep both a seventh-year Sabbath and a seventh-day Sabbath. The juxtaposition of these two Sabbaths in the text suggests a connection between the Sabbath and ecology, since rest and nourishment are required both the land and its inhabitants (i.e., humans and beasts). This article exegetically analyzes Exod 23:10-12 and suggests some possible ecological implications. Accordingly, it is argued that while the biblical sabbatical year seems to have required a rest for the whole land--a practice which may seem impossible today--in modern times heavily cultivated portions of land could be allowed to lie fallow. Instead of overusing particular portions of land with the aid of agro-chemicals, farming systems such as land rotation could fruitfully be practiced. Such a practice may not only allow cultivable lands regain fertility, it may also contribute towards the sustenance of the wild including endangered species. This study may be particularly useful in the African context.
文摘The terms "soul," "spirit," "breath," and "life" occur several times each in the Book of Job. A proper understanding of these terms in Scripture, especially "soul" and "spirit" is integral to understanding the state of the dead, among others. These terms are used in diverse contexts with interchangeable nuances in the Book of Job. A living ("life") person ("soul") consists of the body/flesh plus the life principle ("spirit") of which "breath" is a concrete expression. In poetic contexts, the terminologies denote the physical ("soul"/"life"), appetitive ("soul"/"life"), psychical ("spirit"/"breath"), and emotional ("soul"/"spirit") characteristics of the human being. While "soul" and "life" tend towards physieality and therefore can be used synonymously for the whole person, "spirit" and "breath" tend towards non-physicality and express such phenomena as intellection and wind. A study of these terminologies in other poetic texts in the Hebrew Bible may evince similar semantic configurations as found in the Book of Job.
文摘Cultural heritage does not have direct economic benefits. However, if properly managed it can stimulate social cohesions, improving the environment and have beneficial economic spin offs for the local communities. This paper discusses the role of communities in the formulation of the policies concerning their local environment. It argues that community engagement by policy makers is important in giving legitimacy and ownership of the policies. Furthermore, this paper discusses the potential of cultural heritage in diversifying the economy in Botswana. This paper recommends for the re-assessment of the relationship between the state and local communities which is critical in resuscitating the seemingly ailing community business organizations. In conclusion, it argues for the sustainable management of cultural heritage as a social and economic resource in the next 50 years of Botswana's independence.