{"id":4511,"date":"2024-12-12T16:24:17","date_gmt":"2024-12-12T14:24:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/?p=4511"},"modified":"2025-02-13T11:35:36","modified_gmt":"2025-02-13T09:35:36","slug":"royal-foolishness-in-the-pages-of-the-old-testament-the-foolishness-of-life","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/royal-foolishness-in-the-pages-of-the-old-testament-the-foolishness-of-life\/","title":{"rendered":"\u0426\u0430\u0440\u0441\u0442\u0432\u0435\u043d\u0435 \u044e\u0440\u043e\u0434\u0441\u0442\u0432\u043e \u043d\u0430 \u0441\u0442\u043e\u0440\u0456\u043d\u043a\u0430\u0445 \u0421\u0442\u0430\u0440\u043e\u0433\u043e \u0417\u0430\u0432\u0456\u0442\u0443: \u044e\u0440\u043e\u0434\u0441\u0442\u0432\u043e \u0436\u0438\u0442\u0442\u044f"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n
Anna Lill-Bezak<\/summary>\n

Master of Theology, Philology and Psychology, Graduate student, Senior lecturer of the Carpathian University named after Augustine Voloshin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

anna.lillbezak@gmail.com | ORCID: 0009-0006-8783-3276<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Number DOI: http:\/\/doi.org\/10.33209\/2519-4348-2707-9627-2024-12-158<\/p>\n\n\n\n

VB. – \u2116 12, 2024. – P. 135-160<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The article aims to offer a deeper understanding of the concept of “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” by positioning it within a new and less explored context. For the first time, this concept is examined in relation to those who hold positions of power \u2013 specifically, monarchs and rulers. While “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” is often associated with individuals who humble themselves for religious reasons, the article suggests that it can also manifest in those who occupy the highest social and political positions. The article focuses on two key figures from the Old Testament, King David and Queen Esther, to illustrate how this phenomenon can occur in a monarchical setting. In analyzing the lives of these two figures, the article explains the nuances of “foolishness” as a temporary and often forced manifestation rather than a consistent, independent trait of holiness. It is argued that this “foolishness” is not an intentional display of weakness or stupidity but rather a necessary act of obedience to God’s will under specific circumstances. These moments of “foolishness” can be brief, occurring during critical moments of decision-making, or they can extend over a longer period, depending on the nature of the divine calling and the individual’s role in fulfilling God’s greater purpose. In this way, “foolishness” for Christ is seen as an expression of surrender to divine authority, even when it contradicts worldly expectations of wisdom and power. To substantiate the theological and spiritual significance of this “foolishness,” the author embarks on a detailed exegesis (interpretation and analysis) of specific biblical passages from the Books of Kings (1st and 2nd), which recount the reigns of David and other kings of Israel. The analysis extends to related texts in Psalms 34 (33), 56 (55), 24 (23), and 68 (67), and the Book of Esther, which contains the story of Queen Esther\u2019s courageous and “foolish” intervention to save the Jewish people. These biblical passages help to demonstrate the various ways in which the divine will can compel rulers and leaders to take actions that may appear foolish or irrational from a worldly perspective but are part of God’s greater plan. The article emphasizes that “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” in these contexts is not a critique of monarchical power or leadership. Instead, it reveals how God uses individuals in power to fulfill His purposes, even when their actions seem to defy conventional wisdom. The author suggests that this type of “foolishness” is a paradox \u2013 it is a sign of humility, obedience, and spiritual maturity, even when it appears to contradict human logic or reason. In addition to exploring “foolishness,” the article also addresses the necessity of legalism within the framework of Old Testament law. The author uses the same biblical passages from the Books of Kings, Psalms, and Esther to explore the role of legalism in the spiritual lives of individuals and rulers. Legalism, in this context, refers to the strict adherence to religious laws and codes, which were believed to guide not only personal conduct but also political and royal decision-making. By examining the texts, the article explores how rulers and leaders were often bound by legal requirements, which sometimes necessitated actions that seemed to defy common sense or worldly power structures but were essential for the fulfillment of God’s law and divine order. The article draws attention to the inherent tension between divine “foolishness” and legalistic righteousness. While legalism emphasizes adherence to external rules and moral codes, “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” points to the internal, spiritual surrender to God\u2019s will, which can transcend human laws and regulations. This contrast helps to shed light on the complex relationship between law, power, and divine purpose in the biblical tradition. Furthermore, the article stresses that the concept of “foolishness for Christ’s sake” does not negate the importance of wisdom or knowledge. Instead, it presents a different kind of wisdom \u2013 one that is rooted in obedience to God, which may at times look like foolishness to the world. The article thus provides a nuanced understanding of the relationship between divine wisdom, earthly power, and the roles of rulers and leaders in the biblical narrative. Finally, the article concludes by reflecting on the broader implications of this concept for understanding leadership, obedience, and faith in contemporary contexts. By examining how “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” operated in biblical times, the author encourages readers to consider how similar forms of spiritual obedience and surrender might manifest in today\u2019s world, especially for those in positions of power and influence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Key words: <\/strong>foolishness, monarchy, Old Testament election, violation of regulations, King David, Ark of the Covenant, Psalms, royal holiness, Queen Esther, Mordecai, proto-propaganda, Purim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

References:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. The Bible or the Books of the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament. Translation by Prof. I. Ohiienko. Eastern European Humanitarian Mission Publishing Fund, 2019. 1412 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. The Bible \/ The Books of the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament. Fourth full translation from Ancient Greek. Fourth edition. Translation by Hieromonk Fr. Raphael (Roman Turkoniak) under the editorship of the Ukrainian Bible Society. \u2013 Kyiv: Ukrainian Bible Society, 2022. 1214 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Boyko I. O. “Fools for Christ as Free from the World: A Study of Spiritual Freedom in Asceticism”. Odesa: Southern Literary Center, 2020. \u2013 pp. 88-90. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Hrynchenko, B. Etymological Dictionary of the Ukrainian Language \/ B. Hrynchenko. \u2013 Kyiv: Prosvita, 1907. \u2013 Vol. 2. \u2013 672 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Hrynchenko, B. Dictionary of the Ukrainian Language \/ B. Hrynchenko. \u2013 4th edition. \u2013 Kyiv: Prosvita, 1907. \u2013 1232 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. Encyclopedia of Modern Ukraine \/ edited by V. M. Lytvyn. \u2013 Kyiv: Institute of Encyclopedic Studies, 2008. \u2013 Vol. 12. \u2013 760 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  7. Zakharova T. V. “Queen Esther and Her Circle: Political Intrigues and Rhetoric in the Old Testament”. Lviv: Publishing House “Suchasna Knyha”, 2018. \u2013 pp. 75-78. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  8. Klyment (Shyponiuk), Archimandrite. “Deification as a Path to Salvation: Theoretical and Practical Aspects”. Kyiv: Svitlo, 2018. \u2013 pp. 45-47. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  9. Kovalchuk M. I. “Fools for Christ as Free in Spirit: Spiritual Practices and Social Challenges”. Lviv: Litra, 2021. \u2013 pp. 54-56. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  10. Kravchenko V. M. “Political Intrigues and Propaganda in the Ancient World”. Kyiv: Naukova Dumka, 2015. \u2013 pp. 87-90. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  11. Melnyk, I. O. King David: From the Heroic Image to the Spiritual Leader in the Old Testament. \u2013 Kyiv: Dukh i Litera, 2017. \u2013 384 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  12. Melnykov-Pechersky P. I. (Andrei Pechersky). Secret Sects. Collected Works in Eight Volumes. Vol. VIII. Moscow: Pravda Publishing, “Ogonyok” Library, 1976. 432 pages. [in Russian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  13. Melnychuk, O. S. Etymological Dictionary of the Ukrainian Language \/ O. S. Melnychuk. \u2013 Kyiv: Naukova Dumka, 1982. \u2013 Vol. 3. \u2013 500 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  14. Nikulin E. N. Aghiology \/ Course of Lectures. Moscow: PSTGU Publishing, 2012. 312 pages. [in Russian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  15. Nikolskiy Ye. V. The Doctrine of the Christian Church about Royal Holiness and Its Relevance Today. LAP Lambert Academic Publishing RU, 2018. 429 pages. [in Russian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  16. Ozhyhov, S. I. Explanatory Dictionary of the Ukrainian Language \/ S. I. Ozhyhov; edited by S. K. Melnychuk. \u2013 Kyiv: Naukova Dumka, 1978. \u2013 528 pages. [in Ukrainian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  17. The Holy Simeon the New Theologian \u2013 Collection of Works (Words 53 – 92). URL: https:\/\/svyatye.com\/chitat\/Prepodobnyi-Simeon-Novyi-Bogoslov-sobranie-tvorenii-Slova-53-92-Simeon-Novyi-Bogoslov\/16247\/<\/a> Accessed on: 16.09.2024. [in Russian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  18. St. Theophan the Recluse \u2013 Collection of Works \/ Thoughts for Each Day of the Year According to Church Readings from the Word of God. URL: https:\/\/svyatye.com\/chitat\/Sviatitel-Feofan-Zatvornik-sobranie-tvorenii-Mysli-na-kazhdyi-den-goda-po-tserkovnym-chteniiam-iz-Slova-Bozhiia\/4715\/<\/a> Accessed on: 16.09.2024. [in Russian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  19. Works of St. Ephrem the Syrian, Volume 1. URL: https:\/\/svyatye.com\/chitat\/TVORENIIA-SVIATOGO-PREPODOBNOGO-EFREMA-SIRINA-Tom-1-EFREMA-SIRINA\/3006\/<\/a> Accessed on: 16.09.2024. [in Russian]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  20. Daniel-Rops Henri. From Abraham to Christ. Translated by Zofia Starowieyska-Morstinowa. Warsaw: PAX Publishing Institute, 5th edition, 1995. 372 pages. [in Polish]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  21. Greek Old Testament. The Septuagint. URL: https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20131021073035\/http:\/\/www.biblia.info.pl\/septuaginta\/pajtemp.htm<\/a> Accessed on: 16.09.2024. [in Greek]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  22. Hardisty Margaret. Between Us Married Women \/ A Few Words About How Women Influence Their Husbands. Translated by Dorota A. Arcab. Warsaw: “Vocatio” Publishing House, 1995. 176 pages. [in Polish]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  23. Harrington Wilfrid John. The Key to the Bible. Translated by J\u00f3zef Marz\u0119cki. Warsaw: PAX Publishing Institute, 2012. 584 pages. [in Polish]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  24. Rafa\u0142 Sulikowski. The Cell in P\u0142ock. “Diary” of Sister Faustyna in the Light of Psychology. URL: https:\/\/www.katolik.pl\/cela-w-plocku—rdquo-dzienniczek-rdquo–siostry-faustyny-w-swietle-psychologii,22424,416,cz.html?s=4<\/a>. Accessed on: 16.09.2024. [in Polish]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  25. Introduction to the Holy Scriptures \/ Introduction to the Old Testament. Edited by Lech Stachowiak. Pozna\u0144: Pallotynum, 1990. 496 pages. [in Polish]<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
    \n
    View\/download PDF<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Number DOI: http:\/\/doi.org\/10.33209\/2519-4348-2707-9627-2024-12-158 VB. – \u2116 12, 2024. – P. 135-160 Summary The article aims to offer a deeper understanding of the concept of “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” by positioning it within a new and less explored context. For the first time, this concept is examined in relation to those who hold positions of power \u2013 specifically, monarchs and rulers. While “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” is often associated with individuals who humble themselves for religious reasons, the article suggests that it can also manifest in those who occupy the highest social and political positions. The article focuses on two key figures from the Old Testament, King David and Queen Esther, to illustrate how this phenomenon can occur in a monarchical setting. In analyzing the lives of these two figures, the article explains the nuances of “foolishness” as a temporary and often forced manifestation rather than a consistent, independent trait of holiness. It is argued that this “foolishness” is not an intentional display of weakness or stupidity but rather a necessary act of obedience to God’s will under specific circumstances. These moments of “foolishness” can be brief, occurring during critical moments of decision-making, or they can extend over a longer period, depending on the nature of the divine calling and the individual’s role in fulfilling God’s greater purpose. In this way, “foolishness” for Christ is seen as an expression of surrender to divine authority, even when it contradicts worldly expectations of wisdom and power. To substantiate the theological and spiritual significance of this “foolishness,” the author embarks on a detailed exegesis (interpretation and analysis) of specific biblical passages from the Books of Kings (1st and 2nd), which recount the reigns of David and other kings of Israel. The analysis extends to related texts in Psalms 34 (33), 56 (55), 24 (23), and 68 (67), and the Book of Esther, which contains the story of Queen Esther\u2019s courageous and “foolish” intervention to save the Jewish people. These biblical passages help to demonstrate the various ways in which the divine will can compel rulers and leaders to take actions that may appear foolish or irrational from a worldly perspective but are part of God’s greater plan. The article emphasizes that “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” in these contexts is not a critique of monarchical power or leadership. Instead, it reveals how God uses individuals in power to fulfill His purposes, even when their actions seem to defy conventional wisdom. The author suggests that this type of “foolishness” is a paradox \u2013 it is a sign of humility, obedience, and spiritual maturity, even when it appears to contradict human logic or reason. In addition to exploring “foolishness,” the article also addresses the necessity of legalism within the framework of Old Testament law. The author uses the same biblical passages from the Books of Kings, Psalms, and Esther to explore the role of legalism in the spiritual lives of individuals and rulers. Legalism, in this context, refers to the strict adherence to religious laws and codes, which were believed to guide not only personal conduct but also political and royal decision-making. By examining the texts, the article explores how rulers and leaders were often bound by legal requirements, which sometimes necessitated actions that seemed to defy common sense or worldly power structures but were essential for the fulfillment of God’s law and divine order. The article draws attention to the inherent tension between divine “foolishness” and legalistic righteousness. While legalism emphasizes adherence to external rules and moral codes, “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” points to the internal, spiritual surrender to God\u2019s will, which can transcend human laws and regulations. This contrast helps to shed light on the complex relationship between law, power, and divine purpose in the biblical tradition. Furthermore, the article stresses that the concept of “foolishness for Christ’s sake” does not negate the importance of wisdom or knowledge. Instead, it presents a different kind of wisdom \u2013 one that is rooted in obedience to God, which may at times look like foolishness to the world. The article thus provides a nuanced understanding of the relationship between divine wisdom, earthly power, and the roles of rulers and leaders in the biblical narrative. Finally, the article concludes by reflecting on the broader implications of this concept for understanding leadership, obedience, and faith in contemporary contexts. By examining how “foolishness for Christ\u2019s sake” operated in biblical times, the author encourages readers to consider how similar forms of spiritual obedience and surrender might manifest in today\u2019s world, especially for those in positions of power and influence. Key words: foolishness, monarchy, Old Testament election, violation of regulations, King David, Ark of the Covenant, Psalms, royal holiness, Queen Esther, Mordecai, proto-propaganda, Purim. References:<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[319],"tags":[254],"class_list":["post-4511","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category--12-2024","tag-anna-lill-bezak","post-no-thumbnail"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4511","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4511"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4511\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5682,"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4511\/revisions\/5682"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4511"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4511"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vb.vpba.edu.ua\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4511"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}