by Peter Menkin

Created on: April 21, 2009

For some time my interest to write a poem telling what theology is about has failed. What is presented below is one of my attempts, posted to a poet's workshop and the following brief discussion of its failure. The content of the poem remains an explanation of an important aspect of theology, and gives a reason to study the subject for as the "poem" points out, theology helps us in our relationship with God.

Rabbi Ginsburg, who speaks of Conservative Judiasm on Youtube, presents a vital concept of what is paramount for religions and living the religious life. Recently, viewing his excellent discussions found at his Channel, which can be accessed here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LF_I-8AKf2g

I've been impressed with his commentary and intelligence (wisdom).

Yes, I know the video noted by Rabbi is about affirmations and a way of finding help with sad events. It does point to his other Youtube comments, and I think it better that you as reader find one interesting to you. Why a Christian suggesting a Rabbi's view on the vital concept of religious life? Because the Conservative Rabbi has something to say. What he says is we are to love God with all our heart, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. He also says the living of the religious spiritual life is to be the work of being in relationship with God. These are wise remarks.

Without more ado, here is the poetic comment of mine on theology's purpose, with the brief exchange of another poet:

Theology as a means of refining faith
is the ticket Rowan William's offers.
So this offering, a response, to the
Trinitarian reflections on "The Grammar of God."

Heady stuff, meant for the heart
and life, phenomenon of human history.
Of faith, Jesus brings us to an encompassing
knowledge of new, refreshed, evergiving
love in a life emulated by Christians-
the event of Jesus a man named Panikkar says.

These concepts, written to give fertile
ground to inner life calls us to consider
belief in Church, that institution of mythical cosmology.
Words that sounds celestial, large, god reaching.
The theologian has the task to help us know
this God. There is too the attitude of confidence,
that hopeful enterprise of the "general human future"
-Are these too lofty for one, so grand to soar
and enjoy some understandings in dialogue
with large thinkers. The "Christic" vision.

See how many times quote marks appear.
Copying from the book, "On Christian Theology",
this commentary praises the recognition of Trinity
in history, defining relationships "to catch a glimpse."

Peter,

I

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