(e) The word (katakrinein). Its meaning is--to condemn. It is a
stronger word than [Greek: krinein] to judge, but there is nothing in it
that corresponds to that awful meaning supposed to reside in the word
"damn." And yet the translators did not hesitate to give it
that meaning.
How did they treat this verb, [Greek: katakrinein]? Just as they treated
other verbs and nouns, when they wished to bolster their theological
idea. In seventeen instances in the New Testament they translated it
rightly as "condemn," but in Mark xvi. 16 and Rom. xiv. 23, doctrinal
preconceptions prevailed, and so these two passages were rendered--"He
that believeth not shall be damned." "He that doubteth is damned if
he eat."
And for centuries, an everlasting hell-fire has been read unto the
mistranslated word.
* * * * *
I might continue in this strain at great length. The quotations I have
given may be taken as samples of many more. It is surely time that the
sad and sombre clouds of so-called orthodoxy should be dispelled by the
rising beams of the Sun of Righteousness.
The word "for ever," taken in its rigid literal sense, is a stumbling
block to many. I lately asked a very eminent man in England, the
president of a theological college, how he would get over that
difficulty. He replied that he believed that the word "aion" would more
fully meet the case, and that that word would more exactly accord with
the capacity of our finite mind, the word "forever" expressing an idea
entirely beyond our comprehension. That seems to be good sense, and more
in harmony with the whole trend of Revelation.
* * * * *
I have issued this treatise under an assumed name; not because I am
specially careful of my reputation, but rather because I wish the work
to be regarded solely on its own merits. If any reader feels disposed to
write me, either briefly or more at length, and whether in criticism or
commendation, I shall be glad.
Address,
HORATIO,
Care Austin Publishing Co.,
Rochester, N. Y.