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by Georgie Márquez-André September 19, 2004
OXYMO'RON, n. [Gr. a smart saying which at first view appears foolish.] A rhetorical figure, in which an epithet of a quite contrary signification is added to a word; as cruel kindness.
I've adopted a new favorite absurd phrase. For a few years, my favorite was Bill Clinton's "It depends on what the meaning of the word 'is' is." Now, thanks to Dan Rather, my new favorite is "Fake but accurate."
Amazing, the games we can play with language!
Back in the 1930's, a group of literary critics came up with a method of interpretation they called "Intentional Fallacy." Basically, they considered it an error to assume that a text means what its author intended it to mean. Pretty impressive, right?
Although this method was originally intended for the criticism of literary works, specifically, poetry, this way of interpreting language is now accepted in everyday life. Today, in the United States, modern day judges presume that the original intent of the framers of its constitution is irrelevant. We have church leaders re-interpreting Scripture based on their own value system and political agendas, without regard for the Divine Author's intent. And more recently, a popular media is redefining the meaning of truth, and re-creating reality in its own image. Our society seems to celebrate ambiguity, and in effect anarchy. Absurdity reins in our midst.
AMBIG'UOUS, a. [L. ambiguus.] Having two or more meanings; doubtful; being of uncertain signification; susceptible of different interpretations; hence, obscure. It is applied to words and expressions; not to a dubious state of mind, though it may be to a person using words of doubtful signification. AN'ARCHY, n. [Gr. rule.] Want of government; a state of society, when there is no law or supreme power, or when the laws are not efficient, and individuals do what they please with impunity; political confusion. ABSURD', a. [L. absurdus, from ab and surdus, deaf, insensible.] Opposed to manifest truth; inconsistent with reason or the plain dictates of common sense. An absurd man acts contrary to the clear dictates of reason or sound judgement. An absurd proposition contradicts obvious truth. An absurd practice or opinion is repugnant to the reason or common apprehension of men. It is absurd to say six and six make ten, or that plants will take root in stone.
As Christians, however, we serve a God who values words... who communicates with words. In effect, Jesus Himself is described as "the Word made flesh" (John 1:14). In these uncertain times, we will have to, among other things, become defenders of language. We will need to stand firm surrounded by a culture that more and more puts its faith on the shifting sands of relativity and compromise.
A daunting task, indeed. But, we need not be surprised. On His last night with the disciples, Jesus warned them (and us): "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." Jhn 16:33
Have a blessed week! All definitions taken from Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary. Sign up now for Georgie Márquez André's Motivation of the Week e-zine. Receive inspirational thoughts, Bible studies, fitness tips and just general motivation to grow in body, mind, and spirit in your email box weekly. Yours FREE!! Here is a sample of the motivational messages you'll receive:
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