Creative Defense: LOVE and Leviticus
In Leviticus 19:17, the Bible says ..."Do not bear a grudge against anyone, but settle your differences with him, so that you will not commit a sin because of him. Do no take revenge on anyone or continue to hate him, but love your neighbour as yourself. I am the Lord"...
Sometime in the past crimes have been acted out by people that have have been very harmful and invasive. Usually this Christian passage is used to tell people to accept behaviour from others that they do not cherish. I think this Bible passage has a deeper meaning. I think that it is a strategy for getting along on Earth despite differences, and I think it is mostly talking about actual actions.
I am a female living alone, in a social category that is perceived to be weak. What am I supposed to do? Accept every hostility that comes my way? Acquiesce with a smile and hope nobody hurts me? I do not think the Bible tells me this. I think that this passage bears a warning to not do any harm and also to not accept any harm, and that no method of continual possibly unwarranted suppression of others is allowed since it will cause sin.
Sin in the act of self protection is not allowed. Defense is best when creative and positive instead of destructive. Suspicion and presumption are not a form of balance, only truth is balance and harmony. Many people think that having disparity between mental intentions and facial expressions is a form of politeness. I think that this is not so, even in business.
Prayers for peace!