QOTD: The Adequacy of Language (Silva)

Have you ever heard that Greek is a superior language because its complexities?

…the discovery and analysis of exceedingly complex languages spoken by uncivilized peoples argues against viewing Greek as superior because of its complexity. Every language is adequate with respect to the culture in which it is spoken. By and large, the greatness of Greek resides in its literature, not in any inherent qualities of its linguistic structure. Similarly, we must not confuse the worth of Christian doctrines with that of the linguistic medium used to communicate it—though we may certainly appreciate the wisdom of God’s providence in choosing a language that enjoyed a rich literary tradition and that had become a universal means of communication.”

— M. Silva Biblical Greek


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