Németh István
„Az Úr felbuzdult országáért, mert együttérzett az ő népével” (Jl 2,18) A Jl 2,18–27 elemzése és aktualitása jelen korunkban
Tartalom
Tartalom: 1. Bibliai szöveg; 2. Bevezetés; 3. A szöveg elemzése; 4. A szöveg üzenete; 4.1. Jóllakni; 4.2. Nép; 4.3. „Mert nagy dolgot tett”; 4.4. Két felszólítás: ne félj / ne féljetek és ujjongj, örvendj / ujjongjatok, örvendjetek; 4.5. „És a népem nem szégyenkezik többé”; 5. Összegzés. István Németh: ‘Then the Lord Became Jealous for His Land and Had Pity on His People’ (Joel 2:18) – An Analysis of Joel 2:18-27 and Its Present Relevance ‘Then the Lord Became Jealous for His Land and Had Pity on His People’ (Joel 2:18). This sentence represents a turning point in the narrative of the Prophet Joel, subsequently opening a new chapter in his book (Joel 2:18-27). This passage exhibits considerable contrast with the content of the first part of the book relating attacks on the people and the ensuing existential crisis. Joel 2:18-27 foreshadows an episode full of hope and describes how the Lord will restore His people after the calamities it has endured. Through an analysis of the text, the present paper intends to specify in what ways the Lord’s solicitude is evident in the life of His people: How He expels the northern people and provides compensation for the natural disaster. Giving special emphasis to the acts of the Lord among the people, repetitions in this section (satisfied, people, for He has done great things, fear not, be glad, My people shall never again be put to shame) are addressed specifically. Although it is clear that the role of the Lord is exclusive in ensuring the welfare of the people, it is legitimate to ask to what extent the Lord may be responsible for the devastations. It may be established that the first chapter of the Book of the Prophet Joel contains no indications that the disasters could come directly from the Lord. Instead, it appears likely that the Lord uses this tragic situation to spur His people to convert to Him, and He promises a positive future. At the same time, this gives relevance to the biblical text and sets out its message for our adversity-laden times, possibly presenting us with opportunities for our own conversion as well.