A question I have been thinking about for a few days is the question of cussing. This is not to be confused with cursing. Yes, they are different. Cussing is to say a socially "inappropriate" word in general use. Cursing is to either insult another person or to insult God.
Words are but devices we use to convey meaning. Truly what is the difference when you stub your toe and say shoot, fiddlesticks or sh__? Don't they all convey the same meaning of surprise? It's just the combination of letters are different.
Why is the word sh__ labeled as foul by some? Why is that word bad in your mind, truthfully? Is it bad just because you were told it's bad? A words foulness depends upon the customs of the group you are around. Some people are raised saying sh__ is no different then saying darn, shoot, etc. So, is one of our worldviews correct and the other wrong? Or are both of the views correct and dependent upon the mores of ones subgroup.
The words themselves are harmless, its the context as to which its used. I personally find no issues with foul language, as long as it's not used to demean or hurt another person. I DO have a problem with foul or non-foul language when it's used to hurt.
I do though understand that not all people share my personal view of foul language. That's why unless I know it doesn't bother that person I won't use those words. It's simply being polite to others and their own world views.
But, the deeper question remains for me what MAKES those particular words taboo? If I were to say Gadzooks would you feel that's an offensive cuss word? Probably not. I could say that in mixed company and people would be none the wiser. If I were to say the same word in the 1600's people would be shocked and appalled. If you look into the history of the word, Gadzooks originally meant God's Hooks (referred to Christs crucifixion).
Makes you kind of stop and think, what's really in a word?
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
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2 comments:
Wow - what a topic - one that I've been trying to deal with ever since I moved to Texas. It's my observation that Texans have potty-mouths, and when I got here and started interacting with people, I was surprised to see just how many people used such language so often.
Here's my deal: I understand what you're saying - they're just words - a string of letters hung together - innocent. And some people are offended by them. I appreciate your thoughtfulness in holding back when you know someone's offended, but do you have to offend them first to know that in the future you should use other (less controversial) words of surprise / frustration / excitement?
Would you allow your children to use these words at home? at school? Probably not - "stupid" and "shut-up" are bad words at our house!
So why do we rationalize our own use of these words? Didn't Jesus tell us that our words reveal what is in our heart? (see Matthew 12 for the whole story) That makes me wonder what is inside of us (me) that drives us (me) to say things that I would punish my children for saying.
If we can adequately express ourselves in ways that reveal the good that God is planting in our heart and life, why do we feel the need to use these controversial words "when we can" (when we're in the company of others who won't be offended by them).
Being a pastor, I think about it this way: could I use those words in the pulpit? Would it sound strange if I were giving an illustration and non-chalantly included the word sh_t?
Being a parent, I think about it this way: could I use those words when talking to my children? Would it sound strange if I were coaching my daughter's soccer team and told them to get after the d_mn ball?
Being a husband, I think about it this way: could I use those words in a conversation with my wife? Would it sound strange if I asked her to wash the f_cking dishes?
Being a son, I think about it this way: could I use those words when talking to my mom? Would it sound strange if I wished her a happy G_dd_mn birthday?
Being an employee, I think about it this way: could I use those words when talking to my boss? Would it sound strange if I told him I had too much sh_t to do and he needed to hire some more f_cking help?
If I shouldn't use these words as a pastor, a parent, a husband, a son or an employee, should I try to find other places where I can? Why?
If it's possible that something I do could be offensive (and potentially become a stumbling block to someone else trying to life as a disciple of Jesus), I shouldn't do it. Even if I'm entitled to.
Paul dealt with this concept in Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 8. The issue at hand back then was eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols.
This might be a record...I think my comment may actually be longer than the original post...sorry dude.
Peace - RevPhil
Well this is interesting! I was just thinking about this the other day...well after I said sh*t. I was actually taken back that the word even came out of my mouth.
Cussing has never really been something I have done. So I wondered where that came from. I couldn't help but to evaluate the situation....just for the record I never came to a understanding!
So I really don't have an answer, but I do think it is important for us to watch our tongues. Yes I am speaking to myself mainly here!
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