Lecture Notes on Forgetfulness and Memory in a Scriptural Context

Introduction

• Topic: Addressing why people are forgetful, particularly in relation to scriptural teachings.
• Key Question: Why are we so forgetful?
• Hebrew Connection: Hebrew words related to remembering and forgetting.

Key Hebrew Words

• Shakha (שחה)

  • Meaning: Bow down.
  • Components: Shin (ש) = Press, Chet (ח) = Outside, Hey (ה) = Spirit.
  • Context: Bowing down symbolizes moving into another spiritual realm. Worship should be done with a spirit that transcends normal physical and emotional states.
  • Spiritual Aspect: Worshippers should press beyond personal norms and emotions to connect with Yah (God).

• Shakhak (שכח)

  • Meaning: To forget or to cause to forget.
  • Components: Shin (ש) = Destroy, Kaf (כ) = Open hand, Chet (ח) = Fence.
  • Interpretation: Forgetting is compared to destroying or rejecting Yah’s open hand of protection.
  • Spiritual Warning: Forgetting Yah’s instructions or promises leads to spiritual destruction.

Importance of Remembrance

• Zakar (זכר)
  • Meaning: To remember.
  • Emphasis: Remember Yah’s deeds and promises.
  • Hosea 4:6 Reference: Destruction results from forgetting Yah’s Torah (law).

Consequences of Forgetfulness

• Destruction: Forgetting Yah leads to spiritual destruction as outlined in Hosea.
• Loss of Protection: Forgetting is equivalent to rejecting Yah’s hand of protection.
• Negative Impact: Forgetfulness is often portrayed negatively in scriptures.

Scriptural References

• Isaiah 49:14-16: Illustrates the impossibility of Yah forgetting His people, using the metaphor of engraving on an open hand.
• Psalm 103:1-2: Encourages blessing Yah and not forgetting His benefits.
  • Action and Reaction: Remembering Yah results in blessings and spiritual benefits.

Spiritual Practice

• Barack (ברך)
  • Meaning: To bless, kneel down, present.
  • Spiritual Action: Offer oneself to Yah with an open hand, symbolizing surrender and readiness to serve.
  • Connection with Forgetfulness: Blessing Yah leads to remembering and receiving His benefits.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Make a conscious effort to remember Yah’s teachings and promises.
• Benefits of Remembering: Forgiveness, healing, redemption, satisfaction, and blessings are tied to remembering Yah’s instructions.
• Personal Reflection: Recall personal promises made to Yah and ensure they are fulfilled.
• Spiritual Resemblance: Strive to imitate Yah by keeping promises and remembering His word.
• Final Thought: Benefits from Yah arise from a consistent memory of His words and actions.