A chair, a cup of coffee, and a collection of poems which I will spend some time with this morning. However, it’s not any “particular” poem I want to share my thoughts; this morning I consider the spectrum of poetry as one of several expressions of art.
I have, of recent years, found myself desiring to develop a better understanding of various arts. Even asking myself, is art, in some manner, an expression of our spiritual being. In my personal journey, that is understood and expressed as my spiritual being of a Christian. Thus, I reflect on my personal thoughts and leave others to reflect within their own life’s journey. So, as mentioned, this morning my thoughts examine the art of poetry; a genre I consider within the broader art of literature. What are my thoughts? What “nudges” have I experienced as I have spent some time with various poems? Well…… It seems to me….
Poetry possesses the ability to resonate with, to reach, the deepest recesses of the human soul, making it a powerful tool for strengthening spiritual awareness. Through carefully crafted words and metaphors, poetry can capture the transcendent aspects of human experience and spirituality that often elude conventional language. It invites us as readers to engage in contemplation, reflection, and introspection, fostering a deeper connection with our inner selves and the world around us. The rhythmic and lyrical qualities of poetry can create a meditative state, allowing all of us to escape the distractions of daily life and delve into our spiritual dimensions. Whether through the exploration of universal themes such as love, loss, or the beauty of nature, or through the expression of personal revelations and epiphanies, poetry may serve as a conduit for the exploration of the divine within and without, ultimately helping us to cultivate a more profound and enriching sense of spiritual awareness.
I want to first consider the collection of writings that are accumulated into the Bible. While some argue over the “percentage” of the Bible that may be considered poetic, there seems to be a general understanding that we find poetic books in what western civilization terms the Old Testament, and while accepted there are no poetic “books” in the New Testament we do find poetic passages. Interestingly, I have heard some who challenge the idea of “considering scripture” as poetry, or any literary genre. I’m not sure why, other than I don’t think some fully appreciate the engaging power of a well-crafted poem, or even a “poetic prose”.
I’m continuing to reflect on these thoughts by looking at a very powerful section of scripture from Job. To know Job’s story is to know what this world at times may throw at us… To sense the depth of Job’s expression through this poetic declaration, I think, is a great example of the conduit that poetry can provide in the maturation of our spiritual awareness.
Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book!
That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever!
For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:
Job 19 : 23 – 25 (KJV)