This translation is from the New American Bible. The bolded hyperlinks will take you to additional translations. The entire chapter is included to provide context.
Information about the meaning the original Hebrew or Greek of what seem to be key words is provided in blue. It is provided beneath the specific reading the words are in.
Collections of or meditations on scriptures dealing with principles similar to those addressed in particular readings are hyperlinked after those readings.
Excerpts collected in yellow at the end of this post tell us something about God’s nature or our relationship to Him.
Excerpts collected in green at the end of this post tell us about something God wants us to do.
Excerpts collected in red at the end of this post tell us about something God does not want us to do.
Reading I: Isaiah 52:7-10
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, and saying to Zion, “Your God is King!”
Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry, together they shout for joy, for they see directly, before their eyes, the LORD restoring Zion.
Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem! For the LORD comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem. The LORD has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.
bring glad tidings = בָּשַׂר = basar Blue Letter Bible to bear news, bear tidings, publish, preach, show forth; gladden with good news; receive good news; to be fresh, i.e. full (rosy, figuratively cheerful); to announce (glad news); bear or receive glad tidings
announcing = שָׁמַע = šāmaʿ Blue Letter Bible cause to hear, call to hear, summon; tell, proclaim; utter a sound; to sound aloud (musical term); to make proclamation, declare; publish; witness; hear and answer; listen to, obey; perceive by ear; to hear with attention or interest, listen to; give heed; consent, agree; yield to; obey, be obedient; hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.); hear and answer
peace = שָׁלוֹם = šālôm Blue Letter Bible completeness, soundness, welfare, peace; safety; health, prosperity; quiet, tranquility, contentment; friendship, concord
bearing—see “brings glad tidings” above
good = טוֹב = ṭôḇ Blue Letter Bible good, pleasant, agreeable; excellent; rich, valuable in estimation; appropriate, becoming; happy, prosperous, kind, benign; right (ethical); welfare, prosperity, happiness
announcing—see above
salvation = יְשׁוּעָה = yᵊšûʿâ Blue Letter Bible salvation, deliverance; welfare, prosperity; victory; something saved, i.e. (abstractly) deliverance; aid
saying = אָמַר = 'āmar Blue Letter Bible certify; declare; command, promise, to intend; to avow, to avouch; bear forth, bring to light; to speak, utter; say in one's heart, think
reigns = מָלַךְ = mālaḵ Blue Letter Bible reign; rule; govern; counsel, advise; to be or become king or queen; to ascend the throne; causatively, to induct into royalty; to be king;
Hark = קוֹל = qôl Blue Letter Bible proclaim; command, entreat; claim; sing out; thundering; with a loud voice; voice, sound, noise; to call aloud; a voice or sound; bleating, crackling, lowing, neighing, stamping of feet; noise of inanimate objects; lightness, frivolity
together = יַחַד = yaḥaḏ Blue Letter Bible union, unitedness; together, altogether, all together, alike; a unit; unitedly, unitedness; joined together; mutually; wholly, altogether; alike
shout for joy = רָנַן = ranan Blue Letter Bible to overcome; to cry out; shout for joy, give a ringing cry; triumph, emit a tremulous sound
restoring = שׁוּב = shuwb Blue Letter Bible restore, refresh, repair; to return, turn back; to bring back, allow to return, put back, draw back, give back, restore, relinquish; to bring back to mind; to turn one’s self; feed; lodge; rejoice; convert; fetch home again; recover; relieve; rescue; renew; be brought back; give back
break out—see “shout for joy” above
ruins = חָרְבָּה = ḥārbâ Blue Letter Bible a place laid waste, waste; ruin; desolation; decayed place; drought; destruction; dryness, dry places
comforts = נָחַם = nāḥam Blue Letter Bible to be sorry, console oneself, repent, regret, comfort, be comforted; be moved to pity, have compassion; to sigh, i.e. breathe strongly; pant, groan; lament; grieve
redeems = גָּאַל = gā'al Blue Letter Bible to redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer, avenge, revenge, ransom, do the part of a kinsman; deliver; purchase; buy back
bared = חָשַׂף = ḥāśap̄ Blue Letter Bible to strip, strip off; lay bare, make bare; draw out; skim, take from the surface; make naked; clean
holy = קֹדֶשׁ = qōḏeš Blue Letter Bible apartness, holiness, sacredness, separateness; hallowed; consecrated; sanctuary
arm = זְרוֹעַ = zᵊrôaʿ Blue Letter Bible arm, arm as seat of (human) strength; forearm, shoulder, strength; forces; help, mighty, power; helper, companion; instrument of deliverance and judgment
sight = עַיִן = ʿayin Blue Letter Bible eye; before my eyes; set one eyes on; spring, fountain
all = כֹּל = kol Blue Letter Bible the whole; any, each, every, anything; totality, everything, of all kinds, every sort
nations = גּוֹי = gôy Blue Letter Bible nation, people; confluence of men
behold = רָאָה= rā'â Blue Letter Bible to see, look at, inspect, perceive, consider; learn about, observe, watch, look upon, look out, find out; consider, look at, give attention to, discern, distinguish; gaze at; enjoy, have experience, take heed; spy, stare; enjoy the light; be pleased with the sight; provide or care for, go to see
salvation—see above
Scriptures addressing similar principles are collected at:
Wisdom Principles—God Loves and Calls Us to Him, In Spite of our Sin
***
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6
R. (3c) All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds;
his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
The LORD has made his salvation known: in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice.
He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
Sing praise to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and melodious song.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn sing joyfully before the King, the LORD.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
all = כֹּל = kol Blue Letter Bible the whole; any, each, every, anything; totality, everything, of all kinds, every sort
ends = אֶפֶס = 'ep̄es Blue Letter Bible extremity; uttermost part; end
earth = אֶרֶץ = 'ereṣ Blue Letter Bible land, earth; country, territory, district, region; ground, soil; field; from an unused root probably meaning to be firm; element of the earth; earthy
seen = רָאָה= rā'â Blue Letter Bible to see, look at, inspect, perceive, consider; learn about, observe, watch, look upon, look out, find out; consider, look at, give attention to, discern, distinguish; gaze at; enjoy, have experience, take heed; spy, stare; enjoy the light; be pleased with the sight; provide or care for, go to see
saving power = יְשׁוּעָה = yᵊšûʿâ Blue Letter Bible salvation, deliverance; welfare, prosperity; victory; something saved, i.e. (abstractly) deliverance; aid
Sing = שִׁיר = šîr Blue Letter Bible sing in one’s honor, celebrate in song; behold
new = חָדָשׁ = ḥāḏāš Blue Letter Bible fresh, unheard of
song = שִׁיר = šîr Blue Letter Bible song, lyrical song
done = עָשָׂה = ʿāśâ Blue Letter Bible to do, fashion, accomplish, make; work, make, produce; to deal (with); to act, act with effect, effect; attend to, put in order; to observe, celebrate; accomplish, advance; follow, fulfill; be industrious, labor; yield; produce by labor
wonderous deeds = פָּלָא = pala' Blue Letter Bible beyond one's power; extraordinary, hard, difficult, arduous; marvelous, wonderful, surpassing, great; singular, distinguished; wondrous
right hand = יָמִין = yāmîn Blue Letter Bible the stronger and more dexterous; prosperous; the right or south side
won victory = יָשַׁע = yāšaʿ Blue Letter Bible to be liberated, be saved, be delivered; to save from moral troubles; to give victory to; to be open, wide or free, i.e. (by implication) to be safe; to free or succor; defend, help, preserve, rescue; be capacious, make wide, spacious, make sufficient, be or live in abundance; placed in freedom; give width and breadth to, liberate; save, from evils and troubles; to be opulent; to set free, preserve
arm = זְרוֹעַ = zᵊrôaʿ Blue Letter Bible arm, arm as seat of (human) strength; forearm, shoulder, strength; forces; help, mighty, power; helper, companion; instrument of deliverance and judgment
salvation –see “saving power” above
made … known =יָדַע= yāḏaʿ Blue Letter Bible to perceive and see, find out and discern; to discriminate, distinguish; to know by experience; to recognize; be acquainted with; to know (a person carnally); to know how, be skillful in; to have knowledge, be wise; to be made known, be or become known, be revealed; to be instructed; privy to; seeing; observe with the eyes; be aware of; to get to know, discover; to turn the mind to anything, to care about, to see about
in the sight of = עַיִן = ʿayin Blue Letter Bible eye; before my eyes; set one eyes on; spring, fountain
revealed = גָּלָה = galah Blue Letter Bible be naked; to uncover oneself; to disclose, discover, lay bare; to make known, show, reveal; plainly, publish, remove, reveal; certify
nations = גּוֹי = gôy Blue Letter Bible nation, people; confluence of men
justice = צְדָקָה = ṣᵊḏāqâ Blue Letter Bible righteousness; righteousness (as vindicated); justification, salvation; truthfulness; ethically right; rectitude; virtue
remembered = זָכַר = zakar Blue Letter Bible Recall, call to mind; be mindful; think on; penetrating, infixing; preserve; consider; meditate, think on
kindness = חֶסֶד = ḥeseḏ Blue Letter Bible goodness, kindness, faithfulness; favour, good deed(-liness, -ness), kindly, (loving-) kindness, merciful (kindness), mercy; kindness (especially as extended to the lowly, needy and miserable), mercy; lovely appearance; of God: kindness, lovingkindness in condescending to the needs of his creatures; redemption from enemies and troubles; in preservation of life from death; in quickening of spiritual life; in redemption from sin; in keeping the covenants; fidelity; abundant, plenteous in kindness (goodness); greatness of thy mercy; everlasting; plural mercies, deeds of kindness, the historic displays of lovingkindness; desire, ardor; zeal; benignity, benevolence, pity, mercy; grace
faithfulness = אֱמוּנָה = 'ĕmûnâ Blue Letter Bible firmness, fidelity, steadfastness, steadiness; literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity
seen = רָאָה= rā'â Blue Letter Bible to see, look at, inspect, perceive, consider; learn about, observe, watch, look upon, look out, find out; consider, look at, give attention to, discern, distinguish; gaze at; enjoy, have experience, take heed; spy, stare; enjoy the light; be pleased with the sight; provide or care for, go to see
salvation –see “saving power” above
sing joyfully = רוּעַ = rûaʿ Blue Letter Bible to shout, raise a sound, cry out, give a blast; to shout in triumph or applause; to shout in triumph; to shout joyfully; give a blast with clarion or horn; to make a loud noise
break into = פָּצַח = pāṣaḥ Blue Letter Bible to cause to break or burst forth, break forth with, break out; break up; make a loud noise; be joyous, hilarious; break out into joy
song = רָנַן = ranan Blue Letter Bible to overcome; to cry out, shout for joy, give a ringing cry; triumph
sing praise = זָמַר = zamar Blue Letter Bible to sing, sing praise; to make music; to play a musical instrument; to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e. play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in song and music; give praise, sing forth praises, psalms; make music in praise of God; to pluck; to dance
The Lord = יְהֹוָה = Yᵊhōvâ Blue Letter Bible Yahweh; I am he who I am, I am who I am; he who is essentially unnameable, inexplicable; the God of the patriarchs; the existing One; the proper name of the one true God; the self-Existent or Eternal; the one bringing into being, life-giver; giver of existence, creator; performer of his promises; he who causes to fall, rain or lightning; he one who is: i.e. the absolute and unchangeable one; the existing, ever living, as self-consistent and unchangeable; or the one ever coming into manifestation as the God of redemption; the supreme God; God eternal and immutable
sing joyfully–see above
before = פָּנִים = paniym Blue Letter Bible person; countenance; before and behind, toward, in front of; in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of; turned toward; turn one’s face toward; on account of; acts done with a solemn sense of presence; to stand before, i.e. wait upon, be in attendance on; to bow down before; in front of
Lord—see above
Scriptures addressing similar principles are collected at:
Wisdom Principles—God Loves and Calls Us to Him, In Spite of our Sin
***
Reading II: Hebrews 1:1-6
Brothers and sisters:
In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways to our ancestors through the prophets; in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son, whom he made heir of all things and through whom he created the universe, who is the refulgence of his glory, the very imprint of his being, and who sustains all things by his mighty word.
When he had accomplished purification from sins, he took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high, as far superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.
For to which of the angels did God ever say: You are my son; this day I have begotten you? Or again: I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me? And again, when he leads the firstborn into the world, he says: Let all the angels of God worship him.
spoke = λαλέω = laleō Blue Letter Bible To say, utter, talk; to utter a voice or emit a sound; to utter articulate sounds; to use words in order to declare one's mind and disclose one's thoughts; preach; tell; promulgate; converse; commanding; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon talk, chat; speak
partial = πολυμερῶς = polymerōs Blue Letter Bible in many parts; portions; piecemeal; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon consisting of many parts; manifold; of divers kinds; in many ways
various = πολυτρόπως = polytropōs Blue Letter Bible in many manners; variously as to method or form; in divers manners; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon much-turned, i.e. much-travelled, much-wandering, turning many ways; shifty, versatile, wily; versatility of mind; fickle; changeful, complicated; various, manifold; in many manners
spoken—see “spoke” above
through = ἐν = en Blue Letter Bible in, by, with, among, under, at, near, by; in the presence of; within, in the course of; motion into something, entering into, mingling in; that which one either leads or brings with him, or with which he is furnished or equipped; the instrument or means by or with which anything is accomplished; aided by one, by the intervention or agency of someone, by (means of) one; the state or condition in which anything is done or anyone exists, acts, suffers; the form in which anything appears or is exhibited; the measure or standard; the things in (with) which one is busied; that in which other things are contained and upheld, as their cause and origin; that which gives opportunity; to exchange one thing for another; remaining, staying, continuing in some place, state, or condition; that in which any person or thing is inherently fixed, implanted, or with which it is intimately connected; of the whole in which a part inheres; of a person to whom another is wholly joined and to whose power and influence he is subject, so that the former may be likened to the place in which the latter lives and moves; ingrafted; in fellowship and union with; spiritual fellowship or union with; to be in the power of, be actuated by, inspired by; give self wholly to; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon in, within, surrounded by; in the number of, amongst; in the presence of; in one's hands, within one's reach or power; depends on, rests with; implying both motion to and subsequent position in a place; in the practice of
Son = υἱός = yhios Blue Letter Bible a descendant, one of the posterity of any one; one who depends on another or is his follower, equivalent to pupils; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon child; term of affection; inheritors of the nature of
made = τίθημι = tithēmi Blue Letter Bible to put, place, stay, lay, set; sink down; settle; to put down, lay down; appointment to any form of service; commit, commission; ordain; purposed; fix, set, establish; to set forth, something to be explained by discourse; to make (or set) for oneself or for one's use; to make one one's own; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon set, put; put in or into; set; lay; put or plant; deposit, as in a bank; pay down, pay; put down in writing; place to account, reckon; set up, dedicate; assign, award; establish, institute; dispose, order, ordain, bring to pass; make the best of one's resources or ; make one something; deem; lay down. assume, hold, reckon or regard as; make, cause, bring to pass; make or prepare for oneself; rest arms, i.e. halt, with arms in an easy position but ready for action; bear arms, fight; keep your arms in good order
heir = κληρονόμος = klēronomos Blue Letter Bible one who obtains a lot or portion; a lot; to possess; one who receives by lot, an heir; one who has acquired or obtained the portion allotted to him; inheritor (literally or figuratively); Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon one who receives a portion of an inheritance, an inheritor, heir; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon heir; the heir in possession; heir apparent
all = πᾶς = pas Blue Letter Bible radically means "all." Used without the article it means "every," every kind or variety; any and every, of every kind, all manner of; in every way or particular; the whole; each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, everything; thoroughly, whatsoever; all manner of; the highest degree, the maximum; always; in everything, in every way, on every side, in every particular or relation; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon when used of a number, all; when of one only, the whole; all, the whole; every; all things as a unity, as a totality; all kinds of things; in all points, entirely, wholly; in every way, by all means, altogether
through = διά = dia Blue Letter Bible on account of this, for this cause; because of; by, by means of, by which means; to consider deeply; the ground or reason by which something is or is not done; on account of; the channel of an act; by occasion of, by reason of; instrument, or of the efficient cause; due to; instrument used to accomplish a thing, or of the instrumental cause in the stricter sense; the formal cause; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon through; the Instrument or Means; thanks to, by aid of; by reason of, on account of
created = ποιέω = poieō Blue Letter Bible to do, make; used of spending a time or tarrying, in a place; to acquire, to provide a thing for one's self; to produce, bear, shoot forth; to carry out, to execute; to celebrate, keep; to perform; abide; continue; perform; to labor, to do work; to be operative, exercise activity; accomplish Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon make, produce; create, bring into existence; bring about, cause; make, render; do; practice; to be doing, act; be efficacious
universe = αἰών = aiōn Blue Letter Bible the worlds, universe; the aggregate of things contained in time; a period of indefinite duration; an age, a period of time, eternal; forever, an unbroken age, perpetuity of time, eternity; perpetuity; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon period of existence; long space of time, age
refulgence = ἀπαύγασμα = apaugasma Blue Letter Bible a shining forth; light coming from a luminous body; radiance, effulgence; reflected brightness; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon radiance, effulgence, of light beaming from a luminous body
glory = δόξα = doxa Blue Letter Bible opinion, judgment, view, estimate; splendour, brightness; magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace; majesty; most exalted state; honor; absolute perfection; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon the opinion which others have of one, estimation, repute; good repute, honour, glory; glory, splendor, magnificence, celestial beatitude
imprint = χαρακτήρ = charaktēr Blue Letter Bible a tool for graving; to cut into, to engross; a stamp; impress; the instrument used for engraving or carving; the mark stamped upon that instrument or wrought out on it; the exact expression (the image) of any person or thing, marked likeness, precise reproduction in every respect; facsimile; engraving; exact copy; express image; the peculiarity, by which things are recognized and distinguished from each other; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon engraver; one who mints coins; graving tool; die, stamp; branding-iron; mark engraved, impress, stamp on coins and seals; set a stamp upon them; distinctive mark or token impressed (as it were) on a person or thing, by which it is known from others, characteristic, character; type or character (regarded as shared with others) of a thing or person, rarely of an individual nature; impress, image; typical form
being = ὑπόστασις = hypostasis Blue Letter Bible substance, real being, the substantial quality, nature, of a person or thing; essence; that which has actual existence; a substance, real being; the substantial quality, nature, of any person or thing; thing put under, substructure, foundation; that which has foundation, is firm; that which stands; a setting under (support), i.e. (figuratively) concretely; confidence which leads one to stand under, endure, or undertake anything; steadfastness of mind, firmness, courage, resolution; confidence, firm trust, assurance; courage, resolution; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon standing under, supporting; that which settles at the bottom, sediment; foundation or substructure; confidence, courage, resolution, steadiness; substance, actual existence, reality; that which settles at the bottom, sediment; substantial nature, substance; substance, actual existence, reality; the full expression or expansion of an idea;
sustains = φέρω = pherō Blue Letter Bible to bring or bear; carry, be driven; moved; to move by bearing; move or, to be conveyed or borne, with the suggestion of force or speed; of the mind, to be moved inwardly, prompted; to bring, bring to, bring forward; conducted; to bear, i.e. endure, to endure the rigor of a thing, to bear patiently one's conduct, or spare one (abstain from punishing or destroying); Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon bear or carry a load; convey; bear along; bring, produce, cause; bring forth, produce; carry away as booty or prize; carry off, gain, esp. by toil or trouble, win, achieve; endure, suffer, admit
all—see above
mighty = δύναμις = dynamis Blue Letter Bible ability; force, inherent power, power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature, or which a person or thing exerts and puts forth; moral power and excellence of soul; might; power for performing miracles; R. Trench, New Testament Synonyms outcomings of that mighty power of God; powers being by Him lent to those who were his witnesses and ambassadors; pointing ... to new and higher forces ... which have entered and are working in this lower world of ours; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon might; strength, power, ability to do anything; influence, authority; faculty, capacity
word = ῥῆμα = rhema Blue Letter Bible that which is said; that which is spoken, what is uttered in speech or writing; that which is or has been uttered by the living voice, thing spoken; any sound produced by the voice and having definite meaning; subject matter of speech, thing spoken of; utterances in which God through someone declares his mind; the word by which something is commanded, directed, enjoined; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon that which is said or spoken, word, saying; subject of speech
Accomplished—see “created” above
purification = καθαρισμός = katharismos Blue Letter Bible cleansing; purification, a ritual purgation or washing; purge, expiation; a cleansing from the guilt of sins; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon (from καθαρμός) cleansing, purification, from guilt; purificatory offering, atonement, expiation; purificatory rite; purging, evacuation, discharge
sins = ἁμαρτία = hamartia Blue Letter Bible lit., missing of the mark; moral obliquity; to be without a share in; to err, be mistaken; to miss or wander from the path; to do or go wrong; violate God's law; offence; a bad action, some particular evil deed; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon a failure, fault; error; guilt; Richard Trench, Synonyms of the New Testament missing of a mark or aim; a failing to grasp; to be without one’s share of, to miss; a failing and missing the true end and scope of our lives
to0k his seat = καθίζω = kathizō. Blue Letter Bible to sit down; to dwell; to cause to sit down, set, appoint; to have fixed one's abode; to sojourn, to settle, settle down; continue; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon make to sit down, seat; set, place; take one's seat
right hand = δεξιός = dexios Blue Letter Bible a place of honour or authority; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon on the right hand or side; fortunate; dexterous, ready, skillful, clever; courteous, kindly
majesty = μεγαλωσύνη = megalōsynē Blue Letter Bible greatness, majesty
high = ὑψηλός = hypsēlos Blue Letter Bible high, lofty; metaphorically that which is exalted, that which is highly esteemed; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon highland; stately, proud; upraised, mighty
superior = κρείττων = kreittōn Blue Letter Bible more useful, more serviceable, more advantageous; more excellent; stronger; better; nobler; best, better; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon stronger, mightier; having the upper hand, superior; one's betters, esp. in point of rank; more powerful; too great for, surpassing, beyond; having control over, master of, esp. of desires and passions; superior to the influence of money; also, putting oneself above; better, more excellent; in a higher sense
excellent = διάφορος = diaphoros Blue Letter Bible varying in kind, different, diverse; excellent, surpassing; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon different, unlike; differing from; several, various; excellent, distinguished, remarkable; advantageous, profitable, important; pre-eminently; excellently, with distinction
Son—see above
AND
(Hebrew from 2 Samuel 7:14) = בֵּן = bēn Blue Letter Bible son, grandson, child, member of a group; male child; young men; children (pl. - male and female); foster son; disciple; one related to a time, place, emotion, condition, status; term of kindliness or endearment; expression of intimate and gracious relation
begotten = γεννάω = gennaō Blue Letter Bible beget, begotten; brought forth; metaph.to engender, cause to arise, excite; procreate; regenerate; bring forth; spring; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon beget; bring forth, bear; produce from oneself, create; produce, grow, get; metaph., engender, produce; call it into existence; of numbers, produce a total
AND
(Hebrew from 2 Samuel 7:14) = אָב = 'āḇ Blue Letter Bible father of an individual; God as father of his people; head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan; originator or patron of a class, profession, or art; producer, generator (fig.); of benevolence and protection (fig.); term of respect and honour; ruler or chief (spec.); principal; author, maker, nourisher, bringer up; master, teacher; one who constitutes, controls, guides and lovingly watches over
father = πατήρ = patēr Blue Letter Bible from a root signifying a nourisher, protector, upholder; the originator and transmitter of anything; one who stands in a father's place and looks after another in a paternal way; creator, preserver, guardian and protector; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon respectful mode of addressing persons older than oneself; father, author
AND
(Hebrew from 1 Chronicles 17:13) = אָב = 'āḇ Blue Letter Bible father of an individual; God as father of his people; head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan; originator or patron of a class, profession, or art; producer, generator (fig.); of benevolence and protection (fig.); term of respect and honour; ruler or chief (spec.); principal; author, maker, nourisher, bringer up; master, teacher; one who constitutes, controls, guides and lovingly watches over
son—see above
firstborn = πρωτότοκος = prōtotokos Blue Letter Bible the firstborn; priority to, and preeminence over
worship = προσκυνέω = proskyneō Blue Letter Bible to make obeisance, do reverence to; an act of homage or reverence; to kiss the hand to (towards) one, in token of reverence; to fall upon the knees and touch the ground with the forehead as an expression of profound reverence; kneeling or prostration to do homage (to one) or make obeisance, whether in order to express respect or to make supplication; homage shown to men and beings of superior rank: absolutely; do reverence to, adore; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon make obeisance to; do reverence to; prostrating oneself before kings and superiors
Scriptures addressing similar principles are collected at:
Wisdom Principles—God Loves and Calls Us to Him, In Spite of our Sin
***
Alleluia
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
A holy day has dawned upon us.
Come, you nations, and adore the Lord.
For today a great light has come upon the earth.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel: John 1:1-18
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
A man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.
He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him.
But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God.
And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth.
John testified to him and cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’”
From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
No one has ever seen God. The only Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him.
beginning = ἀρχή = archē Blue Letter Bible the origin, the active cause; first in time, order, or place; the person or thing that commences; that by which anything begins to be; the first person or thing in a series; the leader; the first place, principality, rule, magistracy; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon beginning, origin; foundation, source; original, principal sum; first principle, element; first place or power, sovereignty; magistracy, office; authority, command
word = λόγος = logos Blue Letter Bible a word, uttered by a living voice, embodies a conception or idea; the sayings of God; the moral precepts given by God; what is declared, a thought, declaration, aphorism, a weighty saying, a dictum, a maxim; doctrine, teaching; reason, the mental faculty of thinking, meditating, reasoning, calculating; the essential Word of God, Jesus Christ, the personal wisdom and power in union with God, his minister in creation and government of the universe; a distinct word, intelligible speech; decree, mandate, order; instruction; preaching; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon computation, reckoning; measure; esteem; explanation; statement of a theory, argument, discourse; proposition; rule, principle, law, precept; rule of conduct; thinking, reasoning; idea, thought; continuous statement, narrative; verbal expression or utterance; expression, utterance, speech regarded formally; the Word or Wisdom of God, personified as his agent in creation and world-government
all = πᾶς = pas Blue Letter Bible radically means "all." Used without the article it means "every," every kind or variety; any and every, of every kind, all manner of; in every way or particular; the whole; each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, everything; thoroughly, whatsoever; all manner of; the highest degree, the maximum; always; in everything, in every way, on every side, in every particular or relation; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon when used of a number, all; when of one only, the whole; all, the whole; every; all things as a unity, as a totality; all kinds of things; in all points, entirely, wholly; in every way, by all means, altogether
came to be = γίνομαι = ginomai Blue Letter Bible to become, to take place, arise; to become, to come into existence; to begin to be, come to pass, happen; to arise, appear in history, come upon the stage; to be made, finished; be fulfilled; happen; be performed; be wrought; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon come into being; take place, come to pass; to be under control of
through = διά = dia Blue Letter Bible on account of this, for this cause; because of; by, by means of, by which means; to consider deeply; the ground or reason by which something is or is not done; on account of; the channel of an act; by occasion of, by reason of; instrument, or of the efficient cause; due to; instrument used to accomplish a thing, or of the instrumental cause in the stricter sense; the formal cause; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon through; the Instrument or Means; thanks to, by aid of; by reason of, on account of
without = χωρίς = chōris Blue Letter Bible separately; by itself; apart from, without, separate from; besides; without; without the intervention; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon separately; apart; in reserve; being separated; besides; of different nature, kind, or quality; without the help or will of; independently of, without reckoning; differently from, otherwise than
nothing = οὐδέ = oude Blue Letter Bible not even anything; but not, neither, nor, not even; never, so much as; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon but not; and not, nor; not even; not even a little, no not a bit, not at all
came to be—see above
life = ζωή = zōē Blue Letter Bible the state of one who is possessed of vitality or is animate; of the absolute fulness of life, both essential and ethical; life real and genuine, a life active and vigorous, devoted to God, blessed; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon living, i.e. one's substance, property; way of life
light = φῶς = phōs Blue Letter Bible luminousness in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative; to give light; light as seen by the eye; a luminous emanation; anything emitting light; brightness; fire; that which is exposed to the view of all, openly, publicly; reason, mind, the power of understanding esp. moral and spiritual truth; truth and its knowledge, together with the spiritual purity associated with it; God is light because light has the extremely delicate, subtle, pure, brilliant quality; to live agreeably to saving wisdom; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon light, esp. daylight; daybreak; the light of a torch, lamp, fire, etc. ; illuminations; metaph. For deliverance, happiness, victory, glory, etc.; illumination of the mind
human race = ἄνθρωπος = anthrōpos Blue Letter Bible a human being, male or female, without reference to sex or nationality; a generic name for man; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon man generically; humanity
shines = φαίνω = phainō Blue Letter Bible to be brought forth into light, to become evident, to appear; be manifest; give light; to bring forth into the light, cause to shine, shed light; be bright or resplendent; growing vegetation, to come to light; exposed to view; to meet the eyes, strike the sight, become clear or manifest; to appear to the mind, seem to one's judgment or opinion; lighten; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon bring to light, cause to appear; exhibit; uncover, make known, reveal, disclose; show forth; to make or ring clear; set forth, expound; give light; come into being; manifest
darkness = σκοτία = scotia Blue Letter Bible darkness due to want of light;dimness, obscurity (literally or figuratively; metaph. used of ignorance of divine things; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon darkness, gloom; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon (alternate) in the dark, in secret, secret
overcome = καταλαμβάνω = katalambanō Blue Letter Bible apprehend, lay hold of, seize, take possession of; attain; comprehend, find; perceive; to lay hold of so as to make one's own, to obtain, attain to, to make one's own, to take into one's self, appropriate; to lay hold of with the mind; to understand, perceive, learn, comprehend; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon seize, lay hold of; seize for oneself; arrive at; possessed; seize with the mind, comprehend, accept; catch, overtake, come up with; find on arrival; hold down, cover, keep under, repress, check
believe = πιστεύω = pisteuō Blue Letter Bible to be persuaded of, and hence, to place confidence in, to trust, signifies, in this sense of the word, reliance upon, not mere credence; to entrust, commit to; to think to be true, to be persuaded of, to credit, place confidence in; the conviction and trust to which a man is impelled by a certain inner and higher prerogative and law of soul; credit; to have a faith directed unto, believing or in faith to give oneself up to; to commit oneself trustfully; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon trust, put faith in, rely on; comply; feel confident that a thing is
true = ἀληθινός = alēthinos Blue Letter Bible real, ideal, genuine; true, veracious, sincere; that which has not only the name and resemblance, but the real nature; in every respect corresponding to the idea signified by the name; opposite to what is fictitious, counterfeit, imaginary, simulated or pretended; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon agreeable to truth; truthful, trusty; true; genuine; truly; honestly, straightforwardly
light—see above
enlightens = φωτίζω = phōtizō Blue Letter Bible to give light, shine; to enlighten, illumine; bring to light; to enlighten, light up, illumine; to bring to light, render evident; become clear to all; instruct, to inform, teach; to give understanding to; shed rays; make to see; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon shine, give light; illuminate; bring to light, make known; enlighten, instruct, teach; illuminate with spiritual light; in a special sense, baptize; throw light upon, illustrate
everyone—see “all” above
AND
ἄνθρωπος = anthrōpos Blue Letter Bible a human being, male or female, without reference to sex or nationality; a generic name for man; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon man generically; humanity
own = ἴδιος = idios Blue Letter Bible pertaining to one's self, one's own, belonging to one's self; of what is one's own as opposed to belonging to another; to do one's own business (and not intermeddle with the affairs of others); those things in which one differs from others, his nature and personal character; my/thine own; one's household, persons belonging to the house, family, or company; of a person who may be said to belong to one, above all others; harmonizing with, or suitable or assigned to, one's nature, character, aims, acts; appropriate; private, privately, in private
kn0w = γινώσκω = ginōskō Blue Letter Bible knowledge as the effect of experience; perceive, feel; to be taking in knowledge, to come to know, recognize, understand; to understand completely; to know in the sense of realizing; to know by observation and experience; to learn; to become acquainted with; to come to know; idiom: to have sexual relations with; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon come to know, perceive; now by reflection, know by observation; discern, distinguish, recognize; perceive; feel; discern, distinguish, recognize; celebrate
own—see above
accept = παραλαμβάνω = paralambanō Blue Letter Bible to take to, to take with one's self, to join to one's self; to accept or acknowledge one to be such as he professes to be; to receive something transmitted; to receive with the mind; associate with oneself in any familiar or intimate act or relation; take (unto, with); Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon receive from another; take upon oneself, undertake; admit, employ; receive by lesson, hearing or report, ascertain; take to oneself, associate with oneself; get control of
accept = λαμβάνω = lambanō. Blue Letter Bible to take with the hand, lay hold of, any person or thing in order to use it; to take up a thing to be carried; to take upon one's self; to take to one's self, lay hold upon, take possession of, i.e. to appropriate to one's self; catch at, reach after, strive to obtain; to receive a person, give him access to one's self; have, hold, obtain, receive; to take with one for future use; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon Take hold of, grasp, seize; take by violence, carry off as prize or booty; possess; catch, find out, detect; apprehend by the senses; apprehend with the mind, understand; determine, estimate; take in hand, undertake; have given one, get, receive; receive hospitably; receive as produce, profit; take hold of, lay hold on; seize and keep hold of, obtain possession of
power = ἐξουσία = exousia Blue Letter Bible the power of one whose will and commands must be obeyed; right of disposal; power; the ability or strength with which one is endued, which he either possesses or exercises; the power of him whose will and commands must be submitted to by others and obeyed; privilege; mastery; the power of authority (influence) and of right; delegated authority; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon power, authority to do a thing; permission to do; license; qualification for; office, magistracy; abundance of means, resources
children = τέκνον = teknon Blue Letter Bible the name transferred to that intimate and reciprocal relationship formed between men by the bonds of love, friendship, trust, just as between parents and children; in affectionate address, such as patrons, helpers, teachers and the like employ: my child; in the NT, pupils or disciples are called children of their teachers, because the latter by their instruction nourish the minds of their pupils and mould their characters; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon a form of address from elders to their youngers, my son, my child
believe—see above
name = ὄνομα = onoma Blue Letter Bible all that a "name" implies, of authority, character, rank, majesty, power, excellence, etc.; of everything that the "name" covers; the name is used for everything which the name covers, everything the thought or feeling of which is aroused in the mind by mentioning, hearing, remembering, the name, i.e. for one's rank, authority, interests, pleasure, command, excellences, deeds etc.; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon name of a person or thing; give one a name; name, fame; to have a name, to be notable
Word—see above
flesh = σάρξ = sarx Blue Letter Bible mankind; all men; the complete person; a living creature (because possessed of a body of flesh); the substance of the body; the human body; the complete person; flesh (the soft substance of the living body, which covers the bones and is permeated with blood) of both man and beasts; the sensuous nature of man; the physical nature of man as subject to suffering; human nature, the earthly nature of man apart from divine influence, and therefore prone to sin; human nature, the soul included; the whole man, body and soul, reason and all his faculties included; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon the whole body; the physical or natural order of things, opp. the spiritual or supernatural
made his dwelling = σκηνόω = skēnoō Blue Letter Bible pitch a tent; to fix one's tabernacle, abide (or live) in a tabernacle (or tent); encamp; reside, dwell; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon pitch tents, encamp; live or dwell in a tent; settle, take up one's abode; the place which he now inhabits; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon (alternate definition) the banquet; encamp; find harbourage; build a hut or cottage.
among = ἐν = en Blue Letter Bible in, by, with, among, under, at, near, by; in the presence of; within, in the course of; motion into something, entering into, mingling in; that which one either leads or brings with him, or with which he is furnished or equipped; the instrument or means by or with which anything is accomplished; aided by one, by the intervention or agency of someone, by (means of) one; the state or condition in which anything is done or anyone exists, acts, suffers; the form in which anything appears or is exhibited; the measure or standard; the things in (with) which one is busied; that in which other things are contained and upheld, as their cause and origin; that which gives opportunity; to exchange one thing for another; remaining, staying, continuing in some place, state, or condition; that in which any person or thing is inherently fixed, implanted, or with which it is intimately connected; of the whole in which a part inheres; of a person to whom another is wholly joined and to whose power and influence he is subject, so that the former may be likened to the place in which the latter lives and moves; ingrafted; in fellowship and union with; spiritual fellowship or union with; to be in the power of, be actuated by, inspired by; give self wholly to; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon in, within, surrounded by; in the number of, amongst; in the presence of; in one's hands, within one's reach or power; depends on, rests with; implying both motion to and subsequent position in a place; in the practice of
saw = θεάομαι = theaomai Blue Letter Bible to behold, view attentively, contemplate; wondering regard; careful contemplation; view attentively, to see with admiration, desire, or regard; behold, look upon, view attentively, contemplate; learn by looking, to see with the eyes, to perceive; look closely at; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon gaze at, behold, mostly with a sense of wonder; reconnoiter; contemplate; see clearly; view as spectators, esp. in the theatre, but also, onlookers, bystanders
glory = δόξα = doxa Blue Letter Bible opinion, judgment, view, estimate; splendour, brightness; magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace; majesty; most exalted state; honor; absolute perfection; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon the opinion which others have of one, estimation, repute; good repute, honour, glory; glory, splendor, magnificence, celestial beatitude
full = πλήρης = pleres Blue Letter Bible Being filled, full, i.e. filled up (as opposed to empty); covered in every part; thoroughly permeated with; replete; abounding in; complete, lacking nothing, perfect; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon full of; infected by; satisfied, satiated; full, complete; solid, whole; full-bodied, with a persistent flavour
grace = χάρις = charis Blue Letter Bible beneficial, beneficent; that which affords joy, pleasure, delight, sweetness, charm, loveliness; good will, loving-kindness, favour; liberality; kindness which bestows upon one what he has not deserved; favors even upon the ill-deserving; merciful kindness; aid or succor; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon kindness, goodwill, for or towards one; partiality, favour; boon; Richard Trench, Synonyms of the New Testament that property in a thing which causes it to give joy; the favour and grace and goodness of man to man, to setting forth the favour, grace and goodness of God to man, and thus, of necessity, of the worthy to the unworthy, of the holy to the sinful; it is conferred freely, with no expectation of return, and finding its only motive in the bounty and free-heartedness of the giver
truth = ἀλήθεια = aletheia Blue Letter Bible the reality lying at the basis of an appearance; the manifested, veritable essence of a matter; that candour of mind which is free from affection, pretence, simulation, falsehood, deceit; sincerity of mind and integrity of character, or a mode of life in harmony with divine truth; veracity; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon The opposite of lie or mere appearance; reality
fullness = πλήρωμα = plērōma Blue Letter Bible that which fills up; that which has been completed; that which is (has been) filled; fulness, abundance; repletion; copiousness; flooded; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon Satiety; full and perfect nature; the aggregate of properties which constitute the complete nature of a thing; filling up, completing, fulfillment
received—see “accepted” above
grace—see above
grace—see above
grace—see above
truth—see above
seen = ὁράω = horaō Blue Letter Bible to see with the eyes; to see with the mind, to perceive, know; to take heed, beware; to care for, pay heed to; to attend to; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon take, pay, or give heed; behold, perceive, observe; look out for, provide
Son = μονογενής = monogenēs Blue Letter Bible the term is one of endearment, as well as of singleness; single of its kind, only used of only sons or daughters (viewed in relation to their parents); Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon the only member of a kin or kind; only, single; unique; one and the same blood; having one form for all genders; grows only in one place; in a unique manner
father = πατήρ = patēr Blue Letter Bible from a root signifying a nourisher, protector, upholder; the originator and transmitter of anything; one who stands in a father's place and looks after another in a paternal way; creator, preserver, guardian and protector; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon respectful mode of addressing persons older than oneself; father, author
side = κόλπος = kolpos Blue Letter Bible the front of the body between the arms; bosom; a place of blessedness with another; the hollow formed by the upper forepart of a loose garment, bound by a girdle and used for carrying or keeping things; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon bosom; lap; sinuses in the womb; cavities; the ventricles of the heart; fold of a garment, esp. as it fell over the girdle; enveloping force
revealed = ἐξηγέομαι = exēgeomai Blue Letter Bible to lead out; be leader, go before; show the way; make known, rehearse, declare; to draw out in narrative, unfold a teaching; the interpretation of things sacred and divine, oracles, dreams, etc.; consider aloud; tell; Henry George Liddell, Robert Scott, A Greek-English Lexicon to be leader of; lead, govern; show one the way to; dictate a form of words; prescribe, order; order one to do; expound, interpret; tell at length, relate in full
Scriptures addressing similar principles are collected at:
Wisdom Principles—God Loves and Calls Us to Him, In Spite of our Sin
***
God is King!
the LORD restoring Zion.
Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem!
the LORD comforts his people
he redeems Jerusalem
The LORD has bared his holy arm
in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God
he has done wondrous deeds
his right hand has won victory for him
his holy arm.
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God
The LORD has made his salvation known
in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice
He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God
all you lands
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God
Sing praise to the the King, the LORD
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God
God spoke in partial and various ways to our ancestors through the prophets
he has spoken to us through the Son[:]
through whom he created the universe
who is the refulgence of his glory
the very imprint of his being
who sustains all things by his mighty word.
accomplished purification from sins
took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high
superior to the angels
You are my son
I have begotten you
Let all the angels of God worship him
In the beginning was the Word
the Word was with God
the Word was God
He was in the beginning with God
All things came to be through him
What came to be through him was life
this life was the light of the human race
the light shines in the darkness
the darkness has not overcome it
John was sent from God
He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him
The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world
He was in the world
the world came to be through him
the world did not know him
He came to what was his own
to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us
his glory
the glory as of the Father’s only Son
ranks ahead of me
he existed before me
From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace
grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
No one has ever seen God
The only Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him.
What these readings tell us to do:
Announc[e] peace, bear[] good news, announc[e] salvation,
Say[] to Zion, “Your God is King!”
raise a cry
shout for joy
see directly
Break out together in song
Sing to the LORD a new song
Sing joyfully to the LORD
break into song
sing joyfully before the King
worship him
believe
accept him
believe in his name
receive
What these readings tell us not to do:
not know him
not accept him
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