Glossary

GLOSSARY

aide
An aide is supernatural agent through whom God may appear and work in the world. English translations refer to them as “angels,” but this suggests ethereal winged figures wearing diaphanous white dresses. Aides are humanlike figures; hence it possible to give them hospitality without realizing who they are (Hebrews 13). They have no wings, hence their need of a stairway or ramp between heaven and earth (Genesis 28). They appear in order to act or speak on God’s behalf and so fully represent God that they can speak as if they are God (Genesis 22). They are involved in dynamic, forceful action in the world (Psalms 34 and 35). They bring the reality of God’s presence, action, and voice, without bringing such a real presence that it would electrocute mere mortals or shatter their hearing…