Psalm 19: A Geocentric Scripture Song (KJV) - Kim Anderson by Earthen Vessels - https://youtu.be/67Hu6dvgUV0?si=FL1nb8Y_y86DK69g
Dec 30, 2022
The 19th Psalm abounds with geocentric sentiments. This is unsurprising since it is a historical fact that the ancient Hebrews believed in a flat earth covered by a dome. However, Christians who seek to defend their belief in a globe commonly argue that the geocentric language of the Bible is nothing more than poetry. Indeed, none would deny the harmonic rhythm and potent imagery of this psalm. Yet does the use of poetry make these verses untrue? On the contrary, metaphor and simile are used for the very reason that they bring the truth to light.
The sun is likened to a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and to a strong man running a race. Clearly, the purpose of these similes is not to argue that the sun is a man, but that it--like a bridegroom hastening to his wedding and a runner to the finish line--quite literally, moves. It is the principle of motion that is attributed to the sun by these comparisons. And this motion cannot be that of the sun charging through a supposed outer-space, for it is further described as a circuit.
In this psalm, three verses are dedicated to establishing the point that the sun moves in a circuit above the earth. Two vivid illustrations are employed to underline this fact. Remember, the sun is the bridegroom; not the wedding altar. It is the sun that moves; not the earth.
Another whole verse (verse 3) is given to establish the fact that the sun is contained within the firmament which is called a tabernacle. Yes, this is a metaphor. The firmament is not a tabernacle. However, it is like a tabernacle (or a tent) in that it is arched over a flat floor to provide open room within. If the firmament were not like a tabernacle, then what would be the meaning of this metaphor? Further, if there is no firmament—as the heliocentric model affirms—then how could it show forth God’s handywork?
To brush all the geocentric language of the Bible under the rug of ‘poetry’ is to not understand what poetry is. One might as well brush verses 7 and 8 under the rug, for in them, the judgements of the Lord are said to be more desirable than gold and sweeter than honey. This too is poetry. Poetry that highlights the inestimable value and pleasantness of God’s law. If gold were not desirable, and honey not sweet, then the use of such poetry would be meaningless.
By the same token, a bridegroom coming out of his chamber is moving. A strong man running a race is moving. And these clear comparisons reiterate the observable reality that the sun, going forth in his circuit, is moving.
For more information visit:
https://www.earthenvessels.org.au/biblical-cosmology-1
'Psalm 19' Composed and performed by Kim Anderson.
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