Under The Olive Tree

Sophistication

Do you mean to tell me that you are not a sophisticate? You are not “in”?

And what does it mean to be a sophisticate? – it might be worth knowing since it is so highly sought after in our developing world – especially in Western culture.

Like the serpent of Eden – the sophisticate is subtly deceptive – those of sophistication can argue that they are more cultured, or knowledgeable, or developed – but the real question is not quantitative but qualitative – is their sophistication really any better? – is it really superior because it embraces knowledge or culture that is seemingly superior?

And what of the simple and the contrite? Men of depth and understanding and courage have fled the avenues of progress and culture – the social and political fanfare; or the bawdry alleys and dens of the pursuit of the flesh – for centuries. Some to monasteries and prayer – or to some other form of solitude – to mountain or ocean or wilderness – or to isolation in the midst of the fervor and celebration.

They, in so doing – have rejected the fallacious core of sophistication, in all its manifestations, to embrace a quieter approach to the sublime and the divine.

“Be still and know that I am God.”

The learned apostle penned, “The kingdom of God is not meat and drink – but peace, joy, and righteousness in the Holy Ghost.”

The serpent’s promise echoes down through the millennia – “Ye shall be as gods.”

“Moses forsook Egypt – because he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.”

Egypt – tapestries embroidered with gold – frankincense – myrrh – the temples of the Pharaohs – knowledge – medicine – literature – mathematics – chemistry and biology – the sum of man’s knowledge and the pinnacle of his achievements – the pyramids. And all of this to be rejected?

Not entirely – genuine truth and beauty – genuine satisfaction – creativity, the genius of music and poetry and art – humor, skill in engineering and infrastructure – the art of living as opposed to mere existence – knowledge and understanding all have merit and value.

Those of sophistication, using an expensive set of make-up brushes – and a willingness to participate, and unashamed to profane that which is holy – sequester themselves – and then call you to join them, requiring your submission and applause.

But the creation – in all its splendor and majesty is completely open and accessible – as in all true reflection and industry of the souls of men who walk in the ways of the Lord.

Sophistication is a sham.