[Greek] ποίημα (poiēma), [Latin] poema: workmanship, what is manufactured, design made by an artisan, what has been made, thing that is made, practice, handiwork, a masterpiece, work done, creation, something made; Rom.1:20, Eph.2:10
The Creation of Adam by Michaelangelo (1508-1512)
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: This term is connected to two other corresponding terms: poiesis and poietes. Poiesis is the process of doing or making. The person (poietes) is one who does or makes. On a philosophical level, this person brings something into existence that did not exist before. The ancient Greeks had no corresponding words for creator and the verb create. This making or doing applied to poetry. In a sense, the poet is a creator, bringing a poem into existence. However, poetry, similar to fine arts and craft skills, brings forth a creative end result from human activity. This term also makes reference to the creative activity of deity.
Old Testament: This term is used in a variety of nuanced ways in the Old Testament. The Egyptian taskmasters told the Israelites to finish their work (Ex.5:13). When you see your enemy’s oxen or donkey going astray, you must see to that it is returned (Ex.23:24). The writing of God was engraved on the tablets (Ex.32:16). The potter makes a clay vessel (Isa.29:16). The firmament declares the works of God’s hands (Psa. 19:2).
New Testament: This term is rarely found in the New Testament. Importantly, it is taken for granted that God is Creator. This pertains to God’s workmanship and creative power. God’s invisible power and divinity can be seen as He brings into existence creation and man. Man, in God’s image, becomes His greatest masterpiece. Essentially, man has become the product of the will and work of God.
Scripture:
“Ever since the creation of the world, His invisible attributes of eternal power and divinity have been able to be understood and perceived in what He has made.” Rom.1:20
The majesty and divinity of the invisible God can be made evident through creation. From God comes everything.
“For we are his handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for the good works that God has prepared in advance, that we should live in them.” Eph. 2:10
Man has been created in God’s image to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him. God loves enough to give us free will.
Nicene Creed: “I believe in one God, the Father almighty, the maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible…”
How many times have we said this without really understanding what this means? Count me in as I am guilty of doing this. Hopefully, next time I will I not be so blasé about saying this. Maybe, I will even try to reflect on this.
Conclusion
Poem, poet, poetry
It was very interesting to discover that poetry, among other art forms, was originally set aside as a unique form of creation. I would never have known that this original meaning would greatly surpass the notion of just writing poetry. Therefore, I wouldn’t have equated God with being a divine poet.
It is also noteworthy to mention that there are some poetical books in the Old Testament. Such examples include, Job, Psalm, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. With the exception of possibly Revelations, the New Testament contains no single book that may be considered as poetical.
As William Shakespeare waxes poetic, he says, ‘Farewell! God knows when we shall meet again’