Language and literature have been the central pillars of my life. Rather than mere talents, they were life itself. I've published poetry collections and several books, and for years I've been producing an annual literary magazine called 'Jelib Literature', now reaching its 27th volume. This ongoing literary activity is a testament to how deeply intertwined my life is with literature.
From an early age, I had an extraordinary love for languages. Besides Korean, I studied Chinese characters from middle school through high school. As I pursued academia, I delved into about ten languages, including English, German, French, and even ancient languages like Hebrew and Greek. This wasn't mere curiosity; it was a tool to understand the Bible more profoundly.
As I learned various languages, I came to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of Korean. This realization culminated in a 600-page book titled 'The Charm and Characteristics of the Korean Language'. Compiled over several years, this work illuminated the unique features of Korean through comparisons with other languages.
My language studies extended beyond personal interest into academic achievements. Particularly, my work on Bible commentaries stands as one of my proudest life accomplishments. Contributing to the 'Seventh-day Adventist International Bible Commentary' and writing the Zephaniah commentary for the 'Andrews Bible Commentary' were products of my combined linguistic abilities and theological knowledge.
Looking back, I feel some regret for not fully utilizing all the languages I've learned. However, I believe all these experiences have shaped who I am today. Languages have been more than just tools for communication; they've been windows to understanding the world.
My life has soared on the wings of language and literature. Though the journey was sometimes arduous, in retrospect, every moment was invaluable. I will continue to swim in the sea of languages, seeking new discoveries and insights. This is my life - a life intertwined with literature.
This passion for language and literature has profoundly influenced my theological thinking and pastoral activities. My understanding of various languages added depth to biblical interpretation, while my literary sensibility enriched my sermons and writings. Particularly, my deep understanding of Korean's characteristics allowed me to convey complex theological concepts in a way that resonated with our culture and language.
Moreover, my love for language and literature reflected in my educational philosophy. When teaching at the seminary, I emphasized to students not only theological knowledge but also the importance of language and literary sensitivity. This was to enable them to deliver richer and more profound messages as future pastors or theologians.
Ultimately, my passion for language and literature went beyond a personal hobby, playing a crucial role in shaping my identity as a theologian and my calling as a pastor. It greatly aided in realizing the values I've pursued throughout my life: the harmony of scholarship and faith, and the practical application of knowledge.
From an early age, I had an extraordinary love for languages. Besides Korean, I studied Chinese characters from middle school through high school. As I pursued academia, I delved into about ten languages, including English, German, French, and even ancient languages like Hebrew and Greek. This wasn't mere curiosity; it was a tool to understand the Bible more profoundly.
As I learned various languages, I came to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of Korean. This realization culminated in a 600-page book titled 'The Charm and Characteristics of the Korean Language'. Compiled over several years, this work illuminated the unique features of Korean through comparisons with other languages.
My language studies extended beyond personal interest into academic achievements. Particularly, my work on Bible commentaries stands as one of my proudest life accomplishments. Contributing to the 'Seventh-day Adventist International Bible Commentary' and writing the Zephaniah commentary for the 'Andrews Bible Commentary' were products of my combined linguistic abilities and theological knowledge.
Looking back, I feel some regret for not fully utilizing all the languages I've learned. However, I believe all these experiences have shaped who I am today. Languages have been more than just tools for communication; they've been windows to understanding the world.
My life has soared on the wings of language and literature. Though the journey was sometimes arduous, in retrospect, every moment was invaluable. I will continue to swim in the sea of languages, seeking new discoveries and insights. This is my life - a life intertwined with literature.
This passion for language and literature has profoundly influenced my theological thinking and pastoral activities. My understanding of various languages added depth to biblical interpretation, while my literary sensibility enriched my sermons and writings. Particularly, my deep understanding of Korean's characteristics allowed me to convey complex theological concepts in a way that resonated with our culture and language.
Moreover, my love for language and literature reflected in my educational philosophy. When teaching at the seminary, I emphasized to students not only theological knowledge but also the importance of language and literary sensitivity. This was to enable them to deliver richer and more profound messages as future pastors or theologians.
Ultimately, my passion for language and literature went beyond a personal hobby, playing a crucial role in shaping my identity as a theologian and my calling as a pastor. It greatly aided in realizing the values I've pursued throughout my life: the harmony of scholarship and faith, and the practical application of knowledge.
