Monday, October 19, 2009

'Pro Multis' - Part II

There is a longstanding/ongoing discussion about the latin words: 'Pro Multis.' They are found in the consecration of the mass. I posted earlier about this discussion here:
Pro Multis Discussion

For most, it isn't a big deal. We hear the words every Sunday (or more) and think not to much of it. The debate above speaks for itself, and we can really reconcile the confusion and move on.


For those of you that don't know what I am talking about, the phrase 'Pro Multis' translates to 'for many' or 'for all.' It really depends on context and who you ask. A good question and answer section can be found at EWTN and various other places. The summary is that the Aramaic words meant a kind of combination. Through context and meaning, especially since the phrase was to be applied to the entire Gospels. The problem is that for a long time the LATIN texts were 'Pro Multis.' So teaching occurred on those words, and our faith doctrine developed with those words. Then in the 1970's, the vernacular translation switched it to 'for all.' Again creating confusion, until their was some clarity a few years ago. Like I said, all is fine at that point with a little research, digging, and understanding. Plus there is a new translation coming out in a year or so (hopefully) which will change it to align with the Latin for a nice union between the Norvus Ordo (our regular Mass) and the TLM/EF (the Latin 1962 Mass) so things will flush. It will also bring the Latin and Orthodox churches closer in liturgical form as well. So, I was satisfied. Until, yesterday...

You see here is a snippet from yesterdays reading of the Gospel from Mark 10:35-45:

But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant;
whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
So now what? I mean, it has to be from the same 'pro multis' form in the latin of the bible? I don't mean to be a traditionalist to the point of annoyance, and I KNOW when the new translation of the Missal comes out people are going to be frustrated, and annoyed. But this is why it is necessary. It will make everything SYNC up. Right now, we have to spend hours and hours explaining the doctrine because of silly and sloppy translations.



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