SOON after the writer commenced the study of Christian Science he made the acquaintance of one who was a Hebrew and Greek scholar of considerable distinction. This man translated the complete Bible from the original languages and learned to think and speak in Hebrew and Greek as readily as in English. One day the writer asked his friend how he conceived the idea of translating the Bible and whether, in the midst of an active business life, he did not find it a laborious undertaking. The reply was that once, when he was a small boy, while attending a church service with his parents, he heard the clergyman read the sixtieth Psalm, which includes the following (verse 8): "Moab is my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe." The little boy turned to his mother and whispered, "What does he mean, Mother?" Putting her finger to her lips to maintain a discreet silence, she shook her head, unable to answer his question. From that moment the boy resolved, when he grew up, to find out for himself what the Bible meant; and thus in early childhood his lifework as a Bible translator was determined.
Many students of Christian Science can trace their entry into this Science to a desire to understand the spiritual meaning of the Scriptures. When confronted by sin or sickness the Christian Scientist utilizes the power of Truth by turning wholeheartedly to God with fervency and understanding.
The spiritual understanding of the Bible revealed by Christian Science shows the unreality of material existence and the reality of the spiritual. Through this understanding discord is dispelled and harmony established. The restoration to health is proof that the divine Principle is understood in some measure. In order to know more, however, the student must investigate Christian Science more deeply. To this end he studies diligently and practices consistently. His righteous desire for understanding is answered by proofs innumerable. Thus he sees light breaking in upon his darkness, and the situation is transformed and transfigured under the influence of divine Love. The desire to investigate is scientific and is the initial step toward advancement and enlightenment.
