Understanding John 17:5 - Divine Glory Before Creation

John 17:5 is a profound verse that discusses the relationship between Jesus and God, specifically focusing on the glory that existed between them before the world began.

Interpretation and Context

This verse has been interpreted to express that Jesus, though a pre-human existence, had a profound divine relationship with God. Here, Jesus is asking for that glory that God had for him. It's important to note that Jesus is not claiming he was created before Abraham, but rather that he existed alongside God prior to the creation of the universe.

Moses and Brahmanism in Biblical Context

The biblical account of Moses is intertwined with historical and religious elements. While Moses was an incredibly intelligent and influential figure, the mention of Abraham as a religion suggests a different interpretation. Abraham is often seen as the patriarch of Judaism, but in this context, he is identified as a representation of Brahmanism, the world's first monotheistic religion that originated in India.

Moses, in his role, elevated all divinity to the intellectual realm, thereby ending the worship of bovines such as the Golden Calf. This act of sacrifice symbolized the new covenant, where animals were no longer seen as divine.

Jesus and the Intellectual Realm of Deity

Jesus took this concept even further by ending animal sacrifice, countering the corruption in the priesthood. He personally chose not to participate in it because the priesthood had turned the act into a money-making scheme, exploiting the faith of the poor.

Prayer and Relationship with God the Father

Despite Jesus praying to God the Father, some scholars argue this is a paradox. Shouldn't a deity pray to himself? This raises questions about the nature of divinity and the relationship between Jesus and God the Father. Certain biblical texts, such as Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, show that he did indeed pray to God the Father.

Divine Unity and Trinitarian Doctrine

The concept of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as a unity (Trinity) is a complex theological doctrine. While some argue it is a made-up answer, the Bible's records of Jesus praying to God the Father validate the idea of a distinct relationship between the three entities.

Conclusion

John 17:5 underscores the intricate relationship between Jesus and God, emphasizing the divine pre-existence and the reverent glory that existed before the creation of the world. Whether seen through a purely theological lens or within the context of historical and religious significance, this verse remains a cornerstone of Christian belief.

Citations:

1. 1 Timothy 3:16

2. Colossians 2:9

3. John 11:41-42, Matthew 26:36-44, Luke 23:34, Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34