Local Jehovah's Witnesses were touting publicly on the street here yesterday, with a sign about free Bible classes.

Being a smart alec, I asked them if they know what the difference is between the Old Testament and Hebrew Bible (tanakh) ? The only Jehovah Witness who would speak to me (the others correctly guessed this must be a kook) said she had never heard of the tanakh.

I said that's okay because the content of the tanakh is basically identical to the Old Testament - just re-arranged a bit. Also that the Old Testament predicts the coming of Christ as the messiah, whereas the Hebrew Bible predicts a messiah (still waiting btw) - just not Jesus.

I then continued on pontificating about the Old Testament's central tenets being that God is a vengeful angry God and that might makes right. (This is of course the central tenet of Stephen Miller's ideology.) I also mentioned that the Hebrew Bible is largely a political document of the time, and that's why it says God blesses only Israel and only the Hebrews.

I explained that "peace through strength" equates to "might makes right", which on an individual basis, is simply the law of the jungle. ie that is what the veneer of law and civilization is supposed to shield us from.

She did not respond to anything I said.

So I carried on that the New Testament is about a loving God, forgiveness, and peace, (and of course the teachings of Jesus) and is that what the Jehovah Bible course is about? She said she did not know. So I asked which she preferred, the Old Testament or New? -- and she said she'd never though about that.

I then said, "Good day" to her, tipped my hat, heeled and walked away with a smile. I'm sure the Witnesses there all thought I was crazy, but on rare (?) occasions it is entertaining to be.

Bottom line, any free Jehovah Witness 'Bible course" must not be for me... :)

all the best