By Dr. Douglas F. Levesque, Founder of The Levesque Institute
Factor One – Language
“For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him with one consent.” (Zephaniah 3:9).
Understanding history begins not with the events themselves, but with the advent of a language that conveys events into words. Poetry is speech aligned. Wars begin and end with the proliferation of language. Even law is rhetorical. All the technology in the world does not function without a unique vocabulary to sustain it. Language separates us by light years from the animal kingdom, and allows us dominion over the moon and planets, mountains and poles. Language then is a foundational factor to the success of a nation.
Consider that in any study of a nation, its official language or languages are always listed among its top facts. The easy perusal of any nation in the Encyclopedia Britannica, CIA world fact book, or even Wikipedia will quickly identify that country’s principal language. Of the thousands of languages spoken today, there are few that are blatantly dominant. The dominance of certain languages equates with the dominance of cultures. In turn, these cultures appear to reign over nations. Notice that the premier languages of the earth correlate directly with the premier national and cultural powers. Even religions seem to have a correspondence with language.
There is a noticeable alignment of the fact that America’s official language is English and that of her dominance in world affairs. English is the one true global business language. Global business is fueled primarily by the American economy. The leadership of Wall Street and the dollar among trade and currencies illustrate the importance of language. Also American diplomacy (language) is required to fund and focus the work of the UN. America’s predominant religion is Evangelical Christianity (Protestants, Charismatics, and Baptists) which is broadcast around the world via satellite television. America’s technology driven military is more powerful than ever but also more language dependent. Military power, religion, business, and diplomacy are all the offspring of language. As America is a superpower, so is her language. Elements of her language include the predominate concepts such as liberty and free markets. This is no coincidence, but a proof of the universal factor of language as a natural success or failure indicator among nations.
The thoughtful leader then determines to solidify language in his country by adopting the following measures:
a. Determine the official language then unashamedly embrace it.
b. Espouse a dictionary and grammar then properly use them.
c. Disseminate the widespread and easy use of the language through education.
d. Utilize modern means of communication such as TV, radio, signage, the internet, libraries, and mail by post, using the official language.
e. Make founding documents, constitutions, pledges, anthems and other important addresses in print and widely available.
f. Make learning the language simple and promote it through your embassies and emissaries.
g. Make citizenship equate with at least a rudimentary ability in the language – or mandatory training for immigrants. (See article “Language to be a test of Immigration” at www.biblenation.org)
If this task seems insurmountable then utilize an existing language that provides these features already. It may be quicker to execute, more cost effective, and more profitable. The Median King of the Persian Empire, Darius, utilized language to convey peace, goodwill, and the fear of a holy God to all the nations of the earth over 2600 years ago. (Daniel 6:25-27). Such official use of language to convey a leader’s spiritual sentiments should not be frowned upon, but embraced. Consider all the American presidents who have quoted the Bible. They have used Scripture as the principle vehicle of language and communication because it is simply the most proven and effective tool to communicate to Americans. Even God Himself used men’s heart languages in order to convince their hearts to trust Him on the day of Pentecost. “…we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.” (Acts 2:11).