One sign can have multiple meanings. For example, the sign for clean is the same for nice and simple. With slight variations, the sign can also mean: holy, pure, apology, forgive and excuse (among others). These slight changes create nuanced meanings and offer opportunities for storytellers (and others) to reflect on the connections between these words. How is clean similar to and different from simple? How does our understanding of holiness connect to being forgiven and forgiving others?
The attached video demonstrates clusters of similar signs that are invitations to reflect on deeper meanings. In storytelling, how does a sign with multiple meanings influence how you understand the meaning of the story as a whole? Here's an example:
In the parable of the father and two sons (Luke 15:11-32), the younger son comes to his senses after he loses his money, a famine strikes the country, and he is reduced to feeding pigs. He realizes that his father's hired hands have a better life than he is living, and he returns home, rehearsing what he is going to say along the way. The parable is part of lectionary texts for Lent, and the son's return and confessions are often connected to repentance.
If you look up the definition of repent, you will likely find an expression of remorse or regret. It is connected to being penitent, guilt-ridden, or ashamed. In Hebrew, words nacham and sub both include meanings of "turn," "return," or "restore." In the New Testament, the Greek word "metanoia" means to "change the mind." ASL affirms this understanding. "Change" and "Repent" are nearly identical signs.
Other signs show: free/save/redeem; cancel/criticize/correct; please/sorry; Lord/King/Christ; and help/amen. As you consider the connections and meanings of these signs, what biblical stories or concepts come to mind? How does your understanding of a story change if you substitute one sign or word for another? How does the sign itself offer a new or deeper understanding of these words?