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The well-known idiom about death and taxes being the two certainties in life may require a revision with a potential third certainty--old age. Barring the unexpected or the unthinkable, people nowadays can expect to grow old with life expectancies increasing due to medical and scientific advances. Hence, old age is a timely and compelling subject that affects us all. But it can be a mixed blessing. We know of old people struggling with health issues or financial woes. In that sense, old age, like death and taxes, is not a comfortable topic. Yet, the Bible portrays God as having a high view of the aged. Utilizing a biblical hermeneutics of ageism, we can read Scripture to extract important lessons and principles not only as an encouragement to older readers but as a guide for younger readers in relating to senior members of the faith. Since aging is a global phenomenon, the personal points of view of the old people themselves living in Asia assume equal importance with those living in the West, particularly America. In fact, can we not all learn from each other, adopting good ideas from our global neighbors to strengthen our own lives and relationships?
About the author
Gilbert Soo Hoo is adjunct professor of biblical studies at several seminaries located in Singapore. He has also taught at other locales in Asia. He is the author of Work and Vocation through the Lens of Ecclesiastes (2021) and a commentary on 1, 2, and 3 John (2016).
