12 Jun '06 09:58>
Originally posted by ChurlantIt appears the Bible is biased against goats. (goats are generally more intelligent and independant minded than sheep).
The left hand does worst in the parable of the sheep and goats. The sheep are set on Christ's right hand and the goats on the left. Those on the right inherit the kingdom of god while those on the left depart into everlasting fire.
Actually the interpretation that this parable is biased against the left hand is wrong. In many cultures it is normal to put someone you dont trust on your left (if you are right handed) because it is easier to defend yourself if he tries to attack you. (just try pulling a knife and stabbing someone on your right and you will see). It does however imply the possibility that God is right handed. However it is just a parable so you never know.
It is also true that many cultures (and some religions) both then and now require cirtain tasks to be done only with the right hand due to the left hand being used for ablutions, but the nun in question may have been just trying to enforce uniformity. I believe saluting is also only done with the right hand.