a thought on TULIP

[Blake]

I was reading a dissertation on Dutch Mennonite economics and charity from the 17th century and made some interesting mental connections some might find amusing. The T.U.L.I.P. acronym associated with Calvinism dates back only to the beginning of the 20th century. The Synod of Dort in 1619, upon which the acronym is based in its doctrinal content, occurred at a time when tulips were a luxury item in what is now the Netherlands. A single tulip bulb could cost more than a wealthy person's summer home in that time. In 1638, the market for tulips burst because of the futures speculation (no idea if I'm wording this correctly as one who has no training in economics) leaving many bankrupt. It seems like summarizing a doctrinal statement into TULIP is like doing the same with BLING or SWAG 300 years from now. Not sure what to think of all this, but it amuses me for some reason.

[Haruo]

I find it rather amusing, too. Thanks!