I have been reading in the news about the trial of Joaquín Archivaldo Guzmán Loera, AKA El Chapo. That got me to wondering just what “El Chapo” stands for. I don’t speak Spanish, but I do know that “El” is the equivalent of “the.” So, what does “Chapo” mean. I was surprised when I read the definition.
“There’s no direct equivalent translation but in the local slang of Culiacan, “El Chapo” refers to a short, stocky, body-type. It likely comes from the slang Chaparro (male), Chaparra (female) meaning ‘short person.’”
All along I thought “El Chapo” was some kind of power title and now I find out it’s Guzman’s nickname, “Shorty.” Technically, “The Short Person.”
Ever notice the difference between the words “a” and “the?” Strange question, I know. Yet, there is an awesome distinction between the two. “A” usually refers to one of many. “A” king, a queen, a president, a leader, acknowledges that there are many more like that.
“The” points to one and only one. “The King” stands alone. I think about how our God is “The Savior, The Christ, The Messiah, The King of kings.” Paul wrote: “God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.” [1 Tim 6:15-16]
We serve “the” One and Only Blessed Immortal Ruler. Praise His Holy Name!
