Topics

---
name: topics
description: Retrieve dictionary data, outlines, and topical bible verse lists from local databases.
---

# Topics Retrieval Skill

## Overview
This skill allows the agent to retrieve detailed topical outlines, scripture list guides, and theological subject headings from the local SQLite database.

## Guidelines & Objectives
When executing this skill:
- Always run the python retriever script located at `.agents/skills/topics/topics_query.py` to retrieve topic data.
- Execute the script using: `python3 .agents/skills/topics/topics_query.py "<query>"` where `<query>` is the name or keyword of the topic.
- The script automatically decodes HTML entity-encoded topic hierarchy structures (such as `&gt;` to `>`) and handles substring lookups and fuzzy matches (Levenshtein distance).
- Present the exact output of the script to the user.
- All study outputs generated by the `/topics` command must be saved to the `biblemate/` folder with a timestamp prefix under the Universal Study Output Saving Rule (handled automatically by the query script).

## Detailed Topical & Theological Analysis
After presenting the retrieved details from the script, expand upon the topic's theological significance by addressing:
1. **Linguistic Background**: Key terms, root words, and semantic ranges in Biblical Hebrew, Aramaic, and Koine Greek.
2. **Biblical-Theological Exposition**: Define the biblical-theological meaning of the topic and how it unfolds across Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.
3. **Systematic Classification**: Map the topic into classic systematic loci (e.g. Theology Proper, Soteriology, Ecclesiology, Eschatology) and explain its doctrinal significance.
4. **Covenant & Redemptive-Historical Progression**: Trace how this topic develops through the biblical covenants (Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, New Covenant) and how it is resolved/fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
5. **Practical & Pastoral Application**: Provide detailed takeaways, ethical guidance, or spiritual lessons for modern Christian living.