Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, "groans" often refer to expressions of deep emotional or spiritual distress, longing, or suffering. These expressions can be both physical and spiritual, reflecting the human condition in a fallen world and the anticipation of redemption. The concept of groaning is found throughout Scripture, illustrating the tension between present suffering and future glory.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, groaning is frequently associated with the suffering and oppression of God's people. For instance, in Exodus 2:23, the Israelites groan under the harsh bondage of Egypt: "After a long time, the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned because of their difficult labor, and they cried out, and their cry for help because of the difficult labor ascended to God." Here, groaning is a cry for divine intervention and deliverance. The Psalms also capture the groaning of individuals in distress. Psalm 6:6 states, "I am weary from groaning; all night I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears." This verse reflects the personal anguish and the seeking of God's mercy and relief. New Testament References In the New Testament, groaning takes on a more eschatological dimension, reflecting the anticipation of future redemption. Romans 8:22-23 speaks of creation's groaning: "We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time. Not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies." Here, groaning signifies the longing for the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate restoration of all things. The Apostle Paul also describes his own groaning in 2 Corinthians 5:2,4 : "For in this tent we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling... For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed, so that our mortality may be swallowed up by life." This passage highlights the tension between the present earthly existence and the hope of eternal life. Theological Significance Groaning in the Bible is not merely an expression of despair but is often accompanied by hope and faith in God's deliverance. It acknowledges the reality of suffering while also pointing to the assurance of God's ultimate plan for redemption. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this process, as seen in Romans 8:26 : "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words." The Spirit's intercession with groans signifies divine empathy and assistance in the believer's journey through suffering. Practical Implications For believers, groaning serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly suffering and the hope of eternal glory. It encourages a posture of dependence on God and a longing for His kingdom. Groaning also fosters a sense of solidarity with the suffering of others and creation, prompting believers to act with compassion and to work towards justice and restoration in anticipation of Christ's return. Greek 4726. stenagmos -- a groaning ... See 4727 (). Word Origin from stenazo Definition a groaning NASB Word Usage groanings (1), groans (1). groaning. From stenazo; a sigh -- groaning. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4726.htm - 6k 4959. sustenazo -- to groan together Strong's Hebrew 584. anach -- to sigh, groan... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to sigh, groan NASB Word Usage groan (7), groaning (1), groans (1), sigh (2), sighed (1). groan, mourn, sigh. ... /hebrew/584.htm - 5k 585. anachah -- a sighing, groaning Library Old Groans and New Songs To-Day the Groans of Hades Rise, -- Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs Old Groans and New Songs Whether Pain or Sorrow is Assuaged by Tears? A Groaning Creation Can be Delivered Only by the Second Advent of ... A New Library of Helpful Volumes for Bible Students. The Prayer of the Regenerated. The Wise Man, Having Found that Wisdom Brought with it but ... Works by JG Bellett. Thesaurus Groans (9 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Groans (9 Occurrences). ... Romans 8:22 For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now. (WEB DBY NAS). ... /g/groans.htm - 8k Groan (32 Occurrences) Ostrich (9 Occurrences) Oppression (67 Occurrences) Groanings (4 Occurrences) Groaned (7 Occurrences) Groats (4 Occurrences) Ferret (1 Occurrence) Travail (54 Occurrences) Three (5005 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that all creation groans (Romans 8:22)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is praying in tongues? Is praying in tongues a prayer language between a believer and God? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that we live in a fallen world? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Groans (9 Occurrences)Acts 7:34 Romans 8:22 Romans 8:26 Job 3:24 Psalms 79:11 Psalms 102:20 Lamentations 1:8 Lamentations 1:22 Ezekiel 30:24 Subtopics Related Terms |
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