Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "shriveled" is often used to describe a state of withering or drying up, typically as a result of divine judgment or as a metaphor for spiritual barrenness. The imagery of shriveling is employed in various contexts throughout Scripture to convey the consequences of sin, the effects of divine displeasure, or the condition of a life disconnected from God.Old Testament References One of the most vivid uses of the concept of shriveling is found in the prophetic literature. In the book of Joel, the prophet describes a locust plague that devastates the land of Israel, leaving the vines and fig trees shriveled: "The vine has dried up, and the fig tree has withered; the pomegranate, palm, and apple—all the trees of the field—are dried up. Surely the joy of mankind has withered away" (Joel 1:12). Here, the shriveling of the land's produce symbolizes the nation's spiritual desolation and the urgent need for repentance. In the Psalms, the psalmist uses the imagery of shriveling to express personal anguish and the effects of divine discipline: "For my days vanish like smoke, and my bones burn like glowing embers. My heart is afflicted, and withered like grass; I even forget to eat my bread" (Psalm 102:3-4). This passage reflects the psalmist's deep sense of distress and the physical manifestation of spiritual and emotional turmoil. New Testament References In the New Testament, the concept of shriveling is notably illustrated in the account of Jesus cursing the fig tree. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus encounters a fig tree in leaf but finds no fruit on it. In response, He declares, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." The next day, the disciples observe that the fig tree has withered from the roots (Mark 11:14, 20). This act serves as a powerful symbol of judgment against unfruitfulness and hypocrisy, particularly in the context of Israel's spiritual state. Theological Implications Theologically, the imagery of shriveling serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. It underscores the biblical principle that spiritual vitality is intrinsically linked to one's relationship with the Creator. Just as a plant cannot thrive without water and sunlight, so too a soul cannot flourish apart from the life-giving presence of God. The shriveled state is often contrasted with the flourishing life promised to those who remain faithful to God. In Psalm 1, the righteous person is likened to "a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither" (Psalm 1:3). This imagery highlights the blessings of spiritual nourishment and the sustaining power of God's Word. Practical Application For believers, the biblical concept of shriveling serves as a call to self-examination and repentance. It encourages individuals to assess their spiritual health and to seek restoration through prayer, Scripture, and fellowship with other believers. The warning against spiritual barrenness is a call to remain rooted in Christ, who is the source of all spiritual life and vitality. In summary, the biblical use of "shriveled" conveys a profound message about the dangers of spiritual neglect and the importance of maintaining a vibrant relationship with God. Through the vivid imagery of withering and flourishing, Scripture invites believers to pursue a life that is fruitful and pleasing to the Lord. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Shrivel.Strong's Hebrew 7059. qamat -- to seize... 7058, 7059. qamat. 7060 . to seize. Transliteration: qamat Phonetic Spelling: (kaw-mat') Short Definition: shriveled. Word Origin a prim. ... /hebrew/7059.htm - 5k 6821. tsaphad -- to draw together, contract Library The Call of Moses Dwight -- the Sovereignty of God Barren Fig-Tree. Temple Cleansed. 1 Thessalonians iv. 15-17 The Debt of Israel His Conversion Sown among Thorns Conversion Significant Phrases Travailing for Souls Thesaurus Shriveled (8 Occurrences)... (imp. & pp) of Shrivel. Multi-Version Concordance Shriveled (8 Occurrences). ... (See NIV). Job 16:8 You have shriveled me up. This is a witness against me. ... /s/shriveled.htm - 8k Leanness (4 Occurrences) Gauntness (1 Occurrence) Withered (46 Occurrences) Testifies (19 Occurrences) Bunch (6 Occurrences) Shrivelled (6 Occurrences) Shrivel (3 Occurrences) Rises (56 Occurrences) Resources Why won't God heal amputees? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the man of God and the lying prophet? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath? | GotQuestions.org Shriveled: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Shriveled (8 Occurrences)Mark 3:1 Luke 6:6 Luke 6:8 1 Kings 13:4 Job 16:8 Isaiah 34:4 Lamentations 4:8 Joel 1:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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