Category: Definitions
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What the Bible Says About the Rich Man and the Eye of the Needle
In the Bible, the phrase “rich man and camel eye of the needle” refers to a teaching of Jesus found in Matthew 19:24, Mark 10:25, and Luke 18:25. It illustrates the difficulty for those who are wealthy to enter the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that reliance on riches can be a barrier to spiritual entry.…
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What the Bible Says About Formal Equivalence: A Definition Explained
Formal equivalence in Bible translation refers to a method that seeks to faithfully reproduce the exact wording and structure of the original text. It prioritizes a literal translation, aiming to maintain the original language’s syntax and vocabulary as closely as possible. Scripture 10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and…
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What the Bible Says About the Walls of Jericho: A Story of Faith and Obedience
The story of the Walls of Jericho, found in Joshua 6, symbolizes the power of faith and obedience to God. The Israelites’ victory through God’s command illustrates that divine intervention can lead to triumph over seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Scripture 1 Now Jericho was shut up inside and outside because of the people of Israel. 2…
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What the Bible Says About Megillot: Understanding Its Definition and Significance
The Megillot, or “Five Scrolls,” are a collection of five distinct biblical books: Song of Songs, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, and Esther, traditionally read during Jewish festivals. These books are often noted for their poetic language and themes exploring love, sorrow, and the human experience. Scripture 1 In the days when the judges ruled there was…
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What the Bible Says About the Meaning of Salem
In the Bible, Salem is often identified with Jerusalem and means “peace.” It appears in Genesis 14:18, where Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, blesses Abram, symbolizing a place of divine peace and righteousness. Scripture 18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God…
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What the Bible Says About Being Superstitious in Acts 17
In Acts 17, the term “superstitious” is used to describe the Athenians’ extensive reverence for idols and their worship of various deities, highlighting their spiritual confusion. Paul addresses their superstition by proclaiming the true God, urging them to abandon their idol worship for genuine faith. Scripture 16 Now while Paul was waiting for them at…
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What the Bible Says About Sodom: Understanding Its Meaning and Significance
In the Bible, Sodom is a city known for its wickedness and immorality, ultimately facing divine destruction due to its sins (Genesis 19). It is often symbolically associated with judgment and moral depravity. Scripture 10 And Lot lifted up his eyes and saw that the Jordan Valley was well watered everywhere like the garden of…
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What the Bible Says About Dung in the Book of Daniel
In the Bible, particularly in the context of Daniel 4:33, “dung” is used metaphorically to symbolize degradation and a state of humiliation. This verse describes King Nebuchadnezzar’s transformation into a beast-like state, emphasizing his loss of dignity and his fall from power. Scripture 5 The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, “The word from…
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What the Bible Says About Sodom: Definition and Significance
Sodom is a city in the Bible, known for its wickedness and immorality, often mentioned alongside Gomorrah. It is famously destroyed by divine judgment in the Book of Genesis (Genesis 19) due to the sinful behavior of its inhabitants. Scripture 10 And Lot lifted up his eyes and saw that the Jordan Valley was well…
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What the Bible Says: A Guide to Hebrew Bible Dictionary Definitions
The Hebrew Bible is rich in terms that convey deep theological and cultural meanings, often rooted in their linguistic origins. For example, the term “shalom” (שָׁלוֹם) signifies not just peace, but also wholeness and completeness, reflecting a state of harmony in relationships and community. Scripture 1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the…