In the Bible, “beholdeth” is an archaic term meaning to look at or observe attentively. It often implies a sense of wonder or significance regarding what is being observed, encouraging the reader to pay close attention to divine truths or revelations.
Scripture
26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these?
He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name,
by the greatness of his might,
and because he is strong in power
not one is missing.
27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and speak, O Israel,
“My way is hidden from the Lord,
and my right is disregarded by my God”?
28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.
29 He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
30 Even youths shall faint and be weary,
and young men shall fall exhausted;
31 but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Meaning of “Beholdeth” in the Bible
The term “beholdeth,” derived from the archaic verb “behold,” carries profound significance throughout the Bible. It often serves to direct the attention of the reader or listener towards a critical truth or divine revelation. For instance, in Exodus 3:5, God commands Moses, “Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.” Here, the act of “beholding” the holiness of the ground signifies an invitation to recognize the sacredness of God’s presence. The use of “beholdeth” imbues a sense of urgent reverence and highlights the extraordinary nature of the encounter between the divine and human realms.
Beyond mere observation, “beholdeth” encourages a deeper contemplation of God’s creation and His instructions to humanity. In Isaiah 43:19, God declares, “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?” This rhetorical question challenges the audience to recognize and anticipate God’s transformative actions within the world. Similarly, in John 1:29, John the Baptist proclaims, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” In this context, “beholdeth” is an exhortation to witness and understand the significance of Jesus as the Messiah. Thus, the term serves as a powerful literary device that not only calls attention to important theological concepts but also fosters a deeper spiritual awareness and engagement with God’s ongoing work in the world.
The use of “beholdeth” in biblical texts underscores the importance of attentive listening and observation in the spiritual journey. In numerous passages, it foreshadows significant events or revelations that warrant careful consideration. For instance, in the book of Revelation, the frequent calls to “behold” signal the unveiling of profound truths about the end times, urging believers to pay close attention to the cosmic drama of God’s ultimate triumph over evil. This term encourages believers to not merely glance but to delve deeply into the realities presented, inviting them to reflect on the implications of divine actions in both their lives and the broader narrative of redemption.
Moreover, “beholdeth” often acts as a bridge between the temporal and the eternal, prompting individuals to recognize God’s sovereignty in their circumstances. In the Psalms, for example, calls to “behold” invite listeners to witness the majesty of God’s creation, instilling a sense of awe and gratitude. Such moments of beholding are not passive but rather demand a response—often leading to worship, repentance, or renewed commitment. Consequently, the term encourages believers to cultivate a posture of engagement with God’s word, seeking to understand the richness of His messages and the call to action that follows upon recognition of His holiness and grace. In this way, “beholdeth” resonates as an invitation to explore the depths of faith with both reverence and curiosity.
The Call to Attention
The term “beholdeth” serves as a call to attention, urging the reader or listener to focus on something significant. In biblical texts, this word often precedes important revelations or divine messages, indicating that what follows is worthy of careful consideration. It invites individuals to pause and reflect on the deeper meanings and implications of the subject at hand, whether it be a divine act, a prophetic vision, or a moral lesson.
Recognition of Divine Presence
“Beholdeth” also signifies the recognition of God’s presence and action in the world. It encourages believers to observe and acknowledge the manifestations of the divine in their lives and surroundings. This recognition fosters a sense of awe and reverence, prompting individuals to respond to God’s work with gratitude and worship. It emphasizes the importance of being aware of the spiritual realities that often go unnoticed in daily life.
Invitation to Transformation
Furthermore, the use of “beholdeth” can be seen as an invitation to transformation. When individuals are called to behold something, it often implies that they are being encouraged to change their perspective or behavior in light of what they observe. This transformative aspect is central to many biblical narratives, where seeing or understanding a divine truth leads to repentance, renewal, or a deeper commitment to faith. It highlights the power of revelation to inspire change and growth in the believer’s life.
How to Embrace Truth for Spiritual Growth as a Christian
Embracing truth is a transformative journey that can significantly enhance your spiritual growth as a Christian. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the Word of God to illuminate your path and challenge your understanding. Reflect on passages that resonate with you, and don’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths they may reveal about yourself and your life. Surround yourself with a community of believers who encourage honesty and accountability, as their insights can help you see blind spots you might miss on your own. Remember, embracing truth isn’t just about acknowledging what’s right; it’s also about being open to change and growth, even when it feels daunting. Pray for the courage to face these truths and the wisdom to apply them in your daily life, knowing that each step you take towards authenticity brings you closer to the heart of Christ.
Bible References to “Beholdeth” Meaning:
John 1:29-34: 29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’
31 I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.”
32 And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him.
33 I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’
34 And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”
John 19:26-27: 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!”
27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
2 Corinthians 3:18-4:6: 18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
1 Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart.
2 But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God’s word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.
3 And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.
4 In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
5 For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.
6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
James 1:23-25: 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.
24 for he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.
25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
1 John 3:1-3: 1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
2 Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.
3 And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
Revelation 1:7-8: 7 Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen.
8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.