In the Bible, “escheweth” means to deliberately avoid or shun something, particularly evil or wrongdoing. It indicates a strong moral stance against certain behaviors or influences, as seen in passages like Job 1:1, where Job is described as one who “escheweth evil.”
Scripture
1 There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.
2 There were born to him seven sons and three daughters.
3 His possessions also were 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and very many servants, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the east.
4 His sons used to go and hold a feast in the house of each one on his day, and they would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them.
5 And when the days of the feast had run their course, Job would send and consecrate them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, “It may be that my children have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus Job did continually.
6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them.
7 The Lord said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan answered the Lord and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.”
8 And the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil?”
Meaning of “Escheweth” in the Bible
The term “escheweth,” which denotes an intentional avoidance of evil or wrongdoing, embodies a profound moral and spiritual commitment in the biblical narrative. This concept is notably illustrated in Job 1:1, where Job is characterized as a man who “was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.” Here, Job’s eschewing of evil is an integral aspect of his righteousness, indicating that avoiding sin is not merely an act of abstention but a proactive engagement in living a life that honors God. This principle resonates throughout Scripture, as seen in Proverbs 3:7, which advises believers to “not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” This alignment with God’s will cultivates a life marked by integrity and wisdom, positioning the eschewing of evil as an essential component of faithful living.
Furthermore, the act of eschewing evil has broader implications for community ethics and personal transformation in the biblical context. In 1 Thessalonians 5:22, Paul exhorts believers to “abstain from all appearance of evil,” emphasizing not just the necessity to avoid wrongdoing but also the importance of avoiding any semblance or association with it. This proactive stance fosters a community that reflects the character of God and serves as a testimony to others. In following this guidance, believers engage in a lifestyle that actively counters the moral decay around them, encouraging a culture of righteousness and hope. The biblical call to eschew evil thus encourages a holistic approach to faith, where avoiding sin is intertwined with pursuing goodness, fostering both individual integrity and communal holiness.
The act of eschewing evil reflects a fundamental principle that is deeply woven into the fabric of biblical teachings. It challenges individuals not only to refrain from wrongdoing but to actively seek righteousness and make choices that align with divine principles. For instance, in the narrative of Genesis, we see a clear distinction between those who embrace righteousness and those who choose a path of moral ambiguity, ultimately portraying the importance of consciously turning away from evil as a deliberate and defining attribute of one’s character.
Additionally, the concept of eschewing evil also finds resonance in teachings that underscore the transformative power of faith. In the Psalms, for example, the righteous are often described as those who delight in God’s law and meditate on it day and night. This reflection on God’s precepts fosters a mindset that naturally inclines believers to distance themselves from all forms of ethical compromise. Such adherence cultivates a lifestyle not only marked by avoidance of evil but also by the embrace of virtuous actions and thoughts. Therefore, the biblical narrative presents eschewing evil not as a static act, but as part of an ongoing journey towards holiness, inviting followers to a deeper relationship with God characterized by active choice and reflection.
The Concept of Avoidance in Righteous Living
In biblical texts, the term “escheweth” signifies a deliberate choice to avoid or shun certain behaviors or influences that are deemed sinful or harmful. This concept emphasizes the importance of moral integrity and the pursuit of righteousness. By eschewing evil, individuals demonstrate their commitment to living a life that aligns with divine principles and values, thereby fostering a closer relationship with God.
The Call to Discernment and Wisdom
“Escheweth” also reflects the biblical call for discernment and wisdom in one’s choices. It encourages believers to be vigilant in recognizing what is good and what is evil, urging them to actively reject the latter. This discernment is not merely about avoidance but involves a proactive engagement with the teachings of scripture, leading to a more profound understanding of what it means to live a life that honors God.
The Role of Eschewing in Spiritual Growth
Furthermore, the act of eschewing is integral to spiritual growth and maturity. By consciously avoiding negative influences and behaviors, individuals create space for positive spiritual development. This process often involves self-reflection and a commitment to personal transformation, as believers strive to embody the virtues and characteristics that reflect their faith. Eschewing thus becomes a vital practice in the journey of sanctification, enabling believers to cultivate a life that is pleasing to God.
How to Embrace Righteousness in Daily Life
Embracing righteousness in our daily lives is a beautiful journey that begins with a sincere desire to align our actions with God’s will. It’s about making conscious choices that reflect love, kindness, and integrity, even in the smallest moments. Start each day with prayer, asking for guidance to see opportunities to serve others and to act justly. Remember, righteousness isn’t just about avoiding sin; it’s about actively pursuing goodness. Look for ways to show compassion, whether it’s lending a listening ear to a friend in need or standing up for someone who is being treated unfairly. Surround yourself with uplifting influences—friends, scripture, and community—that encourage you to grow in faith. And when you stumble, as we all do, don’t be discouraged; instead, seek forgiveness and learn from those moments. By intentionally weaving righteousness into the fabric of your everyday life, you’ll not only deepen your relationship with God but also inspire those around you to do the same.
Bible References to “Escheweth” Meaning:
Job 2:1-3: 1 Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them to present himself before the Lord.
2 And the Lord said to Satan, “From where have you come?” Satan answered the Lord and said, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.”
3 And the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil? He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason.”
1 Peter 3:8-12: 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
10 For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.
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.