Topical Encyclopedia The term "abated" is used in the Bible to describe the reduction or subsiding of something, often referring to water levels or intensity of emotions. It is derived from the Hebrew word "שָׁכַךְ" (shakak) and the Greek word "καταπαύω" (katapauō), both of which convey the idea of diminishing or ceasing.Biblical Context and Usage: 1. The Flood Narrative: The most notable use of "abated" in the Bible is found in the account of Noah's Flood. After the rain ceased, the waters began to recede. Genesis 8:1-3 states, "Then God remembered Noah and all the animals and livestock that were with him in the ark, and He sent a wind over the earth, and the waters began to subside. The springs of the deep and the floodgates of the heavens were closed, and the rain from the sky was restrained. The waters receded steadily from the earth, and after 150 days the waters had gone down." Here, "abated" describes the process of the floodwaters diminishing. 2. Emotional Intensity: The term is also used metaphorically to describe the reduction of emotions or wrath. In Esther 7:10 , after Haman is hanged, it is said, "So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the king’s fury subsided." In this context, "abated" refers to the calming of King Xerxes' anger. 3. Other References: In Numbers 17:5 , the term is used in the context of a sign to quell rebellion: "The staff belonging to the man I choose will sprout, and I will rid Myself of this constant grumbling against you by the Israelites." The idea here is that the grumbling or complaints would be abated or diminished. Theological Implications: The concept of abatement in the Bible often signifies divine intervention or the natural resolution of a crisis. In the case of the Flood, the abatement of waters marks the beginning of a new covenant between God and humanity. Similarly, the abatement of anger or conflict often signifies reconciliation or the restoration of order. Symbolism: Abatement can symbolize the transition from chaos to peace, judgment to mercy, or wrath to forgiveness. It reflects the biblical theme of God’s control over nature and human affairs, demonstrating His ability to bring about change and renewal. Related Concepts: · Subsiding: Often used interchangeably with abating, particularly in the context of water or emotions. · Ceasing: The act of stopping or coming to an end, closely related to the concept of abatement. · Diminishing: The process of becoming less, which is central to the idea of abatement. Conclusion: The term "abated" in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of trials and the enduring presence of divine providence. Whether referring to the physical world or the human heart, abatement signifies a return to balance and order under God's sovereign will. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Abate.Strong's Hebrew 2637. chaser -- to lack, need, be lacking, decrease... be abated, bereave, decrease, cause to fail, have lack, make lower, want. A primitive root; to lack; by implication, to fail, want ... /hebrew/2637.htm - 6k 7043. qalal -- to be slight, swift or trifling 5127. nus -- to flee, escape Library 'Clear Shining after Rain' Chapter viii Praying Saints of the Old Testaments The Glorious Master and the Swooning Disciple On the Advisableness of Improving Natural Knowledge. Preface Thoughts Upon Striving to Enter at the Strait Gate. The Last Two Decades. Addresses on Holiness, The Image of Jealousy Thesaurus Abated (10 Occurrences)...Abated (10 Occurrences). ... Genesis 8:8 He sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from the surface of the ground, (WEB KJV JPS ASV WBS NAS). ... /a/abated.htm - 9k Abate (2 Occurrences) Abatement (1 Occurrence) Subsided (9 Occurrences) Receded (6 Occurrences) Dove (27 Occurrences) Returned (328 Occurrences) Weak (102 Occurrences) Waters (386 Occurrences) Resources Why did Noah release a raven? Why did he later release a dove (Genesis 8)? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Haman the Agagite? | GotQuestions.org What is a pariah? | GotQuestions.org Abated: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Abated (10 Occurrences)Genesis 8:3 Genesis 8:5 Genesis 8:8 Genesis 8:11 Leviticus 27:18 Numbers 11:2 Deuteronomy 34:7 Judges 8:3 Esther 2:1 Esther 7:10 Subtopics Related Terms |