Jump to: Topical • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Avenging, in the biblical context, refers to the act of inflicting punishment or retribution for a wrong or injury. It is often associated with the justice of God, who is portrayed as the ultimate avenger of wrongs. The concept of avenging is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God’s justice and righteousness are central themes. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, God is frequently depicted as the avenger of His people. For instance, in Deuteronomy 32:35, God declares, "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay." This underscores the belief that God reserves the right to execute justice and retribution. The role of God as an avenger is also evident in the Psalms, where the psalmist often calls upon God to avenge the righteous and punish the wicked (Psalm 94:1). The concept of avenging is also present in the laws given to Israel. The cities of refuge, as described in Numbers 35:19, provided a place for those who committed manslaughter to escape the "avenger of blood," a family member seeking retribution for the death of a relative. This system highlights the balance between justice and mercy in the Mosaic Law. New Testament References In the New Testament, the theme of avenging is further developed with a focus on divine justice. Romans 12:19 advises believers, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'" This passage emphasizes the Christian principle of leaving justice in God's hands rather than seeking personal revenge. The Book of Revelation also portrays God as the ultimate avenger, bringing judgment upon the wicked and vindicating the righteous. Revelation 6:10 records the souls of the martyrs crying out, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge those who dwell on the earth and avenge our blood?" Theological Implications Theologically, avenging is closely tied to the attributes of God, particularly His justice and holiness. God's role as an avenger assures believers that evil will not go unpunished and that justice will ultimately prevail. This assurance is a source of comfort and hope for those who suffer injustice. Moreover, the call for believers to refrain from personal vengeance and trust in God's justice reflects the transformative ethic of the Gospel. Christians are encouraged to respond to wrongdoing with forgiveness and love, trusting that God will address all wrongs in His perfect timing. Practical Application In practical terms, the biblical teaching on avenging calls believers to exercise patience and trust in God's justice. It challenges individuals to resist the natural inclination toward revenge and instead pursue peace and reconciliation. By doing so, believers demonstrate their faith in God's sovereign justice and their commitment to living out the principles of the Kingdom of God. Conclusion The concept of avenging in the Bible underscores the importance of divine justice and the believer's call to trust in God's righteous judgment. It serves as a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the hope of vindication for those who suffer for righteousness' sake. Topical Bible Verses Romans 12:19Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place to wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, said the Lord. Topicalbible.org Hebrews 10:30 Deuteronomy 32:35 Nahum 1:2 Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Avenge.Greek 1558. ekdikos -- exacting penalty from, avenging ... exacting penalty from, avenging. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: ekdikos Phonetic Spelling: (ek'-dik-os) Short Definition: avenging, an avenger ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1558.htm - 7k 1557. ekdikesis -- vengeance, vindication 1556. ekdikeo -- to vindicate, to avenge Strong's Hebrew 3467. yasha -- to deliver... root Definition to deliver NASB Word Usage avenged (1), avenging (2), brought salvation (2), deliver (27), delivered (8), deliverer (3), deliverers (1 ... /hebrew/3467.htm - 6k 6546. pera -- perhaps leader 5358. naqam -- to avenge, take vengeance Library The Avenging of the Saviour The Avenging of the Saviour. The Avenging of the Saviour tis True, of Old Th' Unchanging Sun The Kinsman Redeemer Psalm CXXXIX. Abigail's Sensible Advice The Kinsman-Redeemer Cestius Sends Neopolitanus the Tribune to See in what Condition ... That the Ruler Should Be, through Humility, a Companion of Good ... Thesaurus Avenging (10 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Avenging (10 Occurrences). Luke 21:22 for these are days of avenging, that all the things that are written may be accomplished. (DBY). ... /a/avenging.htm - 9k Guiltiness (7 Occurrences) Redress (4 Occurrences) Bloodguiltiness (15 Occurrences) Bloodshed (43 Occurrences) Shed (73 Occurrences) Finding (57 Occurrences) Kinsman (29 Occurrences) Kinswoman (4 Occurrences) Joab (128 Occurrences) Resources What is bloodguilt (Joel 3:21)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should be the response of a Christian whose spouse has had an affair? | GotQuestions.org Why did God command the Israelites to completely destroy the Midianites in Numbers 31:17? | GotQuestions.org Avenging: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Avenging (10 Occurrences)Luke 21:22 Romans 12:19 2 Corinthians 7:11 Revelation 6:10 Judges 5:2 1 Samuel 25:26 1 Samuel 25:33 1 Kings 2:5 Psalms 79:10 Nahum 1:2 Subtopics Related Terms |