Topical Encyclopedia The term "bad-looking" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, the concept of physical appearance and its implications are addressed in various passages. In biblical times, physical appearance often carried significant social and spiritual connotations. The Bible provides examples where appearance is mentioned in the context of character, divine favor, or societal perception.Old Testament Context 1. Leah and Rachel: In Genesis 29:17, the contrast between Leah and Rachel is noted: "Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel was shapely and beautiful." Leah's "weak eyes" have been interpreted by some scholars as an indication of her being less attractive compared to her sister Rachel. This distinction in appearance played a role in the dynamics of Jacob's marriages and the favor he showed to Rachel. 2. David and Eliab: When Samuel was sent to anoint a new king from the sons of Jesse, he initially considered Eliab based on his appearance. However, God corrected Samuel, saying, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). This passage emphasizes that God's evaluation is based on inner character rather than outward appearance. 3. Job's Suffering: Job's physical afflictions made him "bad-looking" in the eyes of his friends and community. In Job 2:12, it is noted that his friends "did not recognize him" due to his severe condition. Job's appearance became a symbol of his suffering and the trials he endured, yet it did not reflect his righteousness or standing before God. New Testament Context 1. Jesus' Appearance: The prophet Isaiah foretold the Messiah's appearance in Isaiah 53:2, saying, "He had no stately form or majesty to attract us, no beauty that we should desire Him." This prophecy, often associated with Jesus, suggests that His physical appearance was not remarkable or attractive by worldly standards, yet His spiritual significance and mission were paramount. 2. Paul's Physical Presence: The Apostle Paul faced criticism regarding his physical presence. In 2 Corinthians 10:10, it is mentioned, "For some say, 'His letters are weighty and forceful, but his physical presence is unimpressive, and his speaking is of no account.'" Despite any perceived shortcomings in appearance or oratory skills, Paul's authority and effectiveness as an apostle were evident through his writings and the power of the Holy Spirit. Theological Implications The Bible consistently teaches that God's concern is with the heart and character rather than outward appearance. While society often places value on physical beauty, Scripture encourages believers to focus on inner qualities such as righteousness, humility, and love. The emphasis on inner beauty is echoed in 1 Peter 3:3-4, where women are advised, "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment... Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight." In summary, while "bad-looking" may describe a lack of physical attractiveness, the biblical narrative prioritizes spiritual integrity and character over external appearance. Concordance Bad-looking (2 Occurrences)Genesis 41:3 Genesis 41:4 Thesaurus Bad-looking (2 Occurrences)Bad-looking. Bad-humoured, Bad-looking. Badly . Multi-Version Concordance Bad-looking (2 Occurrences). Genesis 41:3 ... /b/bad-looking.htm - 7k Badly (14 Occurrences) Bad (129 Occurrences) Fine-looking (3 Occurrences) Bad-humoured (1 Occurrence) Bank (28 Occurrences) Resources Why does God allow good things to happen to bad people? | GotQuestions.orgHow does bad company corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33)? | GotQuestions.org What does God mean when He says, “my ways are higher than your ways” in Isaiah 55:9? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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