In biblical contexts, "butting" refers to the act of an animal, particularly a ram or goat, using its head to strike or push against something or someone. This behavior is often symbolic and is used metaphorically in Scripture to convey themes of aggression, dominance, or conflict.

Biblical References:

1. Ezekiel 34:21 : "Since you shove with flank and shoulder, and butt all the weak ones with your horns until you have scattered them abroad." In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel uses the imagery of butting to describe the oppressive actions of the leaders of Israel. The leaders are likened to strong animals that use their power to harm and scatter the weak, highlighting their failure to care for and protect the flock entrusted to them.

2. Daniel 8:4 : "I saw the ram charging westward, northward, and southward. No animal could stand against him, and none could deliver from his power. He did as he pleased and became great." Here, the vision of the ram butting in various directions symbolizes the aggressive expansion and dominance of a kingdom. The ram's unchecked power and ability to overcome all opposition illustrate the might and influence of the Medo-Persian Empire.

Symbolism and Themes:

· Aggression and Conflict: Butting is often associated with aggressive behavior and conflict. In the biblical narrative, it serves as a metaphor for the forceful and sometimes violent actions of individuals or nations. This imagery underscores the destructive nature of unchecked power and the consequences of using strength to dominate others.

· Leadership and Responsibility: The act of butting, particularly in Ezekiel 34, is used to critique the failure of leaders to fulfill their responsibilities. Instead of guiding and protecting their people, these leaders exploit their power for personal gain, leading to the scattering and harm of those they are meant to serve.

· Divine Judgment: The metaphor of butting can also be seen as a precursor to divine judgment. In Ezekiel, the oppressive actions of the leaders lead to God's intervention, where He promises to rescue His flock and judge those who have misused their authority. This reflects the biblical theme of God's justice and His commitment to defending the vulnerable.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, rams and goats were common livestock, and their behavior would have been familiar to the original audience of the biblical texts. The imagery of butting would resonate with the experiences of shepherds and farmers, making the metaphor a powerful tool for conveying spiritual truths. The use of animal behavior to illustrate human actions is a recurring motif in Scripture, providing a vivid and relatable means of communication.

Theological Implications:

The concept of butting in the Bible serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with power and leadership. It challenges believers to reflect on how they use their influence and to consider the impact of their actions on others. The biblical narrative calls for a leadership style that mirrors the character of God—one that is protective, nurturing, and just.1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of But.

2. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Butt.

3. (n.) An abuttal; a boundary.

8495. tayish -- male goat
... he-goat. From an unused root meaning to butt; a buck or he-goat (as given to butting) --
he goat. 8494, 8495. tayish. 8496 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/8495.htm - 5k

3733. kar -- basket-saddle
... From karar in the sense of plumpness; a ram (as full-grown and fat), including a
battering-ram (as butting); hence, a meadow (as for sheep); also a pad or ...
/hebrew/3733.htm - 6k

5055. nagach -- to push, thrust, gore
... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to push, thrust, gore NASB Word Usage butting
(1), collide (1), gore (2), gores (3), push (1), push back (1). ...
/hebrew/5055.htm - 6k

5056. naggach -- given to goring (used of bulls)
... used wont to push. From nagach; butting, ie Vicious -- used (wont) to push. see
HEBREW nagach. 5055, 5056. naggach. 5057 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/5056.htm - 6k

But If, for the Contest's Sake, God had Appointed Martyrdoms for ...
... Where there are mere contests, there are some wounds: fists make reel, heels kick
like butting rams, boxing-gloves mangle, whips leave gashes. ...
/.../tertullian/scorpiace antidote for the scorpions sting/chapter vi but if for.htm

The Pharisees are the Bulls: the Roaring Lion is Herod or the ...
... been sent by the Pharisees and Scribes, and teachers, [2341] came upon Him from
the Mount [2342] of Olives, those whom Scripture called butting and prematurely ...
/.../chapter ciii the pharisees are the.htm

Whether the Judicial Precepts were Suitably Framed as to the ...
... the owner was more severely punished if his ox had butted anyone "yesterday or the
day before" (in which case steps might have been taken to butting suddenly). ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether the judicial precepts were 3.htm

Consolation in Christ
... what right have you to say "but" to the Lord's commands? Again,I say, away with
your "buts." What right have you to be "butting" at his laws and his commands. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/consolation in christ.htm

Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/seasonable counsel or advice to.htm

Butting (2 Occurrences)
... 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of But. 2. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Butt. 3. (n.) An abuttal;
a boundary. Multi-Version Concordance Butting (2 Occurrences). ...
/b/butting.htm - 7k

Ram (96 Occurrences)
... 3. (n.) The constellation Aries, which does not now, as formerly, occupy the sign
of the same name. 4. (n.) An engine of war used for butting or battering. ...
/r/ram.htm - 41k

Buttocks (3 Occurrences)

/b/buttocks.htm - 7k

Buttermilk (1 Occurrence)

/b/buttermilk.htm - 6k

Butting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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