Topical Encyclopedia The term "cheek teeth" in the Bible typically refers to the molars or large grinding teeth located at the back of the mouth. These teeth are essential for the process of grinding food, which is a critical part of digestion. In the biblical context, "cheek teeth" are often used metaphorically to convey strength, power, or destruction.Biblical References: 1. Deuteronomy 32:24 · In the Song of Moses, God warns the Israelites of the consequences of their disobedience. The passage states, "They will be wasted from hunger and ravaged by pestilence and bitter plague; I will send the teeth of beasts against them, with the venom of vipers that glide in the dust." Here, the "teeth of beasts" can be understood as a metaphor for the destructive power that will be unleashed upon the people, emphasizing the severity of divine judgment. 2. Job 29:17 · Job, in his discourse, reflects on his past actions and righteousness, saying, "I shattered the fangs of the unjust and snatched the prey from his teeth." The "fangs" or "teeth" symbolize the power and oppression of the wicked, which Job claims to have broken, thus delivering justice and protection to the oppressed. 3. Joel 1:6 · The prophet Joel describes a devastating locust plague, "For a nation has invaded My land, powerful and without number; its teeth are the teeth of a lion, and it has the fangs of a lioness." The imagery of "teeth of a lion" conveys the overwhelming and destructive nature of the locusts, likening their impact to that of a fierce predator. Symbolism and Interpretation: In biblical literature, "cheek teeth" often symbolize more than just physical attributes. They are used to represent the might and ferocity of an adversary, whether it be a nation, a person, or a natural calamity. The imagery of teeth, particularly those of powerful animals like lions, underscores the theme of destruction and the formidable nature of the threat being described. The use of "cheek teeth" in these contexts serves to communicate the intensity of the situation and the seriousness of the consequences faced by those who oppose God's will or who are subject to His judgment. The metaphorical use of teeth highlights the broader biblical themes of justice, power, and divine retribution. Theological Insights: From a theological perspective, the references to "cheek teeth" in the Bible can be seen as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the ultimate power He wields over creation. The destructive power symbolized by these teeth serves as a warning to the faithful to remain obedient and to trust in God's justice. It also reassures believers that God is capable of delivering them from the "teeth" of their enemies, just as He empowered figures like Job to stand against injustice. In summary, "cheek teeth" in the Bible are a vivid metaphor for strength and destruction, used to convey the seriousness of divine judgment and the power of adversaries. They serve as a powerful reminder of the need for faithfulness and trust in God's righteous plan. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Cheek TeethCHEEK TEETH (methalle`ah, transposed from malta`ah (only in Psalm 58:6), literally "the biter," "crusher," "molar," "jaw-teeth," "great teeth" (Job 29:17 m; Joel 1:6)). Strong's Hebrew 4973. methalleoth -- teeth... Word Origin from the same as tola Definition teeth NASB Word Usage fangs (2), jaw teeth (1), jaws (1). cheek jaw tooth, jaw. Contr. ... /hebrew/4973.htm - 6k Library The Locust-Swarms The Prophet Joel. Psalm 3 San Josef Dilemma and Deliverance He Got up in the Morning as Soon as He Heard the Men Moving In... Concerning Patience and Swearing. Chapter twenty-eight Tee Advice of Hotep In Sanctuary Resources What does the Bible say about conscientious objection? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are some of the most famous sayings of Jesus? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian respond to bullying? | GotQuestions.org Cheek: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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