The term "comelier" is derived from the adjective "comely," which is used in the Bible to describe something or someone that is pleasing in appearance, attractive, or suitable. In a biblical context, "comely" often refers to physical beauty, but it can also denote moral or spiritual attractiveness. The word is used to convey a sense of harmony and appropriateness, often in relation to God's creation or His people.

Biblical Usage

In the Berean Standard Bible, the term "comely" appears in several passages, often highlighting the beauty and orderliness of God's creation or the attractiveness of a virtuous life. For example, in the context of the church, the Apostle Paul uses the concept of comeliness to describe the harmonious and orderly functioning of the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:23-24, Paul writes, "And the parts we consider less honorable, we treat with greater honor. And our unpresentable parts are treated with special modesty, whereas our presentable parts have no such need. But God has composed the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it."

Here, the idea of comeliness is associated with the dignity and honor bestowed upon each member of the church, regardless of their perceived status. This reflects the biblical principle that true beauty and worth are found in God's design and purpose for each individual.

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, the term "comely" is often used in poetic and prophetic literature to describe the beauty of God's people or the land. For instance, in Song of Solomon 1:5, the Shulammite woman declares, "I am dark yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon." The word "lovely" here is synonymous with "comely," emphasizing the inherent beauty and worth of the beloved, despite external appearances.

Similarly, in Ezekiel 16:13, the prophet describes the nation of Israel in terms of beauty and splendor: "So you were adorned with gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen and silk and embroidered cloth. You ate fine flour, honey, and oil. You became exceedingly beautiful and rose to be a queen." This passage uses the imagery of comeliness to illustrate Israel's favored status and the blessings bestowed upon her by God.

Spiritual Implications

From a spiritual perspective, comeliness is not merely about outward appearance but also about inner beauty and righteousness. Proverbs 31:30 states, "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised." This verse highlights the biblical view that true comeliness is found in the fear of the Lord and a life lived in accordance with His will.

In the New Testament, the concept of comeliness is further expanded to include the virtues of humility, modesty, and love. These qualities are seen as the true adornments of a believer, reflecting the character of Christ. As such, comeliness in the biblical sense is both an external and internal quality, rooted in the divine order and purpose established by God.

Conclusion

The biblical concept of comeliness encompasses both physical beauty and spiritual virtue, reflecting the harmony and order of God's creation. It serves as a reminder that true beauty is found in alignment with God's will and purpose, and that each individual, regardless of their outward appearance, holds inherent worth and dignity in the eyes of the Creator.Comelier (1 Occurrence)

1 Samuel 9:2
And he had a son whose name was Saul, choice and comely; and there was not among the children of Israel a comelier person than he; from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people.
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Comelier (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Comelier (1 Occurrence). 1 Samuel 9:2 And he had
a son whose name was Saul, choice and comely; and there ...
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Come

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Comeliest (1 Occurrence)

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Comely (32 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 9:2 And he had a son whose name was Saul, choice and comely; and there
was not among the children of Israel a comelier person than he; from his ...
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