Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "corners of the earth" is a biblical expression that appears in several passages throughout the Scriptures. It is often used to describe the extremities or farthest reaches of the earth, emphasizing the vastness and totality of God's creation. This expression is not intended to convey a literal geometric shape of the earth but rather serves as a poetic and metaphorical way to describe the entirety of the world.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 11:12 : "He will raise a banner for the nations and gather the exiles of Israel; He will collect the scattered of Judah from the four corners of the earth." This passage speaks to the regathering of the Jewish people from all parts of the world, symbolizing God's sovereign ability to reach every part of His creation. 2. Revelation 7:1 : "After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth to prevent any wind from blowing on the land or on the sea or on any tree." Here, the "four corners" signify the entirety of the earth, with angels positioned at each point to control the winds, demonstrating God's command over the natural world. 3. Job 37:3 : "He unleashes His lightning beneath the whole sky and sends it to the ends of the earth." While not explicitly mentioning "corners," this verse similarly conveys the idea of God's power extending to the farthest reaches of the earth. 4. Isaiah 24:16 : "From the ends of the earth we hear singing: 'Glory to the Righteous One.'" This verse uses a synonymous expression, "ends of the earth," to indicate the global recognition and worship of God. Theological Significance: The use of "corners of the earth" in Scripture underscores the omnipresence and omnipotence of God. It reflects the belief that God's authority and presence extend to every part of the world, leaving no place untouched by His influence. This expression also highlights the inclusivity of God's plan for salvation and judgment, reaching all nations and peoples. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cosmology, the earth was often perceived as a flat expanse with edges or boundaries. The biblical authors, inspired by the Holy Spirit, used the language and imagery familiar to their audience to convey theological truths. The "corners of the earth" thus served as a powerful metaphor to communicate the comprehensive scope of God's dominion. Interpretation: From a conservative Christian perspective, the phrase "corners of the earth" is understood as a figurative expression rather than a literal description of the earth's shape. It is seen as a testament to the Bible's use of poetic language to express profound spiritual realities. This understanding aligns with the belief in the inerrancy of Scripture, affirming that the Bible communicates truth in various literary forms, including metaphor and symbolism. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Corners of the EarthCORNERS OF THE EARTH Strong's Hebrew 3671. kanaph -- wing, extremity... word Definition wing, extremity NASB Word Usage bird* (1), corner (1), corners (4), covering (1 ... of a garment or bed-clothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter ... /hebrew/3671.htm - 6k Library Of Gog and Magog, who are to be Roused by the Devil to Persecute ... At the Round Earth's Imagined Corners Blow From the Ninth Chapter. The People of the New Earth Of all the Things in Heaven and Earth it is the Most Peculiar The vision The Wicked Raised, and Satan Loosed The Sealing of the Servants of God. The Redeemer's Return is Necessitated by the Lamentation of all ... Foreword Resources What was the significance of the horns of the altar (Amos 3:14)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the brazen altar? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean when it refers to the four winds? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |