Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "cutting off" in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing both physical and spiritual dimensions. It often signifies a form of divine judgment or a severe consequence for disobedience and sin. The term is used in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the seriousness with which God views covenantal faithfulness and moral conduct.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, "cutting off" frequently refers to the removal or destruction of individuals or groups as a result of their actions. This can be seen in the context of the Mosaic Law, where certain transgressions warranted being "cut off" from the community of Israel. For example, in Exodus 12:15, regarding the Feast of Unleavened Bread, it is stated: "For seven days you must eat unleavened bread. On the first day, you are to remove the leaven from your houses. Whoever eats anything leavened from the first day through the seventh day must be cut off from Israel." The term is also used in the context of idolatry and false worship. In Leviticus 20:6, God warns, "Whoever turns to mediums or spiritists and prostitutes himself with them, I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people." Here, "cutting off" serves as a divine sanction against those who violate the covenant by engaging in practices that are abominable to the Lord. Prophetic Warnings The prophets frequently employed the imagery of "cutting off" to describe the impending judgment on Israel and the nations due to their persistent sin and rebellion. In Isaiah 9:14, the prophet declares, "So the LORD will cut off from Israel head and tail, palm branch and reed in a single day." This metaphorical language underscores the totality of the judgment that would befall the nation. Similarly, in Jeremiah 11:19, the prophet laments, "But I was like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter. I did not realize that they had plotted against me, saying, 'Let us destroy the tree with its fruit; let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be remembered no more.'" Here, "cutting off" is associated with the eradication of one's legacy and presence. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of "cutting off" is often spiritualized, reflecting the new covenant's emphasis on internal transformation and spiritual integrity. Jesus uses hyperbolic language to stress the importance of dealing decisively with sin. In Matthew 5:30, He teaches, "And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell." The Apostle Paul also uses the concept in a metaphorical sense to describe the separation from sin and the old life. In Romans 11:22, he writes, "Consider therefore the kindness and severity of God: severity to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in His kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off." Here, "cutting off" serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to God's grace. Theological Implications Theologically, "cutting off" underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the necessity of repentance and faithfulness. The concept also highlights the importance of community and covenant, as being "cut off" often implies a loss of relationship and standing within the people of God. In summary, "cutting off" in the biblical narrative is a powerful motif that conveys the gravity of divine judgment and the call to holiness. It challenges believers to examine their lives and remain steadfast in their commitment to God and His commandments. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Cutting OffCUTTING OFF See CONCISION; PUNISHMENTS. Greek 4059. peritemno -- to cut around, circumcise ... 4059 (from 4012 , "all-around" and , "cut off") -- ; figuratively) cutting off the "old life," in favor of the which is ( Seed). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4059.htm - 8k 2875. kopto -- to cut (off), strike, by ext. to mourn 2699. katatome -- concision, mutilation Strong's Hebrew 1824. domi -- cessation, a pause, a quiet, a rest... cutting off, rest, silence. Or domiy {dom-ee'}; from damah; quiet -- cutting off, rest, silence. see HEBREW damah. 1823, 1824. domi. 1825 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/1824.htm - 6k 7096. qatsah -- to cut off 6970. Qoa -- enemies of Jer. 3772. karath -- to cut off, cut down Library None of These Answers Will You Give Us. You Turn to Other Things ... That Bishops are to Abstain from all Receiving of Gifts. I Desire to Die. Whether in Some Cases it May be Lawful to Maim Anyone? General Service to a Nun-Martyr. Adam and Zaretan, Joshua 3 Herod is Made Procurator of all Syria; Malichus is Afraid of Him ... All Saints' Day, or St Ursula's Day Cutting Corners Lo! Death was Prompt Beforehand, to Mock Satan Resources What is New Israel? | GotQuestions.orgIs baptism the New Covenant equivalent of circumcision? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Nethinim? | GotQuestions.org Cutting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |