Topical Encyclopedia The term "downstairs" is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible; however, the concept of descending or moving to a lower part of a structure can be found in various passages. In biblical times, homes and buildings were often constructed with multiple levels, and the movement between these levels can be inferred from the context of certain narratives.Biblical Context and Usage 1. Architecture and Living Spaces: In ancient Israel, homes were typically simple structures, often with an upper room or roof area used for various purposes, including prayer, rest, or storage. The concept of moving downstairs would imply descending from these upper areas to the main living quarters or ground level. For example, in Acts 1:13 , the disciples are described as going to the upper room, indicating a multi-level dwelling: "When they arrived, they went to the upper room where they were staying." 2. Symbolism of Descent: The act of descending can carry symbolic meaning in Scripture. For instance, descending can represent humility or a lowering of oneself in service to others. Jesus exemplified this in His incarnation, as described in Philippians 2:7-8 : "but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." 3. Spiritual Implications: The idea of moving to a lower place can also be seen in spiritual terms. In Ephesians 4:9-10 , Paul speaks of Christ's descent: "What does 'He ascended' mean, except that He also descended to the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the very one who ascended above all the heavens, in order to fill all things." This passage highlights the theological significance of Christ's descent as part of His redemptive work. 4. Practical Considerations: In the practical life of biblical characters, moving between levels of a house would have been a common occurrence. For example, in Acts 20:9-10 , Eutychus falls from a window while Paul is preaching in an upper room: "And a certain young man named Eutychus, sitting on the windowsill, was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell from the third account and was picked up dead. But Paul went down, threw himself on the young man, and embraced him. 'Do not be alarmed,' he said, 'for his life is in him.'" Cultural and Historical Insights In the cultural context of the Bible, homes were often built with practicality in mind, utilizing available space efficiently. The presence of stairs or ladders to access different levels of a home was a common architectural feature. This practical aspect of daily life is reflected in the narratives and parables of the Bible, where movement between levels of a house can serve as a backdrop for significant events or teachings. Conclusion While the specific term "downstairs" is not found in the biblical text, the concept of descending within a structure is present in various forms. Whether in the context of physical movement, symbolic descent, or spiritual significance, the idea of moving to a lower place is woven into the fabric of biblical narrative and theology. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (adv.) Down the stairs; to a lower floor.2. (a.) Below stairs; as, a downstairs room. Greek 2597. katabaino -- to go down ... 1), coming down (9), descend (3), descended (6), descending (5), descends (1), falling down (1), fell (1), go (1), go down (4), go downstairs (1), going down (3 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2597.htm - 9k Library Strengthened by Faith Slum Novelists and the Slums Earliest Memories Earliest Memories Chapter seven Vesalius the Anatomist {9} 1872 the Need of a Home Further West --Burning of the Marchmont ... "For Hereunto were Ye Called; Because Christ Also Suffered for You ... Vocation of Therese The Great Denial Thesaurus Downstairs (1 Occurrence)... 1. (adv.) Down the stairs; to a lower floor. 2. (a.) Below stairs; as, a downstairs room. Multi-Version Concordance Downstairs (1 Occurrence). ... /d/downstairs.htm - 6k Downstream (1 Occurrence) Down-sitting (1 Occurrence) Resources Downstairs: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Downstairs (1 Occurrence)Acts 10:20 Subtopics Related Terms |
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