Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the act of embracing is often depicted as a gesture of affection, reconciliation, and unity. It is a physical expression that conveys deep emotional connections between individuals, whether in familial, friendly, or spiritual contexts. The embrace is a symbol of love, acceptance, and peace, reflecting the relational nature of humanity as designed by God.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, embraces are frequently associated with familial relationships and reconciliation. One of the most poignant examples is found in the account of Jacob and Esau. After years of estrangement, Jacob fears Esau's wrath but is met with an unexpected embrace. Genesis 33:4 states, "But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept." This embrace signifies forgiveness and the restoration of their brotherly bond. Another significant instance is the embrace between Joseph and his brothers. After revealing his identity to them in Egypt, Joseph embraces his brothers, demonstrating forgiveness and the healing of past wounds. Genesis 45:14-15 records, "Then Joseph threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin wept upon his shoulder. Joseph kissed each of his brothers as he wept over them. And afterward his brothers talked with him." New Testament References In the New Testament, embraces continue to symbolize love and unity within the body of Christ. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often encourages believers to greet one another with a holy kiss, an embrace that signifies fellowship and mutual affection among Christians. Romans 16:16 instructs, "Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send you greetings." The parable of the Prodigal Son, as told by Jesus in Luke 15, also features a powerful embrace. When the wayward son returns home, his father runs to meet him and embraces him, illustrating God's boundless grace and forgiveness. Luke 15:20 describes, "So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still in the distance, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him." Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Embraces in the Bible are rich with symbolism. They often represent reconciliation, as seen in the accounts of Jacob and Esau, and Joseph and his brothers. These embraces are not merely physical acts but are deeply spiritual, reflecting the heart of God towards humanity—a heart that desires reconciliation and peace. Moreover, the embrace is a metaphor for God's love and acceptance. The father's embrace of the Prodigal Son is a vivid picture of divine grace, welcoming sinners back into the fold with open arms. This act of embracing is a call for believers to embody the same love and forgiveness in their relationships with others. In the context of the early church, the embrace as a greeting among believers underscores the unity and equality found in Christ. It is a reminder that in the body of Christ, all are one, regardless of background or status. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, embraces were common expressions of greeting, farewell, and reconciliation. They were often accompanied by kisses, as seen in various biblical narratives. These gestures were integral to maintaining social bonds and expressing emotions that words alone could not convey. In summary, the act of embracing in the Bible is a profound expression of love, reconciliation, and unity. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's desire for relational harmony among His people and His unwavering love for humanity. Greek 3115. makrothumia -- patience, long-suffering ... Indeed, only produces 3115 ("true patience, longsuffering") in us and hence is (Gal 5:22). "3115 () embraces steadfastness and staying-power. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3115.htm - 8k 5562. choreo -- to make room, advance, hold 4994. sophronizo -- to recall one to his senses, admonish Library Moses Dying in the Embraces of God. Moses Dying in the Embraces of God. Preface Generation Something Akin to the First Formation of Eve from the ... On the Catholic Church, Her Parts and Relations Twenty-Sixth Proposition of Arminius The Person Sanctified. Faith and Unbelief. The Relation of the Godhead to Creation Dionysius and Modern Philosophy Thesaurus Embraces (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Embraces (2 Occurrences). Song of Songs 2:6 His left hand is under my head. His right hand embraces me. (WEB NIV). ... /e/embraces.htm - 6k Embrace (11 Occurrences) Providence (3 Occurrences) Embraced (19 Occurrences) Foreknow (1 Occurrence) Foreknowledge (2 Occurrences) Amos (12 Occurrences) Omniscience Watchman (19 Occurrences) Infinitude Resources Is God man-made? Did man create the idea of God? | GotQuestions.orgHow many gods are there? | GotQuestions.org What is Christless Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Embraces (2 Occurrences)Song of Songs 2:6 Song of Songs 8:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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