Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical literature and theology, the term "flare" does not appear directly in the Scriptures. However, the concept of a flare, understood as a sudden burst of light or a signal, can be metaphorically related to various biblical themes and events. The imagery of light, fire, and sudden illumination is prevalent throughout the Bible, often symbolizing divine presence, revelation, and judgment.Divine Revelation and Light The Bible frequently uses light as a metaphor for God's revelation and truth. In Psalm 119:105, the psalmist declares, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" . This verse highlights the illuminating power of God's Word, akin to a flare that guides and directs believers in their spiritual journey. Similarly, in John 1:5, the apostle John writes, "The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" , referring to Jesus Christ as the true light that reveals God's truth to the world. Theophany and Fire The presence of God is often associated with fire in the Bible, which can be likened to a flare in its sudden and intense manifestation. One of the most notable examples is the burning bush encountered by Moses in Exodus 3:2, where "the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from within a bush" . This theophany, or visible manifestation of God, served as a divine signal calling Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Judgment and Suddenness The concept of a flare can also be related to the suddenness of divine judgment. In the New Testament, Jesus warns of the unexpected nature of His return, comparing it to a thief in the night. In 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3, Paul writes, "For you are fully aware that the Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, 'Peace and security,' destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape" . This imagery conveys the abrupt and unavoidable nature of God's judgment, much like the sudden burst of a flare. Guidance and Protection In the wilderness journey of the Israelites, God's guidance was symbolized by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Exodus 13:21 states, "And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night" . This divine guidance can be seen as a continuous flare, providing direction and protection to God's people. Spiritual Vigilance The metaphor of a flare can also be applied to the call for spiritual vigilance and readiness. Believers are encouraged to be alert and watchful, as seen in 1 Peter 5:8: "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" . Just as a flare signals a warning or calls for attention, Christians are urged to remain spiritually vigilant in anticipation of Christ's return and in defense against spiritual adversaries. In summary, while the term "flare" is not explicitly found in the Bible, its symbolic implications resonate with various biblical themes, including divine revelation, theophany, judgment, guidance, and spiritual vigilance. These themes underscore the importance of light and fire as representations of God's presence and action in the world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To burn with an unsteady or waving flame; as, the candle flares.2. (v. i.) To shine out with a sudden and unsteady light; to emit a dazzling or painfully bright light. 3. (v. i.) To shine out with gaudy colors; to flaunt; to be offensively bright or showy. 4. (v. i.) To be exposed to too much light. 5. (v. i.) To open or spread outwards; to project beyond the perpendicular; as, the sides of a bowl flare; the bows of a ship flare. 6. (n.) An unsteady, broad, offensive light. 7. (n.) A spreading outward; as, the flare of a fireplace. Strong's Hebrew 7957. shalhebeth -- flame... flaming flame. From the same as lahab with sibilant prefix; a flare of fire -- (flaming) flame. see HEBREW lahab. 7956, 7957. shalhebeth. 7958 . ... /hebrew/7957.htm - 6k Library Imperial Caesar The Spread Net The Death of the Famous Actor Miraudin was a Nine Days' Wonder... The Shield of Faith Secret Faults May the Twenty-Second the Light as Darkness The Last Smile of the Muse Impressive Phrases The Next Day, and the Next after That, were Passed by the Cardinal ... The Waiting Maidens Thesaurus Flare (2 Occurrences)... 5. (vi) To open or spread outwards; to project beyond the perpendicular; as, the sides of a bowl flare; the bows of a ship flare. ...Flare (2 Occurrences). ... /f/flare.htm - 7k Flared (3 Occurrences) Flapped (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible say about verbal abuse? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to kiss the son (Psalm 2:12)? | GotQuestions.org Who was Porcius Festus? | GotQuestions.org Flare: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Flare (2 Occurrences)2 Samuel 11:20 Psalms 2:12 Subtopics Related Terms |