Definition and Etymology:
The term "folden" is not directly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood in the context of biblical language and themes. The word "fold" in biblical terms often refers to a sheepfold, a place where sheep are gathered and kept safe. The concept of a fold is deeply rooted in pastoral imagery, which is prevalent throughout Scripture. The term "folden" could be seen as an archaic or poetic form related to the idea of being gathered or enclosed within a fold.

Biblical Context and Usage:
The imagery of a fold is significant in the Bible, symbolizing protection, community, and belonging. In the Old Testament, the shepherd and sheepfold metaphor is frequently used to describe God's relationship with His people. For instance, in Psalm 23:1-2 , "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." Here, the shepherd provides for and protects the sheep, much like a fold offers safety and rest.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is depicted as the Good Shepherd, who cares for His flock. In John 10:14-16 , Jesus states, "I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them in as well, and they will listen to My voice. Then there will be one flock and one shepherd." This passage highlights the inclusive nature of Christ's mission, bringing all believers into one fold under His care.

Theological Significance:
The concept of a fold, and by extension "folden," carries rich theological implications. It represents the idea of divine care and guidance, emphasizing God's role as a protector and provider. The fold is a place of safety, where believers are gathered and nurtured by God. This imagery underscores the importance of community and unity among believers, as they are all part of the same spiritual fold under the leadership of Christ.

The fold also signifies the boundaries set by God for His people, within which they find spiritual nourishment and security. It is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where He promises to be their God, and they are to be His people, living according to His statutes and commandments.

Practical Application:
For believers today, the concept of being "folden" within God's fold serves as a reminder of the security and peace found in a relationship with Christ. It encourages Christians to remain within the spiritual boundaries set by Scripture, where they can experience the fullness of God's provision and protection. The fold also calls believers to unity, as they are all part of the same spiritual family, called to love and support one another in their faith journey.

In pastoral ministry, the imagery of the fold can be used to illustrate the role of church leaders as shepherds who care for their congregations, guiding them in truth and protecting them from spiritual dangers. It also serves as a call to evangelism, as believers are tasked with bringing others into the fold, sharing the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

How a Man Shall have Him in this Work against all Thoughts, and ...
... And if thee list have this intent lapped and folden in one word, for thou shouldest
have better hold thereupon, take thee but a little word of one syllable ...
/.../anonymous/the cloud of unknowing/here beginneth the seventh chapter.htm

Following Hard after God
... made thee, and bought thee, and that graciously called thee to thy degree." And
he is all for simplicity: If we would have religion "lapped and folden in one ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/tozer/the pursuit of god/i following hard after god.htm

Folden (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Folden (1 Occurrence). Nahum 1:10 For while they
be folden together as thorns, and while they are drunken ...
/f/folden.htm - 6k

Folded (19 Occurrences)

/f/folded.htm - 12k

Foldeth (2 Occurrences)

/f/foldeth.htm - 7k

Entangle (7 Occurrences)
... and irresistibleness of God's judgments, we read in Nahum 1:10, "For entangled like
thorns" (the King James Version "while they be folden together as thorns ...
/e/entangle.htm - 11k

Drunkards (10 Occurrences)
... Nahum 1:10 For while they be folden together as thorns, and while they are drunken
as drunkards, they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry. (KJV WBS). ...
/d/drunkards.htm - 9k

Thorn (30 Occurrences)
... shall come up in its palaces"; Hosea 2:6, "I will hedge up thy way with thorns";
Nahum 1:10, "Entangled like thorns (King James Version "folden together as ...
/t/thorn.htm - 35k

Devoured (81 Occurrences)
... Nahum 1:10 For while they be folden together as thorns, and while they are drunken
as drunkards, they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry. (KJV JPS DBY WBS). ...
/d/devoured.htm - 32k

Flesh (468 Occurrences)
... shall come up in its palaces"; Hosea 2:6, "I will hedge up thy way with thorns";
Nahum 1:10, "Entangled like thorns (King James Version "folden together as ...
/f/flesh.htm - 69k

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