Topical Encyclopedia The term "gnaw" refers to the act of biting or chewing persistently, often with the teeth. In the context of the Bible, "gnaw" is used both literally and metaphorically to convey various themes, including destruction, suffering, and the relentless nature of certain experiences or judgments.Biblical References: 1. Literal Usage: · In the Book of Job, the term is used to describe the physical suffering and degradation experienced by Job. Job laments his condition, saying, "My skin and flesh cling to my bones; I have escaped by the skin of my teeth" (Job 19:20). Here, the imagery of gnawing is implicit in the description of his emaciated state, suggesting a relentless consumption of his body by disease and suffering. 2. Metaphorical Usage: · The concept of gnawing is also used metaphorically to describe the inner torment and anguish of the wicked. In the Book of Micah, the prophet speaks of the judgment upon those who oppress others, saying, "They will eat but not be satisfied; their stomachs will still be empty" (Micah 6:14). This imagery suggests a gnawing hunger that is never satiated, symbolizing the insatiable greed and ultimate dissatisfaction of those who turn away from God's ways. 3. Symbol of Judgment: · In the Book of Revelation, gnawing is depicted as part of the divine judgment upon the unrepentant. During the pouring out of the fifth bowl of God's wrath, it is said, "The people gnawed their tongues in agony and cursed the God of heaven for their pains and sores, yet they did not repent of their deeds" (Revelation 16:10-11). This vivid imagery underscores the intense suffering and stubbornness of those who refuse to turn to God, even in the face of severe judgment. Theological Implications: The use of "gnaw" in the Bible often conveys a sense of relentless and consuming force, whether it be physical, emotional, or spiritual. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of sin and the nature of divine judgment. The imagery of gnawing highlights the destructive power of sin and the futility of seeking fulfillment outside of God's provision and grace. In a broader theological context, the concept of gnawing can be seen as a reminder of the temporal nature of earthly suffering and the hope of ultimate redemption and restoration through faith in Jesus Christ. The persistent nature of gnawing serves as a call to repentance and a return to the covenant relationship with God, who alone can satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To bite, as something hard or tough, which is not readily separated or crushed; to bite off little by little, with effort; to wear or eat away by scraping or continuous biting with the teeth; to nibble at.2. (v. t.) To bite in agony or rage. 3. (v. t.) To corrode; to fret away; to waste. 4. (v. i.) To use the teeth in biting; to bite with repeated effort, as in eating or removing with the teeth something hard, unwieldy, or unmanageable. Greek 5176. trogo -- to gnaw, munch, crunch ... to gnaw, munch, crunch. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: trogo Phonetic Spelling: (tro'-go) Short Definition: I eat Definition: I eat, partake of a meal. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5176.htm - 6k 3145. masaomai -- to chew 1044. gaggraina -- a gangrene, an eating sore Strong's Hebrew 6207. araq -- to gnaw... araq. 6208 . to gnaw. Transliteration: araq Phonetic Spelling: (aw-rak') Short Definition: gnaw. ... root Definition to gnaw NASB Word Usage gnaw (1), gnawing (1). ... /hebrew/6207.htm - 5k 1633. garam -- to cut off, reserve 1633b. garam -- to break bones, break Library As to Your Charge of Perjury, Since You Refer Me to Your Book; and ... Corn in Egypt WT Vn to the Christen Reader. The Philosophers The Sixt Part. Motives to Holy Mourning Argument: He Briefly Shows, Moreover, what Ridiculous, Obscene ... The Simple Nature of the Soul is Asserted with Plato. The Identity ... Phial the Fifth, on the Throne of the Beast. Song of Consolation for Married Christians. Thesaurus Gnaw (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Gnaw (4 Occurrences). Job 30:3 They are gaunt from lack and famine. They gnaw the dry ground, in the gloom of waste and desolation. ... /g/gnaw.htm - 8k Bone (35 Occurrences) Gloom (29 Occurrences) Gnats (5 Occurrences) Gaunt (7 Occurrences) Gnawed (2 Occurrences) Girdle (44 Occurrences) Gnaws (1 Occurrence) Wasteness (4 Occurrences) Worm (22 Occurrences) Resources How can I learn to not take offense at little things? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the seven bowls/vials of Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Gnaw: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gnaw (4 Occurrences)Job 30:3 Job 30:17 Ezekiel 23:34 Zephaniah 3:3 Subtopics Related Terms |