The term "gnawn" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of being gnawed or consumed is present in various scriptural contexts, often symbolizing destruction, decay, or the consequences of sin. The imagery of gnawing is used metaphorically to describe the effects of sin, judgment, and the relentless nature of certain spiritual and physical afflictions.

Biblical Context and Symbolism

1. Judgment and Destruction: The imagery of gnawing is often associated with divine judgment and the consequences of turning away from God. In the prophetic literature, the destruction of nations and the decay of moral and spiritual integrity are sometimes depicted using similar imagery. For example, in Isaiah 51:8 , it is written, "For the moth will eat them up like a garment, and the worm will devour them like wool. But My righteousness will last forever, My salvation through all generations." Here, the consuming nature of moths and worms symbolizes the inevitable judgment upon those who oppose God.

2. Spiritual Decay: The concept of being gnawed can also be applied to the spiritual decay that occurs when individuals or communities stray from God's commandments. In the New Testament, Jesus warns about the dangers of sin and the importance of spiritual vigilance. Although the specific term "gnawn" is not used, the underlying idea of spiritual erosion is present in His teachings.

3. Physical Affliction: In some instances, the Bible describes physical afflictions that can be likened to being gnawed upon. In Job 19:20 , Job laments his condition, saying, "My skin and flesh cling to my bones; I have escaped by the skin of my teeth." This vivid description of Job's suffering reflects the physical and emotional toll of his trials, akin to being consumed or gnawed by his afflictions.

4. Eternal Consequences: The concept of gnawing is also relevant in discussions of eternal consequences for sin. In Mark 9:48 , Jesus speaks of hell, "where their worm never dies, and the fire is never quenched." This passage uses the imagery of an undying worm to convey the perpetual nature of judgment for those who reject God's salvation.

Theological Implications

The imagery of being gnawed serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive nature of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God's commandments. It underscores the reality of divine judgment and the need for repentance and spiritual renewal. The Bible consistently calls believers to seek righteousness and to avoid the spiritual decay that comes from neglecting their relationship with God.

In summary, while the specific term "gnawn" is not found in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating the consequences of sin, the reality of divine judgment, and the hope of redemption through faith in God.

To the Rev. A. Brandram
... The rest of the letter treats of indifferent matters. 'The binder has brought me
eight Bibles, which he has contrived to make up out of the sheets gnawn by the ...
/.../borrow/letters of george borrow/to the rev a brandram 60.htm

Andromeda
... death the sad earth is already: the halls full of weepers, Quarried by tombs all
cliffs, and the bones gleam white on the sea-floor, Numberless, gnawn by the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/andromeda and other poems/andromeda.htm

Down the Islands
... crack, a pistol-shot in width. On the east side a strange section of gray
lava and ash is gnawn into caves. On the right, a bluff ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter ii down the islands.htm

Gnawn (1 Occurrence)
...Gnawn (1 Occurrence). Zephaniah 3:3 Her heads in her midst 'are' roaring lions,
Her judges 'are' evening wolves, They have not gnawn the bone in the morning. ...
/g/gnawn.htm - 6k

Gnawing (4 Occurrences)

/g/gnawing.htm - 7k

Gnaws (1 Occurrence)

/g/gnaws.htm - 6k

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