Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the term "guardian" refers to an individual who is entrusted with the care, protection, and oversight of another person, often a child or someone unable to care for themselves. This concept is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, where guardianship is both a practical and spiritual responsibility.Old Testament Context The role of a guardian is evident in various Old Testament narratives and laws. Guardianship often involved the protection and provision for orphans and widows, as seen in the Mosaic Law. In Exodus 22:22, God commands, "You must not mistreat any widow or orphan." This reflects the broader biblical principle of caring for the vulnerable, a duty often falling to a guardian. The account of Esther provides an example of guardianship. Mordecai, Esther's cousin, acts as her guardian after the death of her parents. Esther 2:7 states, "And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle’s daughter, for she had neither father nor mother." Mordecai's role as a guardian includes not only physical care but also spiritual and moral guidance, as he advises Esther throughout her life. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of guardianship is expanded to include spiritual oversight. The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a guardian to describe the role of the law before the coming of Christ. In Galatians 3:24-25, Paul writes, "So the law became our guardian to lead us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian." This passage highlights the temporary and preparatory role of the law as a guardian, guiding believers until the revelation of faith in Christ. The guardian's role is to protect and instruct, leading to maturity and independence in faith. Spiritual Guardianship The Bible also speaks to the spiritual guardianship within the Christian community. Elders and leaders in the church are often seen as spiritual guardians, tasked with the care and oversight of the congregation. Hebrews 13:17 exhorts believers, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account." This spiritual guardianship involves teaching, correction, and encouragement, ensuring that the community remains faithful to the teachings of Christ. The role of a spiritual guardian is one of great responsibility, as they are accountable to God for the souls under their care. Parental Guardianship Parents are also seen as guardians in the biblical sense, responsible for the upbringing and spiritual formation of their children. Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse underscores the guardian's role in shaping the character and faith of the next generation. Conclusion The concept of a guardian in the Bible encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions, emphasizing care, protection, and guidance. Whether through familial relationships, legal responsibilities, or spiritual oversight, guardianship is a significant theme that reflects God's concern for the well-being and growth of His people. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One who guards, preserves, or secures; one to whom any person or thing is committed for protection, security, or preservation from injury; a warden.2. (n.) One who has, or is entitled to, the custody of the person or property of an infant, a minor without living parents, or a person incapable of managing his own affairs. 3. (a.) Performing, or appropriate to, the office of a protector; as, a guardian care. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GUARDIANGreek 2012. epitropos -- an administrator (one having authority) ... authority). Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: epitropos Phonetic Spelling: (ep-it'-rop-os) Short Definition: a steward, guardian Definition: (a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2012.htm - 6k 4368. prostatis -- a patroness, protectress 3807. paidagogos -- a trainer of boys, ie a tutor 5097. timoreo -- to punish, avenge 3511. neokoros -- a temple keeper 3623. oikonomos -- the manager of a household 2377. thuroros -- a doorkeeper 1985. episkopos -- a superintendent, an overseer Strong's Hebrew 4453. meltsar -- perhaps guardian... 4452, 4453. meltsar. 4454 . perhaps guardian. Transliteration: meltsar Phonetic Spelling: (mel-tsawr') Short Definition: overseer. ... /hebrew/4453.htm - 5k 5894. ir -- waking or wakeful one Library The Guardian Angel. The Guardian Angel Letter cviii. To the Guardian of the Heirs of Julitta. Guardian Angels. Epistle xxv. To Romanus, Guardian (Defensorem) . Epistle xxix. To vincomalus, Guardian (Defensorem) . Epistle xxxviii. To vitus, Guardian (Defensorem ). Epistle xxxvi. To Sabinus, Guardian (Defensorem). Epistle xviii. To Romanus, Guardian (Defensorem). Epistle xxxvii. To Romanus, Guardian (Defensorem). Thesaurus Guardian (5 Occurrences)... 3. (a.) Performing, or appropriate to, the office of a protector; as, a guardian care. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. GUARDIAN. gar'-di-an. ... /g/guardian.htm - 8k Tutor (2 Occurrences) Governor (78 Occurrences) Ward (27 Occurrences) Eupator Beg (77 Occurrences) Guardhouse (6 Occurrences) Angel (209 Occurrences) Persian (4 Occurrences) Nurse (23 Occurrences) Resources Do we have guardian angels? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a spirit animal? | GotQuestions.org What did it mean to spread the corner of your garment over someone? | GotQuestions.org Guardian: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Guardian (5 Occurrences)Acts 12:15 Acts 19:35 1 Peter 2:25 Ezekiel 28:14 Ezekiel 28:16 Subtopics Related Terms |
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