Topical Encyclopedia Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. While the term itself is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the condition is often associated with the afflictions described in certain biblical passages. In the context of the Bible, haemorrhoids are typically understood as a form of divine judgment or punishment.Biblical References: The most notable reference to a condition resembling haemorrhoids is found in the account of the Philistines and the Ark of the Covenant in 1 Samuel. After capturing the Ark from the Israelites, the Philistines experienced a series of calamities, including a plague that caused tumors. The Berean Standard Bible translates this affliction as "tumors," which many scholars and commentators have historically interpreted as haemorrhoids. 1 Samuel 5:6 states: "Now the hand of the LORD was heavy upon the people of Ashdod and its vicinity; He devastated them and afflicted them with tumors." The affliction was so severe that it led to widespread panic and a decision to return the Ark to the Israelites. Further, in 1 Samuel 5:9 , it is recorded: "But after they had moved it, the hand of the LORD was against that city, causing a great panic. He afflicted the men of the city, both young and old, with an outbreak of tumors." Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the affliction of the Philistines with tumors, interpreted as haemorrhoids, serves as a demonstration of God's power and holiness. The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence, was not to be treated lightly or with disrespect. The physical suffering of the Philistines underscores the seriousness of their transgression in capturing the Ark and serves as a warning against defying the will of God. The narrative also highlights the theme of divine retribution. The Philistines' suffering was a direct consequence of their actions, illustrating the biblical principle that sin and disobedience can lead to physical and spiritual consequences. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that God is just and that His judgments are righteous. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, diseases and physical ailments were often viewed as manifestations of divine displeasure or judgment. The affliction of the Philistines with tumors would have been understood by contemporary audiences as a clear sign of the power and authority of the God of Israel. The return of the Ark to the Israelites, accompanied by offerings of gold tumors and rats (1 Samuel 6:4-5), further emphasizes the recognition by the Philistines of the need to appease the God who had afflicted them. This act of restitution reflects the ancient practice of making amends to deities to alleviate suffering and restore favor. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide a detailed medical description of haemorrhoids, the afflictions described in 1 Samuel are consistent with the symptoms of this condition. The account serves as a powerful reminder of the holiness of God and the importance of reverence and obedience to His commands. Easton's Bible Dictionary Or Emerods, bleeding piles known to the ancient Romans as mariscae, but more probably malignant boils of an infectious and fatal character. With this loathsome and infectious disease the men of Ashdod were smitten by the hand of the Lord. This calamity they attributed to the presence of the ark in their midst, and therefore they removed it to Gath (1 Samuel 5:6-8). But the same consequences followed from its presence in Gath, and therefore they had it removed to Ekron, 11 miles distant. The Ekronites were afflicted with the same dreadful malady, but more severely; and a panic seizing the people, they demanded that the ark should be sent back to the land of Israel (9-12; 6:1-9). Thesaurus Haemorrhoids/h/haemorrhoids.htm - 7k Haemorrhage (3 Occurrences) Haft (1 Occurrence) Emerod Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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