Topical Encyclopedia Hornets are mentioned in the Bible as instruments of divine intervention and judgment. These insects are noted for their aggressive nature and painful stings, which can cause significant distress and disruption. In the biblical context, hornets are used metaphorically to describe the fear and panic that God would instill in the enemies of Israel.Biblical References: 1. Exodus 23:28 : "I will send the hornet ahead of you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites, and Hittites out of your way." In this passage, God promises the Israelites that He will send hornets to drive out the inhabitants of the Promised Land. The hornets symbolize the terror and confusion that God would use to aid the Israelites in their conquest. 2. Deuteronomy 7:20 : "Moreover, the LORD your God will send the hornet against them until even the survivors hiding from you have perished." Here, the hornet is again depicted as a divine tool to ensure the complete removal of Israel's enemies. This emphasizes God's active role in fulfilling His promises to His people. 3. Joshua 24:12 : "I sent the hornet ahead of you, which drove them out before you—two Amorite kings. It was not by your sword or bow." Joshua recounts how God used hornets to drive out the Amorite kings, highlighting that the victory was achieved not by human might but by divine intervention. Symbolism and Interpretation: In these passages, hornets are symbolic of God's power to instill fear and chaos among the enemies of Israel. They represent a supernatural force that goes beyond human capability, underscoring the theme of divine assistance in the Israelites' journey to claim the land promised to them by God. The use of hornets as a metaphor for divine judgment serves to remind the Israelites of God's sovereignty and His ability to control nature for His purposes. It also reinforces the idea that the success of the Israelites is not due to their own strength or military prowess but is a result of God's direct involvement and favor. Cultural and Historical Context: Hornets, as understood in the ancient Near Eastern context, were likely seen as formidable creatures due to their painful stings and aggressive behavior. The mention of hornets in the biblical narrative would have resonated with the original audience, who would have been familiar with the threat posed by these insects. The biblical use of hornets as a divine instrument reflects a broader theme in Scripture where God uses elements of nature to accomplish His will, demonstrating His control over all creation. This aligns with the biblical worldview that sees God as the ultimate authority over both the natural and spiritual realms. Theological Implications: The references to hornets in the Bible highlight God's faithfulness to His promises and His willingness to act on behalf of His people. They serve as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's provision and protection, even when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. The hornet, as a symbol of divine intervention, encourages believers to rely on God's power rather than their own efforts in overcoming obstacles and adversaries. Strong's Hebrew 6880. tsirah -- hornets... 6879, 6880. tsirah. 6881 . hornets. Transliteration: tsirah Phonetic Spelling: (tsir-aw') Short Definition: hornet. Word Origin ... /hebrew/6880.htm - 6k Library October 7. "He Opened not his Mouth" (Isa. Liii. 7). August the Twenty-Seventh what About To-Morrow? On the Babylonish Captivity of the Church on the Babylonish ... Concerning Peaceableness The Destroyer Destroyed Prayer Answered, Love Nourished Striking Similes Anxieties and Troubles, Friends and Foes Commendation for the Steadfast A Description of Heart-Purity Thesaurus Hornets (2 Occurrences)...Hornets (2 Occurrences). Exodus 23:28 And I will send hornets before thee, which shall drive out the Hivite, the Canaanite, and the Hittite, from before thee. ... /h/hornets.htm - 6k Hornet (3 Occurrences) Driving (144 Occurrences) Horns (104 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about the hornet? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hornets (2 Occurrences)Exodus 23:28 Deuteronomy 7:20 Subtopics Related Terms Burnt-offering (205 Occurrences) |