Hunger-bitten
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The term "hunger-bitten" is a vivid expression found in the Bible, specifically in the book of Job. It is used to describe a state of extreme hunger and deprivation, often associated with suffering and divine judgment. The imagery evoked by this term is one of being gnawed or bitten by hunger, suggesting a deep and relentless affliction.

Biblical Reference:

The term "hunger-bitten" appears in Job 18:12, where Bildad the Shuhite, one of Job's friends, describes the fate of the wicked: "His strength is depleted, and calamity is ready at his side." In the context of Bildad's speech, the "hunger-bitten" condition is part of a broader depiction of the downfall and misery that befalls those who are estranged from God.

Theological Significance:

In the biblical narrative, hunger and famine are often seen as instruments of divine judgment or as trials that test the faith and endurance of God's people. The concept of being "hunger-bitten" can be understood as a metaphor for spiritual desolation and the consequences of turning away from God's provision and protection. It serves as a warning of the physical and spiritual destitution that can result from sin and disobedience.

Symbolism and Imagery:

The imagery of being "hunger-bitten" conveys a sense of relentless suffering and vulnerability. It reflects the harsh realities of life in a fallen world, where physical needs can become acute and overwhelming. This term also underscores the dependence of humanity on God's sustenance and the futility of relying solely on human strength and resources.

Application in Christian Life:

For believers, the concept of being "hunger-bitten" can serve as a reminder of the importance of spiritual nourishment and reliance on God. Just as physical hunger can lead to weakness and despair, spiritual hunger can result in a life devoid of purpose and joy. Christians are encouraged to seek sustenance in God's Word and to trust in His provision, knowing that He is the ultimate source of life and fulfillment.

Related Biblical Themes:

The theme of hunger and provision is prevalent throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, God provided manna for the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16), demonstrating His care and provision. In the New Testament, Jesus declares Himself to be the "bread of life" (John 6:35), offering spiritual sustenance to all who believe in Him. The Lord's Prayer also includes a petition for daily bread (Matthew 6:11), emphasizing the believer's reliance on God for both physical and spiritual needs.

In summary, the term "hunger-bitten" in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of estrangement from God and the importance of seeking His provision and sustenance in all aspects of life.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
(a.) Pinched or weakened by hunger.
Strong's Hebrew
7457. raeb -- hungry
... hunger bitten, hungry. From ra'eb; hungry (more or less intensely) -- hunger bitten,
hungry. see HEBREW ra'eb. 7456, 7457. raeb. 7458 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/7457.htm - 6k
Library

That the Saints Lose Nothing in Losing Temporal Goods.
... those whom famine killed outright it rescued from the ills of this life, as a kindly
disease would have done; and those who were only hunger-bitten were taught ...
/.../augustine/city of god/chapter 10 that the saints lose.htm

The Anointing of Jesus.
... The hunger-bitten faces, the poverty-stricken outcasts, we have seen during the
day are suggested to us by the superabundance now before us. ...
/.../the expositors bible the gospel of st john vol ii/i the anointing of jesus.htm

Christ among the Common Things of Life
... such authority. And the same Voice speaks even now to your hunger-bitten
soul, to your famished heart, "Come and dine.". V. "Then ...
/.../various/the worlds great sermons volume 10/dawson christ among the.htm

Christ a Complete Saviour:
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/christ a complete saviour .htm

Thesaurus
Hungerbitten (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Hungerbitten (1 Occurrence). Job 18:12 His strength shall
be hungerbitten, and destruction shall be ready at his side. (KJV). ...
/h/hungerbitten.htm - 6k

Hunger-bitten (1 Occurrence)
Hunger-bitten. Hungerbitten, Hunger-bitten. Hungered . Noah Webster's Dictionary ...
(ASV DBY WBS RSV). Hungerbitten, Hunger-bitten. Hungered . Reference Bible
/h/hunger-bitten.htm - 6k

Ravenous (11 Occurrences)
... At evening he will divide the spoil." (WEB NAS RSV NIV). Job 18:12 His strength
shall be hunger-bitten, And calamity shall be ready at his side. (See JPS). ...
/r/ravenous.htm - 9k

Hungered (8 Occurrences)

/h/hungered.htm - 8k

Hunger (52 Occurrences)

/h/hunger.htm - 25k

Resources
What does it mean that blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness? | GotQuestions.org

How should Christians respond to global poverty and hunger? | GotQuestions.org

What did Jesus mean when He said, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35)? | GotQuestions.org

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