The term "imagineth" is an archaic form of the verb "imagine," which appears in various contexts throughout the Bible. In the Berean Standard Bible , the concept of imagining is often associated with the thoughts and intentions of the heart, whether for good or evil. The Bible provides insight into how God perceives human imagination and its impact on spiritual life.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Imagination and the Heart: In the Old Testament, the imagination of the heart is frequently mentioned in relation to human sinfulness. Genesis 6:5 states, "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time." Here, the term "imagineth" is understood as the inclination or devising of thoughts that are contrary to God's will.

2. Warnings Against Vain Imaginations: The Bible warns against the futility and danger of vain imaginations. In Romans 1:21 , Paul writes, "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts." This passage highlights how turning away from God leads to futile imaginations and a darkened understanding.

3. Imagination in Worship: The Bible also addresses the role of imagination in worship and idolatry. In Jeremiah 7:24 , it is written, "Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but followed the stubborn inclinations of their own evil hearts. They went backward and not forward." This verse illustrates how the imagination can lead to idolatry and a departure from true worship.

4. Positive Aspects of Imagination: While much of the biblical focus is on the negative aspects of human imagination, there are instances where imagination is seen in a positive light. In Ephesians 3:20 , Paul speaks of God's ability to do "exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or imagine, according to the power that works in us." Here, imagination is linked to faith and the recognition of God's limitless power.

5. Renewal of the Mind: The New Testament encourages believers to renew their minds, which includes transforming their imaginations. Romans 12:2 exhorts, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This renewal involves aligning one's thoughts and imaginations with God's truth.

Theological Implications

The concept of "imagineth" in the Bible underscores the importance of the inner life and the thoughts that occupy the human heart. It serves as a reminder of the potential for both sin and righteousness that lies within human imagination. The Bible calls believers to guard their hearts and minds, to reject vain and sinful imaginations, and to cultivate thoughts that are pleasing to God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to transform their imaginations, aligning them with God's will and purposes.

Nahum's Doom of Nineveh
... dry stubble. There is one gone forth out of thee, that imagineth evil
against the LORD, that counselleth wickedness. Thus saith ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/xi nahums doom of nineveh.htm

Antichrist in the Minor Prophets
... 6). Nahum has this to say of him: "There is one come out of thee, that
imagineth evil against the Lord, a wicked counseller. Thus ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/5 antichrist in the minor.htm

How that by virtue of this Word a Man is Governed Full Wisely, and ...
... For some there be that with all their might, inner and outer, imagineth in their
speaking how they may stuff them and underprop them on each side from falling ...
/.../anonymous/the cloud of unknowing/here beginneth the four and 4.htm

Of the State Wherein Man was Created, and How the Image of God is ...
... They pretend to deliver, but they destroy. A desperate wicked heart imagineth
evil continually, evil against God, and evil to our own souls. ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/lecture xxiii of the state.htm

Letter xi. --For 339. Coss. Constantius Augustus ii, Constans I ...
... in other terms, saying, Your hands are polluted with blood, your fingers with sins;
your lips have spoken lawlessness, and your tongue imagineth iniquity: no ...
/.../select works and letters or athanasius/letter xi for 339 coss constantius.htm

Of the Right of Bishops not to be Accused or Hurt by Detraction.
... understanding, and foolish and impious." [2859] "He that wanteth understanding thinks
upon vain things; and a foolish and erring man imagineth follies." [2860 ...
//christianbookshelf.org/unknown/the decretals/ii of the right of.htm

Imagineth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Imagineth (1 Occurrence). Nahum 1:11 There is one come
out of thee, that imagineth evil against the LORD, a wicked counsellor. ...
/i/imagineth.htm - 6k

Imagining (3 Occurrences)

/i/imagining.htm - 7k

Imagines (2 Occurrences)

/i/imagines.htm - 7k

Counsellor (16 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV DBY YLT). Nahum 1:11 There is one come out of thee, that imagineth
evil against the LORD, a wicked counsellor. (KJV DBY YLT). ...
/c/counsellor.htm - 12k

Counselor (19 Occurrences)
... (WEB WBS NAS RSV NIV). Nahum 1:11 There is one come out of thee, that imagineth
evil against the LORD, a wicked counselor. (WBS NAS). ...
/c/counselor.htm - 12k

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