Topical Encyclopedia The term "inclose" in the context of the Bible generally refers to the act of enclosing, surrounding, or confining something within a boundary or limit. This concept can be found in various passages throughout the Scriptures, often carrying both literal and metaphorical meanings.Biblical Usage: 1. Literal Enclosure: · In the Old Testament, the idea of enclosing is often associated with physical boundaries or structures. For example, in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, specific instructions were given to inclose sacred spaces with curtains, walls, or other barriers to set them apart for holy purposes. This act of enclosing served to protect the sanctity of the space and to delineate the holy from the common. 2. Metaphorical Enclosure: · The concept of inclosing is also used metaphorically to describe God's protection and care for His people. In Psalm 139:5 , the psalmist declares, "You hem me in behind and before; You have laid Your hand upon me." Here, the imagery of being inclosed by God conveys a sense of divine protection and intimate involvement in the believer's life. 3. Spiritual Implications: · In a spiritual sense, inclosing can refer to the boundaries set by God's commandments and laws. These divine boundaries are intended to guide believers in righteous living and to protect them from the spiritual dangers of sin and disobedience. The law serves as a moral enclosure, providing a framework within which believers can live in accordance with God's will. 4. Judgment and Consequence: · The Bible also uses the concept of inclosing in the context of judgment. In certain prophetic passages, God speaks of inclosing nations or individuals within the consequences of their actions. For instance, in Habakkuk 1:15 , the prophet describes how the wicked "drag them all up with a hook; they catch them in their net and gather them in their dragnet." This imagery of being inclosed in a net symbolizes the inescapable nature of divine judgment upon those who persist in wickedness. 5. Community and Fellowship: · In the New Testament, the idea of inclosing can be seen in the context of the Christian community. Believers are called to be a part of the body of Christ, inclosed within the fellowship of the church. This spiritual enclosure fosters mutual support, accountability, and growth in faith. The early church exemplified this by gathering together, sharing resources, and encouraging one another in their walk with Christ (Acts 2:42-47). Theological Significance: The concept of inclosing in the Bible underscores the importance of boundaries, both physical and spiritual, in the life of a believer. It highlights God's role as a protector and guide, providing a safe enclosure within which His people can flourish. At the same time, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of stepping outside of God's ordained boundaries, whether through disobedience or rebellion. In summary, the biblical theme of inclosing encompasses protection, guidance, judgment, and community, reflecting the multifaceted nature of God's relationship with His creation. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To surround; to shut in; to confine on all sides; to include; to shut up; to encompass; as, to enclose a fort or an army with troops; to enclose a town with walls.2. (v. t.) To put within a case, envelope, or the like; to fold (a thing) within another or into the same parcel; as, to enclose a letter or a bank note. 3. (v. t.) To separate from common grounds by a fence; as, to enclose lands. 4. (v. t.) To put into harness; to harness. Greek 4029. perikeimai -- to lie around ... From peri and keimai; to lie all around, ie Inclose, encircle, hamper (literally or figuratively) -- be bound (compassed) with, hang about. see GREEK peri. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4029.htm - 6k 5420. phrasso -- to fence in, to stop 4788. sugkleio -- to shut together, ie enclose Strong's Hebrew 2436. cheq -- bosom... Or cheq {khake}; and chowq {khoke}; from an unused root, apparently meaning to inclose; the bosom (literally or figuratively) -- bosom, bottom, lap, midst ... /hebrew/2436.htm - 6k 2314. chadar -- to surround, enclose 6113. atsar -- to restrain, retain 3803. kathar -- to surround 2082. zabal -- probably to dwell 2085. zag -- skin (of the grape) 5437. sabab -- to turn about, go around, surround 5362. naqaph -- to strike off 5274. na'al -- to bar, bolt, lock 1443. gadar -- to wall up or off, to build a wall Library Canticles 4:12 the Lord's Garden. Egypt and Greece. Man and Machinery. Columban. The General Conference of 1820 Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and ... Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. Thesaurus Inclose (1 Occurrence)... as, to enclose lands. 4. (vt) To put into harness; to harness. Multi-Version Concordance Inclose (1 Occurrence). Song of Songs 8:9 ... /i/inclose.htm - 7k Inclosed (12 Occurrences) Inclining (1 Occurrence) Crown (94 Occurrences) Enclose (2 Occurrences) Resources Inclose: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Inclose (1 Occurrence)Song of Songs 8:9 Subtopics Related Terms |