Topical Encyclopedia Infancy, as depicted in the Bible, is a stage of life that holds significant theological and symbolic meaning. It is a period marked by vulnerability, dependence, and the potential for growth and development. The Scriptures provide various accounts and teachings that highlight the importance of infancy, both in literal and metaphorical contexts.Biblical Accounts of Infancy 1. The Infancy of Jesus Christ: The most prominent biblical account of infancy is the birth and early life of Jesus Christ. The Gospels of Matthew and Luke provide detailed narratives of Jesus' birth and infancy. In Matthew 1:18-25, the miraculous conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit and His birth to the Virgin Mary are recounted. The visit of the Magi, the flight to Egypt, and the return to Nazareth are significant events that underscore the divine protection and purpose surrounding Jesus' infancy (Matthew 2:1-23). 2. The Infancy of Moses: Another significant account is the infancy of Moses, as described in Exodus 2:1-10. Born during a time of oppression, Moses was hidden by his mother to protect him from Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew male infants. Rescued by Pharaoh's daughter, Moses' early life is marked by divine intervention, setting the stage for his future role as the deliverer of Israel. 3. The Infancy of Samuel: The account of Samuel's infancy is found in 1 Samuel 1-2. Born to Hannah, who had been barren, Samuel was dedicated to the Lord from birth. His early life in the temple under the care of Eli the priest highlights the theme of dedication and service to God from a young age. Theological Significance of Infancy 1. Symbol of New Beginnings: Infancy in the Bible often symbolizes new beginnings and the fulfillment of God's promises. The birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah in their old age (Genesis 21:1-7) is a testament to God's faithfulness and the beginning of the fulfillment of His covenant with Abraham. 2. Dependence and Trust: Infancy represents a state of complete dependence and trust, qualities that are essential in the believer's relationship with God. Jesus emphasized the importance of childlike faith, stating, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3). 3. Divine Protection and Providence: The infancy narratives often highlight God's protective care and providence. The preservation of Moses and Jesus during their infancy illustrates God's sovereign plan and His ability to safeguard His purposes despite human opposition. 4. Spiritual Growth and Maturity: Infancy also serves as a metaphor for spiritual growth and maturity. The Apostle Peter encourages believers to "crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation" (1 Peter 2:2). This imagery underscores the need for spiritual nourishment and development from infancy to maturity in the faith. Infancy in Prophecy and Fulfillment The prophetic significance of infancy is evident in the messianic prophecies concerning Jesus. Isaiah 7:14 foretells the virgin birth, stating, "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel" . This prophecy finds fulfillment in the birth of Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 1:22-23, affirming His identity as God with us. Conclusion Infancy in the Bible is a profound theme that encompasses both literal and spiritual dimensions. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness, the importance of dependence on Him, and the potential for growth and transformation in the life of every believer. Through the accounts of Jesus, Moses, and Samuel, the Scriptures reveal the divine purpose and protection that accompany this foundational stage of life. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The state or period of being an infant; the first part of life; early childhood.2. (n.) The first age of anything; the beginning or early period of existence; as, the infancy of an art. 3. (n.) The state or condition of one under age, or under the age of twenty-one years; nonage; minority. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ARABIC GOSPEL OF THE INFANCYSee APOCRYPHAL GOSPELS. INFANCY, GOSPEL OF THE in'-fan-si. Greek 3812. paidiothen -- from childhood ... from infancy. Adverb (of source) from paidion; from infancy -- of a child. see GREEK paidion. (paidiothen) -- 1 Occurrence. 3811, 3812. paidiothen. 3813 . ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3812.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 990. beten -- belly, body, womb... belly, body, womb NASB Word Usage abdomen (3), being (1), belly (8), birth (4), body (11), brothers* (1), depth (1), himself (1), infancy* (1), inward parts (1 ... /hebrew/990.htm - 6k 5291. naarah -- a girl, maiden 517. em -- a mother 5288. naar -- a boy, lad, youth, retainer Library Infancy. Will You See the Infancy of this Sublime and Celestial Greatness? ... Passing Hence from Infancy, I came to Boyhood, or Rather it came ... Infancy and Youth of Jesus --His First Impressions. He Describes his Infancy, and Lauds the Protection and Eternal ... The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour (Nt Apocrypha) Upon those Pure and virgin Apprehensions which I had in My Infancy The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour Thy Chastening Is, as a Mother of Our Infancy: --Her Rebuke is ... Thesaurus Infancy (2 Occurrences)... 2. (n.) The first age of anything; the beginning or early period of existence; as, the infancy of an art. ... ARABIC GOSPEL OF THE INFANCY. See APOCRYPHAL GOSPELS. ... /i/infancy.htm - 7k Innocents (2 Occurrences) Massacre (1 Occurrence) Infant (14 Occurrences) Virgin (62 Occurrences) Birth (357 Occurrences) Mary (50 Occurrences) Infamy (8 Occurrences) Galilee (73 Occurrences) Youth (169 Occurrences) Resources What is the Infancy Gospel of Thomas? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the Infancy Gospels? | GotQuestions.org Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Infancy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Infancy (2 Occurrences)2 Timothy 3:15 Job 31:18 Subtopics Related Terms |