Topical Encyclopedia The term "iniquitous" is derived from the word "iniquity," which refers to gross injustice, wickedness, or sinfulness. In the biblical context, iniquity is often associated with actions that are morally wrong and contrary to the will and law of God. The Bible frequently addresses the concept of iniquity, highlighting its destructive nature and the divine judgment it incurs.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, iniquity is a recurring theme, often linked with the rebellion against God's commandments. The Hebrew word for iniquity, "avon," conveys the idea of perversity or moral distortion. Iniquity is not merely an external act but also an internal condition of the heart. For instance, in Psalm 51:5, David acknowledges his sinful nature, saying, "Surely I was brought forth in iniquity; I was sinful when my mother conceived me" . This verse underscores the inherent sinfulness of humanity and the need for divine mercy and forgiveness. The prophets frequently warned Israel about the consequences of iniquity. Isaiah 59:2 states, "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear" . Here, iniquity is depicted as a barrier between God and His people, emphasizing the need for repentance and reconciliation. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "anomia" is often translated as iniquity, meaning lawlessness or the violation of God's law. Jesus Himself warned against iniquity in His teachings. In Matthew 7:23, He declares, "Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’" . This passage highlights the seriousness of iniquity and the ultimate separation it causes from Christ. The apostle Paul also addresses iniquity, particularly in the context of the human condition and the transformative power of the Gospel. In Romans 6:19, Paul writes, "I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to escalating wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness" . Here, Paul contrasts the life of iniquity with a life of righteousness, urging believers to pursue holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit. Theological Implications Iniquity is not only a personal issue but also a communal one, affecting societies and nations. The Bible records instances where entire communities faced judgment due to collective iniquity, such as Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) and the pre-flood world (Genesis 6:5-7). These narratives serve as warnings of the consequences of persistent iniquity and the necessity of turning to God in repentance. The sacrificial system in the Old Testament, particularly the Day of Atonement, was instituted to address the problem of iniquity. Leviticus 16:21-22 describes the ritual of the scapegoat, symbolically bearing the iniquities of the people and removing them from the community. This foreshadows the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ, who bore the iniquities of humanity on the cross, as prophesied in Isaiah 53:5-6. Practical Application For believers, understanding the nature of iniquity is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity. Recognizing the gravity of sin and its impact on one's relationship with God leads to a deeper appreciation of Christ's redemptive work. Christians are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness, actively resisting iniquity and pursuing righteousness through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. In summary, the concept of iniquity in the Bible serves as a sobering reminder of the fallen state of humanity and the need for divine intervention. It calls believers to a life of repentance, faith, and obedience, grounded in the grace and mercy of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Characterized by iniquity; unjust; wicked; as, an iniquitous bargain; an iniquitous proceeding.Library The Innocence of the Christians not Compromised by the Iniquitous ... Of Marriage Between Blood-Relations, in Regard to which the ... Book iii. --Of the Harmony of the Fathers of the Old and New ... Book iv. --Of Marcion's Antitheses. To Gregory xi Book ii. --Of the Harmony of the Old and New Laws. To Giovanna Queen of Naples Of Passages from the Holy Scriptures, and from the Apocrypha ... Jesus Condemned to be Crucified. Letters of the Council of Sardica to the Churches of Egypt and of ... Thesaurus Iniquitous (6 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (a.) Characterized by iniquity; unjust; wicked; as, an iniquitous bargain; an iniquitous proceeding. ...Iniquitous (6 Occurrences). ... /i/iniquitous.htm - 8k Iniquitously (6 Occurrences) Iniquity (299 Occurrences) Ill (137 Occurrences) Injurious (8 Occurrences) Sinful (61 Occurrences) Grasp (20 Occurrences) Iniquities (59 Occurrences) Oppression (67 Occurrences) Job (60 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean to be overrighteous and overwise (Ecclesiastes 7:16)? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the kings of Israel and Judah? | GotQuestions.org Iniquitous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Iniquitous (6 Occurrences)Job 16:11 Psalms 59:5 Proverbs 11:7 Proverbs 17:4 Isaiah 10:1 Habakkuk 2:9 Subtopics Related Terms |
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