Topical Encyclopedia Jugglery, in the context of biblical literature and ancient practices, refers to the art of performing tricks or illusions, often for entertainment or to deceive. While the Bible does not explicitly mention jugglery as a distinct practice, it does address related concepts such as deception, magic, and sorcery, which can encompass the idea of performing illusions or tricks.Biblical Context The Bible frequently warns against practices that involve deception or the manipulation of reality, which can be associated with jugglery. In the ancient world, such practices were often linked to pagan rituals and idolatry, which the Israelites were commanded to avoid. The Bible emphasizes the importance of truth and integrity, contrasting these with the deceitful nature of magic and sorcery. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the practice of sorcery and magic is condemned. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 states, "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD." This passage highlights the prohibition against engaging in practices that involve deception or manipulation, which could include forms of jugglery. The account of Pharaoh's magicians in Exodus 7:11-12 provides an example of illusionary practices: "Then Pharaoh summoned the wise men and sorcerers, and they also, the magicians of Egypt, did the same things by their magic arts. Each one threw down his staff, and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs." Here, the magicians' tricks are shown to be inferior to the power of God, as demonstrated through Aaron. New Testament References In the New Testament, the theme of deception continues, with warnings against false prophets and deceitful practices. Acts 8:9-11 describes Simon the Sorcerer, who amazed the people of Samaria with his magic: "Prior to that time, Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and astounded the people of Samaria. He claimed to be someone great, and all the people, from the least to the greatest, heeded his words and said, 'This man is the divine power called the Great Power.' They paid close attention to him because he had astounded them for a long time with his sorcery." The apostles, however, demonstrated the true power of God, which surpassed any human trickery or illusion. This account serves as a reminder of the distinction between divine power and human deception. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, jugglery, when associated with deceit or the manipulation of reality, is contrary to the biblical call for truthfulness and sincerity. The Bible consistently upholds the value of truth and condemns practices that lead people away from the truth of God. Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding from God, rather than relying on human trickery or illusion. Cultural and Historical Considerations In the ancient Near East, practices akin to jugglery were often intertwined with religious and cultural rituals. These practices were sometimes used to assert power or influence over others, which is why they are frequently condemned in Scripture. The biblical narrative consistently points to the supremacy of God's power over any human attempt to manipulate or deceive. While the Bible does not provide a detailed account of jugglery as a standalone practice, its teachings on truth, deception, and the power of God offer a framework for understanding the biblical perspective on such activities. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Sleight of hand; trickery; deception.2. (n.) Trickery; imposture; as, political jugglery. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JUGGLERYjug'-ler-i goetia: The word occurs once in 2 Maccabees 12:24 the Revised Version margin (the King James Version "craft," the Revised Version (British and American) "crafty guile"). Library Further Acts of Jugglery on the Part of Marcus. Of the Sorcery at Carr?? which was Detected after his Death. After ... Preface of Dr. Martin Luther. Fragment ii. When Men Multiplied on the Earth, the Angels of ... What is the Philosophy which the Apostle Bids us Shun? The Illusion of the Sealed Letters; Object in Detailing These ... The Burning ??sculapius; Tricks with Fire. Proceedings of the Council of Ariminum. The Newly Erected Statue at Antioch. Miracles Deemed an Essential Sign of Messiahship. Thesaurus Jugglery... 1. (n.) Sleight of hand; trickery; deception. 2. (n.) Trickery; imposture; as, political jugglery. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. JUGGLERY. ... /j/jugglery.htm - 6k Juggling (1 Occurrence) Jug (11 Occurrences) Craftiness (8 Occurrences) Crafty (15 Occurrences) Curious (18 Occurrences) Craft (14 Occurrences) Resources Jugglery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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