Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Lapping refers to the act of drinking by using the tongue, similar to how a dog drinks water. This term is notably used in the context of the biblical narrative of Gideon and his selection of soldiers in the Book of Judges. Biblical Reference The primary biblical reference to lapping is found in Judges 7:5-7. In this passage, God instructs Gideon to reduce the number of his troops to ensure that the victory over the Midianites would be attributed to divine intervention rather than human strength. The method of selection involved observing how the men drank water from a river: "So Gideon brought the people down to the water, and the LORD said to him, 'Separate those who lap the water with their tongues like a dog from those who kneel to drink.' The number of those who lapped with their hands to their mouths was three hundred men; all the others knelt to drink." (Judges 7:5-6) Significance The act of lapping water was used as a divine test to distinguish between the soldiers. Those who lapped the water with their hands to their mouths were chosen by God to accompany Gideon. This method of drinking indicated vigilance and readiness, as the men who lapped were able to keep their eyes on their surroundings, unlike those who knelt down to drink directly from the water. Theological Implications The selection of the 300 men who lapped the water underscores the biblical theme of God using the weak and the few to accomplish His purposes, thereby demonstrating His power and sovereignty. This narrative illustrates the principle that God often chooses unlikely candidates to fulfill His plans, emphasizing reliance on divine strength rather than human ability. Historical and Cultural Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the method of drinking water could reflect a person's alertness and preparedness for battle. The distinction made by God in this passage highlights the importance of vigilance and readiness in spiritual warfare, a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures. Application The account of Gideon's army serves as a reminder for believers to remain spiritually vigilant and prepared, trusting in God's guidance and provision. It encourages Christians to rely on God's strength rather than their own, recognizing that His ways and choices often defy human expectations. Easton's Bible Dictionary Of water like a dog, i.e., by putting the hand filled with water to the mouth. The dog drinks by shaping the end of his long thin tongue into the form of a spoon, thus rapidly lifting up water, which he throws into his mouth. The three hundred men that went with Gideon thus employed their hands and lapped the water out of their hands (Judges 7:7). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Lap.2. (n.) A kind of machine blanket or wrapping material used by calico printers. Library Sin's Brood. The Story of Gideon and his Three Hundred Soldiers A Pilgrimage to Rome The Treasure Cave a Pilgrimage to Rome Andromeda Thesaurus Lapping (2 Occurrences)... 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Lap. 2. (n.) A kind of machine blanket or wrapping material used by calico printers. Multi-Version Concordance Lapping (2 Occurrences). ... /l/lapping.htm - 7k Lap (12 Occurrences) Laps (6 Occurrences) Lapp'idoth (1 Occurrence) Licking (1 Occurrence) Resources Lapping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lapping (2 Occurrences)Judges 7:6 Judges 7:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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