Topical Encyclopedia The term "loosens" in the biblical context often refers to the act of releasing, freeing, or unbinding something or someone. This concept is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, symbolizing liberation from physical, spiritual, or moral constraints.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the idea of loosening is frequently associated with the release from bondage or oppression. For example, in Isaiah 58:6 , the prophet speaks of the true fast that God desires: "Is not this the fast that I have chosen: to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?" Here, loosening is directly connected to the act of setting people free from the chains of injustice and sin. The concept also appears in the context of the Sabbath and Jubilee laws, where the land and people are given rest and freedom. Leviticus 25 outlines the Year of Jubilee, a time when slaves were to be freed, debts forgiven, and land returned to its original owners, symbolizing a divine loosening of societal and economic constraints. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the theme of loosening is often linked to Jesus Christ's ministry and the liberation He brings. In Luke 13:12 , Jesus heals a woman who had been crippled for eighteen years, saying, "Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity." This act of healing is a physical manifestation of the spiritual freedom that Christ offers to all who believe in Him. The concept is further emphasized in the teachings of Jesus regarding the binding and loosing authority given to His disciples. In Matthew 16:19 , Jesus tells Peter, "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." This passage highlights the spiritual authority granted to the Church to bind and loose, reflecting the power to forgive sins and to set people free from spiritual bondage. Theological Significance Theologically, the act of loosening is deeply connected to the themes of redemption and salvation. It signifies the breaking of chains that bind humanity to sin and death, achieved through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Romans 8:2 states, "For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death." This freedom is the ultimate loosening, offering believers a new life in Christ. In the broader Christian life, the concept of loosening extends to the call for believers to live in the freedom that Christ provides, unencumbered by the weight of sin and the law. Galatians 5:1 exhorts, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery." Practical Application Practically, the principle of loosening encourages Christians to actively participate in the work of liberation, both spiritually and socially. This involves advocating for justice, mercy, and compassion, reflecting the heart of God who desires to see His people free from all forms of bondage. It also calls for personal introspection, urging believers to seek freedom from personal sins and to live in the liberty that Christ provides. In summary, the biblical concept of "loosens" encompasses a profound spiritual truth about God's desire to free His people from all forms of bondage, inviting them into a life of freedom and grace through Jesus Christ. Strong's Hebrew 3414. Yirmeyah -- "Yah loosens," the name of a number of Isr.... "Yah loosens," the name of a number of Isr. ... Word Origin from the same as remiyyah and from Yah Definition "Yah loosens," the name of a number of Isr. ... /hebrew/3414.htm - 6k 6605a. pathach -- to open 7503. raphah -- sink, relax Library Death to Sin's Penalty is the Way Out into a Life of Justification ... The Heart-Strings of God. The Heart-Road to the Head. The Land of Rest The Two Debtors November the Fifteenth the Music of Reconciliation Whether Religious who are Raised to the Episcopate are Bound to ... Of Hope and True Religion, and of Superstition. Growing Faith. Climbing Towards the Climax. Thesaurus Loosens (2 Occurrences)...Loosens (2 Occurrences). Job 12:18 He loosens the bond of kings. ... (WEB NAS). Job 12:21 He pours contempt on princes, and loosens the belt of the strong. (WEB NAS) ... /l/loosens.htm - 6k Belt (32 Occurrences) Looses (2 Occurrences) Loosening (1 Occurrence) Waistcloth (9 Occurrences) Waist (36 Occurrences) Tanner (3 Occurrences) Ties (7 Occurrences) Disarms (1 Occurrence) Pours (21 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |