Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "lurking-place" often conveys a sense of hidden danger or deceit, typically associated with the actions of the wicked or enemies of the righteous. The concept is used metaphorically to describe situations where evil intentions are concealed, waiting for an opportune moment to strike. This imagery is prevalent in the poetic and wisdom literature of the Bible, where it serves as a warning to the faithful to remain vigilant against unseen threats.Old Testament References The notion of a lurking-place is vividly illustrated in the Psalms, where it is often used to describe the behavior of the wicked. In Psalm 10:8-9 , the psalmist writes, "He lies in wait near the villages; in ambush he slays the innocent. His eyes watch in stealth for the helpless. He lies in wait like a lion in a thicket; he lurks to seize the oppressed; he catches the lowly in his net." Here, the lurking-place is depicted as a setting for ambush, emphasizing the predatory nature of the wicked who exploit the vulnerable. Similarly, in Psalm 17:12 , the imagery of a lurking predator is used: "He is like a lion eager to tear, like a young lion lurking in ambush." This verse underscores the danger posed by those who hide their malicious intentions, waiting to pounce on the unsuspecting. Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The book of Proverbs also touches on the theme of lurking as a metaphor for deceit and treachery. Proverbs 1:11 warns against those who say, "If they say, 'Come along, let us lie in wait for blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause.'" This passage serves as a caution against joining those who plot harm against others, highlighting the moral and spiritual peril of associating with the wicked. Prophetic Literature In the prophetic books, the concept of lurking is used to describe the deceitful actions of Israel's enemies and the unfaithfulness of the people. Jeremiah 5:26 states, "For My people are among wicked men. They watch like fowlers lying in wait; they set a trap; they catch men." This verse illustrates the pervasive nature of sin and the constant threat posed by those who seek to lead others astray. Theological Implications The recurring theme of lurking-places in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the ever-present danger of sin and the need for spiritual vigilance. It reflects the biblical worldview that evil often operates in secrecy, requiring the faithful to be discerning and cautious. The imagery of lurking also reinforces the idea of divine justice, as the Scriptures consistently affirm that God is aware of hidden sins and will ultimately bring them to light. In summary, the concept of a lurking-place in the Bible is a vivid metaphor for the hidden dangers posed by the wicked. It serves as a call to the faithful to remain alert and to trust in God's protection and justice. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia LURK; LURKING-PLACElurk, lurk'-ing-plas: "To lurk" means "to lie in wait," usually with intent to do harm (see Psalm 17:12 Proverbs 1:11, 18). Greek 5454. pholeos -- a hole, den ... hole, den. Of uncertain derivative; a burrow or lurking-place -- hole. (pholeous) -- 2 Occurrences. 5453, 5454. pholeos. 5455 . Strong's Numbers. //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5454.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 4224. machabe' -- a hiding place... hiding lurking place Or machaboo {makh-ab-o'}; from chaba'; a refuge -- hiding (lurking) place. see HEBREW chaba'. 4223, 4224. machabe'. 4224a . ... /hebrew/4224.htm - 5k 3993. maarab -- an ambush Library Who have Apostatized from God. The Pythagorean Doctrine of Transmigration Sketched and Censured. Treatise vi. On the Vanity of Idols: Showing that the Idols are ... Nor have I Undertaken that in the Present Discourse... Struggling and Seeking January the Twenty-Seventh the Confession of Sin Instances from the Life of the Blessed David in which Anger was ... The Words of Abbot Serapion on the Decline of Thoughts that are ... Passion and Persuasion The Pelagians are Refuted by the Case of the Twin Infants Dying ... Thesaurus Lurkingplace... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia LURK; LURKING-PLACE. ...Lurking-place, a place of hiding, usually for the purpose of murder. See 1 Samuel 23:23 Psalm 10:8. ... /l/lurkingplace.htm - 6k Lurking-place Lurk (5 Occurrences) Lurking (4 Occurrences) Lurking-places (2 Occurrences) Gahar (2 Occurrences) Ferret (1 Occurrence) Rouse (25 Occurrences) Body (562 Occurrences) Resources Is there any truth to the Bermuda Triangle conspiracy theories? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place in the temple / tabernacle? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about the value of a secret place? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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