Topical Encyclopedia The term "manchild" is a biblical expression that appears in various contexts within the Scriptures, often referring to a male child or son. This term is significant in biblical narratives and prophecies, symbolizing both literal and metaphorical meanings.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the birth of a manchild is often associated with themes of promise, covenant, and divine intervention. For instance, in the book of Genesis, the birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah is a pivotal moment in the Abrahamic covenant. Isaac, the promised son, is a manchild through whom God's promises to Abraham are to be fulfilled (Genesis 21:1-3). The term also appears in the context of the Mosaic Law. In Leviticus 12:2, the law concerning purification after childbirth specifies different periods of purification for the birth of a manchild versus a female child: "Speak to the Israelites and say: 'A woman who becomes pregnant and gives birth to a male child will be ceremonially unclean for seven days, just as she is unclean during her monthly period.'" This distinction underscores the cultural and religious significance attributed to the birth of a male child in ancient Israelite society. New Testament and Prophetic Imagery In the New Testament, the concept of a manchild takes on a prophetic and symbolic dimension, particularly in the book of Revelation. Revelation 12:5 describes a vision of a woman who gives birth to a male child: "And she gave birth to a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter. And her child was caught up to God and to His throne." This imagery is often interpreted as a reference to Jesus Christ, the Messiah, who is destined to rule the nations and is protected by divine intervention. The manchild in Revelation is seen as a symbol of Christ's ultimate victory and authority, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies such as Psalm 2:9, which speaks of the Messiah ruling with an iron scepter. This passage is significant in eschatological studies, as it highlights the triumph of God's kingdom and the protection of His anointed. Theological Significance Theologically, the birth of a manchild in Scripture often signifies the continuation of God's covenant promises and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. In the patriarchal narratives, the birth of sons is crucial for the lineage through which God's promises are realized. In prophetic literature, the manchild represents the hope of deliverance and the establishment of God's righteous rule. The manchild motif also emphasizes the importance of divine sovereignty and intervention in human history. Whether through the miraculous births in the Old Testament or the apocalyptic visions in the New Testament, the concept underscores God's active role in bringing about His purposes through chosen individuals. In summary, the term "manchild" in the Bible carries rich theological and symbolic meanings, reflecting God's covenantal faithfulness, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the ultimate victory of His kingdom through Jesus Christ. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MAN-CHILDman'-child (American Standard Revised Version; "man child," the English Revised Version; not in the King James Version; mashtin beqir): The expression is used with the meaning of "male," but is found only in the description of the extermination of a whole family, where it is employed to express every male descendant of any age. It occurs in 1 Samuel 25:22, 34 1 Kings 14:10; 1 Kings 16:11; 1 Kings 21:21; 2 Kings 9:8. Strong's Hebrew 376. ish -- man... male (2), man (746), man against another (1), man of each (1), man the men (1), man your husband (1), man's (21), man's are the men (1), manchild (1), mankind ... /hebrew/376.htm - 7k 2145. zakar -- male Library Chapter iv Thesaurus Manchild (1 Occurrence)... It occurs in 1 Samuel 25:22, 34 1 Kings 14:10; 1 Kings 16:11; 1 Kings 21:21; 2 Kings 9:8. Multi-Version Concordance Manchild (1 Occurrence). ... /m/manchild.htm - 7k Manas'sites (10 Occurrences) Man-child (11 Occurrences) Resources Manchild: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Manchild (1 Occurrence)Genesis 4:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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