The term "marchedst" is an archaic form of the verb "march," found in older English translations of the Bible. It is used to describe the act of moving in a deliberate, organized, and often military manner. In the context of the Bible, "marchedst" typically refers to the movement of the Israelites or the presence of God leading His people.

Biblical Context

The use of "marchedst" is primarily associated with the narratives of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their military campaigns in the Promised Land. It conveys the idea of purposeful movement under divine guidance or command.

Scriptural References

One of the key passages where a similar concept is found, though not using the exact term "marchedst," is in the Song of Deborah in the Book of Judges. Judges 5:4-5 states: "O LORD, when You went out from Seir, when You marched from the land of Edom, the earth trembled, the heavens poured, the clouds poured down water. The mountains quaked before the LORD, the One of Sinai, before the LORD, the God of Israel." This passage poetically describes the LORD's majestic and powerful presence as He leads His people, emphasizing His sovereignty and might.

Theological Significance

The concept of God marching before His people is rich with theological implications. It underscores God's role as a divine warrior and protector, leading His people to victory and ensuring their safe passage. This imagery is consistent with the portrayal of God as a shepherd and king who guides and defends His flock.

In Exodus 13:21 , the LORD's guidance is described: "And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud by day to guide their way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night." Here, the LORD's presence is both a guide and a source of comfort, illustrating His constant vigilance and care for His people.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, marching was often associated with military campaigns and the movement of armies. The Israelites, as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land, were frequently depicted as an army under the command of God. This imagery would have resonated with the original audience, who understood the significance of divine leadership in battle.

Application for Believers

For contemporary believers, the concept of God marching before His people serves as a reminder of His unchanging nature and His commitment to lead and protect His followers. It encourages Christians to trust in God's guidance and to follow His lead with confidence, knowing that He goes before them in all circumstances.

The imagery of marching also calls believers to live with purpose and discipline, reflecting the order and intentionality that characterized the movements of God's people in the biblical narrative.

Deborah's Song
... Lord, when thou wentest forth out of Seir, When thou marchedst out of the field
of Edom, The earth trembled, the heavens also dropped, Yea, the clouds dropped ...
/.../various/select masterpieces of biblical literature/iv deborahs song.htm

Marchedst (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Marchedst (1 Occurrence). Judges 5:4 LORD, when
thou wentest out of Seir, when thou marchedst out of the ...
/m/marchedst.htm - 6k

Marched (51 Occurrences)

/m/marched.htm - 21k

Wentest (16 Occurrences)
... Judges 5:4 LORD, when thou wentest out of Seir, when thou marchedst out of the field
of Edom, the earth trembled, and the heavens dropped, the clouds also ...
/w/wentest.htm - 11k

Marches (5 Occurrences)

/m/marches.htm - 8k

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