Topical Encyclopedia The term "marred" in the Bible often refers to something that has been damaged, disfigured, or spoiled. It is used both literally and metaphorically to describe physical objects, people, and spiritual conditions. The concept of being marred is significant in understanding the effects of sin, the nature of human frailty, and the transformative power of God.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "marred" is "shachath," which means to destroy, corrupt, or ruin. One notable instance is found in the book of Jeremiah, where the prophet uses the imagery of a potter and clay to convey God's sovereignty and the consequences of Israel's disobedience: · Jeremiah 18:4 : "But the vessel he was shaping from the clay became marred in his hand; so he formed it into another vessel, as it seemed best for him to do." This passage illustrates the idea that, although the clay (representing Israel) was marred, the potter (God) has the authority and ability to reshape it according to His will. The marred vessel symbolizes the spiritual and moral corruption of the people, yet it also highlights God's redemptive power to restore and renew. New Testament Usage In the New Testament, the concept of being marred is less frequently mentioned, but it is profoundly illustrated in the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The prophecy in Isaiah, which is often associated with the Messiah, speaks of a figure who is marred beyond human likeness: · Isaiah 52:14 : "Just as many were appalled at Him—His appearance was disfigured beyond that of any man, and His form was marred beyond human likeness." This prophecy is understood by Christians to refer to the physical and emotional suffering of Jesus during His passion. The marred appearance of Christ underscores the depth of His sacrifice and the extent of His love for humanity. It serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of redemption and the ugliness of sin that necessitated such a sacrifice. Theological Implications Theologically, the concept of being marred is closely tied to the doctrine of sin and redemption. Humanity, created in the image of God, became marred through sin, resulting in spiritual death and separation from God. However, through the redemptive work of Christ, believers are offered the opportunity to be restored and transformed into the likeness of Christ. The imagery of being marred also speaks to the ongoing process of sanctification in the life of a believer. Just as the potter reshapes the marred clay, God works in the lives of His people to mold them into vessels of honor, fit for His purposes. This process involves the removal of impurities and the refining of character, ultimately leading to spiritual maturity and Christlikeness. In summary, the biblical concept of being marred serves as a powerful metaphor for the effects of sin and the hope of redemption. It highlights the brokenness of humanity and the transformative power of God's grace, offering a message of hope and restoration to all who turn to Him in faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Mar.Strong's Hebrew 4893. mishchath -- corruption (ceremonial)... corruption, marred Or moshchath {mosh-khawth'}; from shachath; disfigurement -- corruption, marred. see HEBREW shachath. 4892, 4893. mishchath. 4893a . ... /hebrew/4893.htm - 5k 4893b. mishchath -- disfigurement (of face) Library The Evil Spirit Has Marred the Purity of the Soul from the Very ... Jesus, the Great Object of Astonishment. General Consistency of the Apostle. The Christian Man The Best Beloved There is a Presumption in Favor of the Bible Chapter five His Humiliation Predicted. The King in his Beauty Blessed is He who Atoned Your Sins, that Ye Might Receive his Body ... Thesaurus Marred (7 Occurrences)...Marred (7 Occurrences). Exodus 21:26 And if a man strike the eye of his bondman or the eye of his handmaid, and it be marred, he shall let him go for his eye. ... /m/marred.htm - 8k Visage (4 Occurrences) Vowing (4 Occurrences) Zacchaeus (3 Occurrences) Newness (2 Occurrences) Unlike (13 Occurrences) Waistcloth (9 Occurrences) Whensoever (13 Occurrences) Waistband (15 Occurrences) Remade (1 Occurrence) Resources Why is Jesus referred to as a man of sorrows in Isaiah 53:3? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is life so hard? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about child sexual abuse? | GotQuestions.org Marred: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Marred (7 Occurrences)Exodus 21:26 Proverbs 23:8 Isaiah 52:14 Jeremiah 13:7 Jeremiah 18:4 Nahum 2:2 Malachi 1:14 Subtopics Related Terms Marriage-feasts (6 Occurrences) |
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