Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage: The term "miscarry" refers to the premature end of a pregnancy, resulting in the loss of the unborn child. In biblical times, this was a significant event, often seen as a profound personal and communal tragedy. The Bible addresses the concept of miscarriage in various contexts, reflecting both the physical and spiritual dimensions of this experience. Biblical References: 1. Exodus 21:22-25 : "If men who are fighting strike a pregnant woman and her child is born prematurely, but there is no further injury, he shall surely be fined as the woman’s husband demands and as the court allows. But if a serious injury results, then you must require a life for a life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, and stripe for stripe." This passage is part of the Mosaic Law and addresses the consequences of causing a miscarriage through violence. The text distinguishes between a premature birth without further harm and one that results in serious injury or death, indicating the value placed on both the mother and the unborn child. 2. Hosea 9:14 : "Give them, O LORD—what will You give? Give them wombs that miscarry and breasts that dry up!" In this prophetic text, Hosea speaks of judgment upon Israel for their unfaithfulness. The imagery of miscarrying wombs is used as a metaphor for barrenness and the cessation of blessing, highlighting the severity of divine judgment. 3. Job 3:16 : "Or why was I not hidden like a stillborn child, like an infant who never sees daylight?" Job, in his suffering, laments his birth and wishes he had been a stillborn, expressing the depth of his despair. This reflects the ancient understanding of miscarriage as a hidden, sorrowful event, yet also as a form of escape from earthly suffering. Theological Implications: In the biblical worldview, life is sacred from conception, and the loss of an unborn child is a significant event. The passages that mention miscarriage often do so in the context of justice, judgment, or lament, underscoring the gravity of the loss. The Bible's treatment of miscarriage reflects a deep respect for life and the belief in God's sovereignty over the womb. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israelite society, children were considered a blessing from God, and fertility was highly valued. Miscarriage, therefore, was not only a personal tragedy but also a communal concern. The biblical laws and narratives that address miscarriage reveal the importance of protecting pregnant women and the unborn, as well as the community's role in supporting those who experience such loss. Pastoral Considerations: For those who have experienced miscarriage, the Bible offers both acknowledgment of the pain and the hope of God's presence in suffering. The church is called to provide compassion and support, recognizing the profound grief that accompanies the loss of an unborn child. The biblical witness encourages believers to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, even in the face of such difficult circumstances. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To carry, or go, wrong; to fail of reaching a destination, or fail of the intended effect; to be unsuccessful; to suffer defeat.2. (v. i.) To bring forth young before the proper time. Strong's Hebrew 7921. shakol -- to be bereaved... A primitive root; properly, to miscarry, ie Suffer abortion; by analogy, to bereave (literally or figuratively) -- bereave (of children), barren, cast calf ... /hebrew/7921.htm - 6k Library The Arrest Motives to the Oversight of the Flock part iii The Joint Heirs and their Divine Portion The Intercession of Christ Recommendation. Conviction of Sin. A Religious Person is not Perfect by his Profession. ... These Things Being Said by God, While the Trumpets Uttered their ... But they Ask for Proof of this Presence of the Deity when Invoked ... Thesaurus Miscarry (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Miscarry (4 Occurrences). Exodus 23:26 No one will miscarry or be barren in your land. ... Their cows calve, and don't miscarry. ... /m/miscarry.htm - 7k Abort (1 Occurrence) Loath (2 Occurrences) Founder (5 Occurrences) Rezin (11 Occurrences) Miscarrieth (1 Occurrence) Mates (1 Occurrence) Misfortune (24 Occurrences) Miscarrying (3 Occurrences) Breeds (2 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about miscarriage? | GotQuestions.orgIf God hates abortion, why does He allow miscarriages? | GotQuestions.org Why do babies die? | GotQuestions.org Miscarry: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Miscarry (4 Occurrences)Exodus 23:26 Job 21:10 Hosea 9:14 Malachi 3:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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