Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Mutilation refers to the act of inflicting serious damage or alteration to the body, often resulting in disfigurement or loss of function. In biblical terms, mutilation is generally viewed negatively, as it is seen as a violation of the body, which is considered a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The concept of mutilation can be both physical and spiritual, with implications for how believers are to treat their bodies and their faith. Old Testament References: The Old Testament law contains specific prohibitions against self-mutilation. In Leviticus 19:28, the Israelites are commanded, "You must not make any cuts in your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD." This command is part of a broader set of laws intended to distinguish the Israelites from surrounding pagan cultures, which often practiced self-mutilation as part of religious rituals. Deuteronomy 14:1 further reinforces this prohibition: "You are the children of the LORD your God; do not cut yourselves or shave your foreheads on behalf of the dead." These practices were associated with mourning rituals among pagan nations, and the Israelites were called to a different standard, reflecting their unique covenant relationship with God. New Testament References: In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of mutilation in a spiritual context. In Philippians 3:2, he warns, "Watch out for those dogs, those workers of evil, those mutilators of the flesh!" Here, Paul is referring to the Judaizers, who insisted that Gentile converts to Christianity must undergo circumcision to be saved. Paul contrasts this physical act with the true circumcision of the heart, which is a spiritual transformation through faith in Christ. Galatians 5:12 also contains a strong statement from Paul regarding those who were troubling the Galatian church with similar teachings: "As for those who are agitating you, I wish they would proceed to emasculate themselves!" This hyperbolic language underscores Paul's vehement opposition to any teaching that adds human works to the grace of the Gospel. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the biblical stance against mutilation underscores the sanctity of the human body as created by God. The body is not to be altered or harmed in ways that reflect pagan practices or legalistic distortions of the faith. Instead, believers are called to honor God with their bodies, recognizing them as instruments of righteousness (Romans 6:13). Furthermore, the New Testament emphasis on spiritual circumcision highlights the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. It is not outward rituals or physical alterations that define one's relationship with God, but a heart that is surrendered to Him and transformed by His grace. Cultural and Historical Considerations: In the ancient Near Eastern context, mutilation was often linked to religious practices and rites of passage. The biblical prohibitions served to set the Israelites apart from these practices, emphasizing their distinct identity as God's chosen people. In the early church, the debate over circumcision and other Jewish customs was a significant issue, as the Gospel spread to Gentile communities. The apostolic teaching consistently affirmed that salvation is by grace through faith, not by adherence to the law or physical rituals. Practical Application: For contemporary believers, the biblical teaching on mutilation encourages a respect for the body as God's creation. It also serves as a reminder to avoid legalism and to focus on the inward transformation that comes through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Christians are called to live in a way that reflects their identity as children of God, honoring Him in both body and spirit. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v.) To disfigure; to cripple; to deprive an important part.2. (a.) Having finlike appendages or flukes instead of legs, as a cetacean. 3. (n.) A cetacean, or a sirenian. 4. (v. t.) To cut off or remove a limb or essential part of; to maim; to cripple; to hack; as, to mutilate the body, a statue, etc. 5. (v. t.) To destroy or remove a material part of, so as to render imperfect; as, to mutilate the orations of Cicero. Greek 609. apokopto -- to cut off ... Spelling: (ap-ok-op'-to) Short Definition: I smite, cut off, emasculate Definition: I smite, cut off, cut loose; mid: I emasculate, castrate, mutilate myself. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/609.htm - 6k 2856. koloboo -- to curtail 2849. kolazo -- to chastise Library St. Ambrose, Treating of the Words in the Gospel Concerning ... Prophets and the Prophet The Canons of the Holy and Altogether August Apostles. Galatians Chapter V. The Malignity and Folly of Satan. Apostrophe to Satan. Appendix (E). Increasing Progression of Enthusiasm and of Exaltation. Epistle xi. --To Hermammon. The Next Petition Is, Forgive us Our Debts. ... Thesaurus Mutilate (3 Occurrences)... 4. (vt) To cut off or remove a limb or essential part of; to maim; to cripple; to hack; as, to mutilate the body, a statue, etc. ...Mutilate (3 Occurrences). ... /m/mutilate.htm - 7k Cutting (178 Occurrences) Cut (616 Occurrences) Unsettling (2 Occurrences) Murder (41 Occurrences) Mutilated (3 Occurrences) Muth-labben (1 Occurrence) Maim (4 Occurrences) Shave (19 Occurrences) Beard (23 Occurrences) Resources Did Jesus mean we should literally pluck out our eyes and cut off our hands in Matthew 5:29-30 and 18:8-9? | GotQuestions.orgMutilate: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mutilate (3 Occurrences)Galatians 5:12 Philippians 3:2 Leviticus 19:27 Subtopics Related Terms |