Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "mutilated" often refers to physical alterations or disfigurements, particularly those that are self-inflicted or imposed by others, which are generally viewed negatively within the scriptural narrative. The concept of mutilation is addressed in various passages, reflecting both physical and spiritual dimensions.Old Testament Context The Old Testament law explicitly prohibits certain forms of physical mutilation, especially those associated with pagan practices. 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 prohibition underscores the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the body, which is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Deuteronomy 23:1 further addresses physical mutilation in the context of religious and communal participation: "No man with crushed or severed genitals may enter the assembly of the LORD." This regulation highlights the importance of wholeness and integrity in those who participate in the worship and community life of Israel. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of mutilation is addressed in a spiritual sense. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, warns against those who promote circumcision as necessary for salvation, referring to them as "mutilators of the flesh" (Philippians 3:2). Paul emphasizes that true circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, rather than a physical act (Romans 2:29). Jesus also speaks metaphorically about self-mutilation in the context of avoiding sin. In Matthew 5:29-30 , He states, "If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell." This hyperbolic language underscores the seriousness of sin and the lengths to which one should go to avoid it, though it is not an endorsement of literal self-harm. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the biblical stance against mutilation reflects the belief in the inherent dignity and sanctity of the human body. The body is seen as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and thus, any form of mutilation that defaces or disrespects this temple is contrary to God's design and purpose. Furthermore, the spiritual application of the concept, as seen in the New Testament, emphasizes the transformation of the heart and mind over physical alterations. The focus is on inner purity and holiness, aligning with the broader biblical theme of redemption and sanctification through Christ. Cultural and Historical Considerations In the ancient Near Eastern context, mutilation was sometimes practiced as a form of punishment or as part of religious rituals. The biblical prohibitions against such practices served to distinguish the Israelites from surrounding nations and to uphold a standard of holiness and reverence for God's creation. Overall, the biblical treatment of mutilation, both physical and spiritual, serves as a reminder of the value God places on the human body and the call to live in a manner that honors Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Mutilate.Strong's Hebrew 1795. dakkah -- a crushing... wounded. From dakah like dakka'; mutilated -- + wounded. see HEBREW dakah. see HEBREW dakka'. 1794, 1795. dakkah. 1796 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/1795.htm - 6k Library Our Bodies, However Mutilated Before or after Death, Shall Recover ... And Let not Celsus be Angry if we Describe as Lame and Mutilated ... Harmony of the Church and the Scriptures Heretics have Tampered ... By the Rule of Antiquity, the Catholic Gospels are Found to be ... St. Luke's Gospel, Selected by Marcion as his Authority, and ... The Epistle to Philemon this Epistle not Mutilated. Marcion's ... Concerning the Abomination of the Sacred Rites of the Great Mother ... Chapter i. The Case of the Last Twelve Verses of S. Mark's Gospel, Stated. That the Stoics Transfer the Figments of the Poets to a ... Thesaurus Mutilated (3 Occurrences)...Mutilated (3 Occurrences). ... (See RSV). Deuteronomy 23:1 He that is wounded or mutilated in his secrets, shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD. (WBS). ... /m/mutilated.htm - 7k Eunuch (20 Occurrences) Mutilation (1 Occurrence) Maimed (10 Occurrences) Lud (10 Occurrences) Ludim (3 Occurrences) Restore (122 Occurrences) Eriaku Eri-aku Mutilate (3 Occurrences) Resources Why do some cultures practice female genital mutilation (FGM)? | GotQuestions.orgMutilated: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mutilated (3 Occurrences)Leviticus 21:18 Leviticus 22:22 Deuteronomy 23:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |