Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, bees are mentioned in a few instances, often symbolizing swiftness, industriousness, and sometimes danger. The reference to bees being "called by hissing" is found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 7:18 : "In that day the LORD will whistle for flies from the distant streams of Egypt and for bees from the land of Assyria." This verse is part of a prophecy delivered by Isaiah, where the Lord uses the imagery of calling bees to illustrate the summoning of foreign nations as instruments of judgment against Israel. The "whistling" or "hissing" signifies a command or signal, indicating the ease and authority with which God can marshal these forces. The bees from Assyria symbolize the impending invasion and the swift, overwhelming nature of the threat. 2. Deuteronomy 1:44 : "Then the Amorites who lived in the hills came out against you; they chased you like a swarm of bees and beat you down from Seir as far as Hormah." Here, the imagery of bees is used to describe the relentless and aggressive pursuit by the Amorites. The comparison to a swarm of bees highlights the intensity and ferocity of the attack, emphasizing the consequences of Israel's disobedience and lack of faith. 3. Psalm 118:12 : "They surrounded me like bees; they were extinguished like burning thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off." In this psalm, the psalmist uses the metaphor of bees to describe the numerous and persistent enemies surrounding him. Despite their numbers and aggression, the psalmist expresses confidence in divine deliverance, as the enemies are ultimately defeated. Symbolism and Interpretation: In biblical symbolism, bees often represent industriousness and community, as seen in their natural behavior. However, in the contexts mentioned, they are primarily used to convey the idea of a formidable and relentless force. The act of "hissing" or "whistling" to summon bees underscores God's sovereign power to command and direct nations according to His purposes. The use of bees in these passages serves as a vivid illustration of the consequences of disobedience and the certainty of divine judgment. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's control over creation and history, where even the smallest creatures can become instruments of His will. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern culture, bees were known for their ability to produce honey, a valuable commodity, and for their painful sting, which made them a symbol of both blessing and danger. The biblical authors, familiar with these characteristics, employed the imagery of bees to communicate messages of warning and judgment effectively. The reference to bees being "called by hissing" aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God's interaction with His people, where natural elements and creatures are often used to convey spiritual truths and divine intentions. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 7:18And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall hiss for the fly that is in the uttermost part of the rivers of Egypt, and for the bee that is in the land of Assyria. Nave's Topical Index Library Andromeda Striking Similes Resources Who is the Artemis mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the purpose of there being rewards in heaven? | GotQuestions.org What is the King James Version (KJV)? | GotQuestions.org Bee: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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