Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "snare" is often used metaphorically to describe traps or pitfalls that can lead individuals away from righteousness and into sin or danger. The concept of a snare is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing the deceptive and entangling nature of sin and the devices of the wicked.Old Testament References 1. Physical and Spiritual Dangers: The Old Testament frequently uses the imagery of a snare to describe both physical and spiritual dangers. In Exodus 23:33, God warns the Israelites about the inhabitants of the Promised Land: "They must not remain in your land, lest they cause you to sin against Me. For if you serve their gods, it will surely be a snare to you." Here, the snare represents the temptation to idolatry and the spiritual peril it poses. 2. The Devices of the Wicked: The Psalms often speak of snares in the context of the schemes of the wicked. Psalm 140:5 states, "The proud have hidden a snare for me; they have spread out the cords of their net and set traps along my path." This verse highlights the malicious intent of the wicked to entrap the righteous. 3. Warnings Against Idolatry: In Deuteronomy 7:16, the Israelites are cautioned against idolatry: "You must destroy all the peoples the LORD your God delivers to you. Do not look on them with pity, and do not serve their gods, for that will be a snare to you." The snare here is the allure of foreign gods and the spiritual compromise it entails. New Testament References 1. The Snare of Riches: In the New Testament, snares are often associated with the dangers of wealth and materialism. 1 Timothy 6:9 warns, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction." The snare is the seductive power of wealth that can lead to spiritual downfall. 2. The Devil's Trap: The Apostle Paul, in his pastoral epistles, speaks of the snare of the devil. In 2 Timothy 2:26, he writes about those who have been led astray: "Then they will come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will." This passage underscores the spiritual captivity that results from falling into Satan's traps. 3. The Pharisees' Attempts to Ensnare Jesus: The Gospels recount instances where the Pharisees and other religious leaders attempted to ensnare Jesus with their questions. In Matthew 22:15, it is written, "Then the Pharisees went out and plotted to trap Jesus in His words." Their intent was to entangle Him in His speech to discredit Him. Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the concept of snares in the context of wisdom and folly. Proverbs 29:25 states, "The fear of man is a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is set securely on high." This verse contrasts the entrapment of fearing human opinion with the security found in trusting God. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, the imagery of a snare serves as a powerful warning against the various forms of temptation and deception that can lead individuals away from God's path. Whether through the allure of idolatry, the pursuit of wealth, or the schemes of the wicked, the snare is a reminder of the vigilance required to maintain spiritual integrity and faithfulness to God. Nave's Topical Index Amos 3:5Can a bird fall in a snare on the earth, where no gin is for him? shall one take up a snare from the earth, and have taken nothing at all? Nave's Topical Index Library Snares of Satan. Snares of Satan And Judas Iscariot General Index. Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... The Book of Humanity The Teacher with Authority The Life of Sir Rob^T. Hamilton of Preston. Letter xi. --For 339. Coss. Constantius Augustus ii, Constans I ... 2 Timothy ii. 20, 21 Resources How is the fear of man a snare (Proverbs 29:25)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the biblical punishment for adultery? | GotQuestions.org Is it true that fear is a liar? | GotQuestions.org Snare: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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