Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, a plunderer is one who seizes goods or property by force, often during times of war or conflict. The act of plundering is frequently associated with violence, destruction, and the violation of divine commandments. Throughout the Scriptures, plunderers are depicted as agents of chaos and judgment, often used by God to execute His will, whether as instruments of punishment or as a means to fulfill His promises.Old Testament Context The concept of plundering is prevalent in the Old Testament, where it is often linked to warfare and conquest. In the book of Exodus, the Israelites themselves are commanded to plunder the Egyptians as they prepare to leave Egypt: "The Israelites did as Moses had instructed and asked the Egyptians for articles of silver and gold, and for clothing. And the LORD gave the people such favor in the sight of the Egyptians that they granted their request. In this way they plundered the Egyptians" (Exodus 12:35-36). Here, plundering is portrayed as a divinely sanctioned act, serving as recompense for the years of slavery endured by the Israelites. In contrast, the plundering of Israel by foreign nations is often depicted as a form of divine judgment. For instance, in the book of Judges, the Israelites repeatedly fall into sin, leading God to deliver them into the hands of plunderers: "They forsook the LORD, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt. They followed other gods, the gods of the peoples around them, and bowed down to them. And they provoked the LORD to anger. So He handed them over to raiders who plundered them" (Judges 2:12, 14). Prophetic Warnings The prophets frequently warned of impending plunder as a consequence of Israel's unfaithfulness. In Isaiah, the prophet speaks of a coming day when the wealth of nations will be plundered: "Woe to you, O destroyer never destroyed, O traitor never betrayed! When you finish destroying, you will be destroyed; when you stop betraying, you will be betrayed" (Isaiah 33:1). This passage highlights the cyclical nature of plunder and destruction, emphasizing that those who engage in such acts will ultimately face divine retribution. New Testament Perspective While the New Testament does not focus as heavily on the theme of plundering, it does address the spiritual implications of theft and greed. Jesus warns against storing up treasures on earth, where "moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19). The apostle Paul also admonishes believers to live honestly and to refrain from acts of theft: "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need" (Ephesians 4:28). Moral and Theological Implications From a moral and theological standpoint, plundering is condemned as an act of injustice and a violation of the commandment, "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). It reflects a lack of trust in God's provision and a disregard for the rights and dignity of others. The Bible consistently calls for justice, mercy, and respect for property, urging believers to seek peace and to rely on God's provision rather than resorting to violence and theft. In summary, the concept of the plunderer in the Bible serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of living in accordance with God's commandments. Whether as a tool of divine judgment or a warning against greed and theft, the theme of plundering underscores the need for faithfulness and integrity in the lives of God's people. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who plunders or pillages.Library And on the Following Day, the Fourth Day of the Week... On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xix. 17, "If Thou Wouldest Enter ... Preface to the Book of Hebrew Questions. On Lent, ii. On the Feast of S. Laurence the Martyr (Aug. 10). Not to Participation in Mysteries, Then, and to Fellowship in the ... Of Wisdom, and the Academics, and Natural Philosophy. Matt. Ii. 16 Letter clxii. To Leo Augustus. Letter cxx. To Theodoret, Bishop of Cyrus, on Perseverance in the ... Thesaurus Plunderer (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Plunderer (4 Occurrences). ... Proverbs 6:11 So shall thy poverty come as a roving plunderer, and thy penury as an armed man. (DBY). ... /p/plunderer.htm - 7k Roving (4 Occurrences) Penury (4 Occurrences) Plunderers (9 Occurrences) Plundered (44 Occurrences) Looter (1 Occurrence) Fox (2 Occurrences) Marauder (1 Occurrence) Spoiler (11 Occurrences) Delivering (35 Occurrences) Resources Plunderer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Plunderer (4 Occurrences)Psalms 35:10 Proverbs 6:11 Proverbs 24:34 Isaiah 21:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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