Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Prisoning in biblical times refers to the act of confining individuals as a form of punishment or detainment. Prisons were often rudimentary, consisting of pits, dungeons, or guarded rooms. The concept of imprisonment is seen throughout the Bible, serving as both a literal and metaphorical element in the narrative of God's people. Old Testament References: In the Old Testament, imprisonment is mentioned in various contexts. Joseph, the son of Jacob, is one of the earliest figures to experience imprisonment. After being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, Joseph is cast into prison, where he remains until he interprets Pharaoh's dreams (Genesis 39:20-23). This account highlights God's providence and the eventual elevation of Joseph to a position of power in Egypt. The prophet Jeremiah also faced imprisonment for his prophecies against Jerusalem. King Zedekiah confined him in the court of the guard, yet Jeremiah continued to deliver God's messages (Jeremiah 32:2-3). This illustrates the theme of faithfulness to God's word despite persecution. New Testament References: In the New Testament, imprisonment becomes a significant aspect of the early Christian experience. John the Baptist is imprisoned by Herod Antipas for condemning Herod's unlawful marriage (Matthew 14:3-4). His imprisonment and subsequent execution underscore the cost of prophetic truth-telling. The Apostle Paul frequently encountered imprisonment during his missionary journeys. In Philippi, Paul and Silas were imprisoned after casting out a spirit from a slave girl. Despite their chains, they prayed and sang hymns, leading to a miraculous earthquake that opened the prison doors (Acts 16:23-26). This event not only demonstrates God's power but also results in the conversion of the jailer and his household. Paul's letters, often written from prison, reflect his unwavering commitment to the Gospel. In his epistle to the Philippians, he writes, "Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel" (Philippians 1:12). His imprisonment becomes a means of spreading the Christian message, showing that God's purposes can prevail even in dire circumstances. Theological Significance: Prisoning in the Bible often serves as a test of faith and character. It is a place where God's servants are refined and where His power is made manifest. The experiences of biblical figures in prison highlight themes of divine deliverance, perseverance, and the transformative power of faith. Moreover, imprisonment is used metaphorically to describe spiritual bondage and liberation. Jesus proclaims His mission to "proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed" (Luke 4:18). This declaration emphasizes the spiritual freedom found in Christ, contrasting the physical confinement experienced by many of His followers. Conclusion: While the Bible presents prisoning as a reality faced by many of God's servants, it also reveals the greater truth of spiritual freedom and redemption. Through the trials of imprisonment, believers are called to trust in God's sovereignty and to witness His power at work in their lives. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Prison.Thesaurus Prisoning (1 Occurrence)...Prisoning (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 3:25 But see, O son of man, I will put bands on you, prisoning you in them, and you will not go out among them: (BBE). ... /p/prisoning.htm - 6k Prisons (7 Occurrences) Prison-houses (1 Occurrence) Wrapped (40 Occurrences) Hollow (35 Occurrences) Cloak (73 Occurrences) Resources Prisoning: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Prisoning (1 Occurrence)Ezekiel 3:25 Subtopics Related Terms |
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