Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "raved" is not directly found in the Bible as a standalone word. However, it can be associated with instances of ecstatic or frenzied behavior, often linked to prophetic or spiritual experiences. The word "rave" in modern English can mean to speak wildly or incoherently, often under the influence of strong emotion or excitement. Biblical Context: In the Bible, instances of behavior that might be described as "raving" are often associated with prophetic activity or spiritual possession. The Hebrew prophets, for example, sometimes exhibited behavior that could be considered ecstatic or frenzied as they delivered messages from God. This behavior was sometimes misunderstood by onlookers. Old Testament References: One notable example is found in the account of Saul, the first king of Israel. In 1 Samuel 10:10-11 , it is recorded that when Saul encountered a group of prophets, "the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he prophesied along with them." The people who knew Saul were surprised and questioned, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" This incident suggests a sudden and intense spiritual experience that might be described as raving. Another example is the confrontation between Elijah and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. In 1 Kings 18:28-29 , the prophets of Baal "raved all afternoon until the time of the evening sacrifice, but there was no response, no one answered, no one paid attention." Here, the term "raved" is used to describe the frenzied and desperate actions of the false prophets as they attempted to invoke their god. New Testament References: In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of ecstatic speech and behavior in the context of spiritual gifts. In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul provides guidelines for the orderly use of the gift of tongues and prophecy in the church, emphasizing that God is a God of order, not confusion. While the term "raved" is not used, the underlying principle is that spiritual experiences should edify the church and be conducted in a manner that is understandable and beneficial to all. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the concept of raving in a biblical context raises questions about the nature of spiritual experiences and the discernment of true prophetic activity. The Bible acknowledges that genuine encounters with the divine can be intense and overwhelming, but it also warns against false prophets and deceptive spirits. Believers are encouraged to test the spirits (1 John 4:1) and to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in discerning truth from falsehood. Historical and Cultural Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, ecstatic behavior was often associated with religious rituals and the activities of prophets or seers. The biblical narrative distinguishes between true prophets of Yahweh, who spoke under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and false prophets, who engaged in frenzied behavior without divine sanction. Practical Application: For contemporary believers, the concept of raving serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment in spiritual matters. While genuine spiritual experiences can be powerful and transformative, they should align with biblical truth and contribute to the edification of the church. Christians are called to exercise spiritual gifts with wisdom and love, ensuring that all things are done decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Rave.Strong's Hebrew 5012. naba -- to prophesy... Word Origin denominative verb from nabi Definition to prophesy NASB Word Usage prophesied (31), prophesies (8), prophesy (55), prophesying (19), raved (2). ... /hebrew/5012.htm - 6k Library Reaping the Whirlwind. The Exordium. Early Days Before Egypt's Throne Here Beginneth the History of Noah How and in what Time I came to Solitary Life: and of the Song of ... "Above the Faith is no Goodness Kept in this Life, as to My Sight ... "All was Closed, and I Saw no More. " "For the Folly of Feeling a ... The Immortality of the Soul is Confirmed. After what Manner Upon the Death of Claudius, Nero Succeeded in ... Thesaurus Raved (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Rave. Multi-Version Concordance Raved (2 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 18:10 And it came to pass ... /r/raved.htm - 7k Rave (1 Occurrence) Raven (7 Occurrences) Resources Raved: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Raved (2 Occurrences)1 Samuel 18:10 1 Kings 18:29 Subtopics Related Terms |