The term "ruineth" is an archaic form of the verb "ruin," which means to destroy or bring to a state of decay or disrepair. In the context of the Bible, "ruineth" is often used to describe the destructive consequences of sin, disobedience, or divine judgment. The concept of ruin is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, illustrating the moral and spiritual decay that results from turning away from God's commandments.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Moral and Spiritual Decay: The Bible frequently uses the concept of ruin to depict the moral and spiritual decline that occurs when individuals or nations forsake God. This is evident in the prophetic books, where the prophets warn Israel and Judah of impending ruin due to their idolatry and unfaithfulness. For example, in Jeremiah 18:11 , God warns, "Behold, I am fashioning a disaster against you and devising a plan against you. Turn now, each of you, from your evil ways, and correct your ways and deeds."

2. Divine Judgment: Ruin is often portrayed as a consequence of divine judgment. The destruction of cities such as Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a stark reminder of the ruin that befalls those who persist in wickedness. In Genesis 19:24-25 , it is recorded, "Then the LORD rained down sulfur and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the LORD out of the heavens. Thus He overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all the inhabitants of the cities and everything that grew on the ground."

3. Physical Destruction: The term also applies to the physical destruction of structures and cities. The fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple are significant events that symbolize both physical and spiritual ruin. In Lamentations 1:1 , the lamenter cries, "How lonely lies the city, once so full of people! She who was great among the nations has become like a widow. The princess among the provinces has become a slave."

4. Personal Consequences: On a personal level, ruin can describe the downfall of individuals who reject wisdom and righteousness. Proverbs 11:3 states, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them." This highlights the self-destructive nature of sin and the ruin it brings to one's life.

5. Restoration and Hope: Despite the theme of ruin, the Bible also offers hope for restoration. God's promises of redemption and renewal are woven throughout the narrative, offering a path from ruin to restoration for those who repent and turn back to Him. Isaiah 61:4 speaks of this hope: "They will rebuild the ancient ruins; they will restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities, the desolations of many generations."

Theological Implications

The concept of ruin in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience to God. It underscores the reality of divine judgment while simultaneously pointing to the hope of redemption and restoration through God's grace. The narrative of ruin and restoration is central to the biblical message, emphasizing the need for repentance and the transformative power of God's love and mercy.

The Motives to this Oversight
... and disposition, that he will be sure to find advantages within you, and make your
own principles and inclinations betray you; and whenever he ruineth you, he ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 2 the motives to.htm

2 Cor. Ix. 1
... What forgiveness doth this deserve, yea, how great a punishment doth it not deserve,
when he indeed bestoweth so much upon her that ruineth and shameth him ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily xix 2 cor ix.htm

Ruineth (1 Occurrence)
...Ruineth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 19:26 He that ruineth his father and chaseth away
his mother is a son that causeth shame and bringeth reproach. (DBY). ...
/r/ruineth.htm - 6k

Ruining (2 Occurrences)

/r/ruining.htm - 7k

Ruined (65 Occurrences)

/r/ruined.htm - 25k

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