Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of a scar is often symbolic, representing both physical and spiritual realities. While the term "scar" itself is not frequently mentioned in the Bible, the idea of a mark or wound that leaves a lasting impression is prevalent throughout Scripture. Scars can signify healing, remembrance, and the consequences of sin or divine intervention.Physical Scars Physical scars in the Bible are often the result of wounds or injuries, which can serve as reminders of past events or divine encounters. For instance, the Apostle Paul speaks of bearing the "marks of Jesus" on his body in Galatians 6:17 : "From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus." These marks, or scars, are believed to be the result of the persecution and suffering he endured for the sake of the Gospel, symbolizing his dedication and union with Christ. Spiritual and Symbolic Scars Scars also carry a spiritual and symbolic significance in Scripture. They can represent the consequences of sin or the process of spiritual healing and restoration. In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah speaks of the suffering servant, a messianic figure who is "pierced for our transgressions" and "crushed for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:5). The wounds and scars of this servant are seen as a means of bringing healing and redemption to others. In the New Testament, the resurrected Jesus appears to His disciples and shows them the scars from His crucifixion. In John 20:27 , Jesus invites Thomas to touch His wounds: "Then He said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here and look at My hands. Reach out your hand and put it into My side. Stop doubting and believe.'" These scars serve as proof of His identity and the reality of His resurrection, offering assurance and faith to His followers. Scars as Reminders Scars can also function as reminders of God's faithfulness and deliverance. In the account of Jacob, after wrestling with God, he is left with a limp, a physical reminder of his encounter with the divine (Genesis 32:24-31). This limp, akin to a scar, signifies both the struggle and the blessing he received, marking a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. Theological Implications Theologically, scars can be understood as part of the human experience of suffering and redemption. They remind believers of the cost of sin and the grace of God in providing healing and restoration. Scars, whether physical or spiritual, testify to the transformative power of God's love and the hope of new life in Christ. In summary, while the Bible does not frequently mention scars explicitly, the concept is woven throughout its narrative, illustrating themes of suffering, healing, and divine encounter. Scars serve as powerful symbols of the enduring impact of God's work in the lives of His people. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A mark in the skin or flesh of an animal, made by a wound or ulcer, and remaining after the wound or ulcer is healed; a cicatrix; a mark left by a previous injury; a blemish; a disfigurement.2. (n.) A mark left upon a stem or branch by the fall of a leaf, leaflet, or frond, or upon a seed by the separation of its support. 3. (v. t.) To mark with a scar or scars. 4. (v. i.) To form a scar. 5. (n.) An isolated or protruding rock; a steep, rocky eminence; a bare place on the side of a mountain or steep bank of earth. 6. (n.) A marine food fish, the scarus, or parrot fish. Greek 5179. tupos -- typically ... From tupto; a die (as struck), ie (by implication) a stamp or scar; by analogy, a shape, ie A statue, (figuratively) style or resemblance; specially, a sampler ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5179.htm - 7k 4742. stigma -- a bed of leaves or rushes Strong's Hebrew 6867. tsarebeth -- scab, scar (of a sore)... 6866b, 6867. tsarebeth. 6868 . scab, scar (of a sore). Transliteration: tsarebeth Phonetic Spelling: (tsaw-reh'-beth) Short Definition: scar. ... /hebrew/6867.htm - 6k 4348. mikvah -- a burnt spot, scar of a burn 3587. ki -- a burning, branding Library The Scar-Marks of Surrender. Earth's Ugliest, Deepest Scar. Love, the Motive Power for Service. Of what Kind we are to Reckon the Rest (Requies), and End (Finis) ... The Consequences of Sin. Forgiveness and Retribution. The Glory of the Goal, --Face to Face Psalm LXXV. Fragrant Spices from the Mountains of Myrrh. "Thou Art all Fair ... The Tests of Love to God Thesaurus Scar (3 Occurrences)... support. 3. (vt) To mark with a scar or scars. 4. (vi) To form a scar. 5 ... fish. Multi-Version Concordance Scar (3 Occurrences). Leviticus ... /s/scar.htm - 8k Unchanged (11 Occurrences) Stays (21 Occurrences) Seam (3 Occurrences) Mark (182 Occurrences) Pronounce (47 Occurrences) Bright (85 Occurrences) Spot (42 Occurrences) Scarce (6 Occurrences) Remains (118 Occurrences) Resources What was the mark that God put on Cain (Genesis 4:15)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to have a seared conscience? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about body piercings? | GotQuestions.org Scar: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Scar (3 Occurrences)Leviticus 13:23 Leviticus 13:28 Hosea 5:13 Subtopics Related Terms |