Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Seizing, in a biblical context, refers to the act of taking possession or control of something or someone, often by force or authority. This concept appears in various narratives and teachings throughout the Bible, illustrating both physical and spiritual dimensions of seizing. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, seizing is often associated with military conquests and divine judgment. For instance, the Israelites were commanded to seize the Promised Land from its inhabitants. In Deuteronomy 7:1-2 , God instructs Israel: "When the LORD your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess, and He drives out before you many nations... you must devote them to complete destruction." This seizing of land was seen as fulfilling God's promise and executing His judgment. Another example is found in the account of David and Bathsheba. In 2 Samuel 11, King David seizes Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, which leads to a series of tragic events. This narrative highlights the moral and spiritual consequences of seizing what is not rightfully one's own. New Testament References In the New Testament, the concept of seizing takes on a more spiritual dimension. Jesus speaks of the Kingdom of Heaven being seized by force in Matthew 11:12 : "From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subject to violence, and the violent lay claim to it." This passage suggests a fervent pursuit of God's kingdom, emphasizing the urgency and determination required to enter it. The Apostle Paul also uses the imagery of seizing in a spiritual context. In Philippians 3:12 , he writes, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been perfected, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Here, seizing is portrayed as an active pursuit of spiritual maturity and fulfillment of one's divine calling. Theological Implications Seizing, as depicted in the Bible, often involves a tension between human ambition and divine will. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's actions with God's purposes. The narratives of seizing land, power, or spiritual blessings underscore the necessity of discernment and obedience to God's commands. In a spiritual sense, believers are encouraged to seize the opportunities for growth and service that God provides. This involves a proactive faith that seeks to lay hold of God's promises and live out His calling with zeal and commitment. Moral and Ethical Considerations The act of seizing, particularly when done unjustly or without divine sanction, is often portrayed negatively in Scripture. It serves as a caution against covetousness, greed, and the misuse of power. The account of Ahab and Naboth's vineyard in 1 Kings 21 illustrates the destructive consequences of seizing what belongs to another, leading to divine judgment. Conversely, seizing in accordance with God's will is depicted as a righteous act. The conquest of Canaan, when done in obedience to God's command, is seen as fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel. Conclusion The biblical concept of seizing encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions, highlighting the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will. Whether in the context of land, power, or spiritual blessings, seizing serves as a reminder of the need for discernment, obedience, and a fervent pursuit of God's purposes. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Seize.2. (n.) The act of taking or grasping suddenly. 3. (n.) The operation of fastening together or lashing. 4. (n.) The cord or lashing used for such fastening. Greek 725. harpagmos -- the act of seizing or the thing seized ... the act of seizing or the thing seized. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: harpagmos Phonetic Spelling: (har-pag-mos') Short Definition: spoil, an ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/725.htm - 6k 4813. sulao -- to plunder 2776. kephale -- the head 1949. epilambanomai -- to lay hold of 1805. exagorazo -- to buy up, ie ransom, fig. to rescue from loss 726. harpazo -- to seize, catch up, snatch away 4084. piazo -- to lay hold of, to take Library How those are to be Admonished who Desire not the Things of Others ... The Nailing of Jesus to the Cross. That Evening Vergilius Went to Feast with the Young Herodian ... How to be Admonished are those who Give Away what is their Own ... Jesus Drives Out the Money-Changers. 2 Timothy iv. 13-Sep The Mystery Sunday after Ascension Day An unconscionable time a-dying And on the Following Day, the Fourth Day of the Week... Thesaurus Seizing (7 Occurrences)... 3. (n.) The operation of fastening together or lashing. 4. (n.) The cord or lashing used for such fastening. Multi-Version Concordance Seizing (7 Occurrences). ... /s/seizing.htm - 8k Grasp (20 Occurrences) In (142459 Occurrences) Catch (46 Occurrences) Apprehension (3 Occurrences) Seizure (1 Occurrence) Vesture (10 Occurrences) Vine (76 Occurrences) Nip (1 Occurrence) Nearly (13 Occurrences) Resources Is carpe diem something a Christian should live by? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was John the Baptist beheaded? | GotQuestions.org What is the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2)? | GotQuestions.org Seizing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Seizing (7 Occurrences)Matthew 11:12 Matthew 18:28 Acts 3:7 Acts 21:30 Romans 7:8 Romans 7:11 Hebrews 10:34 Subtopics Related Terms |