Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the concept of "smolder" is often associated with the imagery of fire, wrath, and judgment. The term itself refers to a slow, smoky burn without a flame, symbolizing a lingering or suppressed anger or divine displeasure. This imagery is used throughout the Bible to convey the intensity and persistence of God's judgment or the simmering anger of individuals.Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently uses fire as a metaphor for God's presence, judgment, and purification. While the specific term "smolder" may not appear directly in many translations, the concept is evident in passages describing God's wrath or the consequences of sin. For example, in Deuteronomy 29:20 , it is written, "The LORD will never be willing to forgive him; instead, His anger and jealousy will smolder against that man, and every curse written in this book will fall upon him. The LORD will blot out his name from under heaven." Here, the smoldering anger of God signifies a continuous and unrelenting divine judgment against disobedience. In Isaiah 65:5 , the prophet speaks of those who provoke God to anger, saying, "Keep to yourself; do not come near me, for I am holier than you! These people are smoke in My nostrils, a fire that burns all day long." The imagery of smoke and fire suggests a persistent irritation and anger that smolders, reflecting God's displeasure with the arrogance and hypocrisy of the people. New Testament Context While the New Testament focuses more on the themes of grace and redemption, the imagery of smoldering fire is still present, particularly in the context of judgment. In Matthew 12:20 , quoting Isaiah, it is said of the Messiah, "A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish, till He leads justice to victory." This passage highlights the compassionate and patient nature of Christ, who does not quench the faintest hope or faith, represented by the smoldering wick, until justice is fully realized. Theological Implications The concept of smoldering in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment. It underscores the idea that God's anger, while patient and long-suffering, is not to be taken lightly. The smoldering fire represents a warning of the potential for full-blown judgment if repentance and reconciliation are not sought. Moreover, the imagery of smoldering also conveys hope and redemption. Just as a smoldering wick is not extinguished, there is always the possibility of rekindling faith and restoring one's relationship with God through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. This dual aspect of judgment and mercy is central to the biblical narrative, emphasizing both the justice and the grace of God. In summary, the biblical use of "smolder" serves as a vivid metaphor for divine anger and judgment, while also offering a message of hope and redemption for those who turn back to God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) Alt. of Smoulder.2. (v. t.) Alt. of Smoulder. Greek 5188. tupho -- to raise smoke ... to raise smoke. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: tupho Phonetic Spelling: (too'-fo) Short Definition: I raise smoke Definition: I raise smoke, smolder. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5188.htm - 6k Thesaurus Smolder (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Smolder (2 Occurrences). ... God, why have you rejected us forever? Why does your anger smolder against the sheep of your pasture? ... /s/smolder.htm - 7k Smoking (9 Occurrences) Contemplation (11 Occurrences) Smoldering (4 Occurrences) Asaph (47 Occurrences) Rejected (96 Occurrences) Pasture (120 Occurrences) Resources Smolder: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Smolder (2 Occurrences)Psalms 74:1 Psalms 80:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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