Topical Encyclopedia The act of stabbing, while not frequently mentioned explicitly in the Bible, is related to the broader themes of violence, murder, and betrayal, which are addressed throughout the Scriptures. The Bible provides numerous accounts and teachings that reflect on the nature of violence and the moral implications of such actions.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the act of stabbing can be associated with murder and treachery. One of the earliest examples of violence is found in the account of Cain and Abel, where Cain kills his brother Abel out of jealousy (Genesis 4:8). Although the method of murder is not specified as stabbing, the act of taking a life is condemned, setting a precedent for the sanctity of life. The Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites, includes commandments that prohibit murder. Exodus 20:13 states, "You shall not murder," emphasizing the value God places on human life. The law further elaborates on the consequences of violent acts, including those that result in death, as seen in Numbers 35:16-21, which discusses the cities of refuge and the distinction between accidental and intentional killing. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the theme of violence and betrayal is poignantly illustrated in the account of Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. While the Gospels do not describe Jesus being stabbed during His arrest, they do recount the betrayal by Judas Iscariot, which led to His crucifixion. This act of betrayal is a form of spiritual "stabbing," as Judas' actions were a deep personal betrayal of trust and love. The physical act of stabbing is mentioned in the context of Jesus' crucifixion. John 19:34 records, "Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out." This piercing, while not a stabbing in the traditional sense, is a significant moment that fulfills Old Testament prophecy and symbolizes the sacrificial nature of Christ's death. Moral and Ethical Implications The Bible consistently teaches against violence and murder, advocating for peace and reconciliation. Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount elevate the commandment against murder to include anger and hatred in one's heart (Matthew 5:21-22). This teaching underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of violence, such as anger and malice, which can lead to acts like stabbing. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, also emphasizes the call to live peaceably with others. Romans 12:18 advises, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This exhortation reflects the Christian ethic of non-violence and the pursuit of harmony in relationships. Symbolic and Spiritual Interpretations In a symbolic sense, stabbing can represent betrayal and the breaking of trust. The betrayal of Jesus by Judas is a profound example of how spiritual "stabbing" can occur through deceit and disloyalty. Christians are called to be faithful and trustworthy, reflecting the character of Christ in their interactions with others. The Bible's teachings on violence, murder, and betrayal serve as a guide for believers to pursue righteousness, peace, and love in their lives, avoiding actions that harm others physically or spiritually. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To pierce with a pointed weapon; to wound or kill by the thrust of a pointed instrument; as, to stab a man with a dagger; also, to thrust; as, to stab a dagger into a person.2. (v. t.) Fig.: To injure secretly or by malicious falsehood or slander; as, to stab a person's reputation. 3. (v. i.) To give a wound with a pointed weapon; to pierce; to thrust with a pointed weapon. 4. (v. i.) To wound or pain, as if with a pointed weapon. 5. (n.) The thrust of a pointed weapon. 6. (n.) A wound with a sharp-pointed weapon; as, to fall by the stab an assassin. 7. (n.) Fig.: An injury inflicted covertly or suddenly; as, a stab given to character. Greek 3572. nusso -- to pierce ... to pierce. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: nusso Phonetic Spelling: (noos'-so) Short Definition: I prick, pierce, stab Definition: I prick, pierce. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3572.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 4094a. madqarah -- a piercing, stab, thrust... 4094, 4094a. madqarah. 4094b . a piercing, stab, thrust. Transliteration: madqarah Short Definition: thrusts. Word Origin from daqar ... /hebrew/4094a.htm - 5k 4094. madqarah -- a piercing, stab, thrust 2944. taan -- to pierce 6895. qabab -- to utter a curse against, curse 1857. Deqer -- Dekar 1856. daqar -- to pierce, pierce through Library The Third Word from the Cross Taking it for Granted. The Betrayal Human Inability Charity and Rebuke. The Entrance to the Life of Full Obedience Striking Similes Why Christ must Depart Degrees of Sin Two Safe Thesaurus Stab (1 Occurrence)... 1. (vt) To pierce with a pointed weapon; to wound or kill by the thrust of a pointed instrument; as, to stab a man with a dagger; also, to thrust; as, to stab... /s/stab.htm - 7k Wound (58 Occurrences) Thrust (92 Occurrences) Stabbed (6 Occurrences) Stick (47 Occurrences) Job (60 Occurrences) Knife (10 Occurrences) Use (620 Occurrences) Gore (9 Occurrences) Dagger (6 Occurrences) Resources Stab: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Stab (1 Occurrence)Zechariah 13:3 Subtopics Related Terms |