Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "stem" is often used metaphorically to represent growth, lineage, or the emergence of something significant from a humble beginning. The imagery of a stem is frequently associated with the prophetic and messianic expectations found in the Old Testament, particularly in relation to the lineage of David and the coming of the Messiah.Messianic Prophecy: One of the most notable uses of the term "stem" is found in the prophecy of Isaiah, which speaks of the coming Messiah from the line of David. Isaiah 11:1 states, "Then a shoot will spring up from the stump of Jesse, and a Branch from his roots will bear fruit." Here, the "stem" or "shoot" symbolizes the emergence of a new leader from the seemingly cut-down lineage of Jesse, the father of King David. This prophecy is understood by Christians to refer to Jesus Christ, who is believed to be the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant and the promised Messiah. Symbolism of Growth and Renewal: The imagery of a stem also conveys themes of growth, renewal, and hope. In the context of Isaiah's prophecy, the stem represents the renewal of the Davidic line and the hope for a future king who will bring justice and peace. This symbolism is significant in the broader biblical narrative, where God often brings forth new life and restoration from situations that appear desolate or hopeless. Lineage and Heritage: The concept of a stem is closely tied to the idea of lineage and heritage in the Bible. The genealogies in the Scriptures often trace the "stem" or line of descent from key figures, emphasizing the importance of family heritage and God's faithfulness to His promises across generations. The genealogical records in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, for example, trace Jesus' lineage back to David, underscoring His rightful place in the messianic line. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the use of "stem" in biblical prophecy highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His purposes through history. The emergence of the Messiah from the "stem" of Jesse serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. It also reflects the Christian belief in Jesus as the ultimate source of spiritual renewal and salvation for humanity. Related Biblical Imagery: The imagery of a stem is related to other botanical metaphors in the Bible, such as the vine and the branches (John 15:5) and the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32). These images collectively emphasize themes of growth, connection to God, and the expansive nature of God's kingdom. In summary, the concept of a "stem" in the Bible is rich with prophetic significance, symbolizing the emergence of the Messiah, the renewal of God's people, and the fulfillment of divine promises through the lineage of David. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) Alt. of Steem.2. (n.) Alt. of Steem. 3. (n.) The principal body of a tree, shrub, or plant, of any kind; the main stock; the part which supports the branches or the head or top. 4. (n.) A little branch which connects a fruit, flower, or leaf with a main branch; a peduncle, pedicel, or petiole; as, the stem of an apple or a cherry. 5. (n.) The stock of a family; a race or generation of progenitors. 6. (n.) A branch of a family. 7. (n.) A curved piece of timber to which the two sides of a ship are united at the fore end. The lower end of it is scarfed to the keel, and the bowsprit rests upon its upper end. Hence, the forward part of a vessel; the bow. 8. (n.) Fig.: An advanced or leading position; the lookout. 9. (n.) Anything resembling a stem or stalk; as, the stem of a tobacco pipe; the stem of a watch case, or that part to which the ring, by which it is suspended, is attached. 10. (n.) That part of a plant which bears leaves, or rudiments of leaves, whether rising above ground or wholly subterranean. 11. (n.) The entire central axis of a feather. 12. (n.) The basal portion of the body of one of the Pennatulacea, or of a gorgonian. 13. (n.) The short perpendicular line added to the body of a note; the tail of a crotchet, quaver, semiquaver, etc. 14. (n.) The part of an inflected word which remains unchanged (except by euphonic variations) throughout a given inflection; theme; base. 15. (v. t.) To remove the stem or stems from; as, to stem cherries; to remove the stem and its appendages (ribs and veins) from; as, to stem tobacco leaves. 16. (v. t.) To ram, as clay, into a blasting hole. 17. (v. t.) To oppose or cut with, or as with, the stem of a vessel; to resist, or make progress against; to stop or check the flow of, as a current. 18. (v. i.) To move forward against an obstacle, as a vessel against a current. Greek 5301. hussopos -- hyssop ... of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: hussopos Phonetic Spelling: (hoos'-so-pos) Short Definition: hyssop Definition: hyssop, a stalk or stem of hyssop. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5301.htm - 6k 318. anagke -- necessity 4725. stemma -- a wreath 2563. kalamos -- a reed 4594. semeron -- today Strong's Hebrew 1503. geza -- a stock, stem... 1502, 1503. geza. 1504 . a stock, stem. Transliteration: geza Phonetic Spelling: (geh'-zah) Short Definition: stem. Word Origin ... /hebrew/1503.htm - 6k 7070. qaneh -- a stalk, reed Library The Word of God did not Become Flesh Except in the virgin's Womb ... Nothing but the Blood of Jesus. GH 1-6 No. 195. Involution Abide The Ten Commandments in Alkomaylum. A Provision Ground A Letter from a West Indian Cottage Ornee The Believer a New Creature The Fig-Tree. The vine and the Branches Thesaurus Stem (18 Occurrences)... 4. (n.) A little branch which connects a fruit, flower, or leaf with a main branch; a peduncle, pedicel, or petiole; as, the stem of an apple or a cherry. ... /s/stem.htm - 13k Shaft (13 Occurrences) Candlestick (34 Occurrences) Branch (60 Occurrences) Achan (7 Occurrences) Stalk (7 Occurrences) Stock (16 Occurrences) Preacher (27 Occurrences) Tree (245 Occurrences) Ecclesiastes (1 Occurrence) Resources What should a Christian's view be on stem cell research? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the origin and meaning of the Celtic cross? | GotQuestions.org Miscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.org Stem: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Stem (18 Occurrences)Matthew 11:7 Matthew 12:20 Matthew 13:26 Luke 7:24 Genesis 41:5 Genesis 41:22 1 Samuel 17:7 2 Samuel 21:19 Job 13:25 Job 14:8 Isaiah 11:1 Isaiah 42:3 Jeremiah 23:28 Ezekiel 19:11 Ezekiel 19:12 Ezekiel 19:14 Ezekiel 31:13 Hosea 8:7 Subtopics Related Terms Cloth-worker's (4 Occurrences) |