Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of "strangle" is primarily associated with dietary laws and practices, particularly in the context of the Old and New Testaments. The act of strangling an animal is significant in the discussion of what is considered clean or unclean food according to biblical law.Old Testament Context The Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites, includes specific instructions regarding the consumption of meat. Leviticus 17:13-14 states, "When any man from the house of Israel or from the foreigners who reside among them eats any blood, I will set My face against that person who eats blood and will cut him off from among his people. For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul." This passage underscores the prohibition against consuming blood, which is directly related to the method of slaughtering animals. Strangling an animal does not allow for the proper draining of blood, thus making the meat unfit for consumption according to these laws. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the early church faced the challenge of integrating Gentile believers who were not bound by Jewish dietary laws. The Jerusalem Council, as recorded in Acts 15, addressed this issue. Acts 15:28-29 states, "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond these essential requirements: You must abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things." Here, the prohibition against consuming the meat of strangled animals is reiterated, emphasizing the continuity of certain dietary restrictions for the sake of unity and purity within the early Christian community. Theological Implications The prohibition against eating strangled animals is rooted in the broader biblical principle of respecting the sanctity of life, as life is symbolically and literally represented by blood. The requirement to properly drain blood from an animal before consumption reflects a respect for God's creation and the acknowledgment of life as a divine gift. This principle is consistent with the biblical theme of holiness and the call for God's people to be set apart in their practices and lifestyle. Cultural and Historical Considerations In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the method of slaughtering animals was not only a practical concern but also a religious one. The Israelites' distinct practices served to differentiate them from surrounding nations and to reinforce their identity as God's chosen people. The continuation of certain dietary laws in the early church, as seen in the decision of the Jerusalem Council, highlights the importance of maintaining a distinct Christian identity while also fostering unity among diverse believers. Practical Application For contemporary Christians, the discussion of strangled animals may not hold the same dietary significance as it did in biblical times. However, the underlying principles of respect for life, obedience to God's commands, and the pursuit of holiness remain relevant. Christians are called to consider how their choices, including dietary ones, reflect their commitment to living a life that honors God and respects His creation. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To compress the windpipe of (a person or animal) until death results from stoppage of respiration; to choke to death by compressing the throat, as with the hand or a rope.2. (v. t.) To stifle, choke, or suffocate in any manner. 3. (v. t.) To hinder from appearance; to stifle; to suppress. 4. (v. i.) To be strangled, or suffocated. Greek 519. apagcho -- to strangle, hang oneself ... to strangle, hang oneself. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: apagcho Phonetic Spelling: (ap-ang'-khom-ahee) Short Definition: I choke, strangle Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/519.htm - 6k 4155. pnigo -- to choke 4846. sumpnigo -- to choke Strong's Hebrew 2614. chanaq -- to strangle... chanaq. 2615 . to strangle. Transliteration: chanaq Phonetic Spelling: (khaw-nak') Short Definition: killed. Word Origin a prim. ... hang self, strangle. ... /hebrew/2614.htm - 6k Library The Climax of Jesus' Suffering. Of the Senses, and their Pleasures in the Brutes and in Man; and ... Man's Responsibility for his Acts. The Mustard-Seed, and the Leaven. The Scriptures On the Opposing Powers. This is the Reason, Then, Why Christians are Counted Public ... Ep. Iv. Christ and the Little Children Of the Crimes of the Wicked, and the Torture Inflicted on the ... Thesaurus Strangle (1 Occurrence)...Strangle (1 Occurrence). Matthew 27:5 and having cast down the silverlings in the sanctuary, he departed, and having gone away, he did strangle himself. (YLT). ... /s/strangle.htm - 7k Choke (6 Occurrences) Strangled (4 Occurrences) Ferret (1 Occurrence) Bowstring (2 Occurrences) Silverlings (24 Occurrences) Strange-speaking (1 Occurrence) Hanging (82 Occurrences) Strangling (4 Occurrences) Resources Strangle: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Strangle (1 Occurrence)Matthew 27:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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