Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Thunder is the sound produced by the rapid expansion of air heated by a lightning discharge. In the Bible, thunder is often associated with the voice of God, divine power, and judgment. It serves as a symbol of God's majesty and authority over creation. Biblical References: 1. Voice of God: Thunder is frequently depicted as the voice of God, emphasizing His power and presence. In the Book of Job, Elihu describes God's voice as thunderous: "Listen! Listen to the roar of His voice, the rumbling that comes from His mouth. He unleashes His lightning beneath the whole sky and sends it to the ends of the earth. Then there comes the sound of His roar; He thunders with His majestic voice" (Job 37:2-4). This imagery underscores the awe-inspiring nature of God's communication with humanity. 2. Divine Revelation and Theophany: Thunder often accompanies divine revelation and theophanies, where God manifests His presence. At Mount Sinai, when God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses, the event was marked by thunder and lightning: "On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled" (Exodus 19:16). This dramatic display highlighted the seriousness and holiness of God's law. 3. Judgment and Power: Thunder is also a symbol of God's judgment and power over His enemies. In 1 Samuel 7:10, during a battle between the Israelites and the Philistines, God intervened with thunder: "As Samuel was offering the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to fight against Israel. But that day the LORD thundered loudly against the Philistines and threw them into such confusion that they fled before Israel" . This event illustrates God's ability to protect His people and defeat their adversaries through His mighty power. 4. Prophetic Imagery: In the prophetic literature, thunder is used to convey the coming of God's judgment and the establishment of His kingdom. In Revelation, thunder is part of the apocalyptic vision: "From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblings, and peals of thunder" (Revelation 4:5). This imagery serves to remind believers of the ultimate authority and sovereignty of God over the cosmos. 5. Psalms and Worship: The Psalms frequently use thunder as a metaphor for God's voice and power in creation. Psalm 29 is a notable example, where the psalmist describes the voice of the LORD as powerful and majestic, likening it to thunder: "The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD is heard over many waters" (Psalm 29:3). This psalm is a call to worship, recognizing God's glory and strength as revealed through the natural world. Theological Significance: Thunder, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a powerful reminder of God's transcendence and immanence. It reflects His ability to communicate with humanity, execute judgment, and demonstrate His sovereignty over creation. The use of thunder in biblical narratives and poetry invites believers to respond with reverence, awe, and worship, acknowledging God's supreme authority and presence in their lives. Library The Great Stone Face Psalm. Psalm 77 Psalm 104 And, that we May Show You More Clearly and Distinctly what is the ... Song to David Hallowed Spot. PM To the Right Hon. Henry Pelham, First Lord Commissioner of the ... Humbly Inscribed to his Grace the Duke of Newcastle, one of his ... Thesaurus Thunder's (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Thunder's (2 Occurrences). Job 28:26 In appointing a statute for the rain, and a way for the thunder's flash: (DBY). ... /t/thunder's.htm - 6k Flash (19 Occurrences) Thunders (20 Occurrences) Thunderstorm (6 Occurrences) Rain-flood (1 Occurrence) Appointing (7 Occurrences) Statute (63 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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