Topical Encyclopedia The concept of torture, while not extensively detailed in the Bible, is present in various forms throughout the Scriptures. Torture, as understood in biblical times, often involved physical suffering, persecution, and severe trials, sometimes as a means of punishment or coercion.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Israelites experienced various forms of oppression and suffering at the hands of their enemies. While the term "torture" is not explicitly used, the experiences of the Israelites in Egypt can be seen as a form of systemic torture. The Egyptians subjected them to harsh labor and cruel treatment (Exodus 1:13-14). The psalmist reflects on the suffering of the people, saying, "They have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but they have not gained the victory over me" (Psalm 129:2). The prophets also speak of the suffering and persecution of the righteous. For example, Jeremiah faced severe persecution and was thrown into a cistern, left to die in the mud (Jeremiah 38:6). This act, while not labeled as torture, reflects the physical and psychological torment endured by God's prophets. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the theme of torture is more directly addressed, particularly in the context of persecution for faith. Jesus Christ Himself was subjected to severe physical and emotional suffering leading up to and during His crucifixion. He was flogged, mocked, and ultimately crucified, a form of execution known for its extreme pain and public humiliation (Matthew 27:26-31). The early Christians also faced torture and persecution. The Book of Acts records the apostles being flogged for preaching the Gospel (Acts 5:40). The writer of Hebrews speaks of the faithful who "were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might gain a better resurrection" (Hebrews 11:35). This passage highlights the endurance and faith of those who suffered for their beliefs. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the suffering and torture of believers are often seen as a participation in the sufferings of Christ. The Apostle Paul writes, "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Him in His death" (Philippians 3:10). This identification with Christ's sufferings is viewed as a means of spiritual growth and a testament to the believer's faith. The Bible also assures believers of God's presence and comfort in times of suffering. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 1:5, "For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows" . This promise of divine comfort provides hope and strength to endure trials and persecution. Eschatological Perspective In eschatological terms, the Bible promises ultimate justice and vindication for those who have suffered for their faith. Revelation 6:9-11 describes the souls of the martyrs crying out for justice, and they are assured that their blood will be avenged. This future hope encourages believers to remain steadfast in the face of persecution and torture, trusting in God's righteous judgment. Overall, while the Bible acknowledges the reality of torture and suffering, it also offers a framework of hope, endurance, and ultimate redemption for those who endure such trials for the sake of righteousness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Torture.Greek 5178. tumpanizo -- to beat a drum, to torture by beating ... BF Westcott at Heb 11:35). Word Origin from tumpanon (a kettle drum) Definition to beat a drum, to torture by beating NASB Word Usage tortured (1). torture. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5178.htm - 7k Library Of the Error of Human Judgments when the Truth is Hidden. Of the Two Classes of Voluptuous Men, and of their Death, Falling ... And it Should be Remarked in Passing that this Force Upon a Man to ... How Eurycles Falsely Accused Herod's Sons; and How their Father ... That the Saints Lose Nothing in Losing Temporal Goods. When Herod Made Inquiry About Pheroras's Death a Discovery was ... How Herod Took up Alexander and Bound Him; whom yet Archelaus King ... The Suicide of Thought Epistle viii. To the Martyrs and Confessors. Homilies on the Statues. Thesaurus Tortured (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Tortured (2 Occurrences). ... Others were tortured, not accepting their deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. ... /t/tortured.htm - 7k Torture (9 Occurrences) Torturers (1 Occurrence) Deliverance (86 Occurrences) Accepting (7 Occurrences) Released (52 Occurrences) Epicureans (1 Occurrence) Accepted (82 Occurrences) Obtain (63 Occurrences) Release (61 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about torture? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian be opposed to globalization? | GotQuestions.org How was Jesus' death a real sacrifice if He knew He would be resurrected? | GotQuestions.org Tortured: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tortured (2 Occurrences)Matthew 18:34 Hebrews 11:35 Subtopics Related Terms |