Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: The term "travailing" in the Bible often refers to the intense labor and pain associated with childbirth. However, it is also used metaphorically to describe deep spiritual or emotional anguish, struggle, or effort. The concept of travailing is frequently associated with the process of bringing forth something new, whether it be physical birth, spiritual renewal, or the fulfillment of God's purposes. Biblical References: 1. Physical Childbirth: Travailing is most commonly associated with the physical act of childbirth. In Genesis 3:16, God tells Eve, "I will greatly increase your pain in childbirth; in pain you will bring forth children." This verse establishes the connection between travailing and the labor pains experienced by women during childbirth. 2. Spiritual Travail: The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of childbirth to describe his spiritual labor for the Galatians. In Galatians 4:19, he writes, "My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you." Here, Paul expresses his deep concern and effort in nurturing the spiritual growth of the believers. 3. Prophetic Imagery: The prophets often used the imagery of travailing to describe the intense experiences associated with God's judgment or the anticipation of deliverance. Isaiah 26:17-18 states, "As a pregnant woman about to give birth writhes and cries out in her pain, so were we in Your presence, O LORD. We were with child, we writhed in pain, but we gave birth to wind. We have not brought salvation to the earth, nor have the inhabitants of the world been born." 4. End Times and Creation: In Romans 8:22, Paul speaks of creation itself as travailing: "We know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time." This passage suggests that the entire creation is in a state of anticipation and longing for the ultimate redemption and renewal that will come with the return of Christ. 5. Prayer and Intercession: Travailing is also associated with fervent prayer and intercession. In Colossians 4:12, Epaphras is described as "always laboring earnestly for you in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God." This laboring in prayer can be seen as a form of spiritual travail, where the intercessor experiences deep emotional and spiritual exertion on behalf of others. Theological Significance: Travailing, both in its literal and metaphorical senses, is a powerful image of the struggle and effort involved in bringing forth new life, whether physical or spiritual. It underscores the reality of suffering and pain as part of the human experience, yet it also points to the hope and joy that can emerge from such struggles. In the Christian life, travailing can be seen as a necessary process for spiritual growth, transformation, and the fulfillment of God's purposes. The imagery of travailing serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the labor involved in advancing the Kingdom of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Travail.Library Travailing for Souls Travailing in Birth for Souls. Gal 4:19 Psalm LIII. From the Twelfth Chapter. A Confirmation of what Hath Been Said, Particularly of the ... Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs Bear up the Hands that Hang Down, by Faith and Prayer... Even if the Permission had Been Given by St. Paul in the Sense ... The Holy Communion. The Genesis of Sanctifying Grace, or the Process of Justification Thesaurus Travailing (16 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Travailing (16 Occurrences). ... Revelation 12:2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. ... /t/travailing.htm - 11k Pained (41 Occurrences) Travail (54 Occurrences) Travaileth (9 Occurrences) Seized (118 Occurrences) Seize (91 Occurrences) Nested (3 Occurrences) Unwise (16 Occurrences) Gasping (2 Occurrences) Groan (32 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of travail in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgTravailing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Travailing (16 Occurrences)Galatians 4:27 Revelation 12:2 Psalms 48:6 Isaiah 13:8 Isaiah 21:3 Isaiah 42:14 Jeremiah 6:24 Jeremiah 13:21 Jeremiah 22:23 Jeremiah 30:6 Jeremiah 31:8 Jeremiah 49:24 Jeremiah 50:43 Hosea 13:13 Micah 4:9 Micah 4:10 Subtopics Related Terms |