Topical Bible: Darkness: Called the Swaddling Band of the Sea

◄ Darkness: Called the Swaddling Band of the Sea ►

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In the biblical context, darkness often symbolizes chaos, mystery, and the unknown, contrasting with the light that represents order, clarity, and divine presence. One of the more poetic and intriguing references to darkness is found in the Book of Job, where it is described as the "swaddling band of the sea."

In Job 38:8-9 , God speaks to Job out of the whirlwind, questioning him about the creation of the world: "Who enclosed the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band." Here, darkness is depicted as a boundary or a covering for the sea, much like a swaddling cloth that wraps and contains a newborn. This imagery suggests that darkness serves a divine purpose in the natural order, acting as a restraint and a form of protection.

The use of "swaddling band" evokes the care and intention of God in creation. Just as a swaddling cloth provides comfort and security to an infant, the darkness over the sea signifies God's sovereign control over the chaotic and untamed forces of nature. This metaphor underscores the belief in God's omnipotence and His ability to bring order out of chaos.

Throughout Scripture, darkness is often associated with God's judgment and the limits of human understanding. In Exodus 10:21-23, the ninth plague brought upon Egypt was a palpable darkness that could be felt, symbolizing God's power and the spiritual blindness of Pharaoh's heart. Similarly, in the New Testament, darkness is used to describe the spiritual state of those who are separated from God (John 3:19-20).

Yet, darkness is not solely negative in the biblical narrative. It also serves as a backdrop for the revelation of God's glory and power. In Genesis 1:2-3, darkness covered the surface of the deep before God spoke light into existence, demonstrating His creative authority. In Psalm 18:11, God is described as making "darkness His hiding place," indicating that even in obscurity, God's presence is profound and purposeful.

The concept of darkness as the "swaddling band of the sea" invites reflection on the dual nature of darkness in the biblical worldview. It is both a symbol of limitation and a testament to God's providential care. This imagery encourages believers to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, even when faced with the unknown or the seemingly chaotic elements of life.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 38:9
When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddling cloth for it,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Letter Xlvi. Paula and Eustochium to Marcella.
... which this world is most clearly called Egypt ... hath reserved in everlasting chains,
under darkness, unto the ... born; here He was wrapped in swaddling clothes; here ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xlvi paula and eustochium.htm

Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna
... by time, that He, who though wrapped in swaddling clothes, was ... thou peculiar
people"show forth His praises who hath called you out of darkness into His ...
/.../the writings of methodius fragments/oration concerning simeon and anna.htm

The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea
... of good genii to combat this deformed and vicious band. ... over the earth and the regions
of darkness where the ... than Anat or Belit: she was called Damkina, the ...
/.../chapter iithe temples and the.htm

The First Theban Empire
... refuge in Siut with that Kkiti whom he called his father. ... men, women, and children,
to cross the Red Sea and the ... the sons of Jacob, or at least a band of Jews ...
/.../chapter iiithe first theban empire.htm