Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, darkness often symbolizes chaos, judgment, or the absence of God's presence. The term "thick darkness" is used in Scripture to describe a profound and overwhelming form of darkness, often associated with divine judgment or the awe-inspiring presence of God. This entry explores the concept of "thick darkness" as it appears in the Bible, highlighting its significance and implications.Exodus and the Sinai Experience One of the most notable mentions of "thick darkness" occurs during the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. In Exodus 20:21 , it is written, "So the people stood at a distance as Moses approached the thick darkness where God was." Here, the "thick darkness" signifies the divine presence of God, shrouding His glory and majesty in a way that is both mysterious and fearsome. This darkness serves as a barrier, emphasizing the holiness of God and the reverence required in approaching Him. The Plague of Darkness in Egypt Another significant instance of "thick darkness" is found in the narrative of the plagues of Egypt. In Exodus 10:21-22 , the Lord instructs Moses: "Stretch out your hand toward the sky so that darkness spreads over the land of Egypt—a darkness that can be felt." This plague of darkness was so intense that it is described as "thick darkness," lasting for three days. It was a tangible manifestation of God's judgment against Pharaoh and the gods of Egypt, demonstrating His supreme power and authority. Prophetic Imagery and Judgment The prophets also employ the imagery of "thick darkness" to convey impending judgment and the Day of the Lord. In Joel 2:2 , the day is described as "a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness." This prophetic language underscores the severity and inescapability of divine judgment, serving as a warning to the people to repent and return to God. Symbolism and Theological Implications The use of "thick darkness" in Scripture carries deep theological implications. It often represents the hiddenness of God, His unapproachable holiness, and the seriousness of His judgments. In these contexts, darkness is not merely the absence of light but a profound, enveloping presence that demands awe and reverence. It serves as a reminder of the separation between the divine and the human, highlighting the need for mediation and redemption. Conclusion While "thick darkness" is a powerful symbol of God's presence and judgment, it also points to the hope of deliverance and the promise of light. Throughout the biblical narrative, darkness is ultimately dispelled by the light of God's salvation, culminating in the revelation of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 5:22These words the LORD spoke to all your assembly in the mount out of the middle of the fire, of the cloud, and of the thick darkness, with a great voice: and he added no more. And he wrote them in two tables of stone, and delivered them to me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Joel 2:2 Library How one in the Province of the Northumbrians, Rose from the Dead ... The Signs of the Times The Story of God's Mighty Acts Outward Bound The Rent Veil Spiritual Resurrection The Majestic Voice 1 Cor. xiii. 8 The Lessons of the Street. The Old Testament and Archeology Resources What is spiritual darkness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the outer darkness in Matthew 22:13? | GotQuestions.org Will the sun really be turned to darkness and the moon to blood (Joel 2:31)? | GotQuestions.org Darkness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Darkness of Spiritual Blindness Darkness the Following Scriptures Darkness: Abstruse and Deep Subjects Darkness: Called the Swaddling Band of the Sea Darkness: Cannot Hide Us from God Darkness: Caused by the Setting of the Sun Darkness: Degrees of, Mentioned: Great Darkness: Degrees of, Mentioned: Gross Darkness: Degrees of, Mentioned: Outer or Extreme Darkness: Degrees of, Mentioned: That May be Felt Darkness: Degrees of, Mentioned: Thick Darkness: Effects of Causes Us to Go Astray Darkness: Effects of Causes Us to Stumble Darkness: Effects of Keeps Us from Seeing Objects Darkness: Exhibits God's Power and Greatness Darkness: Greatness and Unsearchableness of God Darkness: Inexplicable Nature of Darkness: Miraculous: At Mount Sinai Darkness: Miraculous: At the Crucifixion Darkness: Miraculous: At the Death of Christ Darkness: Miraculous: Before the Destruction of Jerusalem Darkness: Miraculous: On Mount Sinai Darkness: Miraculous: Over the Land of Egypt Darkness: Originally Covered the Earth Darkness: Over the Face of the Earth Darkness: Separated from the Light Darkness: The Punishment of Devils and Wicked Men Darkness: The Wicked are Full of Darkness: The Wicked: Perpetuate Their Designs In Darkness: The Wicked: The Children of Related Terms |
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