Topical Bible: The Eagle: Strength of Its Feathers Alluded To

◄ The Eagle: Strength of Its Feathers Alluded To ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The eagle, a majestic bird of prey, is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength, swiftness, and the divine protection of God. The eagle's feathers, in particular, are emblematic of its power and resilience, often serving as a metaphor for spiritual truths and divine attributes.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The eagle's strength and the robustness of its feathers are alluded to in several passages throughout the Scriptures. In the book of Isaiah, the prophet uses the imagery of the eagle to convey the renewal of strength for those who trust in the Lord: "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint" (Isaiah 40:31). Here, the eagle's ability to soar high and its enduring strength serve as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual vitality and perseverance granted by God to the faithful.

In the book of Job, the eagle is depicted as a creature of great prowess and keen vision: "Does the eagle soar at your command and make its nest on high? It dwells on a cliff and stays there at night; a rocky crag is its stronghold. From there it spies out food; its eyes see it from afar" (Job 39:27-29). The eagle's feathers, enabling it to soar to great heights and maintain a vigilant watch, symbolize the divine wisdom and omniscience of God.

Divine Protection and Deliverance

The strength of the eagle's feathers is also a symbol of God's protective care over His people. In Exodus, God describes His deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt using the imagery of an eagle: "You have seen for yourselves what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself" (Exodus 19:4). This metaphor highlights the strength and security provided by God, akin to the powerful wings of an eagle that carry its young to safety.

Similarly, in Deuteronomy, the nurturing aspect of the eagle is emphasized: "Like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, He spread His wings to catch them and carried them on His pinions" (Deuteronomy 32:11). The eagle's feathers, strong and protective, illustrate God's tender care and guidance for His people, ensuring their safety and growth.

Renewal and Transformation

The eagle's feathers are also associated with renewal and transformation. In Psalm 103, the psalmist speaks of God's blessings and the renewal of youth: "who satisfies you with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s" (Psalm 103:5). The molting process of the eagle, where old feathers are replaced with new ones, serves as a metaphor for spiritual renewal and rejuvenation, reflecting the transformative power of God's grace in the believer's life.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, the eagle and the strength of its feathers are rich in symbolic meaning, representing divine strength, protection, and renewal. These attributes of the eagle serve as powerful reminders of God's omnipotence, care, and the spiritual vitality available to those who place their trust in Him.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Daniel 4:33
The same hour was the thing fulfilled on Nebuchadnezzar: and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Another Wonderful Record of 25.
... EVERY WORK, HOWEVER GOOD, NEEDS SPECIAL, SPECIFIC, DAILY PRAYER FOR ITS PROSPERITY. ...
He was wasting his strength and time, and the money of the Society. ...
/.../various/the wonders of prayer/another wonderful record of 25 00.htm

The Evangelical Revival.
... success was at least as much due to the strength of her ... no agreement on disputed
points of doctrine among its members. ... In this I am carried as on eagle's wings ...
/.../chapter ix the evangelical revival.htm