Topical Bible: The Sun: (Going Down at Noon) of Premature Destruction

◄ The Sun: (Going Down at Noon) of Premature Destruction ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The imagery of the sun going down at noon is a powerful biblical metaphor for sudden and premature destruction. This concept is rooted in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, where it serves as a symbol of divine judgment and the abrupt end of prosperity or life.

Biblical References

The primary reference to the sun going down at noon is found in the book of Amos. The prophet Amos, speaking to the northern kingdom of Israel, delivers a message of impending judgment due to the nation's persistent sin and injustice. In Amos 8:9 , the Lord declares, "And in that day, declares the Lord GOD, I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth in broad daylight." This vivid imagery underscores the suddenness and unexpected nature of the coming judgment. The sun, a symbol of life, order, and regularity, will be disrupted, signifying chaos and divine intervention.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the sun going down at noon represents the interruption of the natural order as a result of human sinfulness. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to alter the course of nature to fulfill His purposes. This imagery also highlights the seriousness of divine judgment; it is not merely a future event but an imminent reality that can occur at any moment, even at the height of day when least expected.

Historical Context

In the historical context of Amos, the northern kingdom of Israel was experiencing a period of economic prosperity and political stability. However, this outward success masked deep-seated corruption, idolatry, and social injustice. The metaphor of the sun setting at noon would have been particularly striking to Amos's audience, as it suggested the abrupt end of their perceived security and prosperity.

Application

For contemporary readers, the concept of the sun going down at noon serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of complacency and moral decay. It calls believers to remain vigilant in their faith and to pursue justice and righteousness, knowing that divine judgment can come unexpectedly. This metaphor also encourages reflection on the transient nature of earthly success and the importance of aligning one's life with God's will.

Conclusion

The sun going down at noon is a profound biblical symbol of premature destruction and divine judgment. It challenges individuals and communities to examine their lives, repent of their sins, and seek God's mercy. As a reminder of God's ultimate authority over creation, it calls believers to live in a manner that honors Him, recognizing that His judgment is both just and inevitable.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 15:9
She that has borne seven languishes: she has given up the ghost; her sun is gone down while it was yet day: she has been ashamed and confounded: and the residue of them will I deliver to the sword before their enemies, said the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 8:9
And it shall come to pass in that day, said the Lord GOD, that I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Letter xxii. To Eustochium.
... For you will never need a pretext for going out if you always ... but I attributed the
fault not to them, but to the sun. ... [614] Silent tears roll down their cheeks ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xxii to eustochium.htm