Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the wind is often depicted as a powerful force of nature, symbolizing both the might and the mystery of God's creation. When described as violent, it is referred to as a "great and strong wind," illustrating its capacity to bring about significant change, both physically and spiritually.Biblical References: 1. 1 Kings 19:11 · In this passage, the prophet Elijah experiences a "great and strong wind" while on Mount Horeb. The wind is described as tearing into the mountains and breaking the rocks in pieces before the LORD. However, the LORD was not in the wind. This event underscores the power of the wind as a precursor to divine revelation, yet it also highlights that God's presence is not confined to the dramatic forces of nature: "Then the LORD said, 'Go out and stand on the mountain before the LORD.' And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind." 2. Job 1:19 · The account of Job includes a violent wind that strikes the house of his eldest son, causing it to collapse and kill all inside. This wind is part of the series of calamities that test Job's faith and integrity. The destructive power of the wind here serves as a reminder of the fragility of human life and the sovereignty of God over creation: "when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on the young people, and they are dead; and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 3. Acts 27:14 · The Apostle Paul, during his voyage to Rome, encounters a "violent wind" known as a Northeaster, which drives the ship off course and leads to a shipwreck. This account demonstrates the uncontrollable nature of the wind and the reliance on divine providence for deliverance: "But it was not long before a cyclone called the Northeaster swept down across the island." Symbolism and Theological Significance: The "great and strong wind" is often symbolic of God's power and judgment. It serves as a metaphor for the divine intervention that can either bring destruction or pave the way for new beginnings. In the context of Elijah's encounter, the wind precedes a still, small voice, suggesting that God's communication is not always through grandiose displays but often through quiet, intimate moments. In the Book of Job, the wind is a tool through which God allows Satan to test Job, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of God's wisdom and justice. The violent wind in Acts 27 illustrates the trials faced by early Christians and the faith required to navigate through life's storms. Conclusion: The biblical portrayal of the wind, especially when described as "great and strong," serves as a powerful reminder of the omnipotence of God. It challenges believers to recognize the divine hand in both the calm and the storm, urging a trust in God's ultimate plan and purpose. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 19:11And he said, Go forth, and stand on the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Psalm XLVIII. Imprisonment and Death of John How the Above-Mentioned Ceadda was Made Bishop of the Province of ... 1 Thessalonians v. 19-22 Strong Christians. Of the Union of Man's Will with God's in those Inspirations which ... Wesley Encounters Severe Weather Life and Character of John The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... A Preliminary Discourse to Catechising Resources What is the meaning of “chasing the wind” in Ecclesiastes? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to sow the wind and reap the whirlwind (Hosea 8:7)? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of chaff in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Wind: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Wind of Iniquity Which Leads to Destruction The Wind of Terrors Which Pursue the Soul The Wind of the Operations of the Holy Spirit The Wind of the Speeches of the Desperate The Wind: (Bringing Forth) of Disappointed Expectations The Wind: (Chaff or Stubble Before) of the Wicked The Wind: (Feeding Upon) of Vain Hopes The Wind: (Sowing) a Course of Sin The Wind: (When Destructive) the Judgments of God The Wind: (Without Rain) One Who Boasts of a False Gift The Wind: Accomplishes the Purposes of God The Wind: Frequently Brings Rain The Wind: from the North Drives Away Rain The Wind: God: Brings Forth, out of his Treasuries The Wind: God: Gathers, in his Hand The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Calmed by Casting out Jonah The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Calmed by Christ The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Locusts Brought By The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Locusts Removed By The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Quails Brought By The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Raises on Account of Jonah The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Red Sea Divided By The Wind: Miracles Connected With: Rocks and Mountains Rent By The Wind: Movement of the Leaves of Trees By, Noticed The Wind: Tempestuous: Destroys Houses The Wind: Tempestuous: Drives About the Largest Ships The Wind: Tempestuous: Raises the Sea in Waves The Wind: The Simoom or Pestilential Wind The Wind: Theory of, Above Man's Comprehension The Wind: when Violent Called: Fierce Wind The Wind: when Violent Called: Great and Strong Wind The Wind: when Violent Called: Mighty Wind The Wind: when Violent Called: Rough Wind The Wind: when Violent Called: Storm The Wind: when Violent Called: Stormy Wind The Wind: when Violent Called: Tempest The Wind: when Violent Called: Windy Storm Wind: East in the Valley of the Euphrates River Wind: East: At the City of Nineveh Wind: East: Hot and Blasting in Egypt Wind: East: Tempestuous in the Land of Uz Wind: North: Free from Humidity in Canaan Wind: West: Took Away the Plague of Locusts from the Land of Egypt Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |