In biblical literature, the term "undersides" is not explicitly mentioned; however, the concept can be explored through various scriptural references that describe the hidden or less visible parts of objects, structures, or even spiritual truths. The Bible often uses physical descriptions to convey deeper spiritual meanings, and the idea of undersides can be seen in this context.

Tabernacle and Temple Construction

The construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple involved detailed instructions that included aspects not immediately visible to the observer. In Exodus, God provides Moses with precise directions for building the Tabernacle, including the materials and dimensions for the curtains and coverings (Exodus 26). These coverings had an underside that was not visible to the Israelites, yet they were crafted with care and precision, symbolizing the hidden beauty and holiness of God's dwelling place.

Symbolism of Hidden Things

The Bible often uses the imagery of hidden or unseen things to illustrate spiritual truths. In 1 Corinthians 4:5, the Apostle Paul writes, "Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart." This passage suggests that the "undersides" of human actions and intentions, though hidden from human view, are fully known to God and will be revealed in His timing.

The Underside of Creation

In the natural world, the Bible acknowledges the complexity and intricacy of God's creation, much of which remains unseen by human eyes. Psalm 139:15-16 speaks to the hidden aspects of human formation: "My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in secret, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all my days were written in Your book and ordained for me before one of them came to be." This passage highlights the unseen work of God in the creation of life, emphasizing His omniscience and sovereignty.

Spiritual Warfare

The concept of spiritual warfare also involves unseen realities. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Here, the "underside" of the Christian life involves a battle that is not visible to the naked eye but is nonetheless real and significant.

Jesus' Teachings on Inner Purity

Jesus often addressed the importance of inner purity over outward appearances, which can be likened to the "underside" of a person's life. In Matthew 23:25-26, He rebukes the Pharisees, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, so that the outside may become clean as well." This teaching underscores the significance of the heart's condition, which, though hidden, is of utmost importance to God.

Conclusion

While the term "undersides" is not directly found in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout Scripture in various forms, illustrating the importance of what is hidden or unseen, whether in the physical world, spiritual realm, or human heart. These references remind believers of the depth and complexity of God's creation and the spiritual life, encouraging a focus on inner purity and trust in God's ultimate revelation of all things.

Down the Islands
... The dark undersides of the rolling clouds mingled with the dark peaks and ridges,
till we could not see where earth ended and vapour began; and the clouds from ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter ii down the islands.htm

La Brea
... The path was lined, as there, with the great leaves of the Melastomas, throwing
russet and golden light down from their undersides. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter viii la brea.htm

Undersides (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Undersides (1 Occurrence). Job 41:30 His undersides are
like sharp potsherds, leaving a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. ...
/u/undersides.htm - 6k

Undersetters (2 Occurrences)

/u/undersetters.htm - 7k

Jagged (1 Occurrence)
... Jagged (1 Occurrence). Job 41:30 His undersides are like sharp potsherds, leaving
a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. (See NIV). ...
/j/jagged.htm - 6k

Trail (5 Occurrences)
... later. (See NIV). Job 41:30 His undersides are like sharp potsherds, leaving
a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. (WEB NIV). ...
/t/trail.htm - 9k

Mud (15 Occurrences)
... I have become like dust and ashes. (See NIV). Job 41:30 His undersides are like
sharp potsherds, leaving a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. (WEB NIV). ...
/m/mud.htm - 10k

Potsherds (2 Occurrences)
... Potsherds (2 Occurrences). Job 41:30 His undersides are like sharp potsherds, leaving
a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. (WEB JPS ASV DBY NAS RSV NIV). ...
/p/potsherds.htm - 7k

Pots (30 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Job 41:30 His undersides are like
sharp potsherds, leaving a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. ...
/p/pots.htm - 15k

Sledge (3 Occurrences)
... Sledge (3 Occurrences). Job 41:30 His undersides are like sharp potsherds, leaving
a trail in the mud like a threshing sledge. (WEB JPS DBY NAS RSV NIV). ...
/s/sledge.htm - 7k

Understand (208 Occurrences)

/u/understand.htm - 36k

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