Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Veneration refers to the deep respect, reverence, and honor given to someone or something. In a biblical context, veneration is often associated with the worship and adoration due to God alone, as well as the respect shown to individuals who have been set apart for God's purposes. It is important to distinguish between veneration and worship, as worship is reserved for God alone, while veneration can be extended to people or objects that hold significant religious importance. Biblical Basis for Veneration The Bible provides numerous examples of veneration, particularly in the context of honoring God, His commandments, and His chosen servants. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to show reverence for God and His laws. Deuteronomy 6:13 states, "Fear the LORD your God, serve Him only, and take your oaths in His name." This verse underscores the importance of revering God above all else. The veneration of God's name and His commandments is further emphasized in the Ten Commandments. Exodus 20:7 commands, "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain." This commandment highlights the reverence due to God's holy name. Veneration of People and Objects While worship is reserved for God, the Bible also records instances where individuals and objects are venerated due to their association with God's work. For example, the Ark of the Covenant was treated with great reverence because it symbolized God's presence among His people. In 1 Chronicles 16:29 , David instructs, "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him. Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness." The New Testament also provides examples of veneration. In Acts 5:12-16 , the apostles performed many signs and wonders, and people held them in high esteem. The passage notes that people even brought the sick into the streets so that Peter's shadow might fall on them, indicating a deep respect for the apostles' connection to God's power. Veneration in the Early Church The early Christian church continued the practice of veneration, particularly in honoring martyrs and saints who exemplified a life of faith and dedication to God. While the Bible does not explicitly command the veneration of saints, it does encourage believers to honor those who have faithfully served God. Hebrews 13:7 advises, "Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith." Cautions Against Misplaced Veneration The Bible also warns against the dangers of misplaced veneration, which can lead to idolatry. In Romans 1:25 , Paul cautions against exchanging "the truth of God for a lie, and worshiping and serving created things rather than the Creator, who is forever worthy of praise! Amen." This warning serves as a reminder to maintain the proper distinction between veneration and worship. In summary, veneration in the Bible is characterized by a deep respect and honor for God, His commandments, and those who serve Him. While veneration is appropriate in certain contexts, it must always be distinguished from the worship that is due to God alone. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The act of venerating, or the state of being venerated; the highest degree of respect and reverence; respect mingled with awe; a feeling or sentimental excited by the dignity, wisdom, or superiority of a person, by sacredness of character, by consecration to sacred services, or by hallowed associations.Greek 987. blasphemeo -- to slander, hence to speak lightly or profanely ... ... 987 (from , "sluggish, slow" and 5345 , "reputation, fame") -- properly, to acknowledge good (worthy of respect, veneration); hence, to which moral values. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/987.htm - 9k 2150. eusebeia -- piety 4576. sebo -- to worship 4574. sebasma -- an object of worship 2152. eusebes -- pious 2317. theosebeia -- fear of God Strong's Hebrew 3371. Yoqtheel -- a city in Judah, also a city in Edom... Probably from the same as Yaqeh and 'el; veneration of God (compare Yquwthiy'el); Joktheel, the name of a place in Palestine, and of one in Idumaea -- Joktheel ... /hebrew/3371.htm - 6k Library The veneration of saints and relics Excursus on the Present Teaching of the Latin and Greek Churches ... Whether Christ's Humanity and Godhead are to be Adored with the ... The Chief Cause of Trouble a Logomachy. Of God and his Attributes. The Letter of the Synod to the Emperor and Empress. The Flight of the Woman. The Episcopal Chair of James. Letter Lxv. (AD 402. ) Excursus on the Council of Frankfort, AD 794. Thesaurus Veneration (1 Occurrence)... by hallowed associations. Multi-Version Concordance Veneration (1 Occurrence). 2 Thessalonians 2:4 who opposes and exalts himself ... /v/veneration.htm - 7k Reverence (42 Occurrences) Worship (332 Occurrences) Vein (1 Occurrence) Jacob's (34 Occurrences) Godliness (16 Occurrences) Idolatrous (4 Occurrences) Idolatry (14 Occurrences) Rachel (42 Occurrences) Reverent (8 Occurrences) Resources What is the difference between veneration and worship? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Mariolatry? | GotQuestions.org What is the Greek Orthodox Church? | GotQuestions.org Veneration: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Veneration (1 Occurrence)2 Thessalonians 2:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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