Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:The term "vexing" in the biblical context generally refers to causing distress, annoyance, or trouble to someone. It is often associated with actions or behaviors that provoke irritation or emotional disturbance. In the Bible, vexing can be seen as a moral and spiritual issue, reflecting a lack of love, patience, or understanding. Biblical References: 1. Old Testament Context: · In the Old Testament, the concept of vexing is frequently mentioned in relation to the treatment of others, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized. For example, in Exodus 22:21 , God commands, "You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident, for you yourselves were foreigners in the land of Egypt." This verse highlights the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, avoiding actions that would vex or oppress them. · Leviticus 19:33-34 further emphasizes this principle: "When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God." Here, vexing is contrasted with the command to love and treat others with dignity. 2. Prophetic Warnings: · The prophets often spoke against the vexing of the poor and needy. In Ezekiel 22:29 , the prophet condemns the people of Israel for their unjust actions: "The people of the land have practiced extortion and committed robbery. They have oppressed the poor and needy and have exploited the foreign resident without justice." Vexing, in this context, is linked to social injustice and exploitation. 3. New Testament Insights: · While the specific term "vexing" is less common in the New Testament, the concept is present in teachings about love and interpersonal relationships. Jesus' command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39) implicitly warns against vexing others, as love seeks the good of the other and avoids causing harm or distress. · The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often addresses behaviors that could vex or disturb others. In Ephesians 4:31-32 , he writes, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." Here, Paul encourages believers to replace vexing behaviors with kindness and forgiveness. Moral and Spiritual Implications: Vexing others is seen as contrary to the biblical call to love and serve one another. It reflects a heart attitude that is self-centered rather than God-centered. The Bible consistently calls believers to live in a way that promotes peace, understanding, and mutual respect, avoiding actions that would cause unnecessary distress or harm to others. Practical Application: In practical terms, avoiding vexing others involves being mindful of our words and actions, seeking to build up rather than tear down. It requires empathy, patience, and a willingness to put the needs of others before our own. By following the biblical mandate to love and serve, believers can create communities characterized by harmony and mutual support, reflecting the love of Christ to the world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Vex.Strong's Hebrew 3708a. kaas -- vexation, anger... anger (3), bitterly* (1), grief (4), grief and anger (1), grievous (1), indignation (1), provocation (7), provocations (1), sorrow (1), vexation (1), vexing (1 ... /hebrew/3708a.htm - 5k Library Of Flattery. The Excellencies of the Saints' Rest. Sixteenth Day. Grief at Sin. To Sano Di Maco and all Her Other Sons in Siena Lection iv a Certain Woman Called Joan Being Vexed with Demons ... The Day Expires; Evening Hymns. I. The Happy Sunshine all is Gone, Only Jesus. If, However, any one Thinks to Refute Our Argument on this Ground. ... Psalm 6 Thesaurus Vexing (2 Occurrences)... (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Vex. Multi-Version Concordance Vexing (2 Occurrences). Matthew 26:10 But Jesus heard it, and said to them, "Why are you vexing her? ... /v/vexing.htm - 7k Vexation (36 Occurrences) Vial (12 Occurrences) Vexeth (1 Occurrence) Gracious (106 Occurrences) Towards (416 Occurrences) Perverse (55 Occurrences) Act (204 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean to vex / be vexed? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about aging/growing old? | GotQuestions.org Vexing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Vexing (2 Occurrences)Matthew 26:10 Proverbs 21:19 Subtopics Related Terms |