Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of "wallow" is often associated with actions that involve rolling around or immersing oneself in a particular substance, typically mud or mire. This imagery is used metaphorically in Scripture to describe a state of moral or spiritual degradation, as well as the stubborn persistence in sinful behavior.Old Testament References The Hebrew word often translated as "wallow" is "סָפַק" (saphak), which can mean to clap, slap, or wallow. In the Old Testament, the imagery of wallowing is used to depict a state of uncleanness or defilement. For example, in Ezekiel 24:13 , the prophet uses the imagery of wallowing in filth to describe the persistent impurity of Jerusalem: "Because of the indecency of your uncleanness—since I tried to cleanse you, but you would not be cleansed from your filth—you will not be clean again until My wrath against you has subsided." The act of wallowing in the mire is also used to illustrate the stubbornness of Israel in their sinful ways, despite God's repeated calls for repentance and purification. New Testament References In the New Testament, the concept of wallowing is used metaphorically to describe a return to sinful behavior after having known the way of righteousness. 2 Peter 2:22 states, "Of them the proverbs are true: 'A dog returns to its vomit,' and, 'A sow that is washed goes back to her wallowing in the mud.'" This passage highlights the tragic nature of apostasy, where individuals who have been cleansed by the knowledge of Christ return to their former sinful ways, akin to a pig returning to wallow in the mire after being washed. Theological Implications The imagery of wallowing serves as a powerful reminder of the human tendency to revert to sin despite divine intervention and cleansing. It underscores the need for genuine repentance and transformation through the power of the Holy Spirit. The act of wallowing in sin is portrayed as a conscious choice to reject the sanctifying work of God, leading to spiritual stagnation and decay. From a theological perspective, wallowing is not merely a physical act but a spiritual condition that reflects the heart's inclination towards sin. It calls believers to vigilance in their spiritual walk, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and to resist the temptation to return to their former ways. Practical Application For believers, the biblical concept of wallowing serves as a cautionary tale against complacency in one's spiritual life. It encourages Christians to pursue holiness and to rely on God's grace for continual cleansing and renewal. The imagery of wallowing challenges individuals to examine their lives for areas where they may be resisting God's transformative work and to seek His strength to overcome the pull of sin. In summary, the biblical use of "wallow" provides a vivid depiction of the consequences of sin and the importance of remaining committed to a life of righteousness and purity in Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) To roll one's self about, as in mire; to tumble and roll about; to move lazily or heavily in any medium; to flounder; as, swine wallow in the mire.2. (n.) To live in filth or gross vice; to disport one's self in a beastly and unworthy manner. 3. (n.) To wither; to fade. 4. (v. t.) To roll; esp., to roll in anything defiling or unclean. 5. (n.) A kind of rolling walk. Greek 2947. kulio -- to roll ... to roll. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: kulio Phonetic Spelling: (koo-lee-o'-o) Short Definition: I roll Definition: I roll, roll along, wallow. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2947.htm - 6k 2946. kulismos -- a rolling Strong's Hebrew 6428. palash -- (act of mourning) perhaps to roll in... Word Origin a prim. root Definition (act of mourning) perhaps to roll in NASB Word Usage roll (2), wallow (2). roll wallow self. ... /hebrew/6428.htm - 6k 5606. saphaq -- to slap, clap 1556. galal -- to roll, roll away Library The Prairie Pasture In the Next Place, that He May have the Appearance of Knowing ... "Wash You, Make You Clean, Put Away the Evil of Your Doings from ... Christian Stewardship. The Children of the Poor. The Spoiler Antichrist in Jeremiah The Procedure of the Last Judgment, and Its Awards, Only Possible ... 2 Cor. vi. 1, 2 The Publicans' Friend Thesaurus Wallow (5 Occurrences)... 1. (n.) To roll one's self about, as in mire; to tumble and roll about; to move lazily or heavily in any medium; to flounder; as, swine wallow in the mire. ... /w/wallow.htm - 8k Ashes (44 Occurrences) Wail (50 Occurrences) Vomit (12 Occurrences) Laughingstock (10 Occurrences) Wallets (1 Occurrence) Wallowed (1 Occurrence) Ridicule (14 Occurrences) Defied (20 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about forgiving yourself / self-forgiveness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is sexual ethics? | GotQuestions.org Is it possible for a person's name to be erased from the Book of Life? | GotQuestions.org Wallow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Wallow (5 Occurrences)2 Peter 2:22 Jeremiah 6:26 Jeremiah 48:26 Lamentations 3:16 Ezekiel 27:30 Subtopics Related Terms |
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