In biblical terminology, "waxing" is an archaic term that refers to the process of growing or increasing in size, strength, or intensity. This term is often used in the King James Version and other older translations of the Bible. The concept of waxing is frequently employed to describe both physical and spiritual growth, as well as the progression of time or events.

Physical Growth and Increase

The term "waxing" is used in the Bible to describe physical growth or increase. For example, in the context of the moon, "waxing" refers to the period when the moon increases in visibility, moving from a new moon to a full moon. This natural phenomenon is often used metaphorically in Scripture to illustrate growth or increase.

Spiritual Growth

In a spiritual sense, "waxing" can refer to the growth of faith, wisdom, or righteousness. The Bible often speaks of individuals or groups who "wax" strong in their faith or in their relationship with God. This growth is seen as a positive development, indicating a deepening of spiritual maturity and understanding.

Biblical Examples

1. Waxing Strong in Spirit: In Luke 1:80, the Berean Standard Bible describes John the Baptist's growth: "And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until the time of his public appearance to Israel." Here, "waxing strong in spirit" indicates John's increasing spiritual strength and preparation for his prophetic ministry.

2. Waxing Old: In Hebrews 8:13, the Berean Standard Bible states, "By speaking of a new covenant, He has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear." The term "waxing old" is used to describe the process of becoming outdated or nearing the end of usefulness, in this case referring to the old covenant.

3. Waxing Great: In Genesis 26:13, the Berean Standard Bible recounts Isaac's prosperity: "And the man became rich and continued to prosper until he became very wealthy." The phrase "waxing great" is used to describe Isaac's increasing wealth and status.

Moral and Ethical Decline

Conversely, "waxing" can also describe a negative progression, such as moral or ethical decline. In Matthew 24:12, Jesus warns, "Because of the multiplication of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold." Here, the concept of waxing is implied in the increase of wickedness leading to a decrease in love and righteousness.

Symbolism and Imagery

The imagery of waxing is rich in symbolism, often used to convey the idea of transformation or change. Whether referring to the growth of an individual, the increase of a nation, or the progression of time, waxing serves as a powerful metaphor for the dynamic nature of life and faith as depicted in the Bible.1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Wax.

2. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Wax.

Psalm XXXIX.
... in the midst of these dangers and these difficulties, because, that in consequence
of the abundance of offences "the love of many is waxing cold," [1033 ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xxxix.htm

Letter Lv. Replies to Questions of Januarius.
... And those who have done this most ably have found that the waxing and waning of
the moon are due to the turning of its globe, and not to any such actual ...
/.../augustine/the confessions and letters of st/letter lv replies to questions.htm

The Bishop Elect and Consecrate
... or his own. "Thou hast entered for the waxing of thy people, for the waxing
of salvation to be taken with thy Christ.". The new bishop ...
/.../marson/hugh bishop of lincoln/chapter iv the bishop elect.htm

It is Somewhat the Same Argument which You Use against the Pope ...
... the place and nature of their abodes, the differences, if there be any, existing
between them; and then as to the course of the sun, the waxing and waning of ...
/.../24 it is somewhat the.htm

This HomilyWas Delivered on the Occasion of the Prefect Entering ...
... For the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain." [1670] And writing to the
Philippians, thou sayest, "Many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/homily xvi this homily was.htm

God Himself an Example of Patience.
... arts and the works of their own hands, persecuting His Name together with His family;
bearing with luxury, avarice, iniquity, malignity, waxing insolent daily ...
/.../tertullian/of patience/chapter ii god himself an example.htm

The Runaway
... " said Stanislaus. " Send word to father. I'm certainly going away.". Paul was waxing
eloquent again, but Stanislaus turned on his heel and walked away. ...
/.../greater things the story of saint stanislaus kostka /chapter x the runaway.htm

Josiah, a Pattern for the Ignorant.
... Thus, as an honour to David, the blessing upon his posterity remained in its fulness
even to the end; its light not waxing "dim," nor "its natural force abating ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol viii/sermon vii josiah a pattern.htm

Hymns of Hope and Consolation.
... Or, as Dr. Neale paraphrases and softens it,". The World is very evil, The times
are waxing late, Be sober and keep vigil, The Judge is at the gate,. ...
/.../brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/chapter xiv hymns of hope.htm

Introduction
... Sin is rampant; lawlessness abounds; evil men and seducers are waxing "worse and
worse" (2:Tim.3:13). Today, everything appears to be out of joint. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the sovereignty of god/introduction.htm

Waxing (1 Occurrence)
...Waxing (1 Occurrence). Philippians 1:14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing
confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. ...
/w/waxing.htm - 6k

Way (7551 Occurrences)

/w/way.htm - 15k

Waxeth (5 Occurrences)

/w/waxeth.htm - 7k

Increase (184 Occurrences)
... 7. (vi) Progeny; issue; offspring. 8. (vi) Generation. 9. (n.) The period of increasing
light, or luminous phase; the waxing; -- said of the moon. Int. ...
/i/increase.htm - 40k

Heat (104 Occurrences)
... 8); "hot displeasure" (Deuteronomy 9:19); "anger of the Lord was hot against Israel"
(Judges 2:14 the King James Version); "thine anger from waxing hot" (Psalm ...
/h/heat.htm - 45k

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