Category:Raamah

Category:Raamah''' - Thunder. (1.) One of the sons of Cush (Genesis 10:7). (2.) A country which traded with Tyre (Ezekiel 27:22).

Category:Raamiah''' - Thunder of the Lord, one of the princes who returned from the Exile (Nehemiah 7:7); called also Reelaiah (Ezra 2:2).

Category:Raamses''' - (Exodus 1:11). (See RAMESES.)

Category:Rabbah''' - Or Rabbath, great. (1.) "Rabbath of the children of Ammon," the chief city of the Ammonites, among the eastern hills, some 20 miles east of the Jordan, on the southern of the two streams which united with the Jabbok. Here the bedstead of Og was preserved (Deuteronomy 3:11), perhaps as a trophy of some victory gained by the Ammonites over the king of Bashan. After David had subdued all their allies in a great war, he sent Joab with a strong force to take their city. For two years it held out against its assailants. It was while his army was engaged in this protracted siege that David was guilty of that deed of shame which left a blot on his character and cast a gloom over the rest of his life. At length, having taken the "royal city" (or the "city of waters," 2 Samuel 12:27, i.e., the lower city on the river, as distinguished from the citadel), Joab sent for David to direct the final assault (2 Samuel 11:1; 2 Samuel 12:26). The city was given up to plunder, and the people were ruthlessly put to death, and "thus did he with all the cities of the children of Ammon." The destruction of Rabbath was the last of David's conquests. His kingdom now reached its farthest limits (2 Samuel 8:1; 1 Chronicles 18:1). The capture of this city is referred to by Amos (Amos 1:14), Jeremiah (Jeremiah 49:2, Jeremiah 49:3), and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 21:20; Ezekiel 25:5). (2.) A city in the hill country of Judah (Joshua 15:60), possibly the ruin Rubba, six miles north-east of Beit-Jibrin.

Category:Rabbi''' - My master, a title of dignity given by the Jews to their doctors of the law and their distinguished teachers. It is sometimes applied to Christ (Matthew 23:7, Matthew 23:8; Mark 9:5 (R.V.); John 1:38, John 1:49; John 3:2; John 6:25, etc.); also to John (John 3:26).

Category:Rabboni''' - (id.) occurs only twice in the New Testament (Mark 10:51, A.V., "Lord," R.V., "Rabboni;" John 20:16). It was the most honourable of all the titles.

Category:Rabmag''' - Assyrian Rab-mugi, "chief physician," "who was attached to the king (Jeremiah 39:3, Jeremiah 39:13), the title of one of Sennacherib's officers sent with messages to Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem (2 Kings 18:17 - 19:13; Isa. 36:12 - 37:13) demanding the surrender of the city. He was accompanied by a "great army;" but his mission was unsuccessful.

Category:Rabsaris''' - Chief of the Heads, one of the three officers whom Sennacherib sent from Lachish with a threatening message to Jerusalem (2 Kings 18:17; Jeremiah 39:3, Jeremiah 39:13).

Category:Rabshakeh''' - Chief of the princes, the name given to the chief cup-bearer or the vizier of the Assyrian court; one of Sennacherib's messengers to Hezekiah. See the speech he delivered, in the Hebrew language, in the hearing of all the people, as he stood near the wall on the north side of the city (2 Kings 18:17-37). He and the other envoys returned to their master and reported that Hezekiah and his people were obdurate, and would not submit.

Category:Raca''' - Vain, empty, worthless, only found in Matthew 5:22. The Jews used it as a word of contempt. It is derived from a root meaning "to spit."

Category:Rachab''' - =Rahab, a name found in the genealogy of our Lord (Matthew 1:5).

Category:Rachal''' - Traffic, a town in the tribe of Judah, to which David sent presents from the spoils of his enemies (1 Samuel 30:29).

Category:Rachel''' - Eve, "the daughter", "the somewhat petulant, peevish, and self-willed though beautiful younger daughter" of Laban, and one of Jacob's wives (Genesis 29:6, Genesis 29:28). He served Laban fourteen years for her, so deep was Jacob's affection for her. She was the mother of Joseph (Genesis 30:22). Afterwards, on Jacob's departure from Mesopotamia, she took with her father's teraphim (Genesis 31:34, Genesis 31:35). As they journeyed on from Bethel, Rachel died in giving birth to Benjamin (Genesis 35:18, Genesis 35:19), and was buried "in the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem. And Jacob set a pillar upon her grave". Her sepulchre is still regarded with great veneration by the Jews. Its traditional site is about half a mile from Jerusalem. This name is used poetically by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 31:15) to denote God's people mourning under their calamities. This passage is also quoted by Matthew as fulfilled in the lamentation at Bethlehem on account of the slaughter of the infants there at the command of Herod (Matthew 2:17, Matthew 2:18).

Category:Raguel''' - Friend of God, (Numbers 10:29)= Reuel (q.v.), Exodus 2:18, the father-in-law of Moses, and probably identical with Jethro (q.v.).

Category:Rahab''' - (1.) Insolence; pride, a poetical name applied to Egypt in Psalms 87:4; Psalms 89:10; Isaiah 51:9, as "the proud one." (2.) (Heb. Rahab ; i.e., "broad," "large"). When the Hebrews were encamped at Shittim, in the "Arabah" or Jordan valley opposite Jericho, ready to cross the river, Joshua, as a final preparation, sent out two spies to "spy the land." After five days they returned, having swum across the river, which at this season, the month Abib, overflowed its banks from the melting of the snow on Lebanon. The spies reported how it had fared with them (Joshua 2:1). They had been exposed to danger in Jericho, and had been saved by the fidelity of Rahab the harlot, to whose house they had gone for protection. When the city of Jericho fell (Joshua 6:17), Rahab and her whole family were preserved according to the promise of the spies, and were incorporated among the Jewish people. She afterwards became the wife of Salmon, a prince of the tribe of Judah (Ruth 4:21; 1 Chronicles 2:11; Matthew 1:5). "Rahab's being asked to bring out the spies to the soldiers (Joshua 2:3) sent for them, is in strict keeping with Eastern manners, which would not permit any man to enter a woman's house without her permission. The fact of her covering the spies with bundles of flax which lay on her house-roof (Joshua 2:6) is an 'undesigned coincidence' which strictly corroborates the narrative. It was the time of the barley harvest, and flax and barley are ripe at the same time in the Jordan valley, so that the bundles of flax stalks might have been expected to be drying just then" (Geikie's Hours, etc., ii., 390).

Category:Raham''' - Merciful, one of the descendants of Caleb, the son of Hezron (1 Chronicles 2:44).

Category:Rain''' - There are three Hebrew words used to denote the rains of different seasons, (1.) Yoreh (Hosea 6:3), or moreh (Joel 2:23), denoting the former or the early rain. (2.) Melqosh, the "latter rain" (Proverbs 16:15). (3.) Geshem, the winter rain, "the rains." The heavy winter rain is mentioned in Genesis 7:12; Ezra 10:9; Song of Songs 2:11. The "early" or "former" rains commence in autumn in the latter part of October or beginning of November (Deuteronomy 11:14; Joel 2:23; compare Jeremiah 3:3), and continue to fall heavily for two months. Then the heavy "winter rains" fall from the middle of December to March. There is no prolonged fair weather in Palestine between October and March. The "latter" or spring rains fall in March and April, and serve to swell the grain then coming to maturity (Deuteronomy 11:14; Hosea 6:3). After this there is ordinarily no rain, the sky being bright and cloudless till October or November. Rain is referred to symbolically in Deuteronomy 32:2; Psalms 72:6; Isaiah 44:3, Isaiah 44:4; Hosea 10:12.

Category:Rainbow''' - Caused by the reflection and refraction of the rays of the sun shining on falling rain. It was appointed as a witness of the divine faithfulness (Genesis 9:12). It existed indeed before, but it was then constituted as a sign of the covenant. Others, however (as Delitzsch, Commentary on Pentateuch), think that it "appeared then for the first time in the vault and clouds of heaven." It is argued by those holding this opinion that the atmosphere was differently constituted before the Flood. It is referred to three other times in Scripture (Ezekiel 1:27, Ezekiel 1:28; Revelation 4:1; Revelation 10:1).

Category:Raisins''' - Dried grapes; mentioned 1 Samuel 25:18; 1 Samuel 30:12; 2 Samuel 16:1; 1 Chronicles 12:40.

Category:Rakkath''' - Shore-town, a "fenced city" of the tribe of Naphtali (Joshua 19:35). The old name of Tiberias, according to the Rabbins.

Category:Rakkon''' - A place upon the shore, a town belonging to Dan (Joshua 19:46). It is now Tell er-Rakkeit, 6 miles north of Joppa, on the sea-shore, near the mouth of the river 'Aujeh, i.e., "yellow water." (See KANAH.)

Category:Ram''' - Exalted. (1.) The son of Hezron, and one of the ancestors of the royal line (Ruth 4:19). The margin of 1 Chronicles 2:9, also Matthew 1:3, Matthew 1:4 and Luke 3:33, have "Aram." (2.) One of the sons of Jerahmeel (1 Chronicles 2:25, 1 Chronicles 2:27). (3.) A person mentioned in Job 32:2 as founder of a clan to which Elihu belonged. The same as Aram of Genesis 22:21.

Category:Rama''' - (Matthew 2:18), the Greek form of

Category:Ramah''' - (1.) A city first mentioned in Joshua 18:25, near Gibeah of Benjamin. It was fortified by Baasha, king of Israel (1 Kings 15:17; 2 Chronicles 16:1). Asa, king of Judah, employed Benhadad the Syrian king to drive Baasha from this city (1 Kings 15:18, 1 Kings 15:20). Isaiah (Isaiah 10:29) refers to it, and also Jeremiah, who was once a prisoner there among the other captives of Jerusalem when it was taken by Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 39:8; Jeremiah 40:1). Rachel, whose tomb lies close to Bethlehem, is represented as weeping in Ramah (Jeremiah 31:15) for her slaughtered children. This prophecy is illustrated and fulfilled in the re-awakening of Rachel's grief at the slaughter of the infants in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:18). It is identified with the modern village of er-Ram, between Gibeon and Beeroth, about 5 miles due north of Jerusalem. (See SAMUEL.) (2.) A town identified with Rameh, on the border of Asher, about 13 miles south-east of Tyre, "on a solitary hill in the midst of a basin of green fields" (Joshua 19:29). (3.) One of the "fenced cities" of Naphtali (Joshua 19:36), on a mountain slope, about seven and a half miles west-south-west of Safed, and 15 miles west of the north end of the Sea of Galilee, the present large and well-built village of Rameh. (4.) The same as Ramathaim-zophim (q.v.), a town of Mount Ephraim (1 Samuel 1:1, 1 Samuel 1:19). (5.) The same as Ramoth-gilead (q.v.), 2 Kings 8:29; 2 Chronicles 22:6.

Category:Ramathaim-zophim''' - The two heights of the Zophites or of the watchers (only in 1 Samuel 1:1), "in the land of Zuph" (1 Samuel 9:5). Ramathaim is another name for Ramah (4). One of the Levitical families descended from Kohath, that of Zuph or Zophai (1 Chronicles 6:26, 1 Chronicles 6:35), had a district assigned to them in Ephraim, which from this circumstance was called "the land of Zuph," and hence the name of the town, "Zophim." It was the birth-place of Samuel and the seat of his authority (1 Samuel 2:11; 1 Samuel 7:17). It is frequently mentioned in the history of that prophet and of David (1 Samuel 15:34; 1 Samuel 16:13; 1 Samuel 19:18). Here Samuel died and was buried (1 Samuel 25:1). This town has been identified with the modern Neby Samwil ("the prophet Samuel"), about 4 or 5 miles north-west of Jerusalem. But there is no certainty as to its precise locality. Some have supposed that it may be identical with Arimathea of the New Testament. (See MIZPAH).

Category:Ramath-lehi''' - Elevation of Lehi, or the jawbone height; i.e., the Ramah of Lehi (Judges 15:15). The phrase "in the jaw," Judges 15:19, Authorized Category:Version, is in the margin, also in the Revised Category:Version, "in Lehi." Here Samson slew a thousand Philistines with a jawbone.

Category:Ramath-mizpeh''' - The height of Mizpeh or of the watch-tower (Joshua 13:26), a place mentioned as one of the limits of Gad. There were two Mizpehs on the east of the Jordan. This was the Mizpeh where Jacob and Laban made a covenant, "Mizpeh of Gilead," called also Galeed and Jegar-sahadutha. It has been identified with the modern es-Salt, where the roads from Jericho and from Shechem to Damascus unite, about 25 miles east of the Jordan and 13 south of the Jabbok.

Category:Ramath of the South''' - (Heb. Ramathnegeb ). The Heb. negeb is the general designation for south or south-west of Judah. This was one of the towns of Simeon (Joshua 19:8). It is the same as "south Ramoth" (1 Samuel 30:27; R.V., "Ramoth of the south"). Its site is doubtful. Some have thought it another name for Baalath-beer.

Category:Ramathite''' - The designation given to Shimei, the manager of David's vineyard (1 Chronicles 27:27).

Category:Rameses''' - "The land of" (Genesis 47:11), was probably "the land of Goshen" (q.v.) Genesis 45:10. After the Hebrews had built Rameses, one of the "treasure cities," it came to be known as the "land" in which that city was built. The city bearing this name (Exodus 12:37) was probably identical with Zoan, which Rameses II. ("son of the sun") rebuilt. It became his special residence, and ranked next in importance and magnificence to Thebes. Huge masses of bricks, made of Nile mud, sun-dried, some of them mixed with stubble, possibly moulded by Jewish hands, still mark the site of Rameses. This was the general rendezvous of the Israelites before they began their march out of Egypt. Called also Raamses (Exodus 1:11).

Category:Ramoth''' - Heights. A Levitical city in the tribe of Issachar (1 Samuel 30:27; 1 Chronicles 6:73), the same as Jarmuth (Joshua 21:29) and Remeth (q.v.), Joshua 19:21.

Category:Ramoth-gilead''' - Heights of Gilead, a city of refuge on the east of Jordan; called "Ramoth in Gilead" (Deuteronomy 4:43; Joshua 20:8; Joshua 21:38). Here Ahab, who joined Jehoshaphat in an endeavour to rescue it from the hands of the king of Syria, was mortally wounded (1 Kings 22:1-36). A similar attempt was afterwards made by Ahaziah and Joram, when the latter was wounded (2 Kings 8:28). In this city Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, was anointed by one of the sons of the prophets (2 Kings 9:1, 2 Kings 9:4). It has with probability been identified with Reimun, on the northern slope of the Jabbok, about 5 miles west of Jerash or Gerasa, one of the cities of Decapolis. Others identify it with Gerosh, about 25 miles north-east of es-Salt, with which also many have identified it. (See RAMATH-MIZPEH.)

Category:Ranges''' - (1.) Leviticus 11:35. Probably a cooking furnace for two or more pots, as the Hebrew word here is in the dual number; or perhaps a fire-place fitted to receive a pair of ovens. (2.) 2 Kings 11:8. A Hebrew word is here used different from the preceding, meaning "ranks of soldiers." The Levites were appointed to guard the king's person within the temple (2 Chronicles 23:7), while the soldiers were his guard in the court, and in going from the temple to the palace. The soldiers are here commanded to slay any one who should break through the "ranks" (as rendered in the R.V.) to come near the king. In 2 Kings 11:15 the expression, "Have her forth without the ranges," is in the Revised Category:Version, "Have her forth between the ranks;" i.e., Jehoiada orders that Athaliah should be kept surrounded by his own guards, and at the same time conveyed beyond the precincts of the temple.

Category:Ransom''' - The price or payment made for our redemption, as when it is said that the Son of man "gave his life a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28; compare Acts 20:28; Romans 3:23, Romans 3:24; 1 Corinthians 6:19, 1 Corinthians 6:20; Galatians 3:13; Galatians 4:4, Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; 1 Timothy 2:6; Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 1:18, 1 Peter 1:19. In all these passages the same idea is expressed). This word is derived from the Fr. rancon; Lat. redemptio . The debt is represented not as canceled but as fully paid. The slave or captive is not liberated by a mere gratuitous favour, but a ransom price has been paid, in consideration of which he is set free. The original owner receives back his alienated and lost possession because he has bought it back "with a price." This price or ransom (Gr. lutron ) is always said to be Christ, his blood, his death. He secures our redemption by the payment of a ransom. (See REDEMPTION.)

Category:Rapha''' - Tall. (1.) A Benjamite, the son of Binea (1 Chronicles 8:2, 1 Chronicles 8:37), a descendant of Saul. (2.) Margin of 1 Chronicles 20:4, 1 Chronicles 20:6, where "giant" is given in the text.

Category:Raphu''' - Healed, a Benjamite, whose son Palti was one of the twelve spies (Numbers 13:9).

Category:Raven''' - Heb. 'orebh, from a root meaning "to be black" (Compare Song of Songs 5:11); first mentioned as "sent forth" by Noah from the ark (Genesis 8:7). "Every raven after his kind" was forbidden as food (Leviticus 11:15; Deuteronomy 14:14). Ravens feed mostly on carrion, and hence their food is procured with difficulty (Job 38:41; Psalms 147:9). When they attack kids or lambs or weak animals, it is said that they first pick out the eyes of their victims (Proverbs 30:17). When Elijah was concealed by the brook Cherith, God commanded the ravens to bring him "bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening" (1 Kings 17:3). (See ELIJAH.) There are eight species of ravens in Palestine, and they are everywhere very numerous in that land.

Category:Razor''' - The Nazarites were forbidden to make use of the razor (Numbers 6:5; Judges 13:5). At their consecration the Levites were shaved all over with a razor (Numbers 8:7; compare Psalms 52:2; Ezekiel 5:1).

Category:Reba''' - Fourth, one of the Midianite chiefs slain by the Israelites in the wilderness (Numbers 31:8; Joshua 13:21).

Category:Rebekah''' - A noose, the daughter of Bethuel, and the wife of Isaac (Genesis 22:23; Genesis 24:67). The circumstances under which Abraham's "steward" found her at the "city of Nahor," in Padan-aram, are narrated in Gen. 24 - 27. "She can hardly be regarded as an amiable woman. When we first see her she is ready to leave her father's house for ever at an hour's notice; and her future life showed not only a full share of her brother Laban's duplicity, but the grave fault of partiality in her relations to her children, and a strong will, which soon controlled the gentler nature of her husband." The time and circumstances of her death are not recorded, but it is said that she was buried in the cave of Machpelah (Genesis 49:31).

Category:Rechab''' - Horseman, or chariot. (1.) One of Ishbosheth's "captains of bands" or leaders of predatory troops (2 Samuel 4:2). (2.) The father of Jehonadab, who was the father of the Rechabites (2 Kings 10:15, 2 Kings 10:23; Jeremiah 35:6).

Category:Rechabites''' - The descendants of Rechab through Jonadab or Jehonadab. They belonged to the Kenites, who accompanied the children of Israel into Palestine, and dwelt among them. Moses married a Kenite wife (Judges 1:16), and Jael was the wife of "Heber the Kenite" (Judges 4:17). Saul also showed kindness to the Kenites (1 Samuel 15:6). The main body of the Kenites dwelt in cities, and adopted settled habits of life (1 Samuel 30:29); but Jehonadab forbade his descendants to drink wine or to live in cities. They were commanded to lead always a nomad life. They adhered to the law laid down by Jonadab, and were noted for their fidelity to the old-established custom of their family in the days of Jeremiah (Jer. 35); and this feature of their character is referred to by the prophet for the purpose of giving point to his own exhortation. They are referred to in Nehemiah 3:14 and 1 Chronicles 2:55. Dr. Wolff (1839) found in Arabia, near Mecca, a tribe claiming to be descendants of Jehonadab; and recently a Bedouin tribe has been found near the Dead Sea who also profess to be descendants of the same Kenite chief.

Category:Reconciliation''' - A change from enmity to friendship. It is mutual, i.e., it is a change wrought in both parties who have been at enmity. (1.) In Colossians 1:21, Colossians 1:22, the word there used refers to a change wrought in the personal character of the sinner who ceases to be an enemy to God by wicked works, and yields up to him his full confidence and love. In 2 Corinthians 5:20 the apostle beseeches the Corinthians to be "reconciled to God", i.e., to lay aside their enmity. (2.) Romans 5:10 refers not to any change in our disposition toward God, but to God himself, as the party reconciled. Romans (Romans 5:11) teaches the same truth. From God we have received "the reconciliation" (R.V.), i.e., he has conferred on us the token of his friendship. So also 2 Corinthians 5:18, 2 Corinthians 5:19 speaks of a reconciliation originating with God, and consisting in the removal of his merited wrath. In Ephesians 2:16 it is clear that the apostle does not refer to the winning back of the sinner in love and loyalty to God, but to the restoration of God's forfeited favour. This is effected by his justice being satisfied, so that he can, in consistency with his own nature, be favourable toward sinners. Justice demands the punishment of sinners. The death of Christ satisfies justice, and so reconciles God to us. This reconciliation makes God our friend, and enables him to pardon and save us. (See ATONEMENT.)

Category:Recorder''' - (Heb. mazkir, i.e., "the mentioner," "remembrance"), the office first held by Jehoshaphat in the court of David (2 Samuel 8:16), also in the court of Solomon (1 Kings 4:3). The next recorder mentioned is Joah, in the reign of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:18, 2 Kings 18:37; Isaiah 36:3, Isaiah 36:22). In the reign of Josiah another of the name of Joah filled this office (2 Chronicles 34:8). The "recorder" was the chancellor or vizier of the kingdom. He brought all weighty matters under the notice of the king, "such as complaints, petitions, and wishes of subjects or foreigners. He also drew up papers for the king's guidance, and prepared drafts of the royal will for the scribes. All treaties came under his oversight; and he had the care of the national archives or records, to which, as royal historiographer, like the same state officer in Assyria and Egypt, he added the current annals of the kingdom."

Category:Red Sea''' - The sea so called extends along the west coast of Arabia for about 1,400 miles, and separates Asia from Africa. It is connected with the Indian Ocean, of which it is an arm, by the Strait of Bab-el-Mandeb. At a point (Ras Mohammed) about 200 miles from its northern extremity it is divided into two arms, that on the east called the Aelanitic Gulf, now the Bahr el-'Akabah, about 100 miles long by 15 broad, and that on the west the Gulf of Suez, about 150 miles long by about 20 broad. This branch is now connected with the Mediterranean by the Suez Canal. Between these two arms lies the Sinaitic Peninsula. The Hebrew name generally given to this sea is Yam Suph. This word suph means a woolly kind of sea-weed, which the sea casts up in great abundance on its shores. In these passages, Exodus 10:19; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 15:4, Exodus 15:22; Exodus 23:31; Numbers 14:25, etc., the Hebrew name is always translated "Red Sea," which was the name given to it by the Greeks. The origin of this name (Red Sea) is uncertain. Some think it is derived from the red colour of the mountains on the western shore; others from the red coral found in the sea, or the red appearance sometimes given to the water by certain zoophytes floating in it. In the New Testament (Acts 7:36; Hebrews 11:29) this name is given to the Gulf of Suez. This sea was also called by the Hebrews Yam-mitstraim, i.e., "the Egyptian sea" (Isaiah 11:15), and simply Ha-yam , "the sea" (Exodus 14:2, Exodus 14:9, Exodus 14:16, Exodus 14:21, Exodus 14:28; Joshua 24:6, Joshua 24:7; Isaiah 10:26, etc.). The great historical event connected with the Red Sea is the passage of the children of Israel, and the overthrow of the Egyptians, to which there is frequent reference in Scripture (Ex. 14, 15; Numbers 33:8; Deuteronomy 11:4; Joshua 2:10; Judges 11:16; 2 Samuel 22:16; Nehemiah 9:9; Psalms 66:6; Isaiah 10:26; Acts 7:36, etc.).

Category:Passage of Red Sea''' - The account of the march of the Israelites through the Red Sea is given in Exodus 14:22. There has been great diversity of opinion as to the precise place where this occurred. The difficulty of arriving at any definite conclusion on the matter is much increased by the consideration that the head of the Gulf of Suez, which was the branch of the sea that was crossed, must have extended at the time of the Exodus probably 50 miles farther north than it does at present. Some have argued that the crossing took place opposite the Wady Tawarik, where the sea is at present some 7 miles broad. But the opinion that seems to be best supported is that which points to the neighbourhood of Suez. This position perfectly satisfies all the conditions of the stupendous miracle as recorded in the sacred narrative. (See EXODUS.)

Category:Redeemer''' - Heb. goel ; i.e., one charged with the duty of restoring the rights of another and avenging his wrongs (Leviticus 25:48, Leviticus 25:49; Numbers 5:8; Ruth 4:1; Job 19:25; Psalms 19:14; Psalms 78:35, etc.). This title is peculiarly applied to Christ. He redeems us from all evil by the payment of a ransom (q.v.). (See REDEMPTION.)

Category:Redemption''' - The purchase back of something that had been lost, by the payment of a ransom. The Greek word so rendered is apolutrosis, a word occurring nine times in Scripture, and always with the idea of a ransom or price paid, i.e., redemption by a lutron (see Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45). There are instances in the LXX. Category:Version of the Old Testament of the use of lutron in man's relation to man (Leviticus 19:20; Leviticus 25:51; Exodus 21:30; Numbers 35:31, Numbers 35:32; Isaiah 45:13; Proverbs 6:35), and in the same sense of man's relation to God (Numbers 3:49; Numbers 18:15). There are many passages in the New Testament which represent Christ's sufferings under the idea of a ransom or price, and the result thereby secured is a purchase or redemption (Compare Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 6:19, 1 Corinthians 6:20; Galatians 3:13; Galatians 4:4, Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; 1 Timothy 2:5, 1 Timothy 2:6; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 9:12; 1 Peter 1:18, 1 Peter 1:19; Revelation 5:9). The idea running through all these texts, however various their reference, is that of payment made for our redemption. The debt against us is not viewed as simply canceled, but is fully paid. Christ's blood or life, which he surrendered for them, is the "ransom" by which the deliverance of his people from the servitude of sin and from its penal consequences is secured. It is the plain doctrine of Scripture that "Christ saves us neither by the mere exercise of power, nor by his doctrine, nor by his example, nor by the moral influence which he exerted, nor by any subjective influence on his people, whether natural or mystical, but as a satisfaction to divine justice, as an expiation for sin, and as a ransom from the curse and authority of the law, thus reconciling us to God by making it consistent with his perfection to exercise mercy toward sinners" (Hodge's Systematic Theology).

Category:Reed''' - (1.) "Paper reeds" (Isaiah 19:7; R.V., "reeds"). Heb. 'aroth, properly green herbage growing in marshy places. (2.) Heb. kaneh (1 Kings 14:15; Job 40:21; Isaiah 19:6), whence the Gr. kanna, a "cane," a generic name for a reed of any kind. The reed of Egypt and Palestine is the Arundo donax, which grows to the height of 12 feet, its stalk jointed like the bamboo, "with a magnificent panicle of blossom at the top, and so slender and yielding that it will lie perfectly flat under a gust of wind, and immediately resume its upright position." It is used to illustrate weakness (2 Kings 18:21; Ezekiel 29:6), also fickleness or instability (Matthew 11:7; compare Ephesians 4:14). A "bruised reed" (Isaiah 42:3; Matthew 12:20) is an emblem of a believer weak in grace. A reed was put into our Lord's hands in derision (Matthew 27:29); and "they took the reed and smote him on the head" (Matthew 27:30). The "reed" on which they put the sponge filled with vinegar (Matthew 27:48) was, according to John (John 19:29), a hyssop stalk, which must have been of some length, or perhaps a bunch of hyssop twigs fastened to a rod with the sponge. (See CANE.)

Category:Refiner''' - The process of refining metals is referred to by way of illustrations in Isaiah 1:25; Jeremiah 6:29; Zechariah 13:9; Malachi 3:2, Malachi 3:3.

Category:Cities of Refuge''' - Were six in number (Num. 35). On the west of Jordan were 1) Kadesh, in Naphtali; 2) Shechem, in Mount Ephraim; 3) Hebron, in Judah. On the east of Jordan were, 4) Golan, in Bashan; 5) Ramoth-Gilead, in Gad; and 6) Bezer, in Reuben.

Category:Regem-melech''' - Friend of the king, one of the two messengers sent by the exiled Jews to Jerusalem in the time of Darius (Zechariah 7:2) to make inquiries at the temple.

Category:Regeneration''' - Only found in Matthew 19:28 and Titus 3:5. This word literally means a "new birth." The Greek word so rendered ( palingenesia ) is used by classical writers with reference to the changes produced by the return of spring. In Matthew 19:28 the word is equivalent to the "restitution of all things" (Acts 3:21). In Titus 3:5 it denotes that change of heart elsewhere spoken of as a passing from death to life (1 John 3:14); becoming a new creature in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17); being born again (John 3:5); a renewal of the mind (Romans 12:2); a resurrection from the dead (Ephesians 2:6); a being quickened (Ephesians 2:1, Ephesians 2:5). This change is ascribed to the Holy Spirit. It originates not with man but with God (John 1:12, John 1:13; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 5:1, 1 John 5:4). As to the nature of the change, it consists in the implanting of a new principle or disposition in the soul; the impartation of spiritual life to those who are by nature "dead in trespasses and sins." The necessity of such a change is emphatically affirmed in Scripture (John 3:3; Romans 7:18; Romans 8:7; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1; Ephesians 4:21).

Category:Rehabiah''' - Enlargement of the Lord, the son of Eliezer, and grandson of Moses (1 Chronicles 23:17; 1 Chronicles 24:21).

Category:Rehob''' - Street; broad place. (1.) The father of Hadadezer, king of Tobah (2 Samuel 8:3, 2 Samuel 8:12). (2.) Nehemiah 10:11. (3.) The same, probably, as Beth-rehob (2 Samuel 10:6, 2 Samuel 10:8; Judges 18:28), a place in the north of Palestine (Numbers 13:21). It is now supposed to be represented by the castle of Hunin, south-west of Dan, on the road from Hamath into Coele-Syria. (4.) A town of Asher (Joshua 19:28), to the east of Zidon. (5.) Another town of Asher (Joshua 19:30), kept possession of by the Canaanites (Judges 1:31).

Category:Rehoboam''' - He enlarges the people, the successor of Solomon on the throne, and apparently his only son. He was the son of Naamah "the Ammonitess," some well-known Ammonitish princess (1 Kings 14:21; 2 Chronicles 12:13). He was forty-one years old when he ascended the throne, and he reigned seventeen years (975-958 B.C.). Although he was acknowledged at once as the rightful heir to the throne, yet there was a strongly-felt desire to modify the character of the government. The burden of taxation to which they had been subjected during Solomon's reign was very oppressive, and therefore the people assembled at Shechem and demanded from the king an alleviation of their burdens. He went to meet them at Shechem, and heard their demands for relief (1 Kings 12:4). After three days, having consulted with a younger generation of courtiers that had grown up around him, instead of following the advice of elders, he answered the people haughtily (1 Kings 12:6). "The king hearkened not unto the people; for the cause was from the Lord" (Compare 1 Kings 11:31). This brought matters speedily to a crisis. The terrible cry was heard (Compare 2 Samuel 20:1): "What portion have we in David? Neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse: To your tents, O Israel: Now see to thine own house, David" (1 Kings 12:16). And now at once the kingdom was rent in twain. Rehoboam was appalled, and tried concessions, but it was too late (1 Kings 12:18). The tribe of Judah, Rehoboam's own tribe, alone remained faithful to him. Benjamin was reckoned along with Judah, and these two tribes formed the southern kingdom, with Jerusalem as its capital; while the northern ten tribes formed themselves into a separate kingdom, choosing Jeroboam as their king. Rehoboam tried to win back the revolted ten tribes by making war against them, but he was prevented by the prophet Shemaiah (1 Kings 12:21; 2 Chronicles 11:1) from fulfilling his purpose. (See JEROBOAM.) In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign, Shishak (q.v.), one of the kings of Egypt of the Assyrian dynasty, stirred up, no doubt, by Jeroboam his son-in-law, made war against him. Jerusalem submitted to the invader, who plundered the temple and virtually reduced the kingdom to the position of a vassal of Egypt (1 Kings 14:25, 1 Kings 14:26; 2 Chronicles 12:5). A remarkable memorial of this invasion has been discovered at Karnac, in Upper Egypt, in certain sculptures on the walls of a small temple there. These sculptures represent the king, Shishak, holding in his hand a train of prisoners and other figures, with the names of the captured towns of Judah, the towns which Rehoboam had fortified (2 Chronicles 11:5). The kingdom of Judah, under Rehoboam, sank more and more in moral and spiritual decay. "There was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam all their days." At length, in the fifty-eighth year of his age, Rehoboam "slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David" (1 Kings 14:31). He was succeeded by his son Abijah. (See EGYPT.)

Category:Rehoboth''' - Broad places. (1.) A well in Gerar dug by Isaac (Genesis 26:22), supposed to be in Wady er-Ruheibeh, about 20 miles south of Beersheba. (2.) An ancient city on the Euphrates (Genesis 36:37; 1 Chronicles 1:48), " Rehoboth by the river." (3.) Named among the cities of Asshur (Genesis 10:11). Probably, however, the words " rehoboth'ir " are to be translated as in the Vulgate and the margin of A.V., "the streets of the city," or rather "the public square of the city", i.e., of Nineveh.

Category:Rehum''' - Merciful. (1.) One of "the children of the province" who returned from the Captivity (Ezra 2:2); the same as "Nehum" (Nehemiah 7:7). (2.) The "chancellor" of Artaxerxes, who sought to stir him up against the Jews (Ezra 4:8-24) and prevent the rebuilding of the walls and the temple of Jerusalem. (3.) A Levite (Nehemiah 3:17). (4.) Nehemiah 10:25. (5.) A priest (Nehemiah 12:3).

Category:Rei''' - Friendly, one who maintained true allegiance to king David (1 Kings 1:8) when Adonijah rebelled.

Category:Reins''' - The kidneys, the supposed seat of the desires and affections; used metaphorically for "heart." The "reins" and the "heart" are often mentioned together, as denoting the whole moral constitution of man (Psalms 7:9; Psalms 16:7; Psalms 26:2; Psalms 139:13; Jeremiah 17:10, etc.).

Category:Rekem''' - Embroidered; variegated. (1.) One of the five Midianite kings whom the Israelites destroyed (Numbers 31:8). (2.) One of the sons of Hebron (1 Chronicles 2:43, 1 Chronicles 2:44). (3.) A town of Benjamin (Joshua 18:27).

Category:Remaliah''' - Adorned by the Lord, the father of Pekah, who conspired successfully against Pekahiah (2 Kings 15:25, 2 Kings 15:27, 2 Kings 15:30, 2 Kings 15:32, 2 Kings 15:37; Isaiah 7:1, Isaiah 7:4, Isaiah 7:5, Isaiah 7:9; Isaiah 8:6).

Category:Remeth''' - Another form of Ramah (q.v.) or Ramoth (1 Chronicles 6:73; Joshua 19:21), and probably also of Jarmuth (Joshua 21:29).

Category:Remmon-methoar''' - (Joshua 19:13), rendered correctly in the Revised Category:Version, "Rimmon, which stretcheth unto Neah," a landmark of Zebulun; called also Rimmon (1 Chronicles 6:77).

Category:Remphan''' - (Acts 7:43; R.V., "Rephan"). In Amos 5:26 the Heb. Chiun (q.v.) is rendered by the LXX. "Rephan," and this name is adopted by Luke in his narrative of the Acts. These names represent the star-god Saturn or Moloch.

Category:Rent''' - (Isaiah 3:24), probably a rope, as rendered in the LXX. and Vulgate and Revised Category:Version, or as some prefer interpreting the phrase, "girdle and robe are torn [i.e., are 'a rent'] by the hand of violence."

Category:Repentance''' - There are three Greek words used in the New Testament to denote repentance. (1.) The verb metamelomai is used of a change of mind, such as to produce regret or even remorse on account of sin, but not necessarily a change of heart. This word is used with reference to the repentance of Judas (Matthew 27:3). (2.) Metanoeo, meaning to change one's mind and purpose, as the result of after knowledge. (3.) This verb, with the cognate noun metanoia, is used of true repentance, a change of mind and purpose and life, to which remission of sin is promised. Evangelical repentance consists of (1) a true sense of one's own guilt and sinfulness; (2) an apprehension of God's mercy in Christ; (3) an actual hatred of sin (Psalms 119:128; Job 42:5, Job 42:6; 2 Corinthians 7:10) and turning from it to God; and (4) a persistent endeavour after a holy life in a walking with God in the way of his commandments. The true penitent is conscious of guilt (Psalms 51:4, Psalms 51:9), of pollution (Psalms 51:5, Psalms 51:7, Psalms 51:10), and of helplessness (Psalms 51:11; Psalms 109:21, Psalms 109:22). Thus he apprehends himself to be just what God has always seen him to be and declares him to be. But repentance comprehends not only such a sense of sin, but also an apprehension of mercy, without which there can be no true repentance (Psalms 51:1; Psalms 130:4).

Category:Rephael''' - Healed of God, one of Shemaiah's sons. He and his brethren, on account of their "strength for service," formed one of the divisions of the temple porters (1 Chronicles 26:7, 1 Chronicles 26:8).

Category:Rephaim''' - Lofty menl; giants, (Genesis 14:5; 2 Samuel 21:16, 2 Samuel 21:18, marg. A.V., Rapha, marg. R.V., Raphah; Deuteronomy 3:13, R.V.; A.V., "giants"). The aborigines of Palestine, afterwards conquered and dispossessed by the Canaanite tribes, are classed under this general title. They were known to the Moabites as Emim, i.e., "fearful", (Deuteronomy 2:11), and to the Ammonites as Zamzummim. Some of them found refuge among the Philistines, and were still existing in the days of David. We know nothing of their origin. They were not necessarily connected with the "giants" (R.V., "Nephilim") of Genesis 6:4. (See GIANTS.)

Category:Valley of Rephaim''' - (Joshua 15:8; Joshua 18:16, R.V.). When David became king over all Israel, the Philistines, judging that he would now become their uncompromising enemy, made a sudden attack upon Hebron, compelling David to retire from it. He sought refuge in "the hold" at Adullam (2 Samuel 5:17), and the Philistines took up their position in the valley of Rephaim, on the west and south-west of Jerusalem. Thus all communication between Bethlehem and Jerusalem was intercepted. While David and his army were encamped here, there occurred that incident narrated in 2 Samuel 23:15. Having obtained divine direction, David led his army against the Philistines, and gained a complete victory over them. The scene of this victory was afterwards called Baalperazim (q.v.). A second time, however, the Philistines rallied their forces in this valley (2 Samuel 5:22). Again warned by a divine oracle, David led his army to Gibeon, and attacked the Philistines from the south, inflicting on them another severe defeat, and chasing them with great slaughter to Gezer (q.v.). There David kept in check these enemies of Israel. This valley is now called el-Bukei'a.

Category:Rephidim''' - Supports, one of the stations of the Israelites, situated in the Wady Feiran, near its junction with the Wady esh-Sheikh. Here no water could be found for the people to drink, and in their impatience they were ready to stone Moses, as if he were the cause of their distress. At the command of God Moses smote "the rock in Horeb," and a copious stream flowed forth, enough for all the people. After this the Amalekites attacked the Israelites while they were here encamped, but they were utterly defeated (Exodus 17:1, Exodus 17:8). They were the "first of the nations" to make war against Israel (Numbers 24:20). Leaving Rephidim, the Israelites advanced into the wilderness of Sinai (Exodus 19:1, Exodus 19:2; Numbers 33:14, Numbers 33:15), marching probably through the two passes of the Wady Solaf and the Wady esh-Sheikh, which converge at the entrance to the plain er-Rahah, the "desert of Sinai," which is two miles long and about half a mile broad. (See SINAI; MERIBAH.)

Category:Reprobate''' - That which is rejected on account of its own worthlessness (Jeremiah 6:30; Hebrews 6:8; Gr. adokimos, "rejected"). This word is also used with reference to persons cast away or rejected because they have failed to make use of opportunities offered them (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5).

Category:Rereward''' - (Joshua 6:9), the troops in the rear of an army on the march, the rear-guard. This word is a corruption of the French arriere-garde. During the wilderness march the tribe of Dan formed the rear-guard (Numbers 10:25; compare 1 Samuel 29:2; Isaiah 52:12; Isaiah 58:8).

Category:Resen''' - Head of the stream; bridle, one of Nimrod's cities (Genesis 10:12), "between Nineveh and Calah." It has been supposed that the four cities named in this verse were afterwards combined into one under the name of Nineveh (q.v.). Resen was on the east side of the Tigris. It is probably identified with the mound of ruins called Karamless.

Category:Rest''' - (1.) Gr. katapausis, equivalent to the Hebrew word noah (Hebrews 4:1). (2.) Gr. anapausis, "rest from weariness" (Matthew 11:28). (3.) Gr. anesis, "relaxation" (2 Thessalonians 1:7). (4.) Gr. sabbatismos, a Sabbath rest, a rest from all work (Hebrews 4:9; R.V., "sabbath"), a rest like that of God when he had finished the work of creation.

Category:Resurrection of Christ''' - One of the cardinal facts and doctrines of the gospel. If Christ be not risen, our faith is vain (1 Corinthians 15:14). The whole of the New Testament revelation rests on this as an historical fact. On the day of Pentecost Peter argued the necessity of Christ's resurrection from the prediction in Psalms 16:1 (Acts 2:24). In his own discourses, also, our Lord clearly intimates his resurrection (Matthew 20:19; Mark 9:9; Mark 14:28; Luke 18:33; John 2:19). The evangelists give circumstantial accounts of the facts connected with that event, and the apostles, also, in their public teaching largely insist upon it. Ten different appearances of our risen Lord are recorded in the New Testament. They may be arranged as follows: (1.) To Mary Magdalene at the sepulchre alone. This is recorded at length only by John (John 20:11), and alluded to by Mark (Mark 16:9). (2.) To certain women, "the other Mary," Salome, Joanna, and others, as they returned from the sepulchre. Matthew (Matthew 28:1) alone gives an account of this. (Compare Mark 16:1, and Luke 24:1.) (3.) To Simon Peter alone on the day of the resurrection. (See Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:5.) (4.) To the two disciples on the way to Emmaus on the day of the resurrection, recorded fully only by Luke (Luke 24:13-35. Compare Mark 16:12, Mark 16:13). (5.) To the ten disciples (Thomas being absent) and others "with them," at Jerusalem on the evening of the resurrection day. One of the evangelists gives an account of this appearance, John (John 20:19). (6.) To the disciples again (Thomas being present) at Jerusalem (Mark 16:14; Luke 24:33; John 20:26. See also 1 Corinthians 15:5). (7.) To the disciples when fishing at the Sea of Galilee. Of this appearance also John (John 21:1-23) alone gives an account. (8.) To the eleven, and above 500 brethren at once, at an appointed place in Galilee (1 Corinthians 15:6; compare Matthew 28:16). (9.) To James, but under what circumstances we are not informed (1 Corinthians 15:7). (10.) To the apostles immediately before the ascension. They accompanied him from Jerusalem to Mount Olivet, and there they saw him ascend "till a cloud received him out of their sight" (Mark 16:19; Luke 24:50; Acts 1:4). It is worthy of note that it is distinctly related that on most of these occasions our Lord afforded his disciples the amplest opportunity of testing the fact of his resurrection. He conversed with them face to face. They touched him (Matthew 28:9; Luke 24:39; John 20:27), and he ate bread with them (Luke 24:42, Luke 24:43; John 21:12, John 21:13). (11.) In addition to the above, mention might be made of Christ's manifestation of himself to Paul at Damascus, who speaks of it as an appearance of the risen Saviour (Acts 9:3, Acts 9:17; 1 Corinthians 15:8; 1 Corinthians 9:1). It is implied in the words of Luke (Acts 1:3) that there may have been other appearances of which we have no record. The resurrection is spoken of as the act (1.) of God the Father (Psalms 16:10; Acts 2:24; Acts 3:15; Romans 8:11; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 2:12; Hebrews 13:20); (2.) of Christ himself (John 2:19; John 10:18); and (3.) of the Holy Spirit (1 Peter 3:18). The resurrection is a public testimony of Christ's release from his undertaking as surety, and an evidence of the Father's acceptance of his work of redemption. It is a victory over death and the grave for all his followers. The importance of Christ's resurrection will be seen when we consider that if he rose the gospel is true, and if he rose not it is false. His resurrection from the dead makes it manifest that his sacrifice was accepted. Our justification was secured by his obedience to the death, and therefore he was raised from the dead (Romans 4:25). His resurrection is a proof that he made a full atonement for our sins, that his sacrifice was accepted as a satisfaction to divine justice, and his blood a ransom for sinners. It is also a pledge and an earnest of the resurrection of all believers (Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 6:14; 1 Corinthians 15:47; Philippians 3:21; 1 John 3:2). As he lives, they shall live also. It proved him to be the Son of God, inasmuch as it authenticated all his claims (John 2:19; John 10:17). "If Christ did not rise, the whole scheme of redemption is a failure, and all the predictions and anticipations of its glorious results for time and for eternity, for men and for angels of every rank and order, are proved to be chimeras. 'But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first-fruits of them that slept.' Therefore the Bible is true from Genesis to Revelation. The kingdom of darkness has been overthrown, Satan has fallen as lightning from heaven, and the triumph of truth over error, of good over evil, of happiness over misery is for ever secured." Hodge. With reference to the report which the Roman soldiers were bribed (Matthew 28:12) to circulate concerning Christ's resurrection, "his disciples came by night and stole him away while we slept," Matthew Henry in his "Commentary," under John 20:1, fittingly remarks, "The grave-clothes in which Christ had been buried were found in very good order, which serves for an evidence that his body was not 'stolen away while men slept.' Robbers of tombs have been known to take away 'the clothes' and leave the body; but none ever took away 'the body' and left the clothes, especially when they were 'fine linen' and new (Mark 15:46). Any one would rather choose to carry a dead body in its clothes than naked. Or if they that were supposed to have stolen it would have left the grave-clothes behind, yet it cannot be supposed they would find leisure to 'fold up the linen.'"

Category:Resurrection of the Dead''' - Will be simultaneous both of the just and the unjust (Daniel 12:2; John 5:28, John 5:29; Romans 2:6; 2 Thessalonians 1:6). The qualities of the resurrection body will be different from those of the body laid in the grave (1 Corinthians 15:53, 1 Corinthians 15:54; Philippians 3:21); but its identity will nevertheless be preserved. It will still be the same body (1 Corinthians 15:42) which rises again. As to the nature of the resurrection body, (1.) it will be spiritual (1 Corinthians 15:44), i.e., a body adapted to the use of the soul in its glorified state, and to all the conditions of the heavenly state; (2.) glorious, incorruptible, and powerful (1 Corinthians 15:54); (3.) like unto the glorified body of Christ (Philippians 3:21); and (4.) immortal (Revelation 21:4). Christ's resurrection secures and illustrates that of his people. (1.) Because his resurrection seals and consummates his redemptive power; and the redemption of our persons involves the redemption of our bodies (Romans 8:23). (2.) Because of our federal and vital union with Christ (1 Corinthians 15:21, 1 Corinthians 15:22; 1 Thessalonians 4:14). (3.) Because of his Spirit which dwells in us making our bodies his members (1 Corinthians 6:15; Romans 8:11). (4.) Because Christ by covenant is Lord both of the living and the dead (Romans 14:9). This same federal and vital union of the Christian with Christ likewise causes the resurrection of the believer to be similar to as well as consequent upon that of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:49; Philippians 3:21; 1 John 3:2). Hodge's Outlines of Theology.

Category:Reuben''' - Behold a son!, the eldest son of Jacob and Leah (Genesis 29:32). His sinful conduct, referred to in Genesis 35:22, brought down upon him his dying father's malediction (Genesis 48:4). He showed kindness to Joseph, and was the means of saving his life when his other brothers would have put him to death (Genesis 37:21, Genesis 37:22). It was he also who pledged his life and the life of his sons when Jacob was unwilling to let Benjamin go down into Egypt. After Jacob and his family went down into Egypt (Genesis 46:8) no further mention is made of Reuben beyond what is recorded in Genesis 49:3, Genesis 49:4.

Category:Tribe of Reuben''' - At the Exodus numbered 46,500 male adults, from twenty years old and upwards (Numbers 1:20, Numbers 1:21), and at the close of the wilderness wanderings they numbered only 43,730 (Numbers 26:7). This tribe united with that of Gad in asking permission to settle in the "land of Gilead," "on the other side of Jordan" (Numbers 32:1). The lot assigned to Reuben was the smallest of the lots given to the trans-Jordanic tribes. It extended from the Arnon, in the south along the coast of the Dead Sea to its northern end, where the Jordan flows into it (Joshua 13:15, Joshua 13:23). It thus embraced the original kingdom of Sihon. Reuben is "to the eastern tribes what Simeon is to the western. 'Unstable as water,' he vanishes away into a mere Arabian tribe. 'His men are few;' it is all he can do 'to live and not die.' We hear of nothing beyond the multiplication of their cattle in the land of Gilead, their spoils of 'camels fifty thousand, and of asses two thousand' (1 Chronicles 5:9, 1 Chronicles 5:10, 1 Chronicles 5:20, 1 Chronicles 5:21). In the great struggles of the nation he never took part. The complaint against him in the song of Deborah is the summary of his whole history. 'By the streams of Reuben,' i.e., by the fresh streams which descend from the eastern hills into the Jordan and the Dead Sea, on whose banks the Bedouin chiefs met then as now to debate, in the 'streams' of Reuben great were the 'desires'", i.e., resolutions which were never carried out, the people idly resting among their flocks as if it were a time of peace (Judges 5:15, Judges 5:16). Stanley's Sinai and Palestine. All the three tribes on the east of Jordan at length fell into complete apostasy, and the time of retribution came. God "stirred up the spirit of Pul, king of Assyria, and the spirit of Tiglath-pileser, king of Assyria," to carry them away, the first of the tribes, into captivity (1 Chronicles 5:25, 1 Chronicles 5:26).

Category:Reuel''' - Friend of God. (1.) A son of Esau and Bashemath (Genesis 36:4, Genesis 36:10; 1 Chronicles 1:35). (2.) "The priest of Midian," Moses' father-in-law (Exodus 2:18) = Raguel (Numbers 10:29). If he be identified with Jethro (q.v.), then this may be regarded as his proper name, and Jether or Jethro (i.e., "excellency") as his official title. (3.) Numbers 2:14, called also Deuel (Numbers 1:14; Numbers 7:42).

Category:Revelation''' - An uncovering, a bringing to light of that which had been previously wholly hidden or only obscurely seen. God has been pleased in various ways and at different times (Hebrews 1:1) to make a supernatural revelation of himself and his purposes and plans, which, under the guidance of his Spirit, has been committed to writing. (See WORD OF GOD.) The Scriptures are not merely the "record" of revelation; they are the revelation itself in a written form, in order to the accurate preservation and propagation of the truth. Revelation and inspiration differ. Revelation is the supernatural communication of truth to the mind; inspiration (q.v.) secures to the teacher or writer infallibility in communicating that truth to others. It renders its subject the spokesman or prophet of God in such a sense that everything he asserts to be true, whether fact or doctrine or moral principle, is true, infallibly true.

Category:Book of Revelation''' - =The Apocalypse, the closing book and the only prophetical book of the New Testament canon. The author of this book was undoubtedly John the apostle. His name occurs four times in the book itself (Revelation 1:1, Revelation 1:4, Revelation 1:9; Revelation 22:8), and there is every reason to conclude that the "John" here mentioned was the apostle. In a manuscript of about the twelfth century he is called "John the divine," but no reason can be assigned for this appellation. The date of the writing of this book has generally been fixed at A.D.96, in the reign of Domitian. There are some, however, who contend for an earlier date, A.D. 68 or 69, in the reign of Nero. Those who are in favour of the later date appeal to the testimony of the Christian father Irenaeus, who received information relative to this book from those who had seen John face to face. He says that the Apocalypse "was seen no long time ago." As to the relation between this book and the Gospel of John, it has been well observed that "the leading ideas of both are the same. The one gives us in a magnificent vision, the other in a great historic drama, the supreme conflict between good and evil and its issue. In both Jesus Christ is the central figure, whose victory through defeat is the issue of the conflict. In both the Jewish dispensation is the preparation for the gospel, and the warfare and triumph of the Christ is described in language saturated with the Old Testament The difference of date will go a long way toward explaining the difference of style." Plummer's Gospel of St. John, Introd.

Category:Revelation of Christ''' - The second advent of Christ. Three different Greek words are used by the apostles to express this, (1.) apokalupsis (1 Cor. 1; 7; 2 Thessalonians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:7, 1 Peter 1:13); (2.) parousia (Matthew 24:3, Matthew 24:27; 1 Thessalonians 2:19; James 5:7, James 5:8); (3.) epiphaneia (1 Timothy 6:14; 2 Timothy 1:10; 2 Timothy 4:1; Titus 2:13). There existed among Christians a wide expectation, founded on Matthew 24:29, Matthew 24:30, Matthew 24:34, of the speedy return of Christ. (See MILLENNIUM.)

Category:Rezeph''' - Solid; a stone, (2 Kings 19:12; Isaiah 37:12), a fortress near Haran, probably on the west of the Euphrates, conquered by Sennacherib.

Category:Rezin''' - Firm; a prince, a king of Syria, who joined Pekah (q.v.) in an invasion of the kingdom of Judah (2 Kings 15:37; 2 Kings 16:5; Isaiah 7:1). Ahaz induced Tiglath-pileser III. to attack Damascus, and this caused Rezin to withdraw for the purpose of defending his own kingdom. Damascus was taken, and Rezin was slain in battle by the Assyrian king, and his people carried into captivity, 732 B.C. (2 Kings 16:9).

Category:Rezon''' - Prince, son of Eliadah. Abandoning the service of Hadadezer, the king of Zobah, on the occasion of his being defeated by David, he became the "captain over a band" of marauders, and took Damascus, and became king of Syria (1 Kings 11:23; 2 Samuel 8:3). For centuries after this the Syrians were the foes of Israel. He "became an adversary to Israel all the days of Solomon."

Category:Rhegium''' - Breach, a town in the south of Italy, on the Strait of Messina, at which Paul touched on his way to Rome (Acts 28:13). It is now called Rheggio.

Category:Rhesa''' - Affection, son of Zorobabel, mentioned in the genealogy of our Lord (Luke 3:27).

Category:Rhoda''' - A rose, the damsel in the house of Mary, the mother of John Mark. She came to hearken when Peter knocked at the door of the gate (Acts 12:12).

Category:Rhodes''' - A rose, an island to the south of the western extremity of Asia Minor, between Coos and Patara, about 46 miles long and 18 miles broad. Here the apostle probably landed on his way from Greece to Syria (Acts 21:1), on returning from his third missionary journey.

Category:Riblah''' - Fruitful, an ancient town on the northern frontier of Palestine, 35 miles north-east of Baalbec, and 10 or 12 south of Lake Homs, on the eastern bank of the Orontes, in a wide and fertile plain. Here Nebuchadnezzar had his head-quarters in his campaign against Jerusalem, and here also Necho fixed his camp after he had routed Josiah's army at Megiddo (2 Kings 23:29; 2 Kings 25:6, 2 Kings 25:20, 2 Kings 25:21; Jeremiah 39:5; Jeremiah 52:10). It was on the great caravan road from Palestine to Carchemish, on the Euphrates. It is described (Numbers 34:11) as "on the eastern side of Ain." A place still called el Ain, i.e., "the fountain", is found in such a position about 10 miles distant. (See JERUSALEM.)

Category:Riddle''' - (Heb. hodah ). The oldest and, strictly speaking, the only example of a riddle was that propounded by Samson (Judges 14:12). The parabolic prophecy in Ezekiel 17:2-18 is there called a "riddle." It was rather, however, an allegory. The word "darkly" in 1 Corinthians 13:12 is the rendering of the Greek enigma; marg., "in a riddle."

Category:Righteousness''' - See JUSTIFICATION.

Category:Rimmon''' - Pomegranate. (1.) A man of Beeroth (2 Samuel 4:2), one of the four Gibeonite cities. (See Joshua 9:17.) (2.) A Syrian idol, mentioned only in 2 Kings 5:18. (3.) One of the "uttermost cities" of Judah, afterwards given to Simeon (Joshua 15:21, Joshua 15:32; Joshua 19:7; 1 Chronicles 4:32). In Joshua 15:32 Ain and Rimmon are mentioned separately, but in Joshua 19:7 and 1 Chronicles 4:32 (compare Nehemiah 11:29) the two words are probably to be combined, as forming together the name of one place, Ain-Rimmon = the spring of the pomegranate. It has been identified with Um er-Rumamin, about 13 miles south-west of Hebron. (4.) "Rock of," to which the Benjamites fled (Judges 20:45, Judges 20:47; Judges 21:13), and where they maintained themselves for four months after the fearful battle at Gibeah, in which they were almost exterminated, 600 only surviving out of about 27,000. It is the present village of Rummon, "on the very edge of the hill country, with a precipitous descent toward the Jordan valley," supposed to be the site of Ai.

Category:Rimmon-parez''' - A pomegranate breach, or Rimmon of the breach, one of the stations of the Israelites in the wilderness (Numbers 33:19, Numbers 33:20).

Category:Ring''' - Used as an ornament to decorate the fingers, arms, wrists, and also the ears and the nose. Rings were used as a signet (Genesis 38:18). They were given as a token of investment with authority (Genesis 41:42; Esther 3:8; Esther 8:2), and of favour and dignity (Luke 15:22). They were generally worn by rich men (James 2:2). They are mentioned by Isaiah (Isaiah 3:21) among the adornments of Hebrew women.

Category:Riphath''' - A crusher, Gomer's second son (Genesis 10:3), supposed to have been the ancestor of the Paphlagonians.

Category:Rissah''' - Heap of ruins; dew, a station of the Israelites in the wilderness (Numbers 33:21, Numbers 33:22).

Category:Rithmah''' - Wild broom, a station in the wilderness (Numbers 33:18, Numbers 33:19), the "broom valley," or "valley of broom bushes," the place apparently of the original encampment of Israel, near Kadesh.

Category:River''' - (1.) Heb. 'aphik, properly the channel or ravine that holds water (2 Samuel 22:16), translated "brook," "river," "stream," but not necessarily a perennial stream (Ezekiel 6:3; Ezekiel 31:12; Ezekiel 32:6; Ezekiel 34:13). (2.) Heb. nahal, in winter a "torrent," in summer a "wady" or valley (Genesis 32:23; Deuteronomy 2:24; Deuteronomy 3:16; Isaiah 30:28; Lamentations 2:18; Ezekiel 47:9). These winter torrents sometimes come down with great suddenness and with desolating force. A distinguished traveler thus describes his experience in this matter:, "I was encamped in Wady Feiran, near the base of Jebel Serbal, when a tremendous thunderstorm burst upon us. After little more than an hour's rain, the water rose so rapidly in the previously dry wady that I had to run for my life, and with great difficulty succeeded in saving my tent and goods; my boots, which I had not time to pick up, were washed away. In less than two hours a dry desert wady upwards of 300 yards broad was turned into a foaming torrent from 8 to 10 feet deep, roaring and tearing down and bearing everything upon it, tangled masses of tamarisks, hundreds of beautiful palm trees, scores of sheep and goats, camels and donkeys, and even men, women, and children, for a whole encampment of Arabs was washed away a few miles above me. The storm commenced at five in the evening; at half-past nine the waters were rapidly subsiding, and it was evident that the flood had spent its force." (Compare Matthew 7:27; Luke 6:49.) (3.) Nahar, a "river" continuous and full, a perennial stream, as the Jordan, the Euphrates (Genesis 2:10; Genesis 15:18; Deuteronomy 1:7; Psalms 66:6; Ezekiel 10:15). (4.) Tel'alah , a conduit, or water-course (1 Kings 18:32; 2 Kings 18:17; 2 Kings 20:20; Job 38:25; Ezekiel 31:4). (5.) Peleg, properly "waters divided", i.e., streams divided, throughout the land (Psalms 1:3); "the rivers [i.e., 'divisions'] of waters" (Job 20:17; Job 29:6; Proverbs 5:16). (6.) Ye'or, i.e., "great river", probably from an Egyptian word ( Aur ), commonly applied to the Nile (Genesis 41:1), but also to other rivers (Job 28:10; Isaiah 33:21). (7.) Yubhal, "a river" (Jeremiah 17:8), a full flowing stream. (8.) 'Ubhal, "a river" (Daniel 8:2).

Category:River of Egypt''' - (1.) Heb. nahar mitsraim, denotes in Genesis 15:18 the Nile, or its eastern branch (2 Chronicles 9:26). (2.) In Numbers 34:5 (R.V., "brook of Egypt") the Hebrew word is nahal, denoting a stream flowing rapidly in winter, or in the rainy season. This is a desert stream on the borders of Egypt. It is now called the Wady el-'Arish. The present boundary between Egypt and Palestine is about midway between this wady and Gaza. (See Numbers 34:5; Joshua 15:4, Joshua 15:47; 1 Kings 8:65; 2 Kings 24:7; Isaiah 27:12; Ezekiel 47:19. In all these passages the R.V. has "brook" and the A.V. "river.")

Category:River of Gad''' - Probably the Arno (2 Samuel 24:5).

Category:River of God''' - (Psalms 65:9), as opposed to earthly streams, denoting that the divine resources are inexhaustible, or the sum of all fertilizing streams that water the earth (Genesis 2:10).

Category:Rivers of Babylon''' - (Psalms 137:1), i.e., of the whole country of Babylonia, e.g., the Tigris, Euphrates, Chalonas, the Ulai, and the numerous canals.

Category:Rivers of Damascus''' - The Abana and Pharpar (2 Kings 5:12).

Category:Rivers of Judah''' - (Joel 3:18), the watercourses of Judea.

Category:Rizpah''' - Coal; hot stone, the daughter of Aiah, and one of Saul's concubines. She was the mother of Armoni and Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 3:7; 2 Samuel 21:8, 2 Samuel 21:10, 2 Samuel 21:11). It happened that a grievous famine, which lasted for three years, fell upon the land during the earlier half of David's reign at Jerusalem. This calamity was sent "for Saul and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites." David inquired of the Gibeonites what satisfaction they demanded, and was answered that nothing would compensate for the wrong Saul had done to them but the death of seven of Saul's sons. David accordingly delivered up to them the two sons of Rizpah and five of the sons of Merab (q.v.), Saul's eldest daughter, whom she bore to Adriel. These the Gibeonites put to death, and hung up their bodies before the Lord at the sanctuary at Gibeah. Rizpah thereupon took her place on the rock of Gibeah (q.v.), and for five months watched the suspended bodies of her children, to prevent them from being devoured by the beasts and birds of prey, till they were at length taken down and buried by David. Her marriage to Abner was the occasion of a quarrel between him and Ishbosheth, which led to Abner's going over to the side of David (2 Samuel 3:17).

Category:Road''' - (1 Samuel 27:10; R.V., "raid"), an inroad, an incursion. This word is never used in Scripture in the sense of a way or path.

Category:Robbery''' - Practiced by the Ishmaelites (Genesis 16:12), the Chaldeans and Sabeans (Job 1:15, Job 1:17), and the men of Shechem (Judges 9:25. See also 1 Samuel 27:6; 30; Hosea 4:2; Hosea 6:9). Robbers infested Judea in our Lord's time (Luke 10:30; John 18:40; Acts 5:36, Acts 5:37; Acts 21:38; 2 Corinthians 11:26). The words of the Authorized Category:Version, "counted it not robbery to be equal," etc. (Philippians 2:6, Philippians 2:7), are better rendered in the Revised Category:Version, "counted it not a prize to be on an equality," etc., i.e., "did not look upon equality with God as a prize which must not slip from his grasp" = "did not cling with avidity to the prerogatives of his divine majesty; did not ambitiously display his equality with God." "Robbers of churches" should be rendered, as in the Revised Category:Version, "of temples." In the temple at Ephesus there was a great treasure-chamber, and as all that was laid up there was under the guardianship of the goddess Diana, to steal from such a place would be sacrilege (Acts 19:37).

Category:Rock''' - (Heb. tsur ), employed as a symbol of God in the Old Testament (1 Samuel 2:2; 2 Samuel 22:3; Isaiah 17:10; Psalms 28:1; Psalms 31:2, Psalms 31:3; Psalms 89:26; Psalms 95:1); also in the New Testament (Matthew 16:18; Romans 9:33; 1 Corinthians 10:4). In Daniel 2:45 the Chaldaic form of the Hebrew word is translated "mountain." It ought to be translated "rock," as in Habakkuk 1:12 in the Revised Category:Version. The "rock" from which the stone is cut there signifies the divine origin of Christ. (See STONE.)

Category:Roe''' - (Heb. tsebi ), properly the gazelle (Arab. ghazal ), permitted for food (Deuteronomy 14:5; compare Deuteronomy 12:15, Deuteronomy 12:22; Deuteronomy 15:22; 1 Kings 4:23), noted for its swiftness and beauty and grace of form (2 Samuel 2:18; 1 Chronicles 12:8; Song of Songs 2:9; Song of Songs 7:3; Song of Songs 8:14). The gazelle (Gazella dorcas) is found in great numbers in Palestine. "Among the gray hills of Galilee it is still 'the roe upon the mountains of Bether,' and I have seen a little troop of gazelles feeding on the Mount of Olives close to Jerusalem itself" (Tristram). The Hebrew word ( 'ayyalah ) in Proverbs 5:19 thus rendered (R.V., "doe"), is properly the "wild she-goat," the mountain goat, the ibex. (See 1 Samuel 24:2; Psalms 104:18; Job 39:1.)

Category:Rogelim''' - Fullers, a town of Gilead, the residence of Barzillai the Gileadite (2 Samuel 17:27; 2 Samuel 19:31), probably near to Mahanaim.

Category:Roll''' - The common form of ancient books. The Hebrew word rendered "roll" or "volume" is meghillah, found in Ezra 6:2; Psalms 40:7; Jeremiah 36:2, Jeremiah 36:6, Jeremiah 36:23, Jeremiah 36:28, Jeremiah 36:29; Ezekiel 2:9; Ezekiel 3:1; Zechariah 5:1, Zechariah 5:2. "Rolls" (Chald. pl. of sephar, corresponding to Heb. sepher ) in Ezra 6:1 is rendered in the Revised Category:Version "archives." In the New Testament the word "volume" (Hebrews 10:7; R.V., "roll") occurs as the rendering of the Greek kephalis, meaning the head or top of the stick or cylinder on which the manuscript was rolled, and hence the manuscript itself. (See BOOK.)

Category:Romamti-ezer''' - Elevation of help, one of the sons of Heman, "the king's seer in the words of God, to lift up the horn." He was head of the "four-and-twentieth" course of singers (1 Chronicles 25:4, 1 Chronicles 25:31).

Category:Epistle to the Romans''' - This epistle was probably written at Corinth. Phoebe (Romans 16:1) of Cenchrea conveyed it to Rome, and Gaius of Corinth entertained the apostle at the time of his writing it (Romans 16:23; 1 Corinthians 1:14), and Erastus was chamberlain of the city, i.e., of Corinth (2 Timothy 4:20). The precise time at which it was written is not mentioned in the epistle, but it was obviously written when the apostle was about to "go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints", i.e., at the close of his second visit to Greece, during the winter preceding his last visit to that city (Romans 15:25; compare Acts 19:21; Acts 20:2, Acts 20:3, Acts 20:16; 1 Corinthians 16:1), early in A.D. 58. It is highly probable that Christianity was planted in Rome by some of those who had been at Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:10). At this time the Jews were very numerous in Rome, and their synagogues were probably resorted to by Romans also, who in this way became acquainted with the great facts regarding Jesus as these were reported among the Jews. Thus a church composed of both Jews and Gentiles was formed at Rome. Many of the brethren went out to meet Paul on his approach to Rome. There are evidences that Christians were then in Rome in considerable numbers, and had probably more than one place of meeting (Romans 16:14, Romans 16:15). The object of the apostle in writing to this church was to explain to them the great doctrines of the gospel. His epistle was a "word in season." Himself deeply impressed with a sense of the value of the doctrines of salvation, he opens up in a clear and connected form the whole system of the gospel in its relation both to Jew and Gentile. This epistle is peculiar in this, that it is a systematic exposition of the gospel of universal application. The subject is here treated argumentatively, and is a plea for Gentiles addressed to Jews. In the Epistle to the Galatians, the same subject is discussed, but there the apostle pleads his own authority, because the church in Galatia had been founded by him. After the introduction (Romans 1:1), the apostle presents in it divers aspects and relations the doctrine of justification by faith (Rom. 1:16 - 11:36) on the ground of the imputed righteousness of Christ. He shows that salvation is all of grace, and only of grace. This main section of his letter is followed by various practical exhortations (Rom. 12:1 - 15:13), which are followed by a conclusion containing personal explanations and salutations, which contain the names of twenty-four Christians at Rome, a benediction, and a doxology (Romans 15:14).

Category:Rome''' - The most celebrated city in the world at the time of Christ. It is said to have been founded 753 B.C.. When the New Testament was written, Rome was enriched and adorned with the spoils of the world, and contained a population estimated at 1,200,000, of which the half were slaves, and including representatives of nearly every nation then known. It was distinguished for its wealth and luxury and profligacy. The empire of which it was the capital had then reached its greatest prosperity. On the day of Pentecost there were in Jerusalem "strangers from Rome," who doubtless carried with them back to Rome tidings of that great day, and were instrumental in founding the church there. Paul was brought to this city a prisoner, where he remained for two years (Acts 28:30, Acts 28:31) "in his own hired house." While here, Paul wrote his epistles to the Philippians, to the Ephesians, to the Colossians, to Philemon, and probably also to the Hebrews. He had during these years for companions Luke and Aristarchus (Acts 27:2), Timothy (Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:1), Tychicus (Ephesians 6:21), Epaphroditus (Philippians 4:18), and John Mark (Colossians 4:10). (See PAUL.) Beneath this city are extensive galleries, called "catacombs," which were used from about the time of the apostles (one of the inscriptions found in them bears the date A.D. 71) for some three hundred years as places of refuge in the time of persecution, and also of worship and burial. About four thousand inscriptions have been found in the catacombs. These give an interesting insight into the history of the church at Rome down to the time of Constantine.

Category:Rose''' - Many varieties of the rose proper are indigenous to Syria. The famed rose of Damascus is white, but there are also red and yellow roses. In Song of Songs 2:1 and Isaiah 35:1 the Hebrew word habatstseleth (found only in these passages), rendered "rose" (R.V. marg., "autumn crocus"), is supposed by some to mean the oleander, by others the sweet-scented narcissus (a native of Palestine), the tulip, or the daisy; but nothing definite can be affirmed regarding it. The "rose of Sharon" is probably the cistus or rock-rose, several species of which abound in Palestine. "Mount Carmel especially abounds in the cistus, which in April covers some of the barer parts of the mountain with a glow not inferior to that of the Scottish heather." (See MYRRH [2].)

Category:Rosh''' - (Ezekiel 38:2, Ezekiel 38:3; Ezekiel 39:1) is rendered "chief" in the Authorized Category:Version. It is left untranslated as a proper name in the Revised Category:Version. Some have supposed that the Russians are here meant, as one of the three Scythian tribes of whom Magog was the prince. They invaded the land of Judah in the days of Josiah. Herodotus, the Greek historian, says: "For twenty-eight years the Scythians ruled over Asia, and things were turned upside down by their violence and contempt." (See BETH-SHEAN.)

Category:Rosin''' - Found only in Authorized Category:Version, margin, Ezekiel 27:17, Heb. tsori, uniformly rendered elsewhere "balm" (q.v.), as here in the text. The Vulgate has resinam, rendered "rosin" in the Douay Category:Version. As used, however, by Jerome, the Lat. resina denotes some odoriferous gum or oil.

Category:Ruby''' - (Heb. peninim ), only in plural (Lamentations 4:7). The ruby was one of the stones in the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:17). A comparison is made between the value of wisdom and rubies (Job 28:18; Proverbs 3:15; Proverbs 8:11). The price of a virtuous woman is said to be "far above rubies" (Proverbs 31:10). The exact meaning of the Hebrew word is uncertain. Some render it "red coral;" others, "pearl" or "mother-of-pearl."

Category:Rudder Bands''' - Ancient ships had two great broad-bladed oars for rudders. These, when not in use, were lifted out of the water and bound or tied up. When required for use, these bands were unloosed and the rudders allowed to drop into the water (Acts 27:40).

Category:Rue''' - A garden herb (Ruta graveolens) which the Pharisees were careful to tithe (Luke 11:42), neglecting weightier matters. It is omitted in the parallel passage of Matthew 23:23. There are several species growing wild in Palestine. It is used for medicinal and culinary purposes. It has a powerful scent, and is a stimulant. (See MINT.)

Category:Rufus''' - Red, the son of Simon the Cyrenian (Mark 15:21), whom the Roman soldiers compelled to carry the cross on which our Lord was crucified. Probably it is the same person who is again mentioned in Romans 16:13 as a disciple at Rome, whose mother also was a Christian held in esteem by the apostle. Mark mentions him along with his brother Alexander as persons well known to his readers (Mark 15:21).

Category:Ruhamah''' - Having obtained mercy, a symbolical name given to the daughter of Hosea (Hosea 2:1).

Category:Rumah''' - Elevation, probably the same as Arumah (Judges 9:41; 2 Kings 23:36), near Shechem. Others identify it with Tell Rumeh, in Galilee, about 6 miles north of Nazareth.

Category:Rush''' - The papyrus (Job 8:11). (See BULRUSH.) The expression "branch and rush" in Isaiah 9:14; Isaiah 19:15 means "utterly."

Category:Ruth''' - A friend, a Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, whose father, Elimelech, had settled in the land of Moab. On the death of Elimelech and Mahlon, Naomi came with Ruth, her daughter-in-law, who refused to leave her, to Bethlehem, the old home from which Elimelech had migrated. There she had a rich relative, Boaz, to whom Ruth was eventually married. She became the mother of Obed, the grandfather of David. Thus Ruth, a Gentile, is among the maternal progenitors of our Lord (Matthew 1:5). The story of "the gleaner Ruth illustrates the friendly relations between the good Boaz and his reapers, the Jewish land system, the method of transferring property from one person to another, the working of the Mosaic law for the relief of distressed and ruined families; but, above all, handing down the unselfishness, the brave love, the unshaken trustfulness of her who, though not of the chosen race, was, like the Canaanitess Tamar (Genesis 38:29; Matthew 1:3) and the Canaanitess Rahab (Matthew 1:5), privileged to become the ancestress of David, and so of 'great David's greater Son'" (Ruth 4:18).

Category:Ruth, The Book of''' - Was originally a part of the Book of Judges, but it now forms one of the twenty-four separate books of the Hebrew Bible. The history it contains refers to a period perhaps about one hundred and twenty-six years before the birth of David. It gives (1.) an account of Naomi's going to Moab with her husband, Elimelech, and of her subsequent return to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law; (2.) the marriage of Boaz and Ruth; and (3.) the birth of Obed, of whom David sprang. The author of this book was probably Samuel, according to Jewish tradition. "Brief as this book is, and simple as is its story, it is remarkably rich in examples of faith, patience, industry, and kindness, nor less so in indications of the care which God takes of those who put their trust in him."

Category:Rye''' - =Rie (Heb. kussemeth ), found in Exodus 9:32; Isaiah 28:25, in all of which the margins of the Authorized and of the Revised Category:Versions have "spelt." This Hebrew word also occurs in Ezekiel 4:9, where the Authorized Category:Version has "fitches" (q.v.) and the Revised Category:Version "spelt." This, there can be no doubt, was the Triticum spelta, a species of hard, rough-grained wheat.

Category:Sabachthani''' - Thou hast forsaken me, one of the Aramaic words uttered by our Lord on the cross (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34).

Category:Sabaoth''' - The transliteration of the Hebrew word tsebha'oth, meaning "hosts," "armies" (Romans 9:29; James 5:4). In the LXX. the Hebrew word is rendered by "Almighty." (See Revelation 4:8; compare Isaiah 6:3.) It may designate Jehovah as either (1.) God of the armies of earth, or (2.) God of the armies of the stars, or (3.) God of the unseen armies of angels; or perhaps it may include all these ideas.

Category:Sabbath''' - (Heb. verb shabbath, meaning "to rest from labour"), the day of rest. It is first mentioned as having been instituted in Paradise, when man was in innocence (Genesis 2:2). "The sabbath was made for man," as a day of rest and refreshment for the body and of blessing to the soul. It is next referred to in connection with the gift of manna to the children of Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 16:23); and afterwards, when the law was given from Sinai (Exodus 20:11), the people were solemnly charged to "remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy." Thus it is spoken of as an institution already existing. In the Mosaic law strict regulations were laid down regarding its observance (Exodus 35:2, Exodus 35:3; Leviticus 23:3; Leviticus 26:34). These were peculiar to that dispensation. In the subsequent history of the Jews frequent references are made to the sanctity of the Sabbath (Isaiah 56:2, Isaiah 56:4, Isaiah 56:6, Isaiah 56:7; Isaiah 58:13, Isaiah 58:14; Jeremiah 17:20; Nehemiah 13:19). In later times they perverted the Sabbath by their traditions. Our Lord rescued it from their perversions, and recalled to them its true nature and intent (Matthew 12:10; Mark 2:27; Luke 13:10). The Sabbath, originally instituted for man at his creation, is of permanent and universal obligation. The physical necessities of man require a Sabbath of rest. He is so constituted that his bodily welfare needs at least one day in seven for rest from ordinary labour. Experience also proves that the moral and spiritual necessities of men also demand a Sabbath of rest. "I am more and more sure by experience that the reason for the observance of the Sabbath lies deep in the everlasting necessities of human nature, and that as long as man is man the blessedness of keeping it, not as a day of rest only, but as a day of spiritual rest, will never be annulled. I certainly do feel by experience the eternal obligation, because of the eternal necessity, of the Sabbath. The soul withers without it. It thrives in proportion to its observance. The Sabbath was made for man. God made it for men in a certain spiritual state because they needed it. The need, therefore, is deeply hidden in human nature. He who can dispense with it must be holy and spiritual indeed. And he who, still unholy and unspiritual, would yet dispense with it is a man that would fain be wiser than his Maker" (F. W. Robertson). The ancient Babylonian calendar, as seen from recently recovered inscriptions on the bricks among the ruins of the royal palace, was based on the division of time into weeks of seven days. The Sabbath is in these inscriptions designated Sabattu, and defined as "a day of rest for the heart" and "a day of completion of labour." The change of the day. Originally at creation the seventh day of the week was set apart and consecrated as the Sabbath. The first day of the week is now observed as the Sabbath. Has God authorized this change? There is an obvious distinction between the Sabbath as an institution and the particular day set apart for its observance. The question, therefore, as to the change of the day in no way affects the perpetual obligation of the Sabbath as an institution. Change of the day or no change, the Sabbath remains as a sacred institution the same. It cannot be abrogated. If any change of the day has been made, it must have been by Christ or by his authority. Christ has a right to make such a change (Mark 2:23). As Creator, Christ was the original Lord of the Sabbath (John 1:3; Hebrews 1:10). It was originally a memorial of creation. A work vastly greater than that of creation has now been accomplished by him, the work of redemption. We would naturally expect just such a change as would make the Sabbath a memorial of that greater work. True, we can give no text authorizing the change in so many words. We have no express law declaring the change. But there are evidences of another kind. We know for a fact that the first day of the week has been observed from apostolic times, and the necessary conclusion is, that it was observed by the apostles and their immediate disciples. This, we may be sure, they never would have done without the permission or the authority of their Lord. After his resurrection, which took place on the first day of the week (Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:1), we never find Christ meeting with his disciples on the seventh day. But he specially honoured the first day by manifesting himself to them on four separate occasions (Matthew 28:9; Luke 24:34, 18-33; John 20:19). Again, on the next first day of the week, Jesus appeared to his disciples (John 20:26). Some have calculated that Christ's ascension took place on the first day of the week. And there can be no doubt that the descent of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost was on that day (Acts 2:1). Thus Christ appears as instituting a new day to be observed by his people as the Sabbath, a day to be henceforth known amongst them as the "Lord's day." The observance of this "Lord's day" as the Sabbath was the general custom of the primitive churches, and must have had apostolic sanction (compare Acts 20:3; 1 Corinthians 16:1, 1 Corinthians 16:2) and authority, and so the sanction and authority of Jesus Christ. The words "at her sabbaths" (Lamentations 1:7, A.V.) ought probably to be, as in the Revised Category:Version, "at her desolations."

Category:Sabbath Day's Journey''' - Supposed to be a distance of 2,000 cubits, or less than half-a-mile, the distance to which, according to Jewish tradition, it was allowable to travel on the Sabbath day without violating the law (Acts 1:12; compare Exodus 16:29; Numbers 35:5; Joshua 3:4).

Category:Sabbatical Year''' - Every seventh year, during which the land, according to the law of Moses, had to remain uncultivated (Leviticus 25:2; compare Exodus 23:10, Exodus 23:11, Exodus 23:12; Leviticus 26:34, Leviticus 26:35). Whatever grew of itself during that year was not for the owner of the land, but for the poor and the stranger and the beasts of the field. All debts, except those of foreigners, were to be remitted (Deuteronomy 15:1). There is little notice of the observance of this year in Biblical history. It appears to have been much neglected (2 Chronicles 36:20, 2 Chronicles 36:21).

Category:Sabeans''' - Descendants of Seba (Genesis 10:7); Africans (Isaiah 43:3). They were "men of stature," and engaged in merchandise (Isaiah 45:14). Their conversion to the Lord was predicted (Psalms 72:10). This word, in Ezekiel 23:42, should be read, as in the margin of the Authorized Category:Version, and in the Revised Category:Version, "drunkards." Another tribe, apparently given to war, is mentioned in Job 1:15.

Category:Sabtah''' - Rest, the third son of Cush (Genesis 10:7; 1 Chronicles 1:9).

Category:Sabtecha''' - The fifth son of Cush (id.).

Category:Sachar''' - Hire. (1.) One of David's heroes (1 Chronicles 11:35); called also Sharar (2 Samuel 23:33). (2.) A son of Obed-edom the Gittite, and a temple porter (1 Chronicles 26:4).

Category:Sackbut''' - (Chald. sabkha; Gr. sambuke ), a Syrian stringed instrument resembling a harp (Daniel 3:5, Daniel 3:7, Daniel 3:10, Daniel 3:15); not the modern sackbut, which is a wind instrument.

Category:Sackcloth''' - Cloth made of black goats' hair, coarse, rough, and thick, used for sacks, and also worn by mourners (Genesis 37:34; Genesis 42:25; 2 Samuel 3:31; Esther 4:1, Esther 4:2; Psalms 30:11, etc.), and as a sign of repentance (Matthew 11:21). It was put upon animals by the people of Nineveh (Jonah 3:8).

Category:Sacrifice''' - The offering up of sacrifices is to be regarded as a divine institution. It did not originate with man. God himself appointed it as the mode in which acceptable worship was to be offered to him by guilty man. The language and the idea of sacrifice pervade the whole Bible. Sacrifices were offered in the ante-diluvian age. The Lord clothed Adam and Eve with the skins of animals, which in all probability had been offered in sacrifice (Genesis 3:21). Abel offered a sacrifice "of the firstlings of his flock" (Genesis 4:4; Hebrews 11:4). A distinction also was made between clean and unclean animals, which there is every reason to believe had reference to the offering up of sacrifices (Genesis 7:2, Genesis 7:8), because animals were not given to man as food till after the Flood. The same practice is continued down through the patriarchal age (Genesis 8:20; Genesis 12:7; Genesis 13:4, Genesis 13:18; Genesis 15:9; Genesis 22:1-18, etc.). In the Mosaic period of Old Testament history definite laws were prescribed by God regarding the different kinds of sacrifices that were to be offered and the manner in which the offering was to be made. The offering of stated sacrifices became indeed a prominent and distinctive feature of the whole period (Ex. 12:3-27; Leviticus 23:5; Numbers 9:2). (See ALTAR.) We learn from the Epistle to the Hebrews that sacrifices had in themselves no value or efficacy. They were only the "shadow of good things to come," and pointed the worshippers forward to the coming of the great High Priest, who, in the fullness of the time, "was offered once for all to bear the sin of many." Sacrifices belonged to a temporary economy, to a system of types and emblems which served their purposes and have now passed away. The "one sacrifice for sins" hath "perfected for ever them that are sanctified." Sacrifices were of two kinds:, (1.) Unbloody, such as (a.) first-fruits and tithes; (b.) meat and drink-offerings; and (c.) incense. (2.) Bloody, such as (a.) burnt-offerings; (b.) peace-offerings; and (c.) sin and trespass offerings. (See OFFERINGS.)

Category:Sadducees''' - The origin of this Jewish sect cannot definitely be traced. It was probably the outcome of the influence of Grecian customs and philosophy during the period of Greek domination. The first time they are met with is in connection with John the Baptist's ministry. They came out to him when on the banks of the Jordan, and he said to them, "O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?" (Matthew 3:7.) The next time they are spoken of they are represented as coming to our Lord tempting him. He calls them "hypocrites" and "a wicked and adulterous generation" (Matthew 16:1; Matthew 22:23). The only reference to them in the Gospels of Mark (Mark 12:18) and Luke (Luke 20:27) is their attempting to ridicule the doctrine of the resurrection, which they denied, as they also denied the existence of angels. They are never mentioned in John's Gospel. There were many Sadducees among the "elders" of the Sanhedrin. They seem, indeed, to have been as numerous as the Pharisees (Acts 23:6). They showed their hatred of Jesus in taking part in his condemnation (Matthew 16:21; Matthew 26:1, Matthew 26:59; Mark 8:31; Mark 15:1; Luke 9:22; Luke 22:66). They endeavoured to prohibit the apostles from preaching the resurrection of Christ (Acts 2:24, Acts 2:31, Acts 2:32; Acts 4:1, Acts 4:2; Acts 5:17, Acts 5:24). They were the deists or skeptics of that age. They do not appear as a separate sect after the destruction of Jerusalem.

Category:Sadoc''' - Just, mentioned in the genealogy of our Lord (Matthew 1:14).

Category:Saffron''' - Heb. karkom, Arab. zafran (i.e., "yellow"), mentioned only in Song of Songs 4:13, Song of Songs 4:14; the Crocus sativus. Many species of the crocus are found in Palestine. The pistils and stigmata, from the centre of its flowers, are pressed into "saffron cakes," common in the East. "We found," says Tristram, "saffron a very useful condiment in traveling cookery, a very small pinch of it giving not only a rich yellow colour but an agreeable flavour to a dish of rice or to an insipid stew."

Category:Saint''' - One separated from the world and consecrated to God; one holy by profession and by covenant; a believer in Christ (Psalms 16:3; Romans 1:7; Romans 8:27; Philippians 1:1; Hebrews 6:10). The "saints" spoken of in Jude 1:14 are probably not the disciples of Christ, but the "innumerable company of angels" (Hebrews 12:22; Psalms 68:17), with reference to Deuteronomy 33:2. This word is also used of the holy dead (Matthew 27:52; Revelation 18:24). It was not used as a distinctive title of the apostles and evangelists and of a "spiritual nobility" till the fourth century. In that sense it is not a scriptural title.

Category:Sala''' - A shoot, a descendant of Arphaxed (Luke 3:35, Luke 3:36); called also Shelah (1 Chronicles 1:18, 1 Chronicles 1:24).

Category:Salamis''' - A city on the south-east coast of Cyprus (Acts 13:5), where Saul and Barnabas, on their first missionary journey, preached the word in one of the Jewish synagogues, of which there seem to have been several in that place. It is now called Famagusta.

Category:Salathiel''' - Whom I asked of God, the son of Jeconiah (Matthew 1:12; 1 Chronicles 3:17); also called the son of Neri (Luke 3:27). The probable explanation of the apparent discrepancy is that he was the son of Neri, the descendant of Nathan, and thus heir to the throne of David on the death of Jeconiah (compare Jeremiah 22:30).

Category:Salcah''' - Wandering, a city of Bashan assigned to the half tribe of Manasseh (Deuteronomy 3:10; Joshua 12:5; Joshua 13:11), identified with Salkhad, about 56 miles east of Jordan.

Category:Salem''' - Peace, commonly supposed to be another name of Jerusalem (Genesis 14:18; Psalms 76:2; Hebrews 7:1, Hebrews 7:2).

Category:Salim''' - Peaceful, a place near Aenon (q.v.), on the west of Jordan, where John baptized (John 3:23). It was probably the Shalem mentioned in Genesis 33:18, about 7 miles south of Aenon, at the head of the great Wady Far'ah, which formed the northern boundary of Judea in the Jordan valley.

Category:Sallai''' - Basket-maker. (1.) A Benjamite (Nehemiah 11:8). (2.) A priest in the days of Joshua and Zerubbabel (Nehemiah 12:20).

Category:Sallu''' - Weighed. (1.) A priest (Nehemiah 12:7). (2.) A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 9:7; Nehemiah 11:7).

Category:Salmon''' - (1.)Garment, the son of Nashon (Ruth 4:20; Matthew 1:4, Matthew 1:5), possibly the same as Salma in 1 Chronicles 2:51. (2.) Shady; or Zalmon (q.v.), a hill covered with dark forests, south of Shechem, from which Abimelech and his men gathered wood to burn that city (Judges 9:48). In Psalms 68:14 the change from war to peace is likened to snow on the dark mountain, as some interpret the expression. Others suppose the words here mean that the bones of the slain left unburied covered the land, so that it seemed to be white as if covered with snow. The reference, however, of the psalm is probably to Josh. 11 and 12. The scattering of the kings and their followers is fitly likened unto the snow-flakes rapidly falling on the dark Salmon. It is the modern Jebel Suleiman.

Category:Salmone''' - A promontory on the east of Crete, under which Paul sailed on his voyage to Rome (Acts 27:7); the modern Cape Sidero.

Category:Salome''' - Perfect. (1.) The wife of Zebedee and mother of James and John (Matthew 27:56), and probably the sister of Mary, the mother of our Lord (John 19:25). She sought for her sons places of honour in Christ's kingdom (Matthew 20:20, Matthew 20:21; compare Matthew 19:28). She witnessed the crucifixion (Mark 15:40), and was present with the other women at the sepulchre (Matthew 27:56). (2.) "The daughter of Herodias," not named in the New Testament. On the occasion of the birthday festival held by Herod Antipas, who had married her mother Herodias, in the fortress of Machaerus, she "came in and danced, and pleased Herod" (Mark 6:14-29). John the Baptist, at that time a prisoner in the dungeons underneath the castle, was at her request beheaded by order of Herod, and his head given to the damsel in a charger, "and the damsel gave it to her mother," whose revengeful spirit was thus gratified. "A luxurious feast of the period" (says Farrar, Life of Christ) "was not regarded as complete unless it closed with some gross pantomimic representation; and doubtless Herod had adopted the evil fashion of his day. But he had not anticipated for his guests the rare luxury of seeing a princess, his own niece, a grand-daughter of Herod the Great and of Mariamne, a descendant, therefore, of Simon the high priest and the great line of Maccabean princes, a princess who afterwards became the wife of a tetrarch [Philip, tetrarch of Trachonitis] and the mother of a king, honouring them by degrading herself into a scenic dancer."

Category:Salt''' - Used to season food (Job 6:6), and mixed with the fodder of cattle (Isaiah 30:24, "clean;" in marg. of R.V. "salted"). All meat-offerings were seasoned with salt (Leviticus 2:13). To eat salt with one is to partake of his hospitality, to derive subsistence from him; and hence he who did so was bound to look after his host's interests (Ezra 4:14, "We have maintenance from the king's palace;" A.V. marg., "We are salted with the salt of the palace;" R.V., "We eat the salt of the palace"). A "covenant of salt" (Numbers 18:19; 2 Chronicles 13:5) was a covenant of perpetual obligation. New-born children were rubbed with salt (Ezekiel 16:4). Disciples are likened unto salt, with reference to its cleansing and preserving uses (Matthew 5:13). When Abimelech took the city of Shechem, he sowed the place with salt, that it might always remain a barren soil (Judges 9:45). Sir Lyon Playfair argues, on scientific grounds, that under the generic name of "salt," in certain passages, we are to understand petroleum or its residue asphalt. Thus in Genesis 19:26 he would read "pillar of asphalt;" and in Matthew 5:13, instead of "salt," "petroleum," which loses its essence by exposure, as salt does not, and becomes asphalt, with which pavements were made. The Jebel Usdum, to the south of the Dead Sea, is a mountain of rock salt about 7 miles long and from 2 to 3 miles wide and some hundreds of feet high.

Category:Salt Sea''' - (Joshua 3:16). See DEAD SEA.

Category:The city of Salt''' - One of the cities of Judah (Joshua 15:62), probably in the Valley of Salt, at the southern end of the Dead Sea.

Category:Valley of Salt''' - A place where it is said David smote the Syrians (2 Samuel 8:13). This valley (the Arabah) is between Judah and Edom on the south of the Dead Sea. Hence some interpreters would insert the words, "and he smote Edom," after the words, "Syrians" in the above text. It is conjectured that while David was leading his army against the Ammonites and Syrians, the Edomites invaded the south of Judah, and that David sent Joab or Abishai against them, who drove them back and finally subdued Edom. (Compare title to Psalms 60:1.) Here also Amaziah "slew of Edom ten thousand men" (2 Kings 14:7; compare 2 Kings 8:20 and 2 Chronicles 25:5).

Category:Salutation''' - "Eastern modes of salutation are not infrequently so prolonged as to become wearisome and a positive waste of time. The profusely polite Arab asks so many questions after your health, your happiness, your welfare, your house, and other things, that a person ignorant of the habits of the country would imagine there must be some secret ailment or mysterious sorrow oppressing you, which you wished to conceal, so as to spare the feelings of a dear, sympathizing friend, but which he, in the depth of his anxiety, would desire to hear of. I have often listened to these prolonged salutations in the house, the street, and the highway, and not infrequently I have experienced their tedious monotony, and I have bitterly lamented useless waste of time" (Porter, Through Samaria, etc.). The work on which the disciples were sent forth was one of urgency, which left no time for empty compliments and prolonged greetings (Luke 10:4).

Category:Salvation''' - This word is used of the deliverance of the Israelites from the Egyptians (Exodus 14:13), and of deliverance generally from evil or danger. In the New Testament it is specially used with reference to the great deliverance from the guilt and the pollution of sin wrought out by Jesus Christ, "the great salvation" (Hebrews 2:3). (See REDEMPTION; REGENERATION.)

Category:Samaria''' - A watch-mountain or a watch-tower. In the heart of the mountains of Israel, a few miles north-west of Shechem, stands the "hill of Shomeron," a solitary mountain, a great "mamelon." It is an oblong hill, with steep but not inaccessible sides, and a long flat top. Omri, the king of Israel, purchased this hill from Shemer its owner for two talents of silver, and built on its broad summit the city to which he gave the name of "Shomeron", i.e., Samaria, as the new capital of his kingdom instead of Tirzah (1 Kings 16:24). As such it possessed many advantages. Here Omri resided during the last six years of his reign. As the result of an unsuccessful war with Syria, he appears to have been obliged to grant to the Syrians the right to "make streets in Samaria", i.e., probably permission to the Syrian merchants to carry on their trade in the Israelite capital. This would imply the existence of a considerable Syrian population. "It was the only great city of Palestine created by the sovereign. All the others had been already consecrated by patriarchal tradition or previous possession. But Samaria was the choice of Omri alone. He, indeed, gave to the city which he had built the name of its former owner, but its especial connection with himself as its founder is proved by the designation which it seems Samaria bears in Assyrian inscriptions, Beth-khumri ('the house or palace of Omri')." Stanley. Samaria was frequently besieged. In the days of Ahab, Benhadad II. came up against it with thirty-two vassal kings, but was defeated with a great slaughter (1 Kings 20:1-21). A second time, next year, he assailed it; but was again utterly routed, and was compelled to surrender to Ahab (1 Kings 20:28), whose army, as compared with that of Benhadad, was no more than "two little flocks of kids." In the days of Jehoram this Benhadad again laid siege to Samaria, during which the city was reduced to the direst extremities. But just when success seemed to be within their reach, they suddenly broke up the siege, alarmed by a mysterious noise of chariots and horses and a great army, and fled, leaving their camp with all its contents behind them. The famishing inhabitants of the city were soon relieved with the abundance of the spoil of the Syrian camp; and it came to pass, according to the word of Elisha, that "a measure of fine flour was sold for a shekel, and two measures of barely for a shekel, in the gates of Samaria" (2 Kings 7:1-20). Shalmaneser invaded Israel in the days of Hoshea, and reduced it to vassalage. He laid siege to Samaria (723 B.C.), which held out for three years, and was at length captured by Sargon, who completed the conquest Shalmaneser had begun (2 Kings 18:9; 2 Kings 17:3), and removed vast numbers of the tribes into captivity. (See SARGON.) The city, after passing through various vicissitudes, was given by the emperor Augustus to Herod the Great, who rebuilt it, and called it Sebaste (Gr. form of Augustus ) in honour of the emperor. In the New Testament the only mention of it is in Acts 8:5, where it is recorded that Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached there. It is now represented by the hamlet of Sebustieh, containing about three hundred inhabitants. The ruins of the ancient town are all scattered over the hill, down the sides of which they have rolled. The shafts of about one hundred of what must have been grand Corinthian columns are still standing, and attract much attention, although nothing definite is known regarding them. (Compare Micah 1:6.) In the time of Christ, Western Palestine was divided into three provinces, Judea, Samaria, and Galilee. Samaria occupied the centre of Palestine (John 4:4). It is called in the Talmud the "land of the Cuthim," and is not regarded as a part of the Holy Land at all. It may be noticed that the distance between Samaria and Jerusalem, the respective capitals of the two kingdoms, is only 35 miles in a direct line.

Category:Samaritans''' - The name given to the new and mixed inhabitants whom Esarhaddon (677 B.C.), the king of Assyria, brought from Babylon and other places and settled in the cities of Samaria, instead of the original inhabitants whom Sargon (721 B.C.) had removed into captivity (2 Kings 17:24; compare Ezra 4:2, Ezra 4:9, Ezra 4:10). These strangers (compare Luke 17:18) amalgamated with the Jews still remaining in the land, and gradually abandoned their old idolatry and adopted partly the Jewish religion. After the return from the Captivity, the Jews in Jerusalem refused to allow them to take part with them in rebuilding the temple, and hence sprang up an open enmity between them. They erected a rival temple on Mount Gerizim, which was, however, destroyed by a Jewish king (130 B.C.). They then built another at Shechem. The bitter enmity between the Jews and Samaritans continued in the time of our Lord: the Jews had "no dealings with the Samaritans" (John 4:9; compare Luke 9:52, Luke 9:53). Our Lord was in contempt called "a Samaritan" (John 8:48). Many of the Samaritans early embraced the gospel (John 4:5-42; Acts 8:25; Acts 9:31; Acts 15:3). Of these Samaritans there still remains a small population of about one hundred and sixty, who all reside in Shechem, where they carefully observe the religious customs of their fathers. They are the "smallest and oldest sect in the world."

Category:Samaritan Pentateuch''' - On the return from the Exile, the Jews refused the Samaritans participation with them in the worship at Jerusalem, and the latter separated from all fellowship with them, and built a temple for themselves on Mount Gerizim. This temple was razed to the ground more than one hundred years B.C. Then a system of worship was instituted similar to that of the temple at Jerusalem. It was founded on the Law, copies of which had been multiplied in Israel as well as in Judah. Thus the Pentateuch was preserved among the Samaritans, although they never called it by this name, but always "the Law," which they read as one book. The division into five books, as we now have it, however, was adopted by the Samaritans, as it was by the Jews, in all their priests' copies of "the Law," for the sake of convenience. This was the only portion of the Old Testament which was accepted by the Samaritans as of divine authority. The form of the letters in the manuscript copies of the Samaritan Pentateuch is different from that of the Hebrew copies, and is probably the same as that which was in general use before the Captivity. There are other peculiarities in the writing which need not here be specified. There are important differences between the Hebrew and the Samaritan copies of the Pentateuch in the readings of many sentences. In about two thousand instances in which the Samaritan and the Jewish texts differ, the LXX. agrees with the former. The New Testament also, when quoting from the Old Testament, agrees as a rule with the Samaritan text, where that differs from the Jewish. Thus Exodus 12:40 in the Samaritan reads, "Now the sojourning of the children of Israel and of their fathers which they had dwelt in the land of Canaan and in Egypt was four hundred and thirty years" (compare Galatians 3:17). It may be noted that the LXX. has the same reading of this text.

Category:Samgar-nebo''' - Be gracious, O Nebo! or a cup-bearer of Nebo, probably the title of Nergal-sharezer, one of the princes of Babylon (Jeremiah 39:3).

Category:Samos''' - An island in the Aegean Sea, which Paul passed on his voyage from Assos to Miletus (Acts 20:15), on his third missionary journey. It is about 27 miles long and 20 broad, and lies about 42 miles south-west of Smyrna.

Category:Samothracia''' - An island in the Aegean Sea, off the coast of Thracia, about 32 miles distant. This Thracian Samos was passed by Paul on his voyage from Troas to Neapolis (Acts 16:11) on his first missionary journey. It is about 8 miles long and 6 miles broad. Its modern name is Samothraki.

Category:Samson''' - Of the sun, the son of Manoah, born at Zorah. The narrative of his life is given in Judg. 13 - 16. He was a "Nazarite unto God" from his birth, the first Nazarite mentioned in Scripture (Judges 13:3; compare Num. 6:1-21). The first recorded event of his life was his marriage with a Philistine woman of Timnath (Judges 14:1). Such a marriage was not forbidden by the law of Moses, as the Philistines did not form one of the seven doomed Canaanite nations (Exodus 34:11; Deuteronomy 7:1). It was, however, an ill-assorted and unblessed marriage. His wife was soon taken from him and given "to his companion" (Judges 14:20). For this Samson took revenge by burning the "standing corn of the Philistines" (Judges 15:1), who, in their turn, in revenge "burnt her and her father with fire." Her death he terribly avenged (Judges 15:7). During the twenty years following this he judged Israel; but we have no record of his life. Probably these twenty years may have been simultaneous with the last twenty years of Eli's life. After this we have an account of his exploits at Gaza (Judges 16:1), and of his infatuation for Delilah, and her treachery (Judg. 16:4-20), and then of his melancholy death (Judges 16:21). He perished in the last terrible destruction he brought upon his enemies. "So the dead which he slew at his death were more [in social and political importance = the elite of the people] than they which he slew in his life." "Straining all his nerves, he bowed: As with the force of winds and waters pent, When mountains tremble, those two massy pillars With horrible convulsion to and fro He tugged, he shook, till down they came, and drew The whole roof after them, with burst of thunder Upon the heads of all who sat beneath, Lords, ladies, captains, counsellors, or priests, Their choice nobility and flower." Milton's Samson Agonistes.

Category:Samuel''' - Heard of God. The peculiar circumstances connected with his birth are recorded in 1 Samuel 1:20. Hannah, one of the two wives of Elkanah, who came up to Shiloh to worship before the Lord, earnestly prayed to God that she might become the mother of a son. Her prayer was graciously granted; and after the child was weaned she brought him to Shiloh and consecrated him to the Lord as a perpetual Nazarite (1 Sam. 1:23 - 2:11). Here his bodily wants and training were attended to by the women who served in the tabernacle, while Eli cared for his religious culture. Thus, probably, twelve years of his life passed away. "The child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the Lord, and also with men" (1 Samuel 2:26; compare Luke 2:52). It was a time of great and growing degeneracy in Israel (Judges 21:19; 1 Samuel 2:12, 1 Samuel 2:22). The Philistines, who of late had greatly increased in number and in power, were practically masters of the country, and kept the people in subjection (1 Samuel 10:5; 1 Samuel 13:3). At this time new communications from God began to be made to the pious child. A mysterious voice came to him in the night season, calling him by name, and, instructed by Eli, he answered, "Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth." The message that came from the Lord was one of woe and ruin to Eli and his profligate sons. Samuel told it all to Eli, whose only answer to the terrible denunciations (1 Samuel 3:11) was, "It is the Lord; let him do what seemeth him good", the passive submission of a weak character, not, in his case, the expression of the highest trust and faith. The Lord revealed himself now in divers manners to Samuel, and his fame and his influence increased throughout the land as of one divinely called to the prophetical office. A new period in the history of the kingdom of God now commenced. The Philistine yoke was heavy, and the people, groaning under the wide-spread oppression, suddenly rose in revolt, and "went out against the Philistines to battle." A fierce and disastrous battle was fought at Aphek, near to Ebenezer (1 Samuel 4:1, 1 Samuel 4:2). The Israelites were defeated, leaving 4,000 dead "in the field." The chiefs of the people thought to repair this great disaster by carrying with them the ark of the covenant as the symbol of Jehovah's presence. They accordingly, without consulting Samuel, fetched it out of Shiloh to the camp near Aphek. At the sight of the ark among them the people "shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again." A second battle was fought, and again the Philistines defeated the Israelites, stormed their camp, slew 30,000 men, and took the sacred ark. The tidings of this fatal battle was speedily conveyed to Shiloh; and so soon as the aged Eli heard that the ark of God was taken, he fell backward from his seat at the entrance of the sanctuary, and his neck broke, and he died. The tabernacle with its furniture was probably, by the advice of Samuel, now about twenty years of age, removed from Shiloh to some place of safety, and finally to Nob, where it remained many years (1 Samuel 21:1). The Philistines followed up their advantage, and marched upon Shiloh, which they plundered and destroyed (compare Jeremiah 7:12; Psalms 78:59). This was a great epoch in the history of Israel. For twenty years after this fatal battle at Aphek the whole land lay under the oppression of the Philistines. During all these dreary years Samuel was a spiritual power in the land. From Ramah, his native place, where he resided, his influence went forth on every side among the people. With unwearied zeal he went up and down from place to place, reproving, rebuking, and exhorting the people, endeavouring to awaken in them a sense of their sinfulness, and to lead them to repentance. His labours were so far successful that "all the house of Israel lamented after the Lord." Samuel summoned the people to Mizpeh, one of the loftiest hills in Central Palestine, where they fasted and prayed, and prepared themselves there, under his direction, for a great war against the Philistines, who now marched their whole force toward Mizpeh, in order to crush the Israelites once for all. At the intercession of Samuel God interposed in behalf of Israel. Samuel himself was their leader, the only occasion in which he acted as a leader in war. The Philistines were utterly routed. They fled in terror before the army of Israel, and a great slaughter ensued. This battle, fought probably about 1095 B.C., put an end to the forty years of Philistine oppression. In memory of this great deliverance, and in token of gratitude for the help vouchsafed, Samuel set up a great stone in the battlefield, and called it "Ebenezer," saying, "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us" (1 Samuel 7:1). This was the spot where, twenty years before, the Israelites had suffered a great defeat, when the ark of God was taken. This victory over the Philistines was followed by a long period of peace for Israel (1 Samuel 7:13, 1 Samuel 7:14), during which Samuel exercised the functions of judge, going "from year to year in circuit" from his home in Ramah to Bethel, thence to Gilgal (not that in the Jordan valley, but that which lay to the west of Ebal and Gerizim), and returning by Mizpeh to Ramah. He established regular services at Shiloh, where he built an altar; and at Ramah he gathered a company of young men around him and established a school of the prophets. The schools of the prophets, thus originated, and afterwards established also at Gibeah, Bethel, Gilgal, and Jericho, exercised an important influence on the national character and history of the people in maintaining pure religion in the midst of growing corruption. They continued to the end of the Jewish commonwealth. Many years now passed, during which Samuel exercised the functions of his judicial office, being the friend and counsellor of the people in all matters of private and public interest. He was a great statesman as well as a reformer, and all regarded him with veneration as the "seer," the prophet of the Lord. At the close of this period, when he was now an old man, the elders of Israel came to him at Ramah (1 Samuel 8:4, 1 Samuel 8:5, 1 Samuel 8:19); and feeling how great was the danger to which the nation was exposed from the misconduct of Samuel's sons, whom he had invested with judicial functions as his assistants, and had placed at Beersheba on the Philistine border, and also from a threatened invasion of the Ammonites, they demanded that a king should be set over them. This request was very displeasing to Samuel. He remonstrated with them, and warned them of the consequences of such a step. At length, however, referring the matter to God, he acceded to their desires, and anointed Saul (q.v.) to be their king (1 Samuel 11:15). Before retiring from public life he convened an assembly of the people at Gilgal (1 Sam. 12), and there solemnly addressed them with reference to his own relation to them as judge and prophet. The remainder of his life he spent in retirement at Ramah, only occasionally and in special circumstances appearing again in public (1 Sam. 13, 15) with communications from God to king Saul. While mourning over the many evils which now fell upon the nation, he is suddenly summoned (1 Sam. 16) to go to Bethlehem and anoint David, the son of Jesse, as king over Israel instead of Saul. After this little is known of him till the time of his death, which took place at Ramah when he was probably about eighty years of age. "And all Israel gathered themselves together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah" (1 Samuel 25:1), not in the house itself, but in the court or garden of his house. (Compare 2 Kings 21:18; 2 Chronicles 33:20; 1 Kings 2:34; John 19:41.) Samuel's devotion to God, and the special favour with which God regarded him, are referred to in Jeremiah 15:1 and Psalms 99:6.

Category:Books of Samuel''' - The LXX. translators regarded the books of Samuel and of Kings as forming one continuous history, which they divided into four books, which they called "Books of the Kingdom." The Vulgate version followed this division, but styled them "Books of the Kings." These books of Samuel they accordingly called the "First" and "Second" Books of Kings, and not, as in the modern Protestant versions, the "First" and "Second" Books of Samuel. The authors of the books of Samuel were probably Samuel, Gad, and Nathan. Samuel penned the first twenty-four chapters of the first book. Gad, the companion of David (1 Samuel 22:5), continued the history thus commenced; and Nathan completed it, probably arranging the whole in the form in which we now have it (1 Chronicles 29:29). The contents of the books. The first book comprises a period of about a hundred years, and nearly coincides with the life of Samuel. It contains (1.) the history of Eli (1 Sam. 1 - 4); (2.) the history of Samuel (1 Sam. 5 - 12); (3.) the history of Saul, and of David in exile (1 Sam. 13 - 31). The second book, comprising a period of perhaps fifty years, contains a history of the reign of David (1.) over Judah (2 Sam. 1 - 4), and (2.) over all Israel (2 Sam. 5 - 24), mainly in its political aspects. The last four chapters of Second Samuel may be regarded as a sort of appendix recording various events, but not chronologically. These books do not contain complete histories. Frequent gaps are met with in the record, because their object is to present a history of the kingdom of God in its gradual development, and not of the events of the reigns of the successive rulers. It is noticeable that the section (2 Sam. 11:2 - 12:29) containing an account of David's sin in the matter of Bathsheba is omitted in the corresponding passage in 1 Chronicles 20:1.

Category:Sanballat''' - Held some place of authority in Samaria when Nehemiah went up to Jerusalem to rebuild its ruined walls. He vainly attempted to hinder this work (Nehemiah 2:10, Nehemiah 2:19; Nehemiah 4:1; 6). His daughter became the wife of one of the sons of Joiada, a son of the high priest, much to the grief of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 13:28).

Category:Sanctification''' - Involves more than a mere moral reformation of character, brought about by the power of the truth: it is the work of the Holy Spirit bringing the whole nature more and more under the influences of the new gracious principles implanted in the soul in regeneration. In other words, sanctification is the carrying on to perfection the work begun in regeneration, and it extends to the whole man (Romans 6:13; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Colossians 3:10; 1 John 4:7; 1 Corinthians 6:19). It is the special office of the Holy Spirit in the plan of redemption to carry on this work (1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:13). Faith is instrumental in securing sanctification, inasmuch as it (1.) secures union to Christ (Galatians 2:20), and (2.) brings the believer into living contact with the truth, whereby he is led to yield obedience "to the commands, trembling at the threatenings, and embracing the promises of God for this life and that which is to come." Perfect sanctification is not attainable in this life (1 Kings 8:46; Proverbs 20:9; Ecclesiastes 7:20; James 3:2; 1 John 1:8). See Paul's account of himself in Romans 7:14; Philippians 3:12; and 1 Timothy 1:15; also the confessions of David (Psalms 19:12, Psalms 19:13; 51), of Moses (Psalms 90:8), of Job (Job 42:5, Job 42:6), and of Daniel (Dan. 9:3-20). "The more holy a man is, the more humble, self-renouncing, self-abhorring, and the more sensitive to every sin he becomes, and the more closely he clings to Christ. The moral imperfections which cling to him he feels to be sins, which he laments and strives to overcome. Believers find that their life is a constant warfare, and they need to take the kingdom of heaven by storm, and watch while they pray. They are always subject to the constant chastisement of their Father's loving hand, which can only be designed to correct their imperfections and to confirm their graces. And it has been notoriously the fact that the best Christians have been those who have been the least prone to claim the attainment of perfection for themselves.", Hodge's Outlines.

Category:Sanctuary''' - Denotes, (1.) the Holy Land (Exodus 15:17; compare Psalms 114:2); (2.) the temple (1 Chronicles 22:19; 2 Chronicles 29:21); (3.) the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8; Leviticus 12:4; Leviticus 21:12); (4.) the holy place, the place of the Presence (Gr. hieron, the temple-house; not the naos, which is the temple area, with its courts and porches), Leviticus 4:6; Ephesians 2:21, R.V., marg.; (5.) God's holy habitation in heaven (Psalms 102:19). In the final state there is properly "no sanctuary" (Revelation 21:22), for God and the Lamb "are the sanctuary" (R.V., "temple"). All is there hallowed by the Divine Presence; all is sanctuary.

Category:Sandals''' - Mentioned only in Mark 6:9 and Acts 12:8. The sandal was simply a sole, made of wood or palm-bark, fastened to the foot by leather straps. Sandals were also made of seal-skin (Ezekiel 16:10; lit. tahash, "leather;" A.V., "badger's skin;" R.V., "sealskin," or marg., "porpoise-skin"). (See SHOE.)

Category:Sanhedrim''' - More correctly Sanhedrin (Gr. synedrion ), meaning "a sitting together," or a "council." This word (rendered "council," A.V.) is frequently used in the New Testament (Matthew 5:22; Matthew 26:59; Mark 15:1, etc.) to denote the supreme judicial and administrative council of the Jews, which, it is said, was first instituted by Moses, and was composed of seventy men (Numbers 11:16, Numbers 11:17). But that seems to have been only a temporary arrangement which Moses made. This council is with greater probability supposed to have originated among the Jews when they were under the domination of the Syrian kings in the time of the Maccabees. The name is first employed by the Jewish historian Josephus. This "council" is referred to simply as the "chief priests and elders of the people" (Matthew 26:3, Matthew 26:47, Matthew 26:57, Matthew 26:59; Matthew 27:1, Matthew 27:3, Matthew 27:12, Matthew 27:20, etc.), before whom Christ was tried on the charge of claiming to be the Messiah. Peter and John were also brought before it for promulgating heresy (Acts. 4:1-23; 5:17-41); as was also Stephen on a charge of blasphemy (Acts 6:12), and Paul for violating a temple by-law (Acts 22:30; Acts 23:1). The Sanhedrin is said to have consisted of seventy-one members, the high priest being president. They were of three classes (1.) the chief priests, or heads of the twenty-four priestly courses (1 Chr. 24), (2.) the scribes, and (3.) the elders. As the highest court of judicature, "in all causes and over all persons, ecclesiastical and civil, supreme," its decrees were binding, not only on the Jews in Palestine, but on all Jews wherever scattered abroad. Its jurisdiction was greatly curtailed by Herod, and afterwards by the Romans. Its usual place of meeting was within the precincts of the temple, in the hall "Gazith," but it sometimes met also in the house of the high priest (Matthew 26:3), who was assisted by two vice-presidents.

Category:Sansannah''' - A palm branch, or a thorn bush, a town in the south (the negeb) of Judah (Joshua 15:31); called also Hazar-susah (Joshua 19:5), or Hazar-susim (1 Chronicles 4:31).

Category:Saph''' - Extension, the son of the giant whom Sibbechai slew (2 Samuel 21:18); called also Sippai (1 Chronicles 20:4).

Category:Saphir''' - Beautiful, a town of Judah (Micah 1:11), identified with es-Suafir, 5 miles south-east of Ashdod.

Category:Sapphira''' - Beautiful, the wife of Ananias (q.v.). She was a partner in his guilt and also in his punishment (Acts 5:1).

Category:Sapphire''' - Associated with diamonds (Exodus 28:18) and emeralds (Ezekiel 28:13); one of the stones in the high priest's breastplate. It is a precious stone of a sky-blue colour, probably the lapis lazuli, brought from Babylon. The throne of God is described as of the colour of a sapphire (Exodus 24:10; compare Ezekiel 1:26).

Category:Sarah''' - Princess, the wife and at the same time the half-sister of Abraham (Genesis 11:29; Genesis 20:12). This name was given to her at the time that it was announced to Abraham that she should be the mother of the promised child. Her story is from her marriage identified with that of the patriarch till the time of her death. Her death, at the age of one hundred and twenty-seven years (the only instance in Scripture where the age of a woman is recorded), was the occasion of Abraham's purchasing the cave of Machpelah as a family burying-place. In the allegory of Galatians 4:22 she is the type of the "Jerusalem which is above." She is also mentioned as Sara in Hebrews 11:11 among the Old Testament worthies, who "all died in faith." (See ABRAHAM.)

Category:Sarai''' - My princess, the name originally borne by Sarah (Genesis 11:31; Genesis 17:15).

Category:Sardine Stone''' - (Revelation 4:3, R.V., "sardius;" Heb. 'odhem ; LXX., Gr. sardion, from a root meaning "red"), a gem of a blood-red colour. It was called "sardius" because obtained from Sardis in Lydia. It is enumerated among the precious stones in the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:17; Exodus 39:10). It is our red carnelian.

Category:Sardis''' - The metropolis of Lydia in Asia Minor. It stood on the river Pactolus, at the foot of mount Tmolus. Here was one of the seven Asiatic churches (Revelation 3:1). It is now a ruin called Sert-Kalessi.

Category:Sardonyx''' - (Revelation 21:20), a species of the carnelian combining the sard and the onyx, having three layers of opaque spots or stripes on a transparent red basis. Like the sardine, it is a variety of the chalcedony.

Category:Sarepta''' - (Luke 4:26). See ZAREPHATH.

Category:Sargon''' - (In the inscriptions, "Sarrayukin" [the god] has appointed the king; also "Sarru-kinu," the legitimate king.) On the death of Shalmaneser (723 B.C.), one of the Assyrian generals established himself on the vacant throne, taking the name of "Sargon," after that of the famous monarch, the Sargon of Accad, founder of the first Semitic empire, as well as of one of the most famous libraries of Chaldea. He forthwith began a conquering career, and became one of the most powerful of the Assyrian monarchs. He is mentioned by name in the Bible only in connection with the siege of Ashdod (Isaiah 20:1). At the very beginning of his reign he besieged and took the city of Samaria (2 Kings 17:6; 2 Kings 18:9). On an inscription found in the palace he built at Khorsabad, near Nieveh, he says, "The city of Samaria I besieged, I took; 27,280 of its inhabitants I carried away; fifty chariots that were among them I collected," etc. The northern kingdom he changed into an Assyrian satrapy. He afterwards drove Merodach-baladan (q.v.), who kept him at bay for twelve years, out of Babylon, which he entered in triumph. By a succession of victories he gradually enlarged and consolidated the empire, which now extended from the frontiers of Egypt in the west to the mountains of Elam in the east, and thus carried almost to completion the ambitious designs of Tiglath-pileser (q.v.). He was murdered by one of his own soldiers (705 B.C.) in his palace at Khorsabad, after a reign of sixteen years, and was succeeded by his son Sennacherib.

Category:Satan''' - Adversary; accuser. When used as a proper name, the Hebrew word so rendered has the article "the adversary" (Job 1:6; Job 2:1). In the New Testament it is used as interchangeable with Diabolos, or the devil, and is so used more than thirty times. He is also called "the dragon," "the old serpent" (Revelation 12:9; Revelation 20:2); "the prince of this world" (John 12:31; John 14:30); "the prince of the power of the air" (Ephesians 2:2); "the god of this world" (2 Corinthians 4:4); "the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience" (Ephesians 2:2). The distinct personality of Satan and his activity among men are thus obviously recognized. He tempted our Lord in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1). He is "Beelzebub, the prince of the devils" (Matthew 12:24). He is "the constant enemy of God, of Christ, of the divine kingdom, of the followers of Christ, and of all truth; full of falsehood and all malice, and exciting and seducing to evil in every possible way." His power is very great in the world. He is a "roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). Men are said to be "taken captive by him" (2 Timothy 2:26). Christians are warned against his "devices" (2 Corinthians 2:11), and called on to "resist" him (James 4:7). Christ redeems his people from "him that had the power of death, that is, the devil" (Hebrews 2:14). Satan has the "power of death," not as lord, but simply as executioner.

Category:Satyr''' - Hairy one. Mentioned in Greek mythology as a creature composed of a man and a goat, supposed to inhabit wild and desolate regions. The Hebrew word is rendered also "goat" (Leviticus 4:24) and "devil", i.e., an idol in the form of a goat (Leviticus 17:7; 2 Chronicles 11:15). When it is said (Isaiah 13:21; compare Isaiah 34:14) "the satyrs shall dance there," the meaning is that the place referred to shall become a desolate waste. Some render the Hebrew word "baboon," a species of which is found in Babylonia.

Category:Saul''' - Asked for. (1.) A king of Edom (Genesis 36:37, Genesis 36:38); called Shaul in 1 Chronicles 1:48. (2.) The son of Kish (probably his only son, and a child of prayer, "asked for"), of the tribe of Benjamin, the first king of the Jewish nation. The singular providential circumstances connected with his election as king are recorded in 1 Sam. 8-10. His father's she-asses had strayed, and Saul was sent with a servant to seek for them. Leaving his home at Gibeah (1 Samuel 10:5, "the hill of God," A.V.; lit., as in R.V. marg., "Gibeah of God"), Saul and his servant went toward the north-west over Mount Ephraim, and then turning north-east they came to "the land of Shalisha," and thence eastward to the land of Shalim, and at length came to the district of Zuph, near Samuel's home at Ramah (1 Samuel 9:5). At this point Saul proposed to return from the three days' fruitless search, but his servant suggested that they should first consult the "seer." Hearing that he was about to offer sacrifice, the two hastened into Ramah, and "behold, Samuel came out against them," on his way to the "bamah", i.e., the "height", where sacrifice was to be offered; and in answer to Saul's question, "Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer's house is," Samuel made himself known to him. Samuel had been divinely prepared for his coming (1 Samuel 9:15), and received Saul as his guest. He took him with him to the sacrifice, and then after the feast "communed with Saul upon the top of the house" of all that was in his heart. On the morrow Samuel "took a vial of oil and poured it on his head," and anointed Saul as king over Israel (1 Sam. 9:25 - 10:8), giving him three signs in confirmation of his call to be king. When Saul reached his home in Gibeah the last of these signs was fulfilled, and the Sprit of God came upon him, and "he was turned into another man." The simple countryman was transformed into the king of Israel, a remarkable change suddenly took place in his whole demeanour, and the people said in their astonishment, as they looked on the stalwart son of Kish, "Is Saul also among the prophets?", a saying which passed into a "proverb." (Compare 1 Samuel 19:24.) The intercourse between Saul and Samuel was as yet unknown to the people. The "anointing" had been in secret. But now the time had come when the transaction must be confirmed by the nation. Samuel accordingly summoned the people to a solemn assembly "before the Lord" at Mizpeh. Here the lot was drawn (1 Samuel 10:17), and it fell upon Saul, and when he was presented before them, the stateliest man in all Israel, the air was rent for the first time in Israel by the loud cry, "God save the king!" He now returned to his home in Gibeah, attended by a king of bodyguard, "a band of men whose hearts God had touched." On reaching his home he dismissed them, and resumed the quiet toils of his former life. Soon after this, on hearing of the conduct of Nahash the Ammonite at Jabesh-Gilead (q.v.), an army out of all the tribes of Israel rallied at his summons to the trysting-place at Bezek, and he led them forth a great army to battle, gaining a complete victory over the Ammonite invaders at Jabesh (1 Samuel 11:1). Amid the universal joy occasioned by this victory he was now fully recognized as the king of Israel. At the invitation of Samuel "all the people went to Gilgal, and there they made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal." Samuel now officially anointed him as king (1 Samuel 11:15). Although Samuel never ceased to be a judge in Israel, yet now his work in that capacity practically came to an end. Saul now undertook the great and difficult enterprise of freeing the land from its hereditary enemies the Philistines, and for this end he gathered together an army of 3,000 men (1 Samuel 13:1, 1 Samuel 13:2). The Philistines were encamped at Geba. Saul, with 2,000 men, occupied Michmash and Mount Bethel; while his son Jonathan, with 1,000 men, occupied Gibeah, to the south of Geba, and seemingly without any direction from his father "smote" the Philistines in Geba. Thus roused, the Philistines, who gathered an army of 30,000 chariots and 6,000 horsemen, and "people as the sand which is on the sea-shore in multitude," encamped in Michmash, which Saul had evacuated for Gilgal. Saul now tarried for seven days in Gilgal before making any movement, as Samuel had appointed (1 Samuel 10:8); but becoming impatient on the seventh day, as it was drawing to a close, when he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, Samuel appeared and warned him of the fatal consequences of his act of disobedience, for he had not waited long enough (1 Samuel 13:13, 1 Samuel 13:14). When Saul, after Samuel's departure, went out from Gilgal with his 600 men, his followers having decreased to that number (1 Samuel 13:15), against the Philistines at Michmash (q.v.), he had his head-quarters under a pomegranate tree at Migron, over against Michmash, the Wady es Suweinit alone intervening. Here at Gibeah-Geba Saul and his army rested, uncertain what to do. Jonathan became impatient, and with his armour-bearer planned an assault against the Philistines, unknown to Saul and the army (1 Samuel 14:1). Jonathan and his armour-bearer went down into the wady, and on their hands and knees climbed to the top of the narrow rocky ridge called Bozez, where was the outpost of the Philistine army. They surprised and then slew twenty of the Philistines, and immediately the whole host of the Philistines was thrown into disorder and fled in great terror. "It was a very great trembling;" a supernatural panic seized the host. Saul and his 600 men, a band which speedily increased to 10,000, perceiving the confusion, pursued the army of the Philistines, and the tide of battle rolled on as far as to Bethaven, halfway between Michmash and Bethel. The Philistines were totally routed. "So the Lord saved Israel that day." While pursuing the Philistines, Saul rashly adjured the people, saying, "Cursed be the man that eateth any food until evening." But though faint and weary, the Israelites "smote the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon" (a distance of from 15 to 20 miles). Jonathan had, while passing through the wood in pursuit of the Philistines, tasted a little of the honeycomb which was abundant there (1 Samuel 14:27). This was afterwards discovered by Saul (1 Samuel 14:42), and he threatened to put his son to death. The people, however, interposed, saying, "There shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground." He whom God had so signally owned, who had "wrought this great salvation in Israel," must not die. "Then Saul went up from following the Philistines: and the Philistines went to their own place" (1 Sam. 14:24-46); and thus the campaign against the Philistines came to an end. This was Saul's second great military success. Saul's reign, however, continued to be one of almost constant war against his enemies round about (1 Samuel 14:47, 1 Samuel 14:48), in all of which he proved victorious. The war against the Amalekites is the only one which is recorded at length (1 Sam. 15). These oldest and hereditary (Exodus 17:8; Numbers 14:43) enemies of Israel occupied the territory to the south and south-west of Palestine. Samuel summoned Saul to execute the "ban" which God had pronounced (Deuteronomy 25:17) on this cruel and relentless foe of Israel. The cup of their iniquity was now full. This command was "the test of his moral qualification for being king." Saul proceeded to execute the divine command; and gathering the people together, marched from Telaim (1 Samuel 15:4) against the Amalekites, whom he smote "from Havilah until thou comest to Shur," utterly destroying "all the people with the edge of the sword", i.e., all that fell into his hands. He was, however, guilty of rebellion and disobedience in sparing Agag their king, and in conniving at his soldiers' sparing the best of the sheep and cattle; and Samuel, following Saul to Gilgal, in the Jordan valley, said unto him, "Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he also hath rejected thee from being king" (1 Samuel 15:23). The kingdom was rent from Saul and was given to another, even to David, whom the Lord chose to be Saul's successor, and whom Samuel anointed (1 Samuel 16:1). From that day "the spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him." He and Samuel parted only to meet once again at one of the schools of the prophets. David was now sent for as a "cunning player on an harp" (1 Samuel 16:16, 1 Samuel 16:18), to play before Saul when the evil spirit troubled him, and thus was introduced to the court of Saul. He became a great favourite with the king. At length David returned to his father's house and to his wonted avocation as a shepherd for perhaps some three years. The Philistines once more invaded the land, and gathered their army between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephes-dammim, on the southern slope of the valley of Elah. Saul and the men of Israel went forth to meet them, and encamped on the northern slope of the same valley which lay between the two armies. It was here that David slew Goliath of Gath, the champion of the Philistines (1 Sam. 17:4-54), an exploit which led to the flight and utter defeat of the Philistine army. Saul now took David permanently into his service (1 Samuel 18:2); but he became jealous of him (1 Samuel 18:9), and on many occasions showed his enmity toward him (1 Samuel 18:10, 1 Samuel 18:11), his enmity ripening into a purpose of murder which at different times he tried in vain to carry out. After some time the Philistines "gathered themselves together" in the plain of Esdraelon, and pitched their camp at Shunem, on the slope of Little Hermon; and Saul "gathered all Israel together," and "pitched in Gilboa" (1 Samuel 28:3). Being unable to discover the mind of the Lord, Saul, accompanied by two of his retinue, betook himself to the "witch of Endor," some 7 or 8 miles distant. Here he was overwhelmed by the startling communication that was mysteriously made to him by Samuel (1 Samuel 28:16), who appeared to him. "He fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel" (1 Samuel 28:20). The Philistine host "fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled before the Philistines, and fell down slain in Mount Gilboa" (1 Samuel 31:1). In his despair at the disaster that had befallen his army, Saul "took a sword and fell upon it." And the Philistines on the morrow "found Saul and his three sons fallen in Mount Gilboa." Having cut off his head, they sent it with his weapons to Philistia, and hung up the skull in the temple of Dagon at Ashdod. They suspended his headless body, with that of Jonathan, from the walls of Bethshan. The men of Jabesh-gilead afterwards removed the bodies from this position; and having burnt the flesh, they buried the bodies under a tree at Jabesh. The remains were, however, afterwards removed to the family sepulchre at Zelah (2 Samuel 21:13, 2 Samuel 21:14). (See DAVID.) (3.) "Who is also called Paul" (q.v.), the circumcision name of the apostle, given to him, perhaps, in memory of King Saul (Acts 7:58; Acts 8:1; Acts 9:1).

Category:Saviour''' - One who saves from any form or degree of evil. In its highest sense the word indicates the relation sustained by our Lord to his redeemed ones, he is their Saviour. The great message of the gospel is about salvation and the Saviour. It is the "gospel of salvation." Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ secures to the sinner a personal interest in the work of redemption. Salvation is redemption made effectual to the individual by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Category:Scapegoat''' - Lev. 16:8-26; R.V., "the goat for Azazel" (q.v.), the name given to the goat which was taken away into the wilderness on the day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:20). The priest made atonement over the scapegoat, laying Israel's guilt upon it, and then sent it away, the goat bearing "upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited." At a later period an evasion or modification of the law of Moses was introduced by the Jews. "The goat was conducted to a mountain named Tzuk, situated at a distance of ten Sabbath days' journey, or about six and a half English miles, from Jerusalem. At this place the Judean desert was supposed to commence; and the man in whose charge the goat was sent out, while setting him free, was instructed to push the unhappy beast down the slope of the mountain side, which was so steep as to insure the death of the goat, whose bones were broken by the fall. The reason of this barbarous custom was that on one occasion the scapegoat returned to Jerusalem after being set free, which was considered such an evil omen that its recurrence was prevented for the future by the death of the goat" (Twenty-one Years' Work in the Holy Land). This mountain is now called el-Muntar.

Category:Scarlet''' - This dye was obtained by the Egyptians from the shell-fish Carthamus tinctorius; and by the Hebrews from the Coccus ilicis, an insect which infests oak trees, called kermes by the Arabians. This colour was early known (Genesis 38:28). It was one of the colours of the ephod (Exodus 28:6), the girdle (Exodus 28:8), and the breastplate (Exodus 28:15) of the high priest. It is also mentioned in various other connections (Joshua 2:18; 2 Samuel 1:24; Lamentations 4:5; Nahum 2:3). A scarlet robe was in mockery placed on our Lord (Matthew 27:28; Luke 23:11). "Sins as scarlet" (Isaiah 1:18), i.e., as scarlet robes "glaring and habitual." Scarlet and crimson were the firmest of dyes, and thus not easily washed out.

Category:Sceptre''' - (Heb. shebet = Gr. skeptron ), properly a staff or rod. As a symbol of authority, the use of the sceptre originated in the idea that the ruler was as a shepherd of his people (Genesis 49:10; Numbers 24:17; Psalms 45:6; Isaiah 14:5). There is no example on record of a sceptre having ever been actually handled by a Jewish king.

Category:Sceva''' - An implement, a Jew, chief of the priests at Ephesus (Acts 19:13); i.e., the head of one of the twenty-four courses of the house of Levi. He had seven sons, who "took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus," in imitation of Paul. They tried their method of exorcism on a fierce demoniac, and failed. His answer to them was to this effect (Acts 19:15): "The Jesus whom you invoke is One whose authority I acknowledge; and the Paul whom you name I recognize to be a servant or messenger of God; but what sort of men are ye who have been empowered to act as you do by neither?" (Lindsay on the Acts of the Apostles.)

Category:Schism''' - A separation, an alienation causing divisions among Christians, who ought to be united (1 Corinthians 12:25).

Category:Schoolmaster''' - The law so designated by Paul (Galatians 3:24, Galatians 3:25). As so used, the word does not mean teacher, but pedagogue (shortened into the modern page), i.e., one who was entrusted with the supervision of a family, taking them to and from the school, being responsible for their safety and manners. Hence the pedagogue was stern and severe in his discipline. Thus the law was a pedagogue to the Jews, with a view to Christ, i.e., to prepare for faith in Christ by producing convictions of guilt and helplessness. The office of the pedagogue ceased when "faith came", i.e., the object of that faith, the seed, which is Christ.

Category:Schools of the Prophets''' - (1 Samuel 19:18; 2 Kings 2:3, 2 Kings 2:5, 2 Kings 2:7, 2 Kings 2:12, 2 Kings 2:15) were instituted for the purpose of training young men for the prophetical and priestly offices. (See PROPHET; SAMUEL.)

Category:Scorpions''' - Mentioned along with serpents (Deuteronomy 8:15). Used also figuratively to denote wicked persons (Ezekiel 2:6; Luke 10:19); also a particular kind of scourge or whip (1 Kings 12:11). Scorpions were a species of spider. They abounded in the Jordan valley.

Category:Scourging''' - (1 Kings 12:11). Variously administered. In no case were the stripes to exceed forty (Deuteronomy 25:3; compare 2 Corinthians 11:24). In the time of the apostles, in consequence of the passing of what was called the Porcian law, no Roman citizen could be scourged in any case (Acts 16:22-37). (See BASTINADO.) In the scourging of our Lord (Matthew 27:26; Mark 15:15) the words of prophecy (Isaiah 53:5) were fulfilled.

Category:Scribes''' - Anciently held various important offices in the public affairs of the nation. The Hebrew word so rendered (sopher) is first used to designate the holder of some military office (Judges 5:14; A.V., "pen of the writer;" R.V., "the marshal's staff;" marg., "the staff of the scribe"). The scribes acted as secretaries of state, whose business it was to prepare and issue decrees in the name of the king (2 Samuel 8:17; 2 Samuel 20:25; 1 Chronicles 18:16; 1 Chronicles 24:6; 1 Kings 4:3; 2 Kings 12:9; 18:18-37, etc.). They discharged various other important public duties as men of high authority and influence in the affairs of state. There was also a subordinate class of scribes, most of whom were Levites. They were engaged in various ways as writers. Such, for example, was Baruch, who "wrote from the mouth of Jeremiah all the words of the Lord" (Jeremiah 36:4, Jeremiah 36:32). In later times, after the Captivity, when the nation lost its independence, the scribes turned their attention to the law, gaining for themselves distinction by their intimate acquaintance with its contents. On them devolved the duty of multiplying copies of the law and of teaching it to others (Ezra 7:6, Ezra 7:10; Nehemiah 8:1, Nehemiah 8:4, Nehemiah 8:9, Nehemiah 8:13). It is evident that in New Testament times the scribes belonged to the sect of the Pharisees, who supplemented the ancient written law by their traditions (Matt. 23), thereby obscuring it and rendering it of none effect. The titles "scribes" and "lawyers" (q.v.) are in the Gospels interchangeable (Matthew 22:35; Mark 12:28; Luke 20:39, etc.). They were in the time of our Lord the public teachers of the people, and frequently came into collision with him. They afterwards showed themselves greatly hostile to the apostles (Acts 4:5; Acts 6:12). Some of the scribes, however, were men of a different spirit, and showed themselves friendly to the gospel and its preachers. Thus Gamaliel advised the Sanhedrin, when the apostles were before them charged with "teaching in this name," to "refrain from these men and let them alone" (Acts 5:34; compare Acts 23:9).

Category:Scrip''' - A small bag or wallet usually fastened to the girdle (1 Samuel 17:40); "a shepherd's bag." In the New Testament it is the rendering of Gr. pera, which was a bag carried by travelers and shepherds, generally made of skin (Matthew 10:10; Mark 6:8; Luke 9:3; Luke 10:4). The name "scrip" is meant to denote that the bag was intended to hold scraps, fragments, as if scraped off from larger articles, trifles.

Category:Scripture''' - Invariably in the New Testament denotes that definite collection of sacred books, regarded as given by inspiration of God, which we usually call the Old Testament (2 Timothy 3:15, 2 Timothy 3:16; John 20:9; Galatians 3:22; 2 Peter 1:20). It was God's purpose thus to perpetuate his revealed will. From time to time he raised up men to commit to writing in an infallible record the revelation he gave. The "Scripture," or collection of sacred writings, was thus enlarged from time to time as God saw necessary. We have now a completed "Scripture," consisting of the Old and New Testaments. The Old Testament canon in the time of our Lord was precisely the same as that which we now possess under that name. He placed the seal of his own authority on this collection of writings, as all equally given by inspiration (Matthew 5:17; Matthew 7:12; Matthew 22:40; Luke 16:29, Luke 16:31). (See BIBLE; CANON.)

Category:Scythian''' - The Scythians consisted of "all the pastoral tribes who dwelt to the north of the Black Sea and the Caspian, and were scattered far away toward the east. Of this vast country but little was anciently known. Its modern representative is Russia, which, to a great extent, includes the same territories." They were the descendants of Japheth (Genesis 9:27). It appears that in apostolic times there were some of this people that embraced Christianity (Colossians 3:11).

Category:The Sea''' - (Heb. yam ), signifies (1.) "the gathering together of the waters," the ocean (Genesis 1:10); (2.) a river, as the Nile (Isaiah 19:5), the Euphrates (Isaiah 21:1; Jeremiah 51:36); (3.) the Red Sea (Exodus 14:16, Exodus 14:27; Exodus 15:4, etc.); (4.) the Mediterranean (Exodus 23:31; Numbers 34:6, Numbers 34:7; Joshua 15:47; Psalms 80:11, etc.); (5.) the "sea of Galilee," an inland fresh-water lake, and (6.) the Dead Sea or "salt sea" (Genesis 14:3; Numbers 34:3, Numbers 34:12, etc.). The word "sea" is used symbolically in Isaiah 60:5, where it probably means the nations around the Mediterranean. In Daniel 7:3, Revelation 13:1 it may mean the tumultuous changes among the nations of the earth.

Category:Sea of Jazer''' - (Jeremiah 48:32), a lake, now represented by some ponds in the high valley in which the Ammonite city of Jazer lies, the ruins of which are called Sar.

Category:The Molten Sea''' - The great laver made by Solomon for the use of the priests in the temple, described in 1 Kings 7:23; 2 Chronicles 4:2. It stood in the south-eastern corner of the inner court. It was 5 cubits high, 10 in diameter from brim to brim, and 30 in circumference. It was placed on the backs of twelve oxen, standing with their faces outward. It was capable of containing two or three thousand baths of water (compare 2 Chronicles 4:5), which was originally supplied by the Gibeonites, but was afterwards brought by a conduit from the pools of Bethlehem. It was made of "brass" (copper), which Solomon had taken from the captured cities of Hadarezer, the king of Zobah (1 Chronicles 18:8). Ahaz afterwards removed this laver from the oxen, and placed it on a stone pavement (2 Kings 16:17). It was destroyed by the Chaldeans (2 Kings 25:13).

Category:Sea of Glass''' - A figurative expression used in Revelation 4:6 and Revelation 15:2. According to the interpretation of some, "this calm, glass-like sea, which is never in storm, but only interfused with flame, represents the counsels of God, those purposes of righteousness and love which are often fathomless but never obscure, always the same, though sometimes glowing with holy anger." (Compare Psalms 36:6; Psalms 77:19; Romans 11:33.)

Category:Seah''' - In land measure, a space of 50 cubits long by 50 broad. In measure of capacity, a seah was a little over one peck. (See MEASURE and see Tables of Weights, Measures and Money.)

Category:Seal''' - Commonly a ring engraved with some device (Genesis 38:18, Genesis 38:25). Jezebel "wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal" (1 Kings 21:8). Seals are frequently mentioned in Jewish history (Deuteronomy 32:34; Nehemiah 9:38; Nehemiah 10:1; Esther 3:12; Song of Songs 8:6; Isaiah 8:16; Jeremiah 22:24; Jeremiah 32:44, etc.). Sealing a document was equivalent to the signature of the owner of the seal. "The use of a signet-ring by the monarch has recently received a remarkable illustration by the discovery of an impression of such a signet on fine clay at Koyunjik, the site of the ancient Nineveh. This seal appears to have been impressed from the bezel of a metallic finger-ring. It is an oval, 2 inches in length by 1 inch wide, and bears the image, name, and titles of the Egyptian king Sabaco" (Rawlinson's Hist. Illus. of the O.T., p. 46). The actual signet-rings of two Egyptian kings (Cheops and Horus) have been discovered. (See SIGNET.) The use of seals is mentioned in the New Testament only in connection with the record of our Lord's burial (Matthew 27:66). The tomb was sealed by the Pharisees and chief priests for the purpose of making sure that the disciples would not come and steal the body away (Matthew 27:63, Matthew 27:64). The mode of doing this was probably by stretching a cord across the stone and sealing it at both ends with sealing-clay. When God is said to have sealed the Redeemer, the meaning is, that he has attested his divine mission (John 6:27). Circumcision is a seal, an attestation of the covenant (Romans 4:11). Believers are sealed with the Spirit, as God's mark put upon them (Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:30). Converts are by Paul styled the seal of his apostleship, i.e., they are its attestation (1 Corinthians 9:2). Seals and sealing are frequently mentioned in the book of Revelation (Revelation 5:1; Revelation 6:1; Revelation 7:3; Revelation 10:4; Revelation 22:10).

Category:Seasons''' - (Genesis 8:22). See AGRICULTURE; MONTH.

Category:Seba''' - (1.) One of the sons of Cush (Genesis 10:7). (2.) The name of a country and nation (Isaiah 43:3; Isaiah 45:14) mentioned along with Egypt and Ethiopia, and therefore probably in north-eastern Africa. The ancient name of Meroe. The kings of Sheba and Seba are mentioned together in Psalms 72:10.

Category:Sebat''' - The eleventh month of the Hebrew year, extending from the new moon of February to that of March (Zechariah 1:7). Assyrian sabatu, "storm." (See MONTH.)

Category:Secacah''' - Enclosure, one of the six cities in the wilderness of Judah, noted for its "great cistern" (Joshua 15:61). It has been identified with the ruin Sikkeh, east of Bethany.

Category:Sechu''' - A hill or watch-tower, a place between Gibeah and Ramah noted for its "great well" (1 Samuel 19:22); probably the modern Suweikeh, south of Beeroth.

Category:Sect''' - (Gr. hairesis, usually rendered "heresy", Acts 24:14; 1 Chronicles 11:19; Galatians 5:20, etc.), meaning properly "a choice," then "a chosen manner of life," and then "a religious party," as the "sect" of the Sadducees (Acts 5:17), of the Pharisees (Acts 15:5), the Nazarenes, i.e., Christians (Acts 24:5). It afterwards came to be used in a bad sense, of those holding pernicious error, divergent forms of belief (2 Peter 2:1; Galatians 5:20).

Category:Secundus''' - Second, a Christian of Thessalonica who accompanied Paul into Asia (Acts 20:4).

Category:Seer''' - A name sometimes applied to the prophets because of the visions granted to them. It is first found in 1 Samuel 9:9. It is afterwards applied to Zadok, Gad, etc. (2 Samuel 15:27; 2 Samuel 24:11; 1 Chronicles 9:22; 1 Chronicles 25:5; 2 Chronicles 9:29; Amos 7:12; Micah 3:7). The "sayings of the seers" (2 Chronicles 33:18, 2 Chronicles 33:19) is rendered in the Revised Category:Version "the history of Hozai" (marg., the seers; so the LXX.), of whom, however, nothing is known. (See PROPHET.)

Category:Seethe''' - To boil (Exodus 16:23).

Category:Seething Pot''' - A vessel for boiling provisions in (Job 41:20; Jeremiah 1:13).

Category:Segub''' - Elevated. (1.) The youngest son of Hiel the Bethelite. His death is recorded in 1 Kings 16:34 (compare Joshua 6:26). (2.) A descendant of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:21, 1 Chronicles 2:22).

Category:Seir''' - Rough; hairy. (1.) A Horite; one of the "dukes" of Edom (Genesis 36:20). (2.) The name of a mountainous region occupied by the Edomites, extending along the eastern side of the Arabah from the south-eastern extremity of the Dead Sea to near the Akabah, or the eastern branch of the Red Sea. It was originally occupied by the Horites (Genesis 14:6), who were afterwards driven out by the Edomites (Genesis 32:3; Genesis 33:14, Genesis 33:16). It was allotted to the descendants of Esau (Deuteronomy 2:4, Deuteronomy 2:22; Joshua 24:4; 2 Chronicles 20:10; Isaiah 21:11; Ezekiel 25:8). (3.) A mountain range (not the Edomite range, Genesis 32:3) lying between the Wady Aly and the Wady Ghurab (Joshua 15:10).

Category:Seirath''' - Woody district; shaggy, a place among the mountains of Ephraim, bordering on Benjamin, to which Ehud fled after he had assassinated Eglon at Jericho (Judges 3:26, Judges 3:27).

Category:Sela''' - =Selah, rock, the capital of Edom, situated in the great valley extending from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea (2 Kings 14:7). It was near Mount Hor, close by the desert of Zin. It is called "the rock" (Judges 1:36). When Amaziah took it he called it Joktheel (q.v.) It is mentioned by the prophets (Isaiah 16:1; Obadiah 1:3) as doomed to destruction. It appears in later history and in the Vulgate Category:Version under the name of Petra. "The caravans from all ages, from the interior of Arabia and from the Gulf of Persia, from Hadramaut on the ocean, and even from Sabea or Yemen, appear to have pointed to Petra as a common centre; and from Petra the tide seems again to have branched out in every direction, to Egypt, Palestine, and Syria, through Arsinoe, Gaza, Tyre, Jerusalem, and Damascus, and by other routes, terminating at the Mediterranean." (See EDOM [2].)

Category:Sela-hammahlekoth''' - Cliff of divisions the name of the great gorge which lies between Hachilah and Maon, south-east of Hebron. This gorge is now called the Wady Malaky. This was the scene of the interview between David and Saul mentioned in 1 Samuel 26:13. Each stood on an opposing cliff, with this deep chasm between.

Category:Selah''' - A word frequently found in the Book of Psalms, and also in Habakkuk 3:9, Habakkuk 3:13, about seventy-four times in all in Scripture. Its meaning is doubtful. Some interpret it as meaning "silence" or "pause;" others, "end," "a louder strain," "piano," etc. The LXX. render the word by daplasma i.e., "a division."

Category:Seleucia''' - The sea-port of Antioch, near the mouth of the Orontes. Paul and his companions sailed from this port on their first missionary journey (Acts 13:4). This city was built by Seleucus Nicator, the "king of Syria." It is said of him that "few princes have ever lived with so great a passion for the building of cities. He is reputed to have built in all nine Seleucias, sixteen Antiochs, and six Laodiceas." Seleucia became a city of great importance, and was made a "free city" by Pompey. It is now a small village, called el-Kalusi.

Category:Semei''' - Genealogy of our Lord (Luke 3:26).

Category:Senaah''' - Thorny, a place many of the inhabitants of which returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:35; Nehemiah 7:38).

Category:Senate''' - (Acts 5:21), the "elders of Israel" who formed a component part of the Sanhedrin.

Category:Seneh''' - The acacia; rock-thorn, the southern cliff in the Wady es-Suweinit, a valley south of Michmash, which Jonathan climbed with his armour-bearer (1 Samuel 14:4, 1 Samuel 14:5). The rock opposite, on the other side of the wady, was called Bozez.

Category:Senir''' - =Shenir, the name given to Hermon by the Amorites (Deuteronomy 3:9). It means "coat of mail" or "breastplate," and is equivalent to "Sirion." Some interpret the word as meaning "the prominent" or "the snowy mountain." It is properly the name of the central of the three summits of Hermon (q.v.).

Category:Sennacherib''' - Sin (the god) sends many brothers, son of Sargon, whom he succeeded on the throne of Assyria (705 B.C.), in the 23rd year of Hezekiah. "Like the Persian Xerxes, he was weak and vainglorious, cowardly under reverse, and cruel and boastful in success." He first set himself to break up the powerful combination of princes who were in league against him. Among these was Hezekiah, who had entered into an alliance with Egypt against Assyria. He accordingly led a very powerful army of at least 200,000 men into Judea, and devastated the land on every side, taking and destroying many cities (2 Kings 18:13; compare Isa. 22, 24, 29, and 2 Chronicles 32:1). His own account of this invasion, as given in the Assyrian annals, is in these words: "Because Hezekiah, king of Judah, would not submit to my yoke, I came up against him, and by force of arms and by the might of my power I took forty-six of his strong fenced cities; and of the smaller towns which were scattered about, I took and plundered a countless number. From these places I took and carried off 200,156 persons, old and young, male and female, together with horses and mules, asses and camels, oxen and sheep, a countless multitude; and Hezekiah himself I shut up in Jerusalem, his capital city, like a bird in a cage, building towers round the city to hem him in, and raising banks of earth against the gates, so as to prevent escape Then upon Hezekiah there fell the fear of the power of my arms, and he sent out to me the chiefs and the elders of Jerusalem with 30 talents of gold and 800 talents of silver, and divers treasures, a rich and immense booty All these things were brought to me at Nineveh, the seat of my government." (Compare Isaiah 22:1 for description of the feelings of the inhabitants of Jerusalem at such a crisis.) Hezekiah was not disposed to become an Assyrian feudatory. He accordingly at once sought help from Egypt (2 Kings 18:20). Sennacherib, hearing of this, marched a second time into Palestine (2 Kings 18:17, 2 Kings 18:37; 19; 2 Chronicles 32:9; Isa. 36:2-22. Isaiah 37:25 should be rendered "dried up all the Nile-arms of Matsor," i.e., of Egypt, so called from the "Matsor" or great fortification across the isthmus of Suez, which protected it from invasions from the east). Sennacherib sent envoys to try to persuade Hezekiah to surrender, but in vain. (See TIRHAKAH.) He next sent a threatening letter (2 Kings 19:10), which Hezekiah carried into the temple and spread before the Lord. Isaiah again brought an encouraging message to the pious king (2 Kings 19:20). "In that night" the angel of the Lord went forth and smote the camp of the Assyrians. In the morning, "behold, they were all dead corpses." The Assyrian army was annihilated. This great disaster is not, as was to be expected, taken notice of in the Assyrian annals. Though Sennacherib survived this disaster some twenty years, he never again renewed his attempt against Jerusalem. He was murdered by two of his own sons (Adrammelech and Sharezer), and was succeeded by another son, Esarhaddon (681 B.C.), after a reign of twenty-four years.

Category:Seorim''' - Barley, the chief of the forth priestly course (1 Chronicles 24:8).

Category:Sephar''' - Numbering, (Genesis 10:30), supposed by some to be the ancient Himyaritic capital, "Shaphar," Zaphar, on the Indian Ocean, between the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea.

Category:Sepharad''' - (Obadiah 1:20), some locality unknown. The modern Jews think that Spain is meant, and hence they designate the Spanish Jews "Sephardim," as they do the German Jews by the name "Ashkenazim," because the rabbis call Germany Ashkenaz. Others identify it with Sardis, the capital of Lydia. The Latin father Jerome regarded it as an Assyrian word, meaning "boundary," and interpreted the sentence, "which is in Sepharad," by "who are scattered abroad in all the boundaries and regions of the earth." Perowne says: "Whatever uncertainty attaches to the word Sepharad, the drift of the prophecy is clear, viz., that not only the exiles from Babylon, but Jewish captives from other and distant regions, shall be brought back to live prosperously within the enlarged borders of their own land."

Category:Sepharvaim''' - Taken by Sargon, king of Assyria (2 Kings 17:24; 2 Kings 18:34; 2 Kings 19:13; Isaiah 37:13). It was a double city, and received the common name Sepharvaim, i.e., "the two Sipparas," or "the two booktowns." The Sippara on the east bank of the Euphrates is now called Abu-Habba; that on the other bank was Accad, the old capital of Sargon I., where he established a great library. (See SARGON.) The recent discovery of cuneiform inscriptions at Tel el-Amarna in Egypt, consisting of official dispatches to Pharaoh Amenophis IV. and his predecessor from their agents in Palestine, proves that in the century before the Exodus an active literary intercourse was carried on between these nations, and that the medium of the correspondence was the Babylonian language and script. (See KIRJATH-SEPHER.)

Category:Septuagint''' - See VERSIONS.

Category:Sepulchre''' - First mentioned as purchased by Abraham for Sarah from Ephron the Hittite (Genesis 23:20). This was the "cave of the field of Machpelah," where also Abraham and Rebekah and Jacob and Leah were buried (Genesis 49:29). In Acts 7:16 it is said that Jacob was "laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem." It has been proposed, as a mode of reconciling the apparent discrepancy between this verse an Genesis 23:20, to read Acts 7:16 thus: "And they [i.e., our fathers] were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor [the son] of Sychem." In this way the purchase made by Abraham is not to be confounded with the purchase made by Jacob subsequently in the same district. Of this purchase by Abraham there is not direct record in the Old Testament. (See TOMB.)

Category:Serah''' - Abundance; princess, the daughter of Asher and grand-daughter of Jacob (Genesis 46:17); called also Sarah (Numbers 26:46; R.V., "Serah").

Category:Seraiah''' - Soldier of Jehovah. (1.) The father of Joab (1 Chronicles 4:13, 1 Chronicles 4:14). (2.) The grandfather of Jehu (1 Chronicles 4:35). (3.) One of David's scribes or secretaries (2 Samuel 8:17). (4.) A Netophathite (Jeremiah 40:8), a chief priest of the time of Zedekiah. He was carried captive by Nebuchadnezzar to Babylon, and there put to death (2 Kings 25:18, 2 Kings 25:23). (5.) Ezra 2:2. (6.) Father of Ezra the scribe (Ezra 7:1). (7.) A ruler of the temple (Nehemiah 11:11). (8.) A priest of the days of Jehoiakim (Nehemiah 12:1, Nehemiah 12:12). (9.) The son of Neriah. When Zedekiah made a journey to Babylon to do homage to Nebuchadnezzar, Seraiah had charge of the royal gifts to be presented on that occasion. Jeremiah took advantage of the occasion, and sent with Seraiah a word of cheer to the exiles in Babylon, and an announcement of the doom in store for that guilty city. The roll containing this message (Jeremiah 50:1) Seraiah was to read to the exiles, and then, after fixing a stone to it, was to throw it into the Euphrates, uttering, as it sank, the prayer recorded in Jeremiah 51:59. Babylon was at this time in the height of its glory, the greatest and most powerful monarchy in the world. Scarcely seventy years elapsed when the words of the prophet were all fulfilled. Jeremiah 51:59 is rendered in the Revised Category:Version, "Now Seraiah was chief chamberlain," instead of "was a quiet prince," as in the Authorized Category:Version.

Category:Seraphim''' - Mentioned in Isaiah 6:2, Isaiah 6:3, Isaiah 6:6, Isaiah 6:7. This word means fiery ones, in allusion, as is supposed, to their burning love. They are represented as "standing" above the King as he sat upon his throne, ready at once to minister unto him. Their form appears to have been human, with the addition of wings. (See ANGELS.) This word, in the original, is used elsewhere only of the "fiery serpents" (Numbers 21:6, Numbers 21:8; Deuteronomy 8:15; compare Isaiah 14:29; Isaiah 30:6) sent by God as his instruments to inflict on the people the righteous penalty of sin.

Category:Sered''' - Fear, one of the sons of Zebulun (Genesis 46:14).

Category:Sergeants''' - Acts 16:35, Acts 16:38 (R.V., "lictors"), officers who attended the magistrates and assisted them in the execution of justice.

Category:Sergius Paulus''' - A "prudent man" (R.V., "man of understanding"), the deputy (R.V., "proconsul") of Cyprus (Acts 13:6). He became a convert to Christianity under Paul, who visited this island on his first mission to the heathen. A remarkable memorial of this proconsul was recently (1887) discovered at Rome. On a boundary stone of Claudius his name is found, among others, as having been appointed (A.D. 47) one of the curators of the banks and the channel of the river Tiber. After serving his three years as proconsul at Cyprus, he returned to Rome, where he held the office referred to. As he is not saluted in Paul's letter to the Romans, he probably died before it was written.

Category:Sermon on the Mount''' - After spending a night in solemn meditation and prayer in the lonely mountain-range to the west of the Lake of Galilee (Luke 6:12), on the following morning our Lord called to him his disciples, and from among them chose twelve, who were to be henceforth trained to be his apostles (Mark 3:14, Mark 3:15). After this solemn consecration of the twelve, he descended from the mountain-peak to a more level spot (Luke 6:17), and there he sat down and delivered the "sermon on the mount" (Matt. 5-7; Luke 6:20-49) to the assembled multitude. The mountain here spoken of was probably that known by the name of the "Horns of Hattin" (Kurun Hattin), a ridge running east and west, not far from Capernaum. It was afterwards called the "Mount of Beatitudes."

Category:Serpent''' - (Heb. nahash ; Gr. ophis ), frequently noticed in Scripture. More than forty species are found in Syria and Arabia. The poisonous character of the serpent is alluded to in Jacob's blessing on Dan (Genesis 49:17; see Proverbs 30:18, Proverbs 30:19; James 3:7; Jeremiah 8:17). (See ADDER.) This word is used symbolically of a deadly, subtle, malicious enemy (Luke 10:19). The serpent is first mentioned in connection with the history of the temptation and fall of our first parents (Gen. 3). It has been well remarked regarding this temptation: "A real serpent was the agent of the temptation, as is plain from what is said of the natural characteristic of the serpent in the first verse of the chapter (Genesis 3:1), and from the curse pronounced upon the animal itself. But that Satan was the actual tempter, and that he used the serpent merely as his instrument, is evident (1.) from the nature of the transaction; for although the serpent may be the most subtle of all the beasts of the field, yet he has not the high intellectual faculties which the tempter here displayed. (2.) In the New Testament it is both directly asserted and in various forms assumed that Satan seduced our first parents into sin (John 8:44; Romans 16:20; 2 Corinthians 11:3, 2 Corinthians 11:14; Revelation 12:9; Revelation 20:2)." Hodge's System. Theol., ii. 127.

Category:Fiery Serpent''' - (LXX. "deadly," Vulg. "burning"), Numbers 21:6, probably the naja haje of Egypt; some swift-springing, deadly snake (Isaiah 14:29). After setting out from their encampment at Ezion-gaber, the Israelites entered on a wide sandy desert, which stretches from the mountains of Edom as far as the Persian Gulf. While traversing this region, the people began to murmur and utter loud complaints against Moses. As a punishment, the Lord sent serpents among them, and much people of Israel died. Moses interceded on their behalf, and by divine direction he made a "brazen serpent," and raised it on a pole in the midst of the camp, and all the wounded Israelites who looked on it were at once healed. (Compare John 3:14, John 3:15.) (See ASP.) This "brazen serpent" was preserved by the Israelites till the days of Hezekiah, when it was destroyed (2 Kings 18:4). (See BRASS.)

Category:Serug''' - Branch, the father of Nahor (Genesis 11:20); called Saruch in Luke 3:35.

Category:Servitor''' - Occurs only in 2 Kings 4:43, Authorized Category:Version (R.V., "servant"). The Hebrew word there rendered "servitor" is elsewhere rendered "minister," "servant" (Exodus 24:13; Exodus 33:11). Probably Gehazi, the personal attendant on Elisha, is here meant.

Category:Seth''' - Appointed; a substitute, the third son of Adam and Eve (Genesis 4:25; Genesis 5:3). His mother gave him this name, "for God," said she, "hath appointed me [i.e., compensated me with] another seed instead of Abel, whom Cain slew."

Category:Sethur''' - Hidden, one of the spies sent to search the Promised Land. He was of the tribe of Asher (Numbers 13:13).

Category:Seven''' - This number occurs frequently in Scripture, and in such connections as lead to the supposition that it has some typical meaning. On the seventh day God rested, and hallowed it (Genesis 2:2, Genesis 2:3). The division of time into weeks of seven days each accounts for many instances of the occurrence of this number. This number has been called the symbol of perfection, and also the symbol of rest. "Jacob's seven years' service to Laban; Pharaoh's seven fat oxen and seven lean ones; the seven branches of the golden candlestick; who sounded them; the seven days' siege of Jericho; the seven churches, seven spirits, seven stars, seven seals, seven vials, and many others, sufficiently prove the importance of this sacred number" (see Leviticus 25:4; 1 Samuel 2:5; Psalms 12:6; Psalms 79:12; Proverbs 26:16; Isaiah 4:1; Matthew 18:21, Matthew 18:22; Luke 17:4). The feast of Passover (Exodus 12:15, Exodus 12:16), the feast of Weeks (Deuteronomy 16:9), of Tabernacles (Deuteronomy 13:15), and the Jubilee (Leviticus 25:8), were all ordered by seven. Seven is the number of sacrifice (2 Chronicles 29:21; Job 42:8), of purification and consecration (Leviticus 4:6, Leviticus 4:17; Leviticus 8:11, Leviticus 8:33; Leviticus 14:9, Leviticus 14:51), of forgiveness (Matthew 18:21, Matthew 18:22; Luke 17:4), of reward (Deuteronomy 28:7; 1 Samuel 2:5), and of punishment (Leviticus 26:21, Leviticus 26:24, Leviticus 26:28; Deuteronomy 28:25). It is used for any round number in such passages as Job 5:19; Proverbs 26:16, Proverbs 26:25; Isaiah 4:1; Matthew 12:45. It is used also to mean "abundantly" (Genesis 4:15, Genesis 4:24; Leviticus 26:24; Psalms 79:12).

Category:Seventy Weeks''' - A prophetic period mentioned in Daniel 9:24, and usually interpreted on the "year-day" theory, i.e., reckoning each day for a year. This period will thus represent 490 years. This is regarded as the period which would elapse till the time of the coming of the Messiah, dating "from the going forth of the commandment to restore and rebuild Jerusalem" i.e., from the close of the Captivity.

Category:Shaalabbin''' - Or Shaalbim, a place of foxes, a town of the tribe of Dan (Joshua 19:42; Judges 1:35). It was one of the chief towns from which Solomon drew his supplies (1 Kings 4:9). It is probably the modern village of Selbit, 3 miles north of Ajalon.

Category:Shaaraim''' - Two gates. (1.) A city in the plain of Judah (1 Samuel 17:52); called also Sharaim (Joshua 15:36). (2.) A town in Simeon (1 Chronicles 4:31).

Category:Shaashgaz''' - Servant of the beautiful, a chief eunuch in the second house of the harem of king Ahasuerus (Esther 2:14).

Category:Shabbethai''' - Sabbath-born, a Levite who assisted in expounding the law and investigating into the illegal marriages of the Jews (Ezra 10:15; Nehemiah 8:7; Nehemiah 11:16).

Category:Shaddai''' - The Omnipotent, the name of God in frequent use in the Hebrew Scriptures, generally translated "the Almighty."

Category:Shadow''' - Used in Colossians 2:17; Hebrews 8:5; Hebrews 10:1 to denote the typical relation of the Jewish to the Christian dispensation.

Category:Shadrach''' - Aku's command, the Chaldean name given to Hananiah, one of the Hebrew youths whom Nebuchadnezzar carried captive to Babylon (Daniel 1:6, Daniel 1:7; Daniel 3:12-30). He and his two companions refused to bow down before the image which Nebuchadnezzar had set up on the plains of Dura. Their conduct filled the king with the greatest fury, and he commanded them to be cast into the burning fiery furnace. Here, amid the fiery flames, they were miraculously preserved from harm. Over them the fire had no power, "neither was a hair of their head signed, neither had the smell of fire passed on them." Thus Nebuchadnezzar learned the greatness of the God of Israel. (See ABEDNEGO.)

Category:Shalem''' - Perfect, a place (probably the village of Salim) some 2 miles east of Jacob's well. There is an abundant supply of water, which may have been the reason for Jacob's settling at this place (Genesis 33:18). The Revised Category:Version translates this word, and reads, "Jacob came in peace to the city of Shechem," thus not regarding it as a proper name at all.

Category:Land of Shalim''' - Land of foxes, a place apparently to the north-west of Jerusalem (1 Samuel 9:4), perhaps in the neighbourhood of Shaalabbin in Dan (Joshua 19:42).

Category:Land of Shalisha''' - Probably the district of Baal-shalisha (2 Kings 4:42), lying about 12 miles north of Lydda (1 Samuel 9:4).

Category:The Gate of Shallecheth''' - I.e., "the gate of casting out," hence supposed to be the refuse gate; one of the gates of the house of the Lord, "by the causeway of the going up" i.e., the causeway rising up from the Tyropoeon valley = valley of the cheesemakers (1 Chronicles 26:16).

Category:Shallum''' - Retribution. (1.) The son of Jabesh, otherwise unknown. He "conspired against Zachariah, and smote him before the people, and slew him, and reigned in his stead" (2 Kings 15:10). He reigned only "a month of days in Samaria" (2 Kings 15:13, marg.). Menahem rose up against Shallum and put him to death (2 Kings 15:14, 2 Kings 15:15, 2 Kings 15:17), and became king in his stead. (2.) Keeper of the temple vestments in the reign of Josiah (2 Kings 22:14). (3.) One of the posterity of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:40, 1 Chronicles 2:41). (4.) A descendant of Simeon (1 Chronicles 4:25). (5.) One of the line of the high priests (1 Chronicles 6:13). (6.) 1 Chronicles 7:13. (7.) A keeper of the gate in the reign of David (1 Chronicles 9:17). (8.) A Levite porter (1 Chronicles 9:19, 1 Chronicles 9:31; Jeremiah 35:4). (9.) An Ephraimite chief (2 Chronicles 28:12). (10.) The uncle of the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 32:7). (11.) A son of king Josiah (1 Chronicles 3:15; Jeremiah 22:11), who was elected to succeed his father on the throne, although he was two years younger than his brother Eliakim. He assumed the crown under the name of Jehoahaz (q.v.). He did not imitate the example of his father (2 Kings 23:32), but was "a young lion, and it learned to catch the prey; it devoured men" (Ezekiel 19:3). His policy was anti-Egyptian therefore. Necho, at that time at Riblah, sent an army against Jerusalem, which at once yielded, and Jehoahaz was carried captive to the Egyptian camp, Eliakim being appointed king in his stead. He remained a captive in Egypt till his death, and was the first king of Judah that died in exile.

Category:Shalman''' - An Assyrian king (Hosea 10:14), identified with Shalmaneser II. (Sayce) or IV. (Lenormant), the successor of Pul on the throne of Assyria (728 B.C.). He made war against Hoshea, the king of Israel, whom he subdued and compelled to pay an annual tribute. Hoshea, however, soon after rebelled against his Assyrian conqueror. Shalmaneser again marched against Samaria, which, after a siege of three years, was taken (2 Kings 17:3; 2 Kings 18:9) by Sargon (q.v.). A revolution meantime had broken out in Assyria, and Shalmaneser was deposed. Sargon usurped the vacant throne. Schrader thinks that this is probably the name of a king of Moab mentioned on an inscription of Tiglath-pileser as Salamanu.

Category:Shamgar''' - The Philistines from the maritime plain had made incursions into the Hebrew upland for the purposes of plunder, when one of this name, the son of Anath, otherwise unknown, headed a rising for the purpose of freeing the land from this oppression. He repelled the invasion, slaying 600 men with an "ox goad" (q.v.). The goad was a formidable sharp pointed instrument, sometimes ten feet long. He was probably contemporary for a time with Deborah and Barak (Judges 3:31; Judges 5:6).

Category:Shamir''' - A sharp thorn. (1.) One of the sons of Michah (1 Chronicles 24:24). (2.) A town among the mountains of Judah (Joshua 15:48); probably Somerah, 2 1/2 miles north-west of Debir. (3.) The residence of Tola, one of the judges, on Mount Ephraim (Judges 10:1, Judges 10:2).

Category:Shammah''' - Desert. (1.) One of the "dukes" of Edom (Genesis 36:13, Genesis 36:17). (2.) One of the sons of Jesse (1 Samuel 16:9). He is also called Shimeah (2 Samuel 13:3) and Shimma (1 Chronicles 2:13). (3.) One of David's three mighty men (2 Samuel 23:11, 2 Samuel 23:12). (4.) One of David's mighties (2 Samuel 23:25); called also Shammoth (1 Chronicles 11:27) and Shamhuth (1 Chronicles 27:8).

Category:Shammua''' - Heard. (1.) One of the spies sent out by Moses to search the land (Numbers 13:4). He represented the tribe of Reuben. (2.) One of David's sons (1 Chronicles 14:4; 1 Chronicles 3:5, "Shimea;" 2 Samuel 5:14). (3.) A Levite under Nehemiah (Nehemiah 11:17).

Category:Shaphan''' - A coney, a scribe or secretary of king Josiah (2 Kings 22:3). He consulted Huldah concerning the newly-discovered copy of the law which was delivered to him by Hilkiah the priest (2 Kings 22:8). His grandson Gedaliah was governor of Judea (2 Kings 25:22).

Category:Shaphat''' - Judge. (1.) One of the spies. He represented the tribe of Simeon (Numbers 13:5). (2.) The father of Elisha (1 Kings 19:16). (3.) One of David's chief herdsmen (1 Chronicles 27:29).

Category:Shapher''' - Brightness, one of the stations where Israel encamped in the wilderness (Numbers 33:23, Numbers 33:24).

Category:Sharaim''' - Two gates (Joshua 15:36), more correctly Shaaraim (1 Samuel 17:52), probably Tell Zakariya and Kefr Zakariya, in the valley of Elah, 3 1/2 miles north-west of Socoh.

Category:Sharezer''' - (god) protect the king!, a son of Sennacherib, king of Assyria. He and his brother Adrammelech murdered their father, and then fled into the land of Armenia (2 Kings 19:37).

Category:Sharon''' - Or Saron, a plain, a level tract extending from the Mediterranean to the hill country to the west of Jerusalem, about 30 miles long and from 8 to 15 miles broad, celebrated for its beauty and fertility (1 Chronicles 27:29; Isaiah 33:9; Isaiah 35:2; Isaiah 65:10). The "rose of Sharon" is celebrated (Song of Songs 2:1). It is called Lasharon (the article la being here a part of the word) in Joshua 12:18.

Category:Shaveh, Valley of''' - Valley of the plain the ancient name of the "king's dale" (q.v.), or Kidron, on the north side of Jerusalem (Genesis 14:17).

Category:Shaveh-Kiriathaim''' - Plain of Kirja-thaim where Chedorlaomer defeated the Emims, the original inhabitants (Genesis 14:5). Now Kureiyat, north of Dibon, in the land of Moab.

Category:Shavsha''' - ("Seraiah," 2 Samuel 8:17; "Shisha," 1 Kings 4:3), one of David's secretaries (1 Chronicles 18:16).

Category:Shealtiel''' - Asked for of God, father of Zerubbabel (Ezra 3:2, Ezra 3:8; Nehemiah 12:1).

Category:Shearing-house''' - (2 Kings 10:12, 2 Kings 10:14; marg., "house of shepherds binding sheep." R.V., "the shearing-house of the shepherds;" marg., "house of gathering"), some place between Samaria and Jezreel, where Jehu slew "two and forty men" of the royal family of Judah. The Heb. word Beth-eked so rendered is supposed by some to be a proper name.

Category:Shear-Jashub''' - A remnant shall escape or return (i.e., to God), a symbolical name which the prophet Isaiah gave to his son (Isaiah 7:3), perhaps his eldest son.

Category:Sheba''' - An oath, seven. (1.) Heb. shebha, the son of Raamah (Genesis 10:7), whose descendants settled with those of Dedan on the Persian Gulf. (2.) Heb. id. A son of Joktan (Genesis 10:28), probably the founder of the Sabeans. (3.) Heb. id. A son of Jokshan, who was a son of Abraham by Keturah (Genesis 25:3). (4.) Heb. id. A kingdom in Arabia Felix. Sheba, in fact, was Saba in Southern Arabia, the Sabaeans of classical geography, who carried on the trade in spices with the other peoples of the ancient world. They were Semites, speaking one of the two main dialects of Himyaritic or South Arabic. Sheba had become a monarchy before the days of Solomon. Its queen brought him gold, spices, and precious stones (1 Kings 10:1). She is called by our Lord the "queen of the south" (Matthew 12:42). (5.) Heb. shebha', "seven" or "an oak." A town of Simeon (Joshua 19:2). (6.) Heb. id. A "son of Bichri," of the family of Becher, the son of Benjamin, and thus of the stem from which Saul was descended (2 Sam. 20:1-22). When David was returning to Jerusalem after the defeat of Absalom, a strife arose between the ten tribes and the tribe of Judah, because the latter took the lead in bringing back the king. Sheba took advantage of this state of things, and raised the standard of revolt, proclaiming, "We have no part in David." With his followers he proceeded northward. David seeing it necessary to check this revolt, ordered Abishai to take the gibborim, "mighty men," and the body-guard and such troops as he could gather, and pursue Sheba. Joab joined the expedition, and having treacherously put Amasa to death, assumed the command of the army. Sheba took refuge in Abel-Bethmaachah, a fortified town some miles north of Lake Merom. While Joab was engaged in laying siege to this city, Sheba's head was, at the instigation of a "wise woman" who had held a parley with him from the city walls, thrown over the wall to the besiegers, and thus the revolt came to an end.

Category:Shebaniah''' - Whom Jehovah hides, or has made grow up. (1.) A Levite appointed to blow the trumpet before the ark of God (1 Chronicles 15:24). (2.) Another Levite (Nehemiah 9:4, Nehemiah 9:5). (3.) A priest (Nehemiah 10:12). (4.) A Levite (Nehemiah 10:4).

Category:Shebarim''' - Breaks; ruins, a place near Ai (Joshua 7:5; R.V. marg., "the quarries").

Category:Shebna''' - Tender youth, "treasurer" over the house in the reign of Hezekiah, i.e., comptroller or governor of the palace. On account of his pride he was ejected from his office, and Eliakim was promoted to it (Isaiah 22:15). He appears to have been the leader of the party who favoured an alliance with Egypt against Assyria. It is conjectured that "Shebna the scribe," who was one of those whom the king sent to confer with the Assyrian ambassador (2 Kings 18:18, 2 Kings 18:26, 2 Kings 18:37; 2 Kings 19:2; Isaiah 36:3, Isaiah 36:11, Isaiah 36:22; Isaiah 37:2), was a different person.

Category:Shebuel''' - Captive of God. (1.) One of the descendants of Gershom, who had charge of the temple treasures in the time of David (1 Chronicles 23:16; 1 Chronicles 26:24). (2.) One of the sons of Heman; one of those whose duty it was to "lift up the horn" in the temple service (1 Chronicles 25:4, 1 Chronicles 25:5); called also Shubael (1 Chronicles 25:20).

Category:Shecaniah''' - One intimate with Jehovah. (1.) A priest to whom the tenth lot came forth when David divided the priests (1 Chronicles 24:11). (2.) One of the priests who were set "to give to their brethren by courses" of the daily portion (2 Chronicles 31:15).

Category:Shechaniah''' - Id. (1.) A priest whose sons are mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:21, 1 Chronicles 3:22. (2.) Ezra 8:5. (3.) Ezra 10:2. (4.) The father of Shemaiah, who repaired the wall of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 3:29). (5.) The father-in-law of Tobiah (Nehemiah 6:18). (6.) A priest who returned from the Captivity with Zerubbabel (Nehemiah 12:3; marg., or Shebaniah).

Category:Shechem''' - Shoulder. (1.) The son of Hamor the Hivite (Genesis 33:19; 34). (2.) A descendant of Manasseh (Numbers 26:31; Joshua 17:2). (3.) A city in Samaria (Genesis 33:18), called also Sichem (Genesis 12:6), Sychem (Acts 7:16). It stood in the narrow sheltered valley between Ebal on the north and Gerizim on the south, these mountains at their base being only some 500 yards apart. Here Abraham pitched his tent and built his first altar in the Promised Land, and received the first divine promise (Genesis 12:6, Genesis 12:7). Here also Jacob "bought a parcel of a field at the hands of the children of Hamor" after his return from Mesopotamia, and settled with his household, which he purged from idolatry by burying the teraphim of his followers under an oak tree, which was afterwards called "the oak of the sorcerer" (Genesis 33:19; Genesis 35:4; Judges 9:37). (See MEONENIM.) Here too, after a while, he dug a well, which bears his name to this day (John 4:5, John 4:39). To Shechem Joshua gathered all Israel "before God," and delivered to them his second parting address (Joshua 24:1). He "made a covenant with the people that day" at the very place where, on first entering the land, they had responded to the law from Ebal and Gerizim (Joshua 24:25), the terms of which were recorded "in the book of the law of God", i.e., in the roll of the law of Moses; and in memory of this solemn transaction a great stone was set up "under an oak" (compare Genesis 28:18; Genesis 31:44; Exodus 24:4; Joshua 4:3, Joshua 4:8, Joshua 4:9), possibly the old "oak of Moreh," as a silent witness of the transaction to all coming time. Shechem became one of the cities of refuge, the central city of refuge for Western Palestine (Joshua 20:7), and here the bones of Joseph were buried (Joshua 24:32). Rehoboam was appointed king in Shechem (1 Kings 12:1, 1 Kings 12:19), but Jeroboam afterwards took up his residence here. This city is mentioned in connection with our Lord's conversation with the woman of Samaria (John 4:5); and thus, remaining as it does to the present day, it is one of the oldest cities of the world. It is the modern Nablus, a contraction for Neapolis, the name given to it by Vespasian. It lies about a mile and a half up the valley on its southern slope, and on the north of Gerizim, which rises about 1,100 feet above it, and is about 34 miles north of Jerusalem. It contains about 10,000 inhabitants, of whom about 160 are Samaritans and 100 Jews, the rest being Christians and Mohammedans. The site of Shechem is said to be of unrivaled beauty. Stanley says it is "the most beautiful, perhaps the only very beautiful, spot in Central Palestine." Gaza, near Shechem, only mentioned 1 Chronicles 7:28, has entirely disappeared. It was destroyed at the time of the Conquest, and its place was taken by Shechem. (See SYCHAR.)

Category:Shechinah''' - A Chaldee word meaning resting-place, not found in Scripture, but used by the later Jews to designate the visible symbol of God's presence in the tabernacle, and afterwards in Solomon's temple. When the Lord led Israel out of Egypt, he went before them "in a pillar of a cloud." This was the symbol of his presence with his people. For references made to it during the wilderness wanderings, see Exodus 14:20; Exodus 40:34; Leviticus 9:23, Leviticus 9:24; Numbers 14:10; Numbers 16:19, Numbers 16:42. It is probable that after the entrance into Canaan this glory-cloud settled in the tabernacle upon the ark of the covenant in the most holy place. We have, however, no special reference to it till the consecration of the temple by Solomon, when it filled the whole house with its glory, so that the priests could not stand to minister (1 Kings 8:10; 2 Chronicles 5:13, 2 Chronicles 5:14; 2 Chronicles 7:1). Probably it remained in the first temple in the holy of holies as the symbol of Jehovah's presence so long as that temple stood. It afterwards disappeared. (See CLOUD.)

Category:Sheep''' - Are of different varieties. Probably the flocks of Abraham and Isaac were of the wild species found still in the mountain regions of Persia and Kurdistan. After the Exodus, and as a result of intercourse with surrounding nations, other species were no doubt introduced into the herds of the people of Israel. They are frequently mentioned in Scripture. The care of a shepherd over his flock is referred to as illustrating God's care over his people (Psalms (Psalms 1 - 75)#23:1|Psalms 23:1]], Psalms 23:2; Psalms 74:1; Psalms 77:20; Isaiah 40:11; Isaiah 53:6; John 10:1, John 10:7). "The sheep of Palestine are longer in the head than ours, and have tails from 5 inches broad at the narrowest part to 15 inches at the widest, the weight being in proportion, and ranging generally from 10 to 14 lb., but sometimes extending to 30 lb. The tails are indeed huge masses of fat" (Geikie's Holy Land, etc.). The tail was no doubt the "rump" so frequently referred to in the Levitical sacrifices (Exodus 29:22; Leviticus 3:9; Leviticus 7:3; Leviticus 9:19). Sheep-shearing was generally an occasion of great festivity (Genesis 31:19; Genesis 38:12, Genesis 38:13; 1 Samuel 25:4, 1 Samuel 25:36; 2 Samuel 13:23).

Category:Sheep-fold''' - A strong fenced enclosure for the protection of the sheep gathered within it (Numbers 32:24; 1 Chronicles 17:7; Psalms 50:9; Psalms 78:70). In John 10:16 the Authorized Category:Version renders by "fold" two distinct Greek words, aule and poimne, the latter of which properly means a "flock," and is so rendered in the Revised Category:Version. (See also Matthew 26:31; Luke 2:8; 1 Corinthians 9:7.) (See FOLD.)

Category:Sheep-gate''' - One of the gates of Jerusalem mentioned by Nehemiah (Nehemiah 3:1, Nehemiah 3:32; Nehemiah 12:39). It was in the eastern wall of the city.

Category:Sheep-market''' - Occurs only in John 5:2 (marg., also R.V., "sheep-gate"). The word so rendered is an adjective, and it is uncertain whether the noun to be supplied should be "gate" or, following the Vulgate Category:Version, "pool."

Category:Shekel''' - Weight, the common standard both of weight and value among the Hebrews. It is estimated at 220 English grains, or a little more than half an ounce avoirdupois. The "shekel of the sanctuary" (Exodus 30:13; Numbers 3:47) was equal to twenty gerahs (Ezekiel 45:12). There were shekels of gold (1 Chronicles 21:25), of silver (1 Samuel 9:8), of brass (1 Samuel 17:5), and of iron (1 Samuel 17:7). When it became a coined piece of money, the shekel of gold was equivalent to about 2 pound of our money. Six gold shekels, according to the later Jewish system, were equal in value to fifty silver ones. The temple contribution, with which the public sacrifices were bought (Exodus 30:13; 2 Chronicles 24:6), consisted of one common shekel, or a sanctuary half-shekel, equal to two Attic drachmas. The coin, a stater (q.v.), which Peter found in the fish's mouth paid this contribution for both him and Christ (Matthew 17:24, Matthew 17:27). A zuza, or quarter of a shekel, was given by Saul to Samuel (1 Samuel 9:8).

Category:Shelah''' - Petition. (1.) Judah's third son (Genesis 38:2, Genesis 38:5, Genesis 38:11, Genesis 38:14). (2.) A son of Arphaxad (1 Chronicles 1:18).

Category:Shelemiah''' - Whom Jehovah repays. (1.) Ezra 10:39. (2.) The father of Hananiah (Nehemiah 3:30). (3.) A priest in the time of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 13:13). (4.) Father of one of those who accused Jeremiah to Zedekiah (Jeremiah 37:3; Jeremiah 38:1). (5.) Father of a captain of the ward (Jeremiah 37:13). (6.) Jeremiah 36:14.

Category:Shem''' - A name; renown, the first mentioned of the sons of Noah (Genesis 5:32; Genesis 6:10). He was probably the eldest of Noah's sons. The words "brother of Japheth the elder" in Genesis 10:21 are more correctly rendered "the elder brother of Japheth," as in the Revised Category:Version. Shem's name is generally mentioned first in the list of Noah's sons. He and his wife were saved in the ark (Genesis 7:13). Noah foretold his preeminence over Canaan (Genesis 9:23). He died at the age of six hundred years, having been for many years contemporary with Abraham, according to the usual chronology. The Israelitish nation sprang from him (Gen. 11:10-26; 1 Chronicles 1:24). See table of descendants: Shem Elam Asshur Arphaxad Lud Aram Some Persian tribes Assyrian founders of Nineveh, Rehoboth, Calneh and Resen Abraham The Lydians The Syrians Isaac Ishmael Jacob Esau The Hebrews The Edomites The Ishmaelites, who mingled with the Arab tribes descended from Joktan, in the line of Eber, from Arphaxad

Category:Shema''' - Rumour. (1.) A Reubenite (1 Chronicles 5:8). (2.) A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:13). (3.) One who stood by Ezra when he read the law (Nehemiah 8:4). (4.) A town in the south of Judah (Joshua 15:26); the same as Sheba (Joshua 15:5).

Category:Shemaah''' - Rumour, a Benjamite whose sons "came to David to Ziklag" (1 Chronicles 12:3).

Category:Shemaiah''' - Whom Jehovah heard. (1.) A prophet in the reign of Rehoboam (1 Kings 12:22). (2.) Nehemiah 3:29. (3.) A Simeonite (1 Chronicles 4:37). (4.) A priest (Nehemiah 12:42). (5.) A Levite (1 Chronicles 9:16). (6.) 1 Chronicles 9:14; Nehemiah 11:15. (7.) A Levite in the time of David, who with 200 of his brethren took part in the bringing up of the ark from Obed-edom to Hebron (1 Chronicles 15:8). (8.) A Levite (1 Chronicles 24:6). (9.) The eldest son of Obed-edom (1 Chronicles 26:4). (10.) A Levite (2 Chronicles 29:14). (11.) A false prophet who hindered the rebuilding of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 6:10). (12.) A prince of Judah who assisted at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 12:34). (13.) A false prophet who opposed Jeremiah (Jeremiah 29:24). (14.) One of the Levites whom Jehoshaphat appointed to teach the law (2 Chronicles 17:8). (15.) A Levite appointed to "distribute the oblations of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 31:15). (16.) A Levite (2 Chronicles 35:9). (17.) The father of Urijah the prophet (Jeremiah 26:20). (18.) The father of a prince in the reign of Jehoiakim (Jeremiah 36:12).

Category:Shemariah''' - Whom Jehovah guards. (1.) One who joined David at Ziklag (1 Chronicles 12:5). (2.) Ezra 10:32, Ezra 10:41.

Category:Shemeber''' - Soaring on high, the king of Zeboiim, who joined with the other kings in casting off the yoke of Chedorlaomer. After having been re-conquered by him, he was rescued by Abraham (Genesis 14:2).

Category:Sheminith''' - Eight; octave, a musical term, supposed to denote the lowest note sung by men's voices (1 Chronicles 15:21; Psalms 6:1; Psalms 12:1, title).

Category:Shemiramoth''' - Most high name. (1.) A Levite in the reign of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 17:8). (2.) A Levite in David's time (1 Chronicles 15:18, 1 Chronicles 15:20).

Category:Shemuel''' - Heard of God. (1.) The son of Ammihud. He represented Simeon in the division of the land (Numbers 34:20). (2.) Used for "Samuel" (1 Chronicles 6:33, R.V.). (3.) A prince of the tribe of Issachar (1 Chronicles 7:2).

Category:Shen''' - A tooth, probably some conspicuous tooth-shaped rock or crag (1 Samuel 7:12), a place between which and Mizpeh Samuel set up his "Ebenezer." In the Hebrew the word has the article prefixed, "the Shen." The site is unknown.

Category:Shenir''' - =Senir (Deuteronomy 3:9; Song of Songs 4:8), the name given to Mount Hermon (q.v.) by the Sidonians.

Category:Sheol''' - (Heb., "the all-demanding world" = Gr. Hades, "the unknown region"), the invisible world of departed souls. (See HELL.)

Category:Shepham''' - A treeless place, Numbers 34:10, Numbers 34:11 : "The coast shall go down from Shepham to Riblah."

Category:Shephatiah''' - Judged of the Lord. (1.) A son of David by Abital (2 Samuel 3:4). (2.) A Benjamite who joined David at Ziklag (1 Chronicles 12:5). (3.) A Simeonite prince in David's time (1 Chronicles 27:16). (4.) One of Jehoshaphat's sons (2 Chronicles 21:2). (5.) Ezra 2:4. (6.) Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59. (7.) One of the princes who urged the putting of Jeremiah to death (Jeremiah 38:1).

Category:Shepherd''' - A word naturally of frequent occurrence in Scripture. Sometimes the word "pastor" is used instead (Jeremiah 2:8; Jeremiah 3:15; Jeremiah 10:21; Jeremiah 12:10; Jeremiah 17:16). This word is used figuratively to represent the relation of rulers to their subjects and of God to his people (Psalms 23:1; Psalms 80:1; Isaiah 40:11; Isaiah 44:28; Jeremiah 25:34, Jeremiah 25:35; Nahum 3:18; John 10:11, John 10:14; Hebrews 13:20; 1 Peter 2:25; 1 Peter 5:4). The duties of a shepherd in an unenclosed country like Palestine were very onerous. "In early morning he led forth the flock from the fold, marching at its head to the spot where they were to be pastured. Here he watched them all day, taking care that none of the sheep strayed, and if any for a time eluded his watch and wandered away from the rest, seeking diligently till he found and brought it back. In those lands sheep require to be supplied regularly with water, and the shepherd for this purpose has to guide them either to some running stream or to wells dug in the wilderness and furnished with troughs. At night he brought the flock home to the fold, counting them as they passed under the rod at the door to assure himself that none were missing. Nor did his labours always end with sunset. Often he had to guard the fold through the dark hours from the attack of wild beasts, or the wily attempts of the prowling thief (see 1 Samuel 17:34)." Deane's David.

Category:Sherebiah''' - Flame of the Lord, a priest whose name is prominent in connection with the work carried on by Ezra and Nehemiah at Jerusalem (Ezra 8:17, Ezra 8:18, Ezra 8:24; Nehemiah 8:7; Nehemiah 9:4, Nehemiah 9:5; Nehemiah 10:12).

Category:Sheresh''' - Root, a descendant of Manasseh (1 Chronicles 7:16).

Category:Sherezer''' - One of the messengers whom the children of the Captivity sent to Jerusalem "to pray for them before the Lord" (Zechariah 7:2).

Category:Sheriffs''' - (Daniel 3:2), Babylonian officers.

Category:Sheshach''' - (Jeremiah 25:26), supposed to be equivalent to Babel (Babylon), according to a secret (cabalistic) mode of writing among the Jews of unknown antiquity, which consisted in substituting the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet for the first, the last but one for the second, and so on. Thus the letters sh, sh, ch become b, b, l i.e., Babel. This is supposed to be confirmed by a reference to Jeremiah 51:41, where Sheshach and Babylon are in parallel clauses. There seems to be no reason to doubt that Babylon is here intended by this name. (See Streane's Jeremiah, l.c.)

Category:Sheshai''' - Whitish, one of the sons of Anak (Numbers 13:22). When the Israelites obtained possession of the country the sons of Anak were expelled and slain (Joshua 15:14; Judges 1:10).

Category:Sheshbazzar''' - O sun-god, defend the lord! (Ezra 1:8, Ezra 1:11), probably another name for Zerubbabel (q.v.), Ezra 2:2; Haggai 1:12, Haggai 1:14; Zechariah 4:6, Zechariah 4:10.

Category:Sheth''' - Tumult. (1.) "The children of Sheth" (Numbers 24:17); R.V., "the sons of tumult," which is probably the correct rendering, as there is no evidence that this is a proper name here. (2.) The antediluvian patriarch (1 Chronicles 1:1).

Category:Shethar''' - A star, a prince at the court of Ahasuerus (Esther 1:14).

Category:Shethar-boznai''' - Star of splendour, a Persian officer who vainly attempted to hinder the rebuilding of the temple (Ezra 5:3, Ezra 5:6; Ezra 6:6, Ezra 6:13).

Category:Sheva''' - Heb. Shebher. (1.) The son of Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:49). (2.) Heb. Sheva', one of David's scribes (2 Samuel 20:25).

Category:Shewbread''' - Exodus 25:30 (R.V. marg., "presence bread"); 1 Chronicles 9:32 (marg., "bread of ordering"); Numbers 4:7 : called "hallowed bread" (R.V., "holy bread") in 1 Samuel 21:1. This bread consisted of twelve loaves made of the finest flour. They were flat and thin, and were placed in two rows of six each on a table in the holy place before the Lord. They were renewed every Sabbath (Leviticus 24:5), and those that were removed to give place to the new ones were to be eaten by the priests only in the holy place (see 1 Samuel 21:3; compare Matthew 12:3, Matthew 12:4). The number of the loaves represented the twelve tribes of Israel, and also the entire spiritual Israel, "the true Israel;" and the placing of them on the table symbolized the entire consecration of Israel to the Lord, and their acceptance of God as their God. The table for the bread was made of acacia wood, 3 feet long, 18 inches broad, and 2 feet 3 inches high. It was plated with pure gold. Two staves, plated with gold, passed through golden rings, were used for carrying it.

Category:Shibboleth''' - River, or an ear of corn. The tribes living on the east of Jordan, separated from their brethren on the west by the deep ravines and the rapid river, gradually came to adopt peculiar customs, and from mixing largely with the Moabites, Ishmaelites, and Ammonites to pronounce certain letters in such a manner as to distinguish them from the other tribes. Thus when the Ephraimites from the west invaded Gilead, and were defeated by the Gileadites under the leadership of Jephthah, and tried to escape by the "passages of the Jordan," the Gileadites seized the fords and would allow none to pass who could not pronounce "shibboleth" with a strong aspirate. This the fugitives were unable to do. They said "sibboleth," as the word was pronounced by the tribes on the west, and thus they were detected (Judges 12:1). Forty-two thousand were thus detected, and "Without reprieve, adjudged to death, For want of well-pronouncing shibboleth."

Category:Shibmah''' - Fragrance, a town of Reuben, east of Jordan (Numbers 32:38).

Category:Shield''' - Used in defensive warfare, varying at different times and under different circumstances in size, form, and material (1 Samuel 17:7; 2 Samuel 1:21; 1 Kings 10:17; 1 Chronicles 12:8, 1 Chronicles 12:24, 1 Chronicles 12:34; Isaiah 22:6; Ezekiel 39:9; Nahum 2:3). Used figuratively of God and of earthly princes as the defenders of their people (Genesis 15:1; Deuteronomy 33:29; Psalms 33:20; Psalms 84:11). Faith is compared to a shield (Ephesians 6:16). Shields were usually "anointed" (Isaiah 21:5), in order to preserve them, and at the same time make the missiles of the enemy glide off them more easily.

Category:Shiggaion''' - From the verb shagah, "to reel about through drink," occurs in the title of Ps. 7. The plural form, shigionoth, is found in Habakkuk 3:1. The word denotes a lyrical poem composed under strong mental emotion; a song of impassioned imagination accompanied with suitable music; a dithyrambicode.

Category:Shihon''' - Overturning, a town of Issachar (Joshua 19:19).

Category:Shihor''' - Dark, (1 Chronicles 13:5), the southwestern boundary of Canaan, the Wady el-'Arish. (See SIHOR; NILE.)

Category:Shihor-Libnath''' - Black - white, a stream on the borders of Asher, probably the modern Nahr Zerka, i.e., the "crocodile brook," or "blue river", which rises in the Carmel range and enters the Mediterranean a little to the north of Caesarea (Joshua 19:26). Crocodiles are still found in the Zerka. Thomson suspects "that long ages ago some Egyptians, accustomed to worship this ugly creature, settled here (viz., at Caesarea), and brought their gods with them. Once here they would not easily be exterminated" (The Land and the Book).

Category:Shilhim''' - Aqueducts, a town in the south of Judah (Joshua 15:32); called also Sharuhen and Shaaraim (Joshua 19:6).

Category:The Waters of Shiloah''' - =Siloah (Nehemiah 3:15) and Siloam(q.v.)

Category:Shiloh''' - (1.) Generally understood as denoting the Messiah, "the peaceful one," as the word signifies (Genesis 49:10). The Vulgate Category:Version translates the word, "he who is to be sent," in allusion to the Messiah; the Revised Category:Version, margin, "till he come to Shiloh;" and the LXX., "until that which is his shall come to Shiloh." It is most simple and natural to render the expression, as in the Authorized Category:Version, "till Shiloh come," interpreting it as a proper name (compare Isaiah 9:6). (2.) A place of rest, a city of Ephraim, "on the north side of Bethel," from which it is distant 10 miles (Judges 21:19); the modern Seilun (the Arabic for Shiloh), a "mass of shapeless ruins." Here the tabernacle was set up after the Conquest (Joshua 18:1), where it remained during all the period of the judges till the ark fell into the hands of the Philistines. "No spot in Central Palestine could be more secluded than this early sanctuary, nothing more featureless than the landscape around; so featureless, indeed, the landscape and so secluded the spot that from the time of St. Jerome till its re-discovery by Dr. Robinson in 1838 the very site was forgotten and unknown." It is referred to by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 7:12, Jeremiah 7:14; Jeremiah 26:4) five hundred years after its destruction.

Category:Shilonite''' - Ahijah the prophet, whose home was in Shiloh, is so designated (1 Kings 11:29; 1 Kings 15:29). The plural form occurs (1 Chronicles 9:5), denoting the descendants of Shelah, Judah's youngest son.

Category:Shimea''' - The hearing prayer. (1.) One of David's sons by Bathsheba (1 Chronicles 3:5); called also Shammua (1 Chronicles 14:4). (2.) A Levite of the family of Merari (1 Chronicles 6:30). (3.) Another Levite of the family of Gershon (1 Chronicles 6:39). (4.) One of David's brothers (1 Samuel 16:9, marg.).

Category:Shimeah''' - (1.) One of David's brothers (2 Samuel 13:3); same as Shimea (2.) A Benjamite, a descendant of Gibeon (1 Chronicles 8:32); called also Shimeam (1 Chronicles 9:38).

Category:Shimei''' - Famous. (1.) A son of Gershon, and grandson of Levi (Numbers 3:18; 1 Chronicles 6:17, 1 Chronicles 6:29); called Shimi in Exodus 6:17. (2.) A Benjamite of the house of Saul, who stoned and cursed David when he reached Bahurim in his flight from Jerusalem on the occasion of the rebellion of Absalom (2 Samuel 16:5). After the defeat of Absalom he "came cringing to the king, humbly suing for pardon, bringing with him a thousand of his Benjamite tribesmen, and representing that he was heartily sorry for his crime, and ha hurried the first of all the house of Israel to offer homage to the king" (2 Samuel 19:16). David forgave him; but on his death-bed he gave Solomon special instructions regarding Shimei, of whose fidelity he seems to have been in doubt (1 Kings 2:8, 1 Kings 2:9). He was put to death at the command of Solomon, because he had violated his word by leaving Jerusalem and going to Gath to recover two of his servants who had escaped (1 Kings 2:36). (3.) One of David's mighty men who refused to acknowledge Adonijah as David's successor (1 Kings 1:8). He is probably the same person who is called elsewhere (1 Kings 4:18) "the son of Elah." (4.) A son of Pedaiah, the brother of Zerubbabel (1 Chronicles 3:19). (5.) A Simeonite (1 Chronicles 4:26, 1 Chronicles 4:27). (6.) A Reubenite (1 Chronicles 5:4). (7.) A Levite of the family of Gershon (1 Chronicles 6:42). (8.) A Ramathite who was "over the vineyards" of David (1 Chronicles 27:27). (9.) One of the sons of Heman, who assisted in the purification of the temple (2 Chronicles 29:14). (10.) A Levite (2 Chronicles 31:12, 2 Chronicles 31:13). (11.) Another Levite (Ezra 10:23). "The family of Shimei" (Zechariah 12:13; R.V., "the family of the Shimeites") were the descendants of Shimei.

Category:Shimeon''' - Hearkening. Ezra 10:31.

Category:Shimhi''' - Famous a Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:21).

Category:Shimrath''' - Guardian, a Benjamite, one of Shimhi's sons (id.).

Category:Shimri''' - Watchman. (1.) A Simeonite (1 Chronicles 4:37). (2.) The father of one of the "valiant men" of David's armies (1 Chronicles 11:45). (3.) Assisted at the purification of the temple in the time of Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29:13).

Category:Shimrom''' - Watchman, the fourth son of Issachar (Genesis 46:13; 1 Chronicles 7:1; R.V., correctly, "Shimron").

Category:Shimron''' - Watch-post, an ancient city of the Canaanites; with its villages, allotted to Zebulun (Joshua 19:15); now probably Semunieh, on the northern edge of the plain of Esdraelon, 5 miles west of Nazareth.

Category:Shimron-meron''' - The same, probably, as Shimron (Joshua 12:20).

Category:Shimshai''' - The shining one, or sunny, the secretary of Rehum the chancellor, who took part in opposing the rebuilding of the temple after the Captivity (Ezra 4:8, Ezra 4:9, Ezra 4:17).

Category:Shinab''' - Cooling, the king of Adamah, in the valley of Siddim, who with his confederates was conquered by Chedorlaomer (Genesis 14:2).

Category:The Land of Shinar''' - LXX. and Vulgate "Senaar;" in the inscriptions, "Shumir;" probably identical with Babylonia or Southern Mesopotamia, extending almost to the Persian Gulf. Here the tower of Babel was built (Genesis 11:1), and the city of Babylon. The name occurs later in Jewish history (Isaiah 11:11; Zechariah 5:11). Shinar was apparently first peopled by Turanian tribes, who tilled the land and made bricks and built cities. Then tribes of Semites invaded the land and settled in it, and became its rulers. This was followed in course of time by an Elamite invasion; from which the land was finally delivered by Khammurabi, the son of Amarpel ("Amraphel, king of Shinar," Genesis 14:1), who became the founder of the new empire of Chaldea. (See AMRAPHEL.)

Category:Ships''' - Early used in foreign commerce by the Phoenicians (Genesis 49:13). Moses (Deuteronomy 28:68) and Job (Job 9:26) make reference to them, and Balaam speaks of the "ships of Chittim" (Numbers 24:24). Solomon constructed a navy at Ezion-geber by the assistance of Hiram's sailors (1 Kings 9:26; 2 Chronicles 8:18). Afterwards, Jehoshaphat sought to provide himself with a navy at the same port, but his ships appear to have been wrecked before they set sail (1 Kings 22:48, 1 Kings 22:49; 2 Chronicles 20:35). In our Lord's time fishermen's boats on the Sea of Galilee were called "ships." Much may be learned regarding the construction of ancient merchant ships and navigation from the record in Acts 27, 28.

Category:Shiphmite''' - Probably the designation of Zabdi, who has charge of David's vineyards (1 Chronicles 27:27).

Category:Shiphrah''' - Beauty, one of the Egyptian midwives (Exodus 1:15).

Category:Shiphtan''' - Judicial, an Ephraimite prince at the time of the division of Canaan (Numbers 34:24).

Category:Shishak I''' - Sheshonk I., king of Egypt. His reign was one of great national success, and a record of his wars and conquests adorns the portico of what are called the "Bubastite kings" at Karnak, the ancient Thebes. Among these conquests is a record of that of Judea. In the fifth year of Rehoboam's reign Shishak came up against the kingdom of Judah with a powerful army. He took the fenced cities and came to Jerusalem. He pillaged the treasures of the temple and of the royal palace, and carried away the shields of gold which Solomon had made (1 Kings 11:40; 1 Kings 14:25; 2 Chronicles 12:2). (See REHOBOAM.) This expedition of the Egyptian king was undertaken at the instigation of Jeroboam for the purpose of humbling Judah. Hostilities between the two kingdoms still continued; but during Rehoboam's reign there was not again the intervention of a third party.

Category:Shittah-tree''' - (Isaiah 41:19; R.V., "acacia tree"). Shittah wood was employed in making the various parts of the tabernacle in the wilderness, and must therefore have been indigenous in the desert in which the Israelites wandered. It was the acacia or mimosa (Acacia Nilotica and A. seyal). "The wild acacia (Mimosa Nilotica), under the name of sunt, everywhere represents the seneh, or senna, of the burning bush. A slightly different form of the tree, equally common under the name of seyal, is the ancient 'shittah,' or, as more usually expressed in the plural form, the 'shittim,' of which the tabernacle was made." Stanley's Sinai, etc. (Exodus 25:10, Exodus 25:13, Exodus 25:23, Exodus 25:28).

Category:Shittim''' - Acacias, also called "Abel-shittim" (Numbers 33:49), a plain or valley in the land of Moab where the Israelites were encamped after their two victories over Sihon and Og, at the close of their desert wanderings, and from which Joshua sent forth two spies (q.v.) "secretly" to "view" the land and Jericho (Joshua 2:1).

Category:Shoa''' - Opulent, the mountain district lying to the north-east of Babylonia, anciently the land of the Guti, or Kuti, the modern Kurdistan. The plain lying between these mountains and the Tigris was called su-Edina, i.e., "the border of the plain." This name was sometimes shortened into Suti and Su, and has been regarded as = Shoa (Ezekiel 23:23). Some think it denotes a place in Babylon. (See PEKOD.)

Category:Shobab''' - Apostate. (1.) One of David's sons by Bathseheba (2 Samuel 5:14). (2.) One of the sons of Caleb (1 Chronicles 2:18), the son of Hezron.

Category:Shobach''' - Poured out, the "captain of the host of Hadarezer" when he mustered his vassals and tributaries from beyond "the river Euphrates" (2 Samuel 10:15); called also Shophach (1 Chronicles 19:16).

Category:Shobai''' - Captors (Ezra 2:42).

Category:Shobal''' - Pilgrim. (1.) The second son of Seir the Horite; one of the Horite "dukes" (Genesis 36:20). (2.) One of the sons of Caleb, and a descendant of Hur (1 Chronicles 2:50, 1 Chronicles 2:52; 1 Chronicles 4:1, 1 Chronicles 4:2).

Category:Shobi''' - Captor, son of Nahash of Rabbah, the Ammonite. He showed kindness to David when he fled from Jerusalem to Mahanaim (2 Samuel 17:27).

Category:Shocho''' - (2 Chronicles 28:18)

Category:Shochoh''' - (1 Samuel 17:1) =

Category:Shoco''' - (2 Chronicles 11:7). See SOCOH.

Category:Shoe''' - Of various forms, from the mere sandal (q.v.) to the complete covering of the foot. The word so rendered (A.V.) in Deuteronomy 33:25, min'al, "a bar," is derived from a root meaning "to bolt" or "shut fast," and hence a fastness or fortress. The verse has accordingly been rendered "iron and brass shall be thy fortress," or, as in the Revised Category:Version, "thy bars [marg., "shoes"] shall be iron and brass."

Category:Shomer''' - Watchman. (1.) The mother of Jehozabad, who murdered Joash (2 Kings 12:21); called also Shimrith, a Moabitess (2 Chronicles 24:26). (2.) A man of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:32); called also Shamer (1 Chronicles 7:34).

Category:Shophan''' - Hidden, or hollow, a town east of Jordan (Numbers 32:35), built by the children of Gad. This word should probably be joined with the word preceding it in this passage, Atroth-Shophan, as in the Revised Category:Version.

Category:Shoshannim''' - Lilies, the name of some musical instrument, probably like a lily in shape (Ps. 45; 69, title). Some think that an instrument of six strings is meant.

Category:Shoshannim-Eduth''' - In title of Ps. 80 (R.V. marg., "lilies, a testimony"), probably the name of the melody to which the psalm was to be sung.

Category:Silver Shrines''' - Little models and medallions of the temple and image of Diana of Ephesus (Acts 19:24). The manufacture of these was a very large and profitable business.

Category:Shua''' - Wealth. (1.) A Canaanite whose daughter was married to Judah (1 Chronicles 2:3). (2.) A daughter of Heber the Asherite (1 Chronicles 7:32).

Category:Shuah''' - Prostration; a pit. (1.) One of Abraham's sons by Keturah (Genesis 25:2; 1 Chronicles 1:32). (2.) 1 Chronicles 4:11.

Category:The Land of Shual''' - Land of the fox, a district in the tribe of Benjamin (1 Samuel 13:17); possibly the same as Shalim (1 Samuel 9:4), in the neighbourhood of Shaalabbin (Joshua 19:42).

Category:Shuhite''' - A designation of Bildad (Job 2:11), probably because he was a descendant of Shuah.

Category:Shulamite''' - The same, as some think, with "Shunammite," from "Shunem:" otherwise, the import of the word is uncertain (Song of Songs 6:13; R.V., "Shulammite").

Category:Shunammite''' - A person of Shunem (1 Kings 1:3; 2 Kings 4:12). The Syr. and Arab. read "Sulamite."

Category:Shunem''' - Two resting-places, a little village in the tribe of Issachar, to the north of Jezreel and south of Mount Gilboa (Joshua 19:18), where the Philistines encamped when they came against Saul (1 Samuel 28:4), and where Elisha was hospitably entertained by a rich woman of the place. On the sudden death of this woman's son she hastened to Carmel, 20 miles distant across the plain, to tell Elisha, and to bring him with her to Shunem. There, in the "prophet's chamber," the dead child lay; and Elisha entering it, shut the door and prayed earnestly: and the boy was restored to life (2 Kings 4:8-37). This woman afterwards retired during the famine to the low land of the Philistines; and on returning a few years afterwards, found her house and fields in the possession of a stranger. She appealed to the king at Samaria, and had them in a somewhat remarkable manner restored to her (compare 2 Kings 8:1).

Category:Shur''' - An enclosure; a wall, a part, probably, of the Arabian desert, on the north-eastern border of Egypt, giving its name to a wilderness extending from Egypt toward Philistia (Genesis 16:7; Genesis 20:1; Genesis 25:18; Exodus 15:22). The name was probably given to it from the wall (or shur) which the Egyptians built to defend their frontier on the north-east from the desert tribes. This wall or line of fortifications extended from Pelusium to Heliopolis.

Category:Shushan''' - A lily, the Susa of Greek and Roman writers, once the capital of Elam. It lay in the uplands of Susiana, on the east of the Tigris, about 150 miles to the north of the head of the Persian Gulf. It is the modern Shush, on the northwest of Shuster. Once a magnificent city, it is now an immense mass of ruins. Here Daniel saw one of his visions (Dan. 8); and here also Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1:1) began his public life. Most of the events recorded in the Book of Esther took place here. Modern explorers have brought to light numerous relics, and the ground-plan of the splendid palace of Shushan, one of the residences of the great king, together with numerous specimens of ancient art, which illustrate the statements of Scripture regarding it (Daniel 8:2). The great hall of this palace (Esther 1) "consisted of several magnificent groups of columns, together with a frontage of 343 feet 9 inches, and a depth of 244 feet. These groups were arranged into a central phalanx of thirty-six columns (six rows of six each), flanked on the west, north, and east by an equal number, disposed in double rows of six each, and distant from them 64 feet 2 inches." The inscriptions on the ruins represent that the palace was founded by Darius and completed by Artaxerxes.

Category:Shushan-Eduth''' - Lily of the testimony, the title of Psalms 60:1. (See SHOSHANNIM.)

Category:Sibbecai''' - The Lord sustains, one of David's heroes (1 Chronicles 11:29), general of the eighth division of the army (1 Chronicles 27:11). He slew the giant Saph in the battle of Gob (2 Samuel 21:18; R.V., "Sibbechai"). Called also Mebunnai (2 Samuel 23:27).

Category:Sibmah''' - Coolness; fragrance, a town in Reuben, in the territory of Moab, on the east of Jordan (Joshua 13:19); called also Shebam and Shibmah (Numbers 32:3, Numbers 32:38). It was famous for its vines (Isaiah 16:9; Jeremiah 48:32). It has been identified with the ruin of Sumieh, where there are rock-cut wine-presses. This fact explains the words of the prophets referred to above. It was about 5 miles east of Heshbon.

Category:Sichem''' - =Shechem (q.v.), Genesis 12:6.

Category:Sickle''' - Of the Egyptians resembled that in modern use. The ears of corn were cut with it near the top of the straw. There was also a sickle used for warlike purposes, more correctly, however, called a pruning-hook (Deuteronomy 16:9; Jeremiah 50:16, marg., "scythe;" Joel 3:13; Mark 4:29).

Category:Vale of Siddim''' - Valley of the broad plains, "which is the salt sea" (Genesis 14:3, Genesis 14:8, Genesis 14:10), between Engedi and the cities of the plain, at the south end of the Dead Sea. It was "full of slime-pits" (R.V., "bitumen pits"). Here Chedorlaomer and the confederate kings overthrew the kings of Sodom and the cities of the plain. God afterwards, on account of their wickedness, "overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities;" and the smoke of their destruction "went up as the smoke of a furnace" (Genesis 19:24), and was visible from Mamre, where Abraham dwelt. Some, however, contend that the "cities of the plain" were somewhere at the north of the Dead Sea. (See SODOM.)

Category:Sidon''' - Fishing; fishery, Genesis 10:15, Genesis 10:19 (A.V. marg., Tzidon; R.V., Zidon); Matthew 11:21, Matthew 11:22; Luke 6:17. (See ZIDON.)

Category:Signet''' - A seal used to attest documents (Daniel 6:8, Daniel 6:12). In Daniel 6:17, this word properly denotes a ring. The impression of a signet ring on fine clay has recently been discovered among the ruins at Nineveh. It bears the name and title of an Egyptian king. Two actual signet rings of ancient Egyptian monarchs (Cheops and Horus) have also been discovered. When digging a shaft close to the south wall of the temple area, the engineers of the Palestine Exploration Fund, at a depth of 12 feet below the surface, came upon a pavement of polished stones, formerly one of the streets of the city. Under this pavement they found a stratum of 16 feet of concrete, and among this concrete, 10 feet down, they found a signet stone bearing the inscription, in Old Hebrew characters, "Haggai, son of Shebaniah." It has been asked, Might not this be the actual seal of Haggai the prophet? We know that he was in Jerusalem after the Captivity; and it is somewhat singular that he alone of all the minor prophets makes mention of a signet (Haggai 2:23). (See SEAL.)

Category:Sihon''' - Striking down. The whole country on the east of Jordan, from the Arnon to the Jabbok, was possessed by the Amorites, whose king, Sihon, refused to permit the Israelites to pass through his territory, and put his army in array against them. The Israelites went forth against him to battle, and gained a complete victory. The Amorites were defeated; Sihon, his sons, and all his people were smitten with the sword, his walled towns were captured, and the entire country of the Amorites was taken possession of by the Israelites (Numbers 21:21; Deuteronomy 2:24). The country from the Jabbok to Hermon was at this time ruled by Og, the last of the Rephaim. He also tried to prevent the progress of the Israelites, but was utterly routed, and all his cities and territory fell into the hands of the Israelites (compare Numbers 21:33; Deuteronomy 3:1; Psalms 135:10; Psalms 136:17). These two victories gave the Israelites possession of the country on the east of Jordan, from the Arnon to the foot of Hermon. The kingdom of Sihon embraced about 1,500 square miles, while that of Og was more than 3,000 square miles.

Category:Sihor''' - (Correctly Shihor) Black; dark the name given to the river Nile in Isaiah 23:3; Jeremiah 2:18. In Joshua 13:3 it is probably "the river of Egypt", i.e., the Wady el-Arish (1 Chronicles 13:5), which flows "before Egypt", i.e., in a north-easterly direction from Egypt, and enters the sea about 50 miles south-west of Gaza.

Category:Silas''' - Wood, a prominent member of the church at Jerusalem; also called Silvanus. He and Judas, surnamed Barsabas, were chosen by the church there to accompany Paul and Barnabas on their return to Antioch from the council of the apostles and elders (Acts 15:22), as bearers of the decree adopted by the council. He assisted Paul there in his evangelistic labours, and was also chosen by him to be his companion on his second missionary tour (Acts 16:19). He is referred to in the epistles under the name of Silvanus (2 Corinthians 1:19; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Peter 5:12). There is no record of the time or place of his death.

Category:Silk''' - Heb. demeshek, "damask," silk cloth manufactured at Damascus, Amos 3:12. A.V., "in the corner of a bed, and in Damascus in a couch;" R.V., "in the corner of a couch, and on the silken cushions of a bed" (marg., "in Damascus on a bed"). Heb. meshi, (Ezekiel 16:10, Ezekiel 16:13, rendered "silk"). In Genesis 41:42 (marg. A.V.), Proverbs 31:22 (R.V., "fine linen"), the word "silk" ought to be "fine linen." Silk was common in New Testament times (Revelation 18:12).

Category:Silla''' - A highway; a twig, only in 2 Kings 12:20. If taken as a proper name (as in the LXX. and other versions), the locality is unknown.

Category:The pool of Siloah''' - Heb. shelah ; i.e., "the dart", Nehemiah 3:15; with the art. shiloah, "sending," Isaiah 8:6 (compare Isaiah 7:3) =Siloam (q.v.).

Category:Pool of Siloam''' - Sent or sending. Here a notable miracle was wrought by our Lord in giving sight to the blind (John 9:7). It has been identified with the Birket Silwan in the lower Tyropoeon valley, to the south-east of the hill of Zion. The water which flows into this pool intermittently by a subterranean channel springs from the "Fountain of the Virgin" (q.v.). The length of this channel, which has several windings, is 1,750 feet, though the direct distance is only 1,100 feet. The pool is 53 feet in length from north to south, 18 feet wide, and 19 deep. The water passes from it by a channel cut in the rock into the gardens below. (See EN-ROGEL.) Many years ago (1880) a youth, while wading up the conduit by which the water enters the pool, accidentally discovered an inscription cut in the rock, on the eastern side, about 19 feet from the pool. This is the oldest extant Hebrew record of the kind. It has with great care been deciphered by scholars, and has been found to be an account of the manner in which the tunnel was constructed. Its whole length is said to be "twelve hundred cubits;" and the inscription further notes that the workmen, like the excavators of the Mont Cenis Tunnel, excavated from both ends, meeting in the middle. Some have argued that the inscription was cut in the time of Solomon; others, with more probability, refer it to the reign of Hezekiah. A more ancient tunnel was discovered in 1889 some 20 feet below the ground. It is of smaller dimensions, but more direct in its course. It is to this tunnel that Isaiah (Isaiah 8:6) probably refers. The Siloam inscription above referred to was surreptitiously cut from the wall of the tunnel in 1891 and broken into fragments. These were, however, recovered by the efforts of the British Consul at Jerusalem, and have been restored to their original place.

Category:Tower of Siloam''' - Mentioned only Luke 13:4. The place here spoken of is the village now called Silwan, or Kefr Silwan, on the east of the valley of Kidron, and to the north-east of the pool. It stands on the west slope of the Mount of Olives. As illustrative of the movement of small bands of Canaanites from place to place, and the intermingling of Canaanites and Israelites even in small towns in earlier times, M.C. Ganneau records the following curious fact: "Among the inhabitants of the village (of Siloam) there are a hundred or so domiciled for the most part in the lower quarter, and forming a group apart from the rest, called Dhiabrye, i.e., men of Dhiban. It appears that at some remote period a colony from the capital of king Mesha (Dibon-Moab) crossed the Jordan and fixed itself at the gates of Jerusalem at Silwan. The memory of this migration is still preserved; and I am assured by the people themselves that many of their number are installed in other villages round Jerusalem" (quoted by Henderson, Palestine).

Category:Silver''' - Used for a great variety of purposes, as may be judged from the frequent references to it in Scripture. It first appears in commerce in Genesis 13:2; Genesis 23:15, Genesis 23:16. It was largely employed for making vessels for the sanctuary in the wilderness (Exodus 26:19; Exodus 27:17; Numbers 7:13, Numbers 7:19; Numbers 10:2). There is no record of its having been found in Syria or Palestine. It was brought in large quantities by foreign merchants from abroad, from Spain and India and other countries probably.

Category:Silverling''' - (Isaiah 7:23). Literally the words are "at a thousand of silver", i.e., "pieces of silver," or shekels.

Category:Simeon''' - Hearing. (1.) The second son of Jacob by Leah (Genesis 29:33). He was associated with Levi in the terrible act of vengeance against Hamor and the Shechemites (Genesis 34:25, Genesis 34:26). He was detained by Joseph in Egypt as a hostage (Genesis 42:24). His father, when dying, pronounced a malediction against him (Genesis 49:5). The words in the Authorized Category:Version (Genesis 49:6), "they digged down a wall," ought to be, as correctly rendered in the Revised Category:Version, "they houghed an ox." (2.) An aged saint who visited the temple when Jesus was being presented before the Lord, and uttered lofty words of thanksgiving and of prophecy (Luke 2:29). (3.) One of the ancestors of Joseph (Luke 3:30). (4.) Surnamed Niger, i.e., "black," perhaps from his dark complexion, a teacher of some distinction in the church of Antioch (Acts 13:1). It has been supposed that this was the Simon of Cyrene who bore Christ's cross. Note the number of nationalities represented in the church at Antioch. (5.) James (Acts 15:14) thus designates the apostle Peter (q.v.).

Category:The Tribe of Simeon''' - Was "divided and scattered" according to the prediction in Genesis 49:5. They gradually dwindled in number, and sank into a position of insignificance among the other tribes. They decreased in the wilderness by about two-thirds (compare Numbers 1:23; Numbers 26:14). Moses pronounces no blessing on this tribe. It is passed by in silence (Deut. 33). This tribe received as their portion a part of the territory already allotted to Judah (Joshua 19:1). It lay in the south-west of the land, with Judah on the east and Dan on the north; but whether it was a compact territory or not cannot be determined. The subsequent notices of this tribe are but few (1 Chr. 4:24-43). Like Reuben on the east of Jordan, this tribe had little influence on the history of Israel.

Category:Simon''' - The abbreviated form of Simeon. (1.) One of the twelve apostles, called the Canaanite (Matthew 10:4; Mark 3:18). This word "Canaanite" does not mean a native of Canaan, but is derived from the Syriac word Kanean or Kaneniah, which was the name of a Jewish sect. The Revised Category:Version has "Cananaean;" marg., "or Zealot" He is also called "Zelotes" (Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13; R.V., "the Zealot"), because previous to his call to the apostleship he had been a member of the fanatical sect of the Zealots. There is no record regarding him. (2.) The father of Judas Iscariot (John 6:71; John 13:2, John 13:26). (3.) One of the brothers of our Lord (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3). (4.) A Pharisee in whose house "a woman of the city which was a sinner" anointed our Lord's feet with ointment (Luke 7:36). (5.) A leper of Bethany, in whose house Mary anointed our Lord's head with ointment "as he sat at meat" (Matthew 26:6; Mark 14:3). (6.) A Jew of Cyrene, in North Africa, then a province of Libya. A hundred thousand Jews from Palestine had been settled in this province by Ptolemy Soter (323-285 B.C.), where by this time they had greatly increased in number. They had a synagogue in Jerusalem for such of their number as went thither to the annual feasts. Simon was seized by the soldiers as the procession wended its way to the place of crucifixion as he was passing by, and the heavy cross which Christ from failing strength could no longer bear was laid on his shoulders. Perhaps they seized him because he showed sympathy with Jesus. He was the "father of Alexander and Rufus" (Matthew 27:32). Possibly this Simon may have been one of the "men of Cyrene" who preached the word to the Greeks (Acts 11:20). (7.) A sorcerer of great repute for his magical arts among the Samaritans (Acts 8:9). He afterwards became a professed convert to the faith under the preaching of Philip the deacon and evangelist (Acts 8:12, Acts 8:13). His profession was, however, soon found to be hollow. His conduct called forth from Peter a stern rebuke (Acts 8:18). From this moment he disappears from the Church's history. The term "Simony," as denoting the purchase for money of spiritual offices, is derived from him. (8.) A Christian at Joppa, a tanner by trade, with whom Peter on one occasion lodged (Acts 9:43). (9.) Simon Peter (Matthew 4:18). See PETER.

Category:Simri''' - Watchman, a Levite of the family of Merari (1 Chronicles 26:10).

Category:Sin''' - (1.) Is "any want of conformity unto or transgression of the law of God" (1 John 3:4; Romans 4:15), in the inward state and habit of the soul, as well as in the outward conduct of the life, whether by omission or commission (Romans 6:12; 7:5-24). It is "not a mere violation of the law of our constitution, nor of the system of things, but an offense against a personal lawgiver and moral governor who vindicates his law with penalties. The soul that sins is always conscious that his sin is (1.) intrinsically vile and polluting, and (2.) that it justly deserves punishment, and calls down the righteous wrath of God. Hence sin carries with it two inalienable characters, (1.) ill-desert, guilt ( reatus ); and (2.) pollution ( macula ).", Hodge's Outlines. The moral character of a man's actions is determined by the moral state of his heart. The disposition to sin, or the habit of the soul that leads to the sinful act, is itself also sin (Romans 6:12; Galatians 5:17; James 1:14, James 1:15). The origin of sin is a mystery, and must for ever remain such to us. It is plain that for some reason God has permitted sin to enter this world, and that is all we know. His permitting it, however, in no way makes God the author of sin. Adam's sin (Genesis 3:1) consisted in his yielding to the assaults of temptation and eating the forbidden fruit. It involved in it, (1.) the sin of unbelief, virtually making God a liar; and (2.) the guilt of disobedience to a positive command. By this sin he became an apostate from God, a rebel in arms against his Creator. He lost the favour of God and communion with him; his whole nature became depraved, and he incurred the penalty involved in the covenant of works. Original sin. "Our first parents being the root of all mankind, the guilt of their sin was imputed, and the same death in sin and corrupted nature were conveyed to all their posterity, descending from them by ordinary generation." Adam was constituted by God the federal head and representative of all his posterity, as he was also their natural head, and therefore when he fell they fell with him (Romans 5:12; 1 Cor. 15:22-45). His probation was their probation, and his fall their fall. Because of Adam's first sin all his posterity came into the world in a state of sin and condemnation, i.e., (1.) a state of moral corruption, and (2.) of guilt, as having judicially imputed to them the guilt of Adam's first sin. "Original sin" is frequently and properly used to denote only the moral corruption of their whole nature inherited by all men from Adam. This inherited moral corruption consists in, (1.) the loss of original righteousness; and (2.) the presence of a constant proneness to evil, which is the root and origin of all actual sin. It is called "sin" (Romans 6:12, Romans 6:14, Romans 6:17; Romans 7:5), the "flesh" (Galatians 5:17, Galatians 5:24), "lust" (James 1:14, James 1:15), the "body of sin" (Romans 6:6), "ignorance," "blindness of heart," "alienation from the life of God" (Ephesians 4:18, Ephesians 4:19). It influences and depraves the whole man, and its tendency is still downward to deeper and deeper corruption, there remaining no recuperative element in the soul. It is a total depravity, and it is also universally inherited by all the natural descendants of Adam (Romans 3:10; Romans 5:12; Romans 8:7). Pelagians deny original sin, and regard man as by nature morally and spiritually well; semi-Pelagians regard him as morally sick; Augustinians, or, as they are also called, Calvinists, regard man as described above, spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1; 1 John 3:14). The doctrine of original sin is proved, (1.) From the fact of the universal sinfulness of men. "There is no man that sinneth not" (1 Kings 8:46; Isaiah 53:6; Psalms 130:3; Romans 3:19, Romans 3:22, Romans 3:23; Galatians 3:22). (2.) From the total depravity of man. All men are declared to be destitute of any principle of spiritual life; man's apostasy from God is total and complete (Job 15:14; Genesis 6:5, Genesis 6:6). (3.) From its early manifestation (Psalms 58:3; Proverbs 22:15). (4.) It is proved also from the necessity, absolutely and universally, of regeneration (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17). (5.) From the universality of death (Romans 5:12). Various kinds of sin are mentioned, (1.) "Presumptuous sins," or as literally rendered, "sins with an uplifted hand", i.e., defiant acts of sin, in contrast with "errors" or "inadvertencies" (Psalms 19:13). (2.) "Secret", i.e., hidden sins (Psalms 19:12); sins which escape the notice of the soul. (3.) "Sin against the Holy Ghost" (q.v.), or a "sin unto death" (Matthew 12:31, Matthew 12:32; 1 John 5:16), which amounts to a willful rejection of grace. (2.) A city in Egypt, called by the Greeks Pelusium, which means, as does also the Hebrew name, " clayey " or "muddy," so called from the abundance of clay found there. It is called by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 30:15) "the strength of Egypt, "thus denoting its importance as a fortified city. It has been identified with the modern Tineh, "a miry place," where its ruins are to be found. Of its boasted magnificence only four red granite columns remain, and some few fragments of others.

Category:Sin-offering''' - (Heb. hattath ), the law of, is given in detail in Lev. 4-6:13; Leviticus 9:7, Leviticus 9:22; Leviticus 12:6; Leviticus 15:2, Leviticus 15:14, Leviticus 15:25; Leviticus 14:19, Leviticus 14:31; Numbers 6:10. On the day of Atonement it was made with special solemnity (Leviticus 16:5, Leviticus 16:11, Leviticus 16:15). The blood was then carried into the holy of holies and sprinkled on the mercy-seat. Sin-offerings were also presented at the five annual festivals (Num. 28, 29), and on the occasion of the consecration of the priests (Exodus 29:10, Exodus 29:36). As each individual, even the most private member of the congregation, as well as the congregation at large, and the high priest, was obliged, on being convicted by his conscience of any particular sin, to come with a sin-offering, we see thus impressively disclosed the need in which every sinner stands of the salvation of Christ, and the necessity of making application to it as often as the guilt of sin renews itself upon his conscience. This resort of faith to the perfect sacrifice of Christ is the one way that lies open for the sinner's attainment of pardon and restoration to peace. And then in the sacrifice itself there is the reality of that incomparable worth and preciousness which were so significantly represented in the sin-offering by the sacredness of its blood and the hallowed destination of its flesh. With reference to this the blood of Christ is called emphatically "the precious blood," and the blood that "cleanseth from all sin" (1 John 1:7).

Category:Wilderness of Sin''' - Lying between Elim and Sinai (Exodus 16:1; compare Numbers 33:11, Numbers 33:12). This was probably the narrow plain of el-Markha, which stretches along the eastern shore of the Red Sea for several miles toward the promontory of Ras Mohammed, the southern extremity of the Sinitic Peninsula. While the Israelites rested here for some days they began to murmur on account of the want of nourishment, as they had by this time consumed all the corn they had brought with them out of Egypt. God heard their murmurings, and gave them "manna" and then quails in abundance.

Category:Sinai''' - Of Sin(the moon god), called also Horeb, the name of the mountain district which was reached by the Hebrews in the third month after the Exodus. Here they remained encamped for about a whole year. Their journey from the Red Sea to this encampment, including all the windings of the route, was about 150 miles. The last twenty-two chapters of Exodus, together with the whole of Leviticus and Num. 1-11, contain a record of all the transactions which occurred while they were here. From Rephidim (Exodus 17:8) the Israelites journeyed forward through the Wady Solaf and Wady esh-Sheikh into the plain of er-Rahah, "the desert of Sinai," about 2 miles long and half a mile broad, and encamped there "before the mountain." The part of the mountain range, a protruding lower bluff, known as the Ras Sasafeh (Sufsafeh), rises almost perpendicularly from this plain, and is in all probability the Sinai of history. Dean Stanley thus describes the scene:, "The plain itself is not broken and uneven and narrowly shut in, like almost all others in the range, but presents a long retiring sweep, within which the people could remove and stand afar off. The cliff, rising like a huge altar in front of the whole congregation, and visible against the sky in lonely grandeur from end to end of the whole plain, is the very image of the 'mount that might be touched,' and from which the voice of God might be heard far and wide over the plain below." This was the scene of the giving of the law. From the Ras Sufsafeh the law was proclaimed to the people encamped below in the plain of er-Rahah. During the lengthened period of their encampment here the Israelites passed through a very memorable experience. An immense change passed over them. They are now an organized nation, bound by covenant engagement to serve the Lord their God, their ever-present divine Leader and Protector. At length, in the second month of the second year of the Exodus, they move their camp and march forward according to a prescribed order. After three days they reach the "wilderness of Paran," the "et - Tih", i.e., "the desert", and here they make their first encampment. At this time a spirit of discontent broke out amongst them, and the Lord manifested his displeasure by a fire which fell on the encampment and inflicted injury on them. Moses called the place Taberah (q.v.), Numbers 11:1. The journey between Sinai and the southern boundary of the Promised Land (about 150 miles) at Kadesh was accomplished in about a year. (See MAP The Table of Nations.)

Category:Sinaiticus Codex''' - Usually designated by the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, is one of the most valuable of ancient MSS. of the Greek New Testament. On the occasion of a third visit to the convent of St. Catherine, on Mount Sinai, in 1859, it was discovered by Dr. Tischendorf. He had on a previous visit in 1844 obtained forty-three parchment leaves of the LXX., which he deposited in the university library of Leipsic, under the title of the Codex Frederico-Augustanus, after his royal patron the king of Saxony. In the year referred to (1859) the emperor of Russia sent him to prosecute his search for MSS., which he was convinced were still to be found in the Sinai convent. The story of his finding the manuscript of the New Testament has all the interest of a romance. He reached the convent on 31st January; but his inquiries appeared to be fruitless. On the 4th February he had resolved to return home without having gained his object. "On that day, when walking with the provisor of the convent, he spoke with much regret of his ill-success. Returning from their promenade, Tischendorf accompanied the monk to his room, and there had displayed to him what his companion called a copy of the LXX., which he, the ghostly brother, owned. The MS. was wrapped up in a piece of cloth, and on its being unrolled, to the surprise and delight of the critic the very document presented itself which he had given up all hope of seeing. His object had been to complete the fragmentary LXX. of 1844, which he had declared to be the most ancient of all Greek codices on vellum that are extant; but he found not only that, but a copy of the Greek New Testament attached, of the same age, and perfectly complete, not wanting a single page or paragraph." This precious fragment, after some negotiations, he obtained possession of, and conveyed it to the Emperor Alexander, who fully appreciated its importance, and caused it to be published as nearly as possible in facsimile, so as to exhibit correctly the ancient handwriting. The entire codex consists of 3461/2 folios. Of these 199 belong to the Old Testament and 1471/2 to the New, along with two ancient documents called the Epistle of Barnabas and the Shepherd of Hermas. The books of the New Testament stand thus:, the four Gospels, the epistles of Paul, the Acts of the Apostles, the Catholic Epistles, the Apocalypse of John. It is shown by Tischendorf that this codex was written in the fourth century, and is thus of about the same age as the Vatican codex; but while the latter wants the greater part of Matthew and sundry leaves here and there besides, the Sinaiticus is the only copy of the New Testament in uncial characters which is complete. Thus it is the oldest extant MS. copy of the New Testament. Both the Vatican and the Sinai codices were probably written in Egypt. (See VATICANUS.)

Category:The Land of Sinim''' - (Isaiah 49:12), supposed by some to mean China, but more probably Phoenicia (Genesis 10:17) is intended.

Category:Sinite''' - An inhabitant of Sin, near Arka (Genesis 10:17; 1 Chronicles 1:15). (See ARKITE.)

Category:Sion''' - Elevated. (1.) Denotes Mount Hermon in Deuteronomy 4:48; called Sirion by the Sidonians, and by the Amorites Shenir (Deuteronomy 3:9). (See HERMON.) (2.) The Greek form of Zion (q.v.) in Matthew 21:5; John 12:15.

Category:Siphmoth''' - Fruitful places, some unknown place in the south, where David found friends when he fled from Saul (1 Samuel 30:28).

Category:Sirah''' - Retiring, a well from which Joab's messenger brought back Abner (2 Samuel 3:26). It is now called 'Ain Sarah, and is situated about a mile from Hebron, on the road to the north.

Category:Sirion''' - A breastplate, the Sidonian name of Hermon (q.v.), Deuteronomy 3:9; Psalms 29:6.

Category:Sisera''' - (Egypt. Ses-Ra, "servant of Ra"). (1.) The captain of Jabin's army (Judges 4:2), which was routed and destroyed by the army of Barak on the plain of Esdraelon. After all was lost he fled to the settlement of Heber the Kenite in the plain of Zaanaim. Jael, Heber's wife, received him into her tent with apparent hospitality, and "gave him butter" (i.e., lebben, or curdled milk) "in a lordly dish." Having drunk the refreshing beverage, he lay down, and soon sank into the sleep of the weary. While he lay asleep Jael crept stealthily up to him, and taking in her hand one of the tent pegs, with a mallet she drove it with such force through his temples that it entered into the ground where he lay, and "at her feet he bowed, he fell; where he bowed, there he fell down dead." The part of Deborah's song (Judges 5:24) referring to the death of Sisera (which is a "mere patriotic outburst, " and "is no proof that purer eyes would have failed to see gross sin mingling with Jael's service to Israel") is thus rendered by Professor Roberts (Old Testament Revision):, "Extolled above women be Jael, The wife of Heber the Kenite, Extolled above women in the tent. He asked for water, she gave him milk; She brought him cream in a lordly dish. She stretched forth her hand to the nail, Her right hand to the workman's hammer, And she smote Sisera; she crushed his head, She crashed through and transfixed his temples. At her feet he curled himself, he fell, he lay still; At her feet he curled himself, he fell; And where he curled himself, there he fell dead." (2.) The ancestor of some of the Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:53; Nehemiah 7:55).

Category:Sitnah''' - Strife, the second of the two wells dug by Isaac, whose servants here contended with the Philistines (Genesis 26:21). It has been identified with the modern Shutneh, in the valley of Gerar, to the west of Rehoboth, about 20 miles south of Beersheba.

Category:Sitting''' - The attitude generally assumed in Palestine by those who were engaged in any kind of work. "The carpenter saws, planes, and hews with his hand-adze, sitting on the ground or upon the plank he is planning. The washerwoman sits by the tub; and, in a word, no one stands when it is possible to sit. Shopkeepers always sit, and Levi sitting at the receipt of custom (Matthew 9:9) is the exact way to state the case.", Thomson, Land and Book.

Category:Sivan''' - A Persian word (Assyr, sivanu, "bricks"), used after the Captivity as the name of the third month of the Jewish year, extending from the new moon in June to the new moon in July (Esther 8:9).

Category:Coats Made of Skin''' - (Genesis 3:21). Skins of rams and badgers were used as a covering for the tabernacle (Exodus 25:5; Numbers 4:8).

Category:The Place of a Skull''' - See GOLGOTHA

Category:Slave''' - Jeremiah 2:14 (A.V.), but not there found in the original. In Revelation 18:13 the word "slaves" is the rendering of a Greek word meaning "bodies." The Hebrew and Greek words for slave are usually rendered simply "servant," "bondman," or "bondservant." Slavery as it existed under the Mosaic law has no modern parallel. That law did not originate but only regulated the already existing custom of slavery (Exodus 21:20, Exodus 21:21, Exodus 21:26, Exodus 21:27; Leviticus 25:44; Josh. 9:6-27). The gospel in its spirit and genius is hostile to slavery in every form, which under its influence is gradually disappearing from among men.

Category:Slime''' - (Genesis 11:3; LXX., "asphalt;" R.V. marg., "bitumen"). The vale of Siddim was full of slime pits (Genesis 14:10). Jochebed daubed the "ark of bulrushes" with slime (Exodus 2:3). (See PITCH.)

Category:Sling''' - With a sling and a stone David smote the Philistine giant (1 Samuel 17:40, 1 Samuel 17:49). There were 700 Benjamites who were so skilled in its use that with the left hand they "could sling stones at a hair breadth, and not miss" (Judges 20:16; 1 Chronicles 12:2). It was used by the Israelites in war (2 Kings 3:25). (See ARMS.) The words in Proverbs 26:8, "As he that bindeth a stone in a sling," etc. (Authorized Category:Version), should rather, as in the Revised Category:Version, be "As a bag of gems in a heap of stones," etc.

Category:Smith''' - The Hebrews were not permitted by the Philistines in the days of Samuel to have a smith amongst them, lest they should make them swords and spears (1 Samuel 13:19). Thus the Philistines sought to make their conquest permanent (compare 2 Kings 24:16).

Category:Smyrna''' - Myrrh, an ancient city of Ionia, on the western coast of Asia Minor, about 40 miles to the north of Ephesus. It is now the chief city of Anatolia, having a mixed population of about 200,000, of whom about one-third are professed Christians. The church founded here was one of the seven addressed by our Lord (Revelation 2:8). The celebrated Polycarp, a pupil of the apostle John, was in the second century a prominent leader in the church of Smyrna. Here he suffered martyrdom, A.D. 155.

Category:Snail''' - (1.) Heb. homit, among the unclean creeping things (Leviticus 11:30). This was probably the sand-lizard, of which there are many species in the wilderness of Judea and the Sinai peninsula. (2.) Heb. shablul (Psalms 58:8), the snail or slug proper. Tristram explains the allusions of this passage by a reference to the heat and drought by which the moisture of the snail is evaporated. "We find," he says, "in all parts of the Holy Land myriads of snail-shells in fissures still adhering by the calcareous exudation round their orifice to the surface of the rock, but the animal of which is utterly shriveled and wasted, 'melted away.'"

Category:Snare''' - The expression (Amos 3:5), "Shall one take up a snare from the earth?" etc. (Authorized Category:Version), ought to be, as in the Revised Category:Version, "Shall a snare spring up from the ground?" etc. (See GIN.)

Category:Snow''' - Common in Palestine in winter (Psalms 147:16). The snow on the tops of the Lebanon range is almost always within view throughout the whole year. The word is frequently used figuratively by the sacred writers (Job 24:19; Psalms 51:7; Psalms 68:14; Isaiah 1:18). It is mentioned only once in the historical books (2 Samuel 23:20). It was "carried to Tyre, Sidon, and Damascus as a luxury, and labourers sweltering in the hot harvest-fields used it for the purpose of cooling the water which they drank (Proverbs 25:13; Jeremiah 18:14). No doubt Herod Antipas, at his feasts in Tiberias, enjoyed also from this very source the modern luxury of ice-water."

Category:So''' - (Nubian, Sabako), an Ethiopian king who brought Egypt under his sway. He was bribed by Hoshea to help him against the Assyrian monarch Shalmaneser (2 Kings 17:4). This was a return to the policy that had been successful in the reign of Jeroboam I.

Category:Soap''' - (Jeremiah 2:22; Malachi 3:2; Heb. borith ), properly a vegetable alkali, obtained from the ashes of certain plants, particularly the salsola kali (saltwort), which abounds on the shores of the Dead Sea and of the Mediterranean. It does not appear that the Hebrews were acquainted with what is now called "soap," which is a compound of alkaline carbonates with oleaginous matter. The word "purely" in Isaiah 1:25 (R.V., "thoroughly;" marg., "as with lye") is lit. "as with bor." This word means "clearness," and hence also that which makes clear, or pure, alkali. "The ancients made use of alkali mingled with oil, instead of soap (Job 9:30), and also in smelting metals, to make them melt and flow more readily and purely" (Gesenius).

Category:Socho''' - A fence; hedge, (1 Chronicles 4:18; R.V., Soco) = Sochoh (1 Kings 4:10; R.V., Socoh), Shochoh (1 Samuel 17:1; R.V., Socoh), Shoco (2 Chronicles 11:7; R.V., Soco), Shocho (2 Chronicles 28:18; R.V., Soco), a city in the plain or lowland of Judah, where the Philistines encamped when they invaded Judah after their defeat at Michmash. It lay on the northern side of the valley of Elah (Wady es-Sunt). It has been identified with the modern Khurbet Shuweikeh, about 14 miles south-west of Jerusalem. In this campaign Goliath was slain, and the Philistines were completely routed.

Category:Sodom''' - Burning; the walled, a city in the vale of Siddim (Genesis 13:10; Genesis 14:1-16). The wickedness of its inhabitants brought down upon it fire from heaven, by which it was destroyed (Gen. 18:16-33; 19:1-29; Deuteronomy 23:17). This city and its awful destruction are frequently alluded to in Scripture (Deuteronomy 29:23; Deuteronomy 32:32; Isaiah 1:9, Isaiah 1:10; Isaiah 3:9; Isaiah 13:19; Jeremiah 23:14; Ezekiel 16:46; Zephaniah 2:9; Matthew 10:15; Romans 9:29; 2 Peter 2:6, etc.). No trace of it or of the other cities of the plain has been discovered, so complete was their destruction. Just opposite the site of Zoar, on the south-west coast of the Dead Sea, is a range of low hills, forming a mass of mineral salt called Jebel Usdum, "the hill of Sodom." It has been concluded, from this and from other considerations, that the cities of the plain stood at the southern end of the Dead Sea. Others, however, with much greater probability, contend that they stood at the northern end of the sea.

Category:Sodoma''' - (Romans 9:29; R.V., "Sodom"), the Greek form for Sodom.

Category:Sodomites''' - Those who imitated the licentious wickedness of Sodom (Deuteronomy 23:17; 1 Kings 14:24; Romans 1:26, Romans 1:27). Asa destroyed them "out of the land" (1 Kings 15:12), as did also his son Jehoshaphat (1 Kings 22:46).

Category:Solomon''' - Peaceful, (Heb. Shelomoh ), David's second son by Bathsheba, i.e., the first after their legal marriage (2 Sam. 12). He was probably born about 1035 B.C. (1 Chronicles 22:5; 1 Chronicles 29:1). He succeeded his father on the throne in early manhood, probably about sixteen or eighteen years of age. Nathan, to whom his education was entrusted, called him Jedidiah, i.e., "beloved of the Lord" (2 Samuel 12:24, 2 Samuel 12:25). He was the first king of Israel "born in the purple." His father chose him as his successor, passing over the claims of his elder sons: "Assuredly Solomon my son shall reign after me." His history is recorded in 1 Kings 1 - 11 and 2 Chr. 1 - 9. His elevation to the throne took place before his father's death, and was hastened on mainly by Nathan and Bathsheba, in consequence of the rebellion of Adonijah (1 Kings 1:5-40). During his long reign of forty years the Hebrew monarchy gained its highest splendour. This period has well been called the "Augustan age" of the Jewish annals. The first half of his reign was, however, by far the brighter and more prosperous; the latter half was clouded by the idolatries into which he fell, mainly from his heathen intermarriages (1 Kings 11:1; 1 Kings 14:21, 1 Kings 14:31). See map, The Extent of Solomon's Empire Before his death David gave parting instructions to his son (1 Kings 2:1; 1 Chronicles 22:7; 28). As soon as he had settled himself in his kingdom, and arranged the affairs of his extensive empire, he entered into an alliance with Egypt by the marriage of the daughter of Pharaoh (1 Kings 3:1), of whom, however, nothing further is recorded. He surrounded himself with all the luxuries and the external grandeur of an Eastern monarch, and his government prospered. He entered into an alliance with Hiram, king of Tyre, who in many ways greatly assisted him in his numerous undertakings. (See HIRAM.) For some years before his death David was engaged in the active work of collecting materials (1 Chronicles 29:6; 2 Chronicles 2:3) for building a temple in Jerusalem as a permanent abode for the ark of the covenant. He was not permitted to build the house of God (1 Chronicles 22:8); that honour was reserved to his son Solomon. (See TEMPLE.) After the completion of the temple, Solomon engaged in the erection of many other buildings of importance in Jerusalem and in other parts of his kingdom. For the long space of thirteen years he was engaged in the erection of a royal palace on Ophel (1 Kings 7:1). It was 100 cubits long, 50 broad, and 30 high. Its lofty roof was supported by forty-five cedar pillars, so that the hall was like a forest of cedar wood, and hence probably it received the name of "The House of the Forest of Lebanon." In front of this "house" was another building, which was called the Porch of Pillars, and in front of this again was the "Hall of Judgment," or Throneroom (1 Kings 7:7; 1 Kings 10:18; 2 Chronicles 9:17), "the King's Gate," where he administered justice and gave audience to his people. This palace was a building of great magnificence and beauty. A portion of it was set apart as the residence of the queen consort, the daughter of Pharaoh. From the palace there was a private staircase of red and scented sandal wood which led up to the temple. Solomon also constructed great works for the purpose of securing a plentiful supply of water for the city (Ecclesiastes 2:4). He then built Millo (LXX., "Acra") for the defense of the city, completing a line of ramparts around it (1 Kings 9:15, 1 Kings 9:24; 1 Kings 11:27). He erected also many other fortifications for the defense of his kingdom at various points where it was exposed to the assault of enemies (1 Kings 9:15; 2 Chronicles 8:2). Among his great undertakings must also be mentioned the building of Tadmor (q.v.) in the wilderness as a commercial depot, as well as a military outpost. During his reign Palestine enjoyed great commercial prosperity. Extensive traffic was carried on by land with Tyre and Egypt and Arabia, and by sea with Spain and India and the coasts of Africa, by which Solomon accumulated vast stores of wealth and of the produce of all nations (1 Kings 9:26; 1 Kings 10:11, 1 Kings 10:12; 2 Chronicles 8:17, 2 Chronicles 8:18; 2 Chronicles 9:21). This was the "golden age" of Israel. The royal magnificence and splendour of Solomon's court were unrivaled. He had seven hundred wives and three hundred concubines, an evidence at once of his pride, his wealth, and his sensuality. The maintenance of his household involved immense expenditure. The provision required for one day was "thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal, ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallow-deer, and fatted fowl" (1 Kings 4:22, 1 Kings 4:23). Solomon's reign was not only a period of great material prosperity, but was equally remarkable for its intellectual activity. He was the leader of his people also in this uprising amongst them of new intellectual life. "He spake three thousand proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five. And he spake of trees, from the cedar tree that is in Lebanon even unto the hyssop that springeth out of the wall: he spake also of beasts, and of fowl, and of creeping things, and of fishes" (1 Kings 4:32, 1 Kings 4:33). His fame was spread abroad through all lands, and men came from far and near "to hear the wisdom of Solomon." Among others thus attracted to Jerusalem was "the queen of the south" (Matthew 12:42), the queen of Sheba, a country in Arabia Felix. "Deep, indeed, must have been her yearning, and great his fame, which induced a secluded Arabian queen to break through the immemorial custom of her dreamy land, and to put forth the energy required for braving the burdens and perils of so long a journey across a wilderness. Yet this she undertook, and carried it out with safety." (1 Kings 10:1; 2 Chronicles 9:1.) She was filled with amazement by all she saw and heard: "there was no more spirit in her." After an interchange of presents she returned to her native land. But that golden age of Jewish history passed away. The bright day of Solomon's glory ended in clouds and darkness. His decline and fall from his high estate is a sad record. Chief among the causes of his decline were his polygamy and his great wealth. "As he grew older he spent more of his time among his favourites. The idle king living among these idle women, for 1,000 women, with all their idle and mischievous attendants, filled the palaces and pleasure-houses which he had built (1 Kings 11:3), learned first to tolerate and then to imitate their heathenish ways. He did not, indeed, cease to believe in the God of Israel with his mind. He did not cease to offer the usual sacrifices in the temple at the great feasts. But his heart was not right with God; his worship became merely formal; his soul, left empty by the dying out of true religious fervour, sought to be filled with any religious excitement which offered itself. Now for the first time a worship was publicly set up amongst the people of the Lord which was not simply irregular or forbidden, like that of Gideon (Judges 8:27), or the Danites (Judges 18:30, Judges 18:31), but was downright idolatrous." (1 Kings 11:7; 2 Kings 23:13.) This brought upon him the divine displeasure. His enemies prevailed against him (1 Kings 11:14, 1 Kings 11:23, 1 Kings 11:26), and one judgment after another fell upon the land. And now the end of all came, and he died, after a reign of forty years, and was buried in the city of David, and "with him was buried in the city of David, and "with him was buried the short-lived glory and unity of Israel." "He leaves behind him but one weak and worthless son, to dismember his kingdom and disgrace his name." "The kingdom of Solomon," says Rawlinson, "is one of the most striking facts in the Biblical history. A petty nation, which for hundreds of years has with difficulty maintained a separate existence in the midst of warlike tribes, each of which has in turn exercised dominion over it and oppressed it, is suddenly raised by the genius of a soldier-monarch to glory and greatness. An empire is established which extends from the Euphrates to the borders of Egypt, a distance of 450 miles; and this empire, rapidly constructed, enters almost immediately on a period of peace which lasts for half a century. Wealth, grandeur, architectural magnificence, artistic excellence, commercial enterprise, a position of dignity among the great nations of the earth, are enjoyed during this space, at the end of which there is a sudden collapse. The ruling nation is split in twain, the subject-races fall off, the pre-eminence lately gained being wholly lost, the scene of struggle, strife, oppression, recovery, in-glorious submission, and desperate effort, re-commences.", Historical Illustrations.

Category:Song of Solomon''' - Called also, after the Vulgate, the "Canticles." It is the "song of songs" (Song of Songs 1:1), as being the finest and most precious of its kind; the noblest song, "das Hohelied," as Luther calls it. The Solomonic authorship of this book has been called in question, but evidences, both internal and external, fairly establish the traditional view that it is the product of Solomon's pen. It is an allegorical poem setting forth the mutual love of Christ and the Church, under the emblem of the bridegroom and the bride. (Compare Matthew 9:15; John 3:29; Ephesians 5:23, Ephesians 5:27, Ephesians 5:29; Revelation 19:7; Revelation 21:2, Revelation 21:9; Revelation 22:17. Compare also Ps. 45; Isaiah 54:4; Isaiah 62:4, Isaiah 62:5; Jeremiah 2:2; Jeremiah 3:1, Jeremiah 3:20; Ezekiel 16; Hosea 2:16, Hosea 2:19, Hosea 2:20.)

Category:Solomon's Porch''' - (John 10:23; Acts 3:11; Acts 5:12), a colonnade, or cloister probably, on the eastern side of the temple. It is not mentioned in connection with the first temple, but Josephus mentions a porch, so called, in Herod's temple (q.v.).

Category:Son of God''' - The plural, "sons of God," is used (Genesis 6:2, Genesis 6:4) to denote the pious descendants of Seth. In Job 1:6; Job 38:7 this name is applied to the angels. Hosea uses the phrase (Hosea 1:10) to designate the gracious relation in which men stand to God. In the New Testament this phrase frequently denotes the relation into which we are brought to God by adoption (Romans 8:14, Romans 8:19; 2 Corinthians 6:18; Galatians 4:5, Galatians 4:6; Philippians 2:15; 1 John 3:1, 1 John 3:2). It occurs thirty-seven times in the New Testament as the distinctive title of our Saviour. He does not bear this title in consequence of his miraculous birth, nor of his incarnation, his resurrection, and exaltation to the Father's right hand. This is a title of nature and not of office. The sonship of Christ denotes his equality with the Father. To call Christ the Son of God is to assert his true and proper divinity. The second Person of the Trinity, because of his eternal relation to the first Person, is the Son of God. He is the Son of God as to his divine nature, while as to his human nature he is the Son of David (Romans 1:3, Romans 1:4. Compare Galatians 4:4; John 1:1; John 5:18; John 10:30, which prove that Christ was the Son of God before his incarnation, and that his claim to this title is a claim of equality with God). When used with reference to creatures, whether men or angels, this word is always in the plural. In the singular it is always used of the second Person of the Trinity, with the single exception of Luke 3:38, where it is used of Adam.

Category:Son of Man''' - (1.) Denotes mankind generally, with special reference to their weakness and frailty (Job 25:6; Psalms 8:4; Psalms 144:3; Psalms 146:3; Isaiah 51:12, etc.). (2.) It is a title frequently given to the prophet Ezekiel, probably to remind him of his human weakness. (3.) In the New Testament it is used forty-three times as a distinctive title of the Saviour. In the Old Testament it is used only in Psalms 80:17 and Daniel 7:13 with this application. It denotes the true humanity of our Lord. He had a true body (Hebrews 2:14; Luke 24:39) and a rational soul. He was perfect man.

Category:Songs''' - Of Moses (Ex. 15; Numbers 21:17; Deut. 32; Revelation 15:3), Deborah (Judg. 5), Hannah (1 Sam. 2), David (2 Sam. 22, and Psalms), Mary (Luke 1:46), Zacharias (Luke 1:68), the angels (Luke 2:13), Simeon (Luke 2:29), the redeemed (Revelation 5:9; 19), Solomon (see SOLOMON, SONGS OF).

Category:Soothsayer''' - One who pretends to prognosticate future events. Baalam is so called (Joshua 13:22; Heb. kosem, a "diviner," as rendered 1 Samuel 6:2; rendered "prudent," Isaiah 3:2). In Isaiah 2:6 and Micah 5:12 (Heb. yonenim, i.e., "diviners of the clouds") the word is used of the Chaldean diviners who studied the clouds. In Daniel 2:27; Daniel 5:7 the word is the rendering of the Chaldee gazrin, i.e., "deciders" or "determiners", here applied to Chaldean astrologers, "who, by casting nativities from the place of the stars at one's birth, and by various arts of computing and divining, foretold the fortunes and destinies of individuals.", Gesenius, Lex. Heb. (See SORCERER.)

Category:Sop''' - A morsel of bread (John 13:26; compare Ruth 2:14). Our Lord took a piece of unleavened bread, and dipping it into the broth of bitter herbs at the Paschal meal, gave it to Judas. (Compare Ruth 2:14.)

Category:Sopater''' - The father who saves, probably the same as Sosipater, a kinsman of Paul (Romans 16:21), a Christian of the city of Berea who accompanied Paul into Asia (Acts 20:4).

Category:Sorcerer''' - From the Latin sortiarius, one who casts lots, or one who tells the lot of others. (See DIVINATION.) In Daniel 2:2 it is the rendering of the Hebrew mekhashphim, i.e., mutterers, men who professed to have power with evil spirits. The practice of sorcery exposed to severest punishment (Malachi 3:5; Revelation 21:8; Revelation 22:15).

Category:Sorek''' - Choice vine, the name of a valley, i.e., a torrent-bed, now the Wady Surar, "valley of the fertile spot," which drains the western Judean hills, and flowing by Makkedah and Jabneel, falls into the sea some eight miles south of Joppa. This was the home of Deliah, whom Samson loved (Judges 16:4).

Category:Sosipater''' - (See SOPATER.)

Category:Sosthenes''' - Safe in strength, the chief ruler of the synagogue at Corinth, who was seized and beaten by the mob in the presence of Gallio, the Roman governor, when he refused to proceed against Paul at the instigation of the Jews (Acts 18:12). The motives of this assault against Sosthenes are not recorded, nor is it mentioned whether it was made by Greeks or Romans. Some identify him, but without sufficient grounds, with one whom Paul calls "Sosthenes our brother," a convert to the faith (1 Corinthians 1:1).

Category:South''' - Heb. Negeb, that arid district to the south of Palestine through which lay the caravan route from Central Palestine to Egypt (Genesis 12:9; Genesis 13:1, Genesis 13:3; Genesis 46:1). "The Negeb comprised a considerable but irregularly-shaped tract of country, its main portion stretching from the mountains and lowlands of Judah in the north to the mountains of Azazemeh in the south, and from the Dead Sea and southern Ghoron the east to the Mediterranean on the west." In Ezekiel 20:46 (Ezekiel 21:1 in Heb.) three different Hebrew words are all rendered "south." (1.) "Set thy face toward the south" ( Teman, the region on the right, 1 Samuel 23:24); (2.) "Drop thy word toward the south" ( Negeb , the region of dryness, Joshua 15:4); (3.) "Prophesy against the forest of the south field" ( Darom , the region of brightness, Deuteronomy 33:23). In Job 37:9 the word "south" is literally "chamber," used here in the sense of treasury (compare Job 38:22; Psalms 135:7). This verse is rendered in the Revised Category:Version "out of the chamber of the south."

Category:Sovereignty''' - Of God, his absolute right to do all things according to his own good pleasure (Daniel 4:25, Daniel 4:35; Romans 9:15; 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 4:11).

Category:Spain''' - Paul expresses his intention (Romans 15:24, Romans 15:28) to visit Spain. There is, however, no evidence that he ever carried it into effect, although some think that he probably did so between his first and second imprisonment. (See TARSHISH.)

Category:Sparrow''' - Mentioned among the offerings made by the very poor. Two sparrows were sold for a farthing (Matthew 10:29), and five for two farthings (Luke 12:6). The Hebrew word thus rendered is tsippor, which properly denotes the whole family of small birds which feed on grain (Leviticus 14:4; Psalms 84:3; Psalms 102:7). The Greek word of the New Testament is strouthion (Matthew 10:29), which is thus correctly rendered.

Category:Spicery''' - Heb. nechoth, identified with the Arabic naka'at , the gum tragacanth, obtained from the astralagus , of which there are about twenty species found in Palestine. The tragacanth of commerce is obtained from the A. tragacantha. "The gum exudes plentifully under the heat of the sun on the leaves, thorns, and extremity of the twigs."

Category:Spices''' - Aromatic substances, of which several are named in Ex. 30. They were used in the sacred anointing oil (Exodus 25:6; Exodus 35:8; 1 Chronicles 9:29), and in embalming the dead (2 Chronicles 16:14; Luke 23:56; Luke 24:1; John 19:39, John 19:40). Spices were stored by Hezekiah in his treasure-house (2 Kings 20:13; Isaiah 39:2).

Category:Spider''' - The trust of the hypocrite is compared to the spider's web or house (Job 8:14). It is said of the wicked by Isaiah that they "weave the spider's web" (Isaiah 59:5), i.e., their works and designs are, like the spider's web, vain and useless. The Hebrew word here used is 'akkabish, "a swift weaver." In Proverbs 30:28 a different Hebrew word ( semamith ) is used. It is rendered in the Vulgate by stellio, and in the Revised Category:Version by "lizard." It may, however, represent the spider, of which there are, it is said, about seven hundred species in Palestine.

Category:Spies''' - When the Israelites reached Kadesh for the first time, and were encamped there, Moses selected twelve spies from among the chiefs of the divisions of the tribes, and sent them forth to spy the land of Canaan (Num. 13), and to bring back to him a report of its actual condition. They at once proceeded on their important errand, and went through the land as far north as the district round Lake Merom. After about six weeks' absence they returned. Their report was very discouraging, and the people were greatly alarmed, and in a rebellious spirit proposed to elect a new leader and return to Egypt. Only two of the spies, Caleb and Joshua, showed themselves on this occasion stout-hearted and faithful. All their appeals and remonstrances were in vain. Moses announced that as a punishment for their rebellion they must now wander in the wilderness till a new generation should arise which would go up and posses the land. The spies had been forty days absent on their expedition, and for each day the Israelites were to be wanderers for a year in the desert. (See ESHCOL.) Two spies were sent by Joshua "secretly" i.e., unknown to the people (Joshua 2:1), "to view the land and Jericho" after the death of Moses, and just before the tribes under his leadership were about to cross the Jordan. They learned from Rahab (q.v.), in whose house they found a hiding-place, that terror had fallen on all the inhabitants of the land because of the great things they had heard that Jehovah had done for them (Exodus 15:14; compare Exodus 23:27; Deuteronomy 2:25; Deuteronomy 11:25). As the result of their mission they reported: "Truly Jehovah hath delivered into our hands all the land; for even all the inhabitants of the country do faint because of us."

Category:Spikenard''' - (Heb. nerd ), a much-valued perfume (Song of Songs 1:12; Song of Songs 4:13, Song of Songs 4:14). It was "very precious", i.e., very costly (Mark 14:3; John 12:3, John 12:5). It is the root of an Indian plant, the Nardostachys jatamansi, of the family of Valeriance, growing on the Himalaya mountains. It is distinguished by its having many hairy spikes shooting out from one root. It is called by the Arabs sunbul Hindi, "the Indian spike." In the New Testament this word is the rendering of the Greek nardos pistike. The margin of the Revised Category:Version in these passages has "pistic nard," pistic being perhaps a local name. Some take it to mean genuine, and others liquid. The most probable opinion is that the word pistike designates the nard as genuine or faithfully prepared.

Category:Spirit''' - (Heb. ruah ; Gr. pneuma ), properly wind or breath. In 2 Thessalonians 2:8 it means "breath," and in Ecclesiastes 8:8 the vital principle in man. It also denotes the rational, immortal soul by which man is distinguished (Acts 7:59; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Corinthians 7:34), and the soul in its separate state (Hebrews 12:23), and hence also an apparition (Job 4:15; Luke 24:37, Luke 24:39), an angel (Hebrews 1:14), and a demon (Luke 4:36; Luke 10:20). This word is used also metaphorically as denoting a tendency (Zechariah 12:10; Luke 13:11). In Romans 1:4, 1 Timothy 3:16, 2 Corinthians 3:17, 1 Peter 3:18, it designates the divine nature.

Category:Holy Spirit''' - See HOLY GHOST.

Category:Sponge''' - Occurs only in the narrative of the crucifixion (Matthew 27:48; Mark 15:36; John 19:29). It is ranked as a zoophyte. It is found attached to rocks at the bottom of the sea.

Category:Spouse''' - (Song of Songs 4:8; Hosea 4:13, Hosea 4:14) may denote either husband or wife, but in the Scriptures it denotes only the latter.

Category:Spring''' - (Heb. 'ain, "the bright open source, the eye of the landscape"). To be carefully distinguished from "well" (q.v.). "Springs" mentioned in Joshua 10:40 (Heb. 'ashdoth ) should rather be "declivities" or "slopes" (R.V.), i.e., the undulating ground lying between the lowlands (the shephelah ) and the central range of hills.

Category:Stachys''' - Spike; an ear of corn, a convert at Rome whom Paul salutes (Romans 16:9).

Category:Stacte''' - (Heb. nataph ), one of the components of the perfume which was offered on the golden altar (Exodus 30:34; R.V. marg., " opobalsamum "). The Hebrew word is from a root meaning "to distil," and it has been by some interpreted as distilled myrrh. Others regard it as the gum of the storax tree, or rather shrub, the Styrax officinale. "The Syrians value this gum highly, and use it medicinally as an emulsion in pectoral complaints, and also in perfumery."

Category:Morning Star''' - A name figuratively given to Christ (Revelation 22:16; compare 2 Peter 1:19). When Christ promises that he will give the "morning star" to his faithful ones, he "promises that he will give to them himself, that he will give to them himself, that he will impart to them his own glory and a share in his own royal dominion; for the star is evermore the symbol of royalty (Matthew 2:2), being therefore linked with the sceptre (Numbers 24:17). All the glory of the world shall end in being the glory of the Church." Trench's Comm.

Category:Stargazers''' - (Isaiah 47:13), those who pretend to tell what will occur by looking upon the stars. The Chaldean astrologers "divined by the rising and setting, the motions, aspects, colour, degree of light, etc., of the stars."

Category:Stars''' - The eleven stars (Genesis 37:9); the seven (Amos 5:8); wandering (Jude 1:13); seen in the east at the birth of Christ, probably some luminous meteors miraculously formed for this specific purpose (Matthew 2:2); stars worshipped (Deuteronomy 4:19; 2 Kings 17:16; 2 Kings 21:3; Jeremiah 19:13); spoken of symbolically (Numbers 24:17; Revelation 1:16, Revelation 1:20; Revelation 12:1). (See ASTROLOGERS.)

Category:Stater''' - Greek word rendered "piece of money" (Matthew 17:27, A.V.; and "shekel" in R.V.). It was equal to two didrachmas ("tribute money," Matthew 17:24), or four drachmas, and to about 2s. 6d. of our money. (See SHEKEL.)

Category:Steel''' - The "bow of steel" in (A.V.) 2 Samuel 22:35; Job 20:24; Psalms 18:34 is in the Revised Category:Version "bow of brass" (Heb. kesheth-nehushah ). In Jeremiah 15:12 the same word is used, and is also rendered in the Revised Category:Version "brass." But more correctly it is copper (q.v.), as brass in the ordinary sense of the word (an alloy of copper and zinc) was not known to the ancients.

Category:Stephanas''' - Crown, a member of the church at Corinth, whose family were among those the apostle had baptized (1 Corinthians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 16:15, 1 Corinthians 16:17). He has been supposed by some to have been the "jailer of Philippi" (compare Acts 16:33). The First Epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi some six years after the jailer's conversion, and he was with the apostle there at that time.

Category:Stephen''' - One of the seven deacons, who became a preacher of the gospel. He was the first Christian martyr. His personal character and history are recorded in Acts 6:1. "He fell asleep" with a prayer for his persecutors on his lips (Acts 7:60). Devout men carried him to his grave (Acts 8:2). It was at the feet of the young Pharisee, Saul of Tarsus, that those who stoned him laid their clothes (compare Deuteronomy 17:5) before they began their cruel work. The scene which Saul then witnessed and the words he heard appear to have made a deep and lasting impression on his mind (Acts 22:19, Acts 22:20). The speech of Stephen before the Jewish ruler is the first apology for the universalism of the gospel as a message to the Gentiles as well as the Jews. It is the longest speech contained in the Acts, a place of prominence being given to it as a defense.

Category:Stoics''' - A sect of Greek philosophers at Athens, so called from the Greek word stoa i.e., a "porch" or "portico," where they have been called "the Pharisees of Greek paganism." The founder of the Stoics was Zeno, who flourished about 300 B.C.. He taught his disciples that a man's happiness consisted in bringing himself into harmony with the course of the universe. They were trained to bear evils with indifference, and so to be independent of externals. Materialism, pantheism, fatalism, and pride were the leading features of this philosophy.

Category:Stomacher''' - (Isaiah 3:24), an article of female attire, probably some sort of girdle around the breast.

Category:Stone''' - Stones were commonly used for buildings, also as memorials of important events (Genesis 28:18; Joshua 24:26, Joshua 24:27; 1 Samuel 7:12, etc.). They were gathered out of cultivated fields (Isaiah 5:2; compare 2 Kings 3:19). This word is also used figuratively of believers (1 Peter 2:4, 1 Peter 2:5), and of the Messiah (Psalms 118:22; Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 21:42; Acts 4:11, etc.). In Daniel 2:45 it refers also to the Messiah. He is there described as "cut out of the mountain." (See ROCK.) A "heart of stone" denotes great insensibility (1 Samuel 25:37). Stones were set up to commemorate remarkable events, as by Jacob at Bethel (Genesis 28:18), at Padan-aram (Genesis 35:4), and on the occasion of parting with Laban (Genesis 31:45); by Joshua at the place on the banks of the Jordan where the people first "lodged" after crossing the river (Joshua 6:8), and also in "the midst of Jordan," where he erected another set of twelve stones (Joshua 4:1); and by Samuel at "Ebenezer" (1 Samuel 7:12).

Category:Precious Stones''' - Frequently referred to (1 Kings 10:2; 2 Chronicles 3:6; 2 Chronicles 9:10; Revelation 18:16; Revelation 21:19). There are about twenty different names of such stones in the Bible. They are figuratively introduced to denote value, beauty, durability (Song of Songs 5:14; Isaiah 54:11, Isaiah 54:12; Lamentations 4:7).

Category:Stork''' - Heb. hasidah, meaning "kindness," indicating thus the character of the bird, which is noted for its affection for its young. It is in the list of birds forbidden to be eaten by the Levitical law (Leviticus 11:19; Deuteronomy 14:18). It is like the crane, but larger in size. Two species are found in Palestine, the white, which are dispersed in pairs over the whole country; and the black, which live in marshy places and in great flocks. They migrate to Palestine periodically (about the 22nd of March). Jeremiah alludes to this (Jeremiah 8:7). At the appointed time they return with unerring sagacity to their old haunts, and re-occupy their old nests. "There is a well-authenticated account of the devotion of a stork which, at the burning of the town of Delft, after repeated and unsuccessful attempts to carry off her young, chose rather to remain and perish with them than leave them to their fate. Well might the Romans call it the pia avis!" In Job 39:13 (A.V.), instead of the expression "or wings and feathers unto the ostrich" (marg., "the feathers of the stork and ostrich"), the Revised Category:Version has "are her pinions and feathers kindly" (marg., instead of "kindly," reads "like the stork's"). The object of this somewhat obscure verse seems to be to point out a contrast between the stork, as distinguished for her affection for her young, and the ostrich, as distinguished for her indifference. Zechariah (Zechariah 5:9) alludes to the beauty and power of the stork's wings.

Category:Strain at''' - Simply a misprint for "strain out" (Matthew 23:24).

Category:Stranger''' - This word generally denotes a person from a foreign land residing in Palestine. Such persons enjoyed many privileges in common with the Jews, but still were separate from them. The relation of the Jews to strangers was regulated by special laws (Deuteronomy 23:3; Deuteronomy 24:14; Deuteronomy 25:5; Deuteronomy 26:10). A special signification is also sometimes attached to this word. In Genesis 23:4 it denotes one resident in a foreign land; Exodus 23:9, one who is not a Jew; Numbers 3:10, one who is not of the family of Aaron; Psalms 69:8, an alien or an unknown person. The Jews were allowed to purchase strangers as slaves (Leviticus 25:44, Leviticus 25:45), and to take usury from them (Deuteronomy 23:20).

Category:Straw''' - Used in brick-making (Exodus 5:7). Used figuratively in Job 41:27; Isaiah 11:7; Isaiah 25:10; Isaiah 65:25.

Category:Stealing''' - See THEFT.

Category:Stoning''' - A form of punishment (Leviticus 20:2; Leviticus 24:14; Deuteronomy 13:10; Deuteronomy 17:5; Deuteronomy 22:21) prescribed for certain offenses. Of Achan (Joshua 7:25), Naboth (1 Kings 21), Stephen (Acts 7:59), Paul (Acts 14:19; 2 Corinthians 11:25).

Category:Stream of Egypt''' - (Isaiah 27:12), the Wady el-'Arish, called also "the river of Egypt," R.V., "brook of Egypt" (Numbers 34:5; Joshua 15:4; 2 Kings 24:7). It is the natural boundary of Egypt. Occasionally in winter, when heavy rains have fallen among the mountains inland, it becomes a turbulent rushing torrent. The present boundary between Egypt and Palestine is about midway between el-'Arish and Gaza.

Category:Street''' - The street called "Straight" at Damascus (Acts 9:11) is "a long broad street, running from east to west, about a mile in length, and forming the principal thoroughfare in the city." In Oriental towns streets are usually narrow and irregular and filthy (Psalms 18:42; Isaiah 10:6). "It is remarkable," says Porter, "that all the important cities of Palestine and Syria Samaria, Caesarea, Gerasa, Bozrah, Damascus, Palmyra, had their 'straight streets' running through the centre of the city, and lined with stately rows of columns. The most perfect now remaining are those of Palmyra and Gerasa, where long ranges of the columns still stand." Through Samaria, etc.

Category:Stripes''' - As a punishment were not to exceed forty (Deuteronomy 25:1), and hence arose the custom of limiting them to thirty-nine (2 Corinthians 11:24). Paul claimed the privilege of a Roman citizen in regard to the infliction of stripes (Acts 16:37, Acts 16:38; Acts 22:25). Our Lord was beaten with stripes (Matthew 27:26).

Category:Subscriptions''' - The subscriptions to Paul's epistles are no part of the original. In their present form they are ascribed to Euthalius, a bishop of the fifth century. Some of them are obviously incorrect.

Category:Suburbs''' - The immediate vicinity of a city or town (Numbers 35:3, Numbers 35:7; Ezekiel 45:2). In 2 Kings 23:11 the Hebrew word there used (parvarim) occurs nowhere else. The Revised Category:Version renders it "precincts." The singular form of this Hebrew word (parvar) is supposed by some to be the same as Parbar (q.v.), which occurs twice in 1 Chronicles 26:18.

Category:Succoth''' - Booths. (1.) The first encampment of the Israelites after leaving Ramesses (Exodus 12:37); the civil name of Pithom (q.v.). (2.) A city on the east of Jordan, identified with Tell Dar'ala, a high mound, a mass of debris, in the plain north of Jabbok and about one mile from it (Joshua 13:27). Here Jacob (Genesis 32:17, Genesis 32:30; Genesis 33:17), on his return from Padan-aram after his interview with Esau, built a house for himself and made booths for his cattle. The princes of this city churlishly refused to afford help to Gideon and his 300 men when "faint yet pursuing" they followed one of the bands of the fugitive Midianites after the great victory at Gilboa. After overtaking and routing this band at Karkor, Gideon on his return visited the rulers of the city with severe punishment. "He took the elders of the city, and thorns of the wilderness and briers, and with them he taught the men of Succoth" (Judges 8:13). At this place were erected the foundries for casting the metal-work for the temple (1 Kings 7:46).

Category:Succoth-benoth''' - Tents of daughters, supposed to be the name of a Babylonian deity, the goddess Zir-banit, the wife of Merodach, worshipped by the colonists in Samaria (2 Kings 17:30).

Category:Sukkiims''' - Dwellers in tents, (Vulg. and LXX., "troglodites;" i.e., cave-dwellers in the hills along the Red Sea). Shiskak's army, with which he marched against Jerusalem, was composed partly of this tribe (2 Chronicles 12:3).

Category:Sun''' - (Heb. shemesh ), first mentioned along with the moon as the two great luminaries of heaven (Genesis 1:14). By their motions and influence they were intended to mark and divide times and seasons. The worship of the sun was one of the oldest forms of false religion (Job 31:26, Job 31:27), and was common among the Egyptians and Chaldeans and other pagan nations. The Jews were warned against this form of idolatry (Deuteronomy 4:19; Deuteronomy 17:3; compare 2 Kings 23:11; Jeremiah 19:13).

Category:Suph''' - (Deuteronomy 1:1, R.V.; marg., "some ancient versions have the Red Sea," as in the A.V.). Some identify it with Suphah (Numbers 21:14, marg., A.V.) as probably the name of a place. Others identify it with es - Sufah = Maaleh-acrabbim (Joshua 15:3), and others again with Zuph (1 Samuel 9:5). It is most probable, however, that, in accordance with the ancient versions, this word is to be regarded as simply an abbreviation of Yam-suph, i.e., the "Red Sea."

Category:Suphah''' - (Numbers 21:14, marg.; also R.V.), a place at the south-eastern corner of the Dead Sea, the Ghor es-Safieh. This name is found in an ode quoted from the "Book of the Wars of the Lord," probably a collection of odes commemorating the triumphs of God's people (compare Numbers 21:14, Numbers 21:17, Numbers 21:18, Numbers 21:27).

Category:Supper''' - The principal meal of the day among the Jews. It was partaken of in the early part of the evening (Mark 6:21; John 12:2; 1 Corinthians 11:21). (See LORD'S SUPPER.)

Category:Surety''' - One who becomes responsible for another. Christ is the surety of the better covenant (Hebrews 7:22). In him we have the assurance that all its provisions will be fully and faithfully carried out. Solomon warns against incautiously becoming security for another (Proverbs 6:1; Proverbs 11:15; Proverbs 17:18; Proverbs 20:16).

Category:Susanchites''' - The inhabitants of Shushan, who joined the other adversaries of the Jews in the attempt to prevent the rebuilding of the temple (Ezra 4:9).

Category:Susanna''' - Lily, with other pious women, ministered to Jesus (Luke 8:3).

Category:Susi''' - The father of Gaddi, who was one of the twelve spies (Numbers 13:11).

Category:Swallow''' - (1.) Heb. sis (Isaiah 38:14; Jeremiah 8:7), the Arabic for the swift, which "is a regular migrant, returning in myriads every spring, and so suddenly that while one day not a swift can be seen in the country, on the next they have over-spread the whole land, and fill the air with their shrill cry." The swift (cypselus) is ordinarily classed with the swallow, which it resembles in its flight, habits, and migration. (2.) Heb. deror, i.e., "the bird of freedom" (Psalms 84:3; Proverbs 26:2), properly rendered swallow, distinguished for its swiftness of flight, its love of freedom, and the impossibility of retaining it in captivity. In Isaiah 38:14 and Jeremiah 8:7 the word thus rendered ( 'augr ) properly means "crane" (as in the R.V.).

Category:Swan''' - Mentioned in the list of unclean birds (Leviticus 11:18; Deuteronomy 14:16), is sometimes met with in the Jordan and the Sea of Galilee.

Category:Swelling''' - Of Jordan (Jeremiah 12:5), literally the "pride" of Jordan (as in R.V.), i.e., the luxuriant thickets of tamarisks, poplars, reeds, etc., which were the lair of lions and other beasts of prey. The reference is not to the overflowing of the river banks. (Compare Jeremiah 49:19; Jeremiah 50:44; Zechariah 11:3).

Category:Swine''' - (Heb. hazir ), regarded as the most unclean and the most abhorred of all animals (Leviticus 11:7; Isaiah 65:4; Isaiah 66:3, Isaiah 66:17; Luke 15:15, Luke 15:16). A herd of swine were drowned in the Sea of Galilee (Luke 8:32, Luke 8:33). Spoken of figuratively in Matthew 7:6 (see Proverbs 11:22). It is frequently mentioned as a wild animal, and is evidently the wild boar (Arab. khanzir ), which is common among the marshes of the Jordan valley (Psalms 80:13).

Category:Sword''' - Of the Hebrew was pointed, sometimes two-edged, was worn in a sheath, and suspended from the girdle (Exodus 32:27; 1 Samuel 31:4; 1 Chronicles 21:27; Psalms 149:6; Proverbs 5:4; Ezekiel 16:40; Ezekiel 21:3). It is a symbol of divine chastisement (Deuteronomy 32:25; Psalms 7:12; Psalms 78:62), and of a slanderous tongue (Psalms 57:4; Psalms 64:3; Proverbs 12:18). The word of God is likened also to a sword (Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 6:17; Revelation 1:16). Gideon's watchword was, "The sword of the Lord" (Judges 7:20).

Category:Sycamine Tree''' - Mentioned only in Luke 17:6. It is rendered by Luther "mulberry tree" (q.v.), which is most probably the correct rendering. It is found of two species, the black mulberry (Morus nigra) and the white mulberry (Mourea), which are common in Palestine. The silk-worm feeds on their leaves. The rearing of them is one of the chief industries of the peasantry of Lebanon and of other parts of the land. It is of the order of the fig-tree. Some contend, however, that this name denotes the sycamore-fig of Luke 19:4.

Category:Sycamore''' - More properly sycomore (Heb. shikmoth and shikmim, Gr. sycomoros ), a tree which in its general character resembles the fig-tree, while its leaves resemble those of the mulberry; hence it is called the fig-mulberry (Ficus sycomorus). At Jericho, Zacchaeus climbed a sycomore-tree to see Jesus as he passed by (Luke 19:4). This tree was easily destroyed by frost (Psalms 78:47), and therefore it is found mostly in the "vale" (1 Kings 10:27; 2 Chronicles 1:15 : in both passages the R.V. has properly "lowland"), i.e., the "low country," the shephelah, where the climate is mild. Amos (Amos 7:14) refers to its fruit, which is of an inferior character; so also probably Jeremiah (Jeremiah 24:2). It is to be distinguished from our sycamore (the Acer pseudo-platanus), which is a species of maple often called a plane-tree.

Category:Sychar''' - Liar or drunkard (see Isaiah 28:1, Isaiah 28:7), has been from the time of the Crusaders usually identified with Sychem or Shechem (John 4:5). It has now, however, as the result of recent explorations, been identified with 'Askar, a small Samaritan town on the southern base of Ebal, about a mile to the north of Jacob's well.

Category:Sychem''' - See SHECHEM.

Category:Syene''' - Opening (Ezekiel 29:10; Ezekiel 30:6), a town of Egypt, on the borders of Ethiopia, now called Assouan, on the right bank of the Nile, notable for its quarries of beautiful red granite called "syenite." It was the frontier town of Egypt in the south, as Migdol was in the north-east.

Category:Synagogue''' - (Gr. sunagoge, i.e., "an assembly"), found only once in the Authorized Category:Version of Psalms 74:8, where the margin of Revised Category:Version has "places of assembly," which is probably correct; for while the origin of synagogues is unknown, it may well be supposed that buildings or tents for the accommodation of worshippers may have existed in the land from an early time, and thus the system of synagogues would be gradually developed. Some, however, are of opinion that it was specially during the Babylonian captivity that the system of synagogue worship, if not actually introduced, was at least reorganized on a systematic plan (Ezekiel 8:1; Ezekiel 14:1). The exiles gathered together for the reading of the law and the prophets as they had opportunity, and after their return synagogues were established all over the land (Ezra 8:15; Nehemiah 8:2). In after years, when the Jews were dispersed abroad, wherever they went they erected synagogues and kept up the stated services of worship (Acts 9:20; Acts 13:5; Acts 17:1; Acts 17:17; Acts 18:4). The form and internal arrangements of the synagogue would greatly depend on the wealth of the Jews who erected it, and on the place where it was built. "Yet there are certain traditional peculiarities which have doubtless united together by a common resemblance the Jewish synagogues of all ages and countries. The arrangements for the women's place in a separate gallery or behind a partition of lattice-work; the desk in the centre, where the reader, like Ezra in ancient days, from his 'pulpit of wood,' may 'open the book in the sight of all of people and read in the book of the law of God distinctly, and give the sense, and cause them to understand the reading' (Nehemiah 8:4, Nehemiah 8:8); the carefully closed ark on the side of the building nearest to Jerusalem, for the preservation of the rolls or manuscripts of the law; the seats all round the building, whence 'the eyes of all them that are in the synagogue' may 'be fastened' on him who speaks (Luke 4:20); the 'chief seats' (Matthew 23:6) which were appropriated to the 'ruler' or 'rulers' of the synagogue, according as its organization may have been more or less complete;", these were features common to all the synagogues. Where perfected into a system, the services of the synagogue, which were at the same hours as those of the temple, consisted, (1.) of prayer, which formed a kind of liturgy, there were in all eighteen prayers; (2.) the reading of the Scriptures in certain definite portions; and (3.) the exposition of the portions read. (See Luke 4:15, Luke 4:22; Acts 13:14.) The synagogue was also sometimes used as a court of judicature, in which the rulers presided (Matthew 10:17; Mark 5:22; Luke 12:11; Luke 21:12; Acts 13:15; Acts 22:19); also as public schools. The establishment of synagogues wherever the Jews were found in sufficient numbers helped greatly to keep alive Israel's hope of the coming of the Messiah, and to prepare the way for the spread of the gospel in other lands. The worship of the Christian Church was afterwards modeled after that of the synagogue. Christ and his disciples frequently taught in the synagogues (Matthew 13:54; Mark 6:2; John 18:20; Acts 13:5, Acts 13:15, Acts 13:44; Acts 14:1; Acts 17:2, Acts 17:10, Acts 17:17; Acts 18:4, Acts 18:26; Acts 19:8). To be "put out of the synagogue," a phrase used by John (John 9:22; John 12:42; John 16:2), means to be excommunicated.

Category:Syntyche''' - Fortunate; affable, a female member of the church at Philippi, whom Paul beseeches to be of one mind with Euodias (Philippians 4:2, Philippians 4:3).

Category:Syracuse''' - A city on the south-east coast of Sicily, where Paul landed and remained three days when on his way to Rome (Acts 28:12). It was distinguished for its magnitude and splendour. It is now a small town of some 13,000 inhabitants.

Category:Syria''' - (Heb. Aram ), the name in the Old Testament given to the whole country which lay to the north-east of Phoenicia, extending to beyond the Euphrates and the Tigris. Mesopotamia is called (Genesis 24:10; Deuteronomy 23:4) Aram-naharain (= Syria of the two rivers), also Padan-aram (Genesis 25:20). Other portions of Syria were also known by separate names, as Aram-maahah (1 Chronicles 19:6), Aram-beth-rehob (2 Samuel 10:6), Aram-zobah (2 Samuel 10:6, 2 Samuel 10:8). All these separate little kingdoms afterwards became subject to Damascus. In the time of the Romans, Syria included also a part of Palestine and Asia Minor. "From the historic annals now accessible to us, the history of Syria may be divided into three periods:, The first, the period when the power of the Pharaohs was dominant over the fertile fields or plains of Syria and the merchant cities of Tyre and Sidon, and when such mighty conquerors as Thothmes III. and Rameses II. could claim dominion and levy tribute from the nations from the banks of the Euphrates to the borders of the Libyan desert. Second, this was followed by a short period of independence, when the Jewish nation in the south was growing in power, until it reached its early zenith in the golden days of Solomon; and when Tyre and Sidon were rich cities, sending their traders far and wide, over land and sea, as missionaries of civilization, while in the north the confederate tribes of the Hittites held back the armies of the kings of Assyria. The third, and to us most interesting, period is that during which the kings of Assyria were dominant over the plains of Syria; when Tyre, Sidon, Ashdod, and Jerusalem bowed beneath the conquering armies of Shalmaneser, Sargon, and Sennacherib; and when at last Memphis and Thebes yielded to the power of the rulers of Nineveh and Babylon, and the kings of Assyria completed with terrible fulness the bruising of the reed of Egypt so clearly foretold by the Hebrew prophets." - Boscawen.

Category:Syriac''' - (2 Kings 18:26; Ezra 4:7; Daniel 2:4), more correctly rendered "Aramaic," including both the Syriac and the Chaldee languages. In the New Testament there are several Syriac words, such as "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" (Mark 15:34; Matthew 27:46 gives the Heb. form, " Eli, Eli "), " Raca " (Matthew 5:22), " Ephphatha " (Mark 7:34), " Maran-atha " (1 Corinthians 16:22). A Syriac version of the Old Testament, containing all the canonical books, along with some apocryphal books (called the Peshitto, i.e., simple translation, and not a paraphrase), was made early in the second century, and is therefore the first Christian translation of the Old Testament. It was made directly from the original, and not from the LXX. Category:Version. The New Testament was also translated from Greek into Syriac about the same time. It is noticeable that this version does not contain the Second and Third Epistles of John, 2 Peter, Jude, and the Apocalypse. These were, however, translated subsequently and placed in the version. (See VERSION.)

Category:Syrophenician''' - "a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation" (Mark 7:26), i.e., a Gentile born in the Phoenician part of Syria - Syrophenicia. (See PHENICIA.) When our Lord retired into the borderland of Tyre and Sidon (Matthew 15:21), a Syro-phoenician woman came to him, and earnestly besought him, in behalf of her daughter, who was grievously afflicted with a demon. Her faith in him was severely tested by his silence (Matthew 15:23), refusal (Matthew 15:24), and seeming reproach that it was not meet to cast the children's bread to dogs (Matthew 15:26). But it stood the test, and her petition was graciously granted, because of the greatness of her faith (Matthew 15:28).

Category:Taanach''' - A sandy place, an ancient royal city of the Canaanites, on the south-western border of the plain of Esdraelon, 4 miles south of Megiddo. Its king was conquered by Joshua (Joshua 12:21). It was assigned to the Levites of the family of Kohath (Joshua 17:11; Joshua 21:25). It is mentioned in the song of Deborah (Judges 5:19). It is identified with the small modern village of Ta'annuk.

Category:Taanath-shiloh''' - Approach to Shiloh, a place on the border of Ephraim (Joshua 16:6), probably the modern T'ana, a ruin 7 miles south-east of Shechem, on the ridge east of the Mukhnah plain.

Category:Tabbaoth''' - Impressions; rings, "the children of," returned from the Captivity (Ezra 2:43).

Category:Tabbath''' - Famous, a town in the tribe of Ephraim (Judges 7:22), to the south of Bethshean, near the Jordan.

Category:Tabeal''' - Goodness of God, the father of one whom the kings of Syria and Samaria in vain attempted to place on the throne of Ahaz (Isaiah 7:6).

Category:Tabeel''' - A Persian governor of Samaria, who joined others in the attempt to prevent the rebuilding of Jerusalem (Ezra 4:7).

Category:Taberah''' - Burning, a place in the wilderness of Paran, where the "fire of the Lord" consumed the murmuring Israelites (Numbers 11:3; Deuteronomy 9:22). It was also called Kibroth-hattaavah (q.v.).

Category:Tabering''' - Playing on a small drum or tabret. In Nahum 2:7, where alone it occurs, it means beating on the breast, as players beat on the tabret.

Category:Tabernacle''' - (1.) A house or dwelling-place (Job 5:24; Job 18:6, etc.). (2.) A portable shrine (compare Acts 19:24) containing the image of Moloch (Amos 5:26; marg. and R.V., "Siccuth"). (3.) The human body (2 Corinthians 5:1, 2 Corinthians 5:4); a tent, as opposed to a permanent dwelling. (4.) The sacred tent (Heb. mishkan, "the dwelling-place"); the movable tent-temple which Moses erected for the service of God, according to the "pattern" which God himself showed to him on the mount (Exodus 25:9; Hebrews 8:5). It is called "the tabernacle of the congregation," rather "of meeting", i.e., where God promised to meet with Israel (Exodus 29:42); the "tabernacle of the testimony" (Exodus 38:21; Numbers 1:50), which does not, however, designate the whole structure, but only the enclosure which contained the "ark of the testimony" (Exodus 25:16, Exodus 25:22; Numbers 9:15); the "tabernacle of witness" (Numbers 17:8); the "house of the Lord" (Deuteronomy 23:18); the "temple of the Lord" (Joshua 6:24); a "sanctuary" (Exodus 25:8). A particular account of the materials which the people provided for the erection and of the building itself is recorded in Ex. 25 - 40. The execution of the plan mysteriously given to Moses was entrusted to Bezaleel and Aholiab, who were specially endowed with wisdom and artistic skill, probably gained in Egypt, for this purpose (Exodus 35:30). The people provided materials for the tabernacle so abundantly that Moses was under the necessity of restraining them (Exodus 36:6). These stores, from which they so liberally contributed for this purpose, must have consisted in a great part of the gifts which the Egyptians so readily bestowed on them on the eve of the Exodus (Exodus 12:35, Exodus 12:36). See map, The Tabernacle Unveiled The tabernacle was a rectangular enclosure, in length about 45 feet (i.e., reckoning a cubit at 18 inches) and in breadth and height about 15. Its two sides and its western end were made of boards of acacia wood, placed on end, resting in sockets of brass, the eastern end being left open (Exodus 26:22). This framework was covered with four coverings, the first of linen, in which figures of the symbolic cherubim were wrought with needlework in blue and purple and scarlet threads, and probably also with threads of gold (Exodus 26:1; Exodus 36:8). Above this was a second covering of twelve curtains of black goats'-hair cloth, reaching down on the outside almost to the ground (Exodus 26:7). The third covering was of rams' skins dyed red, and the fourth was of badgers' skins (Heb. tahash, i.e., the dugong, a species of seal), Exodus 25:5; Exodus 26:14; Exodus 35:7, Exodus 35:23; Exodus 36:19; Exodus 39:34. Internally it was divided by a veil into two chambers, the exterior of which was called the holy place, also "the sanctuary" (Hebrews 9:2) and the "first tabernacle" (Hebrews 9:6); and the interior, the holy of holies, "the holy place," "the Holiest," the "second tabernacle" (Exodus 28:29; Hebrews 9:3, Hebrews 9:7). The veil separating these two chambers was a double curtain of the finest workmanship, which was never passed except by the high priest once a year, on the great Day of Atonement. The holy place was separated from the outer court which enclosed the tabernacle by a curtain, which hung over the six pillars which stood at the east end of the tabernacle, and by which it was entered. The order as well as the typical character of the services of the tabernacle are recorded in Heb. 9; Hebrews 10:19. The holy of holies, a cube of 10 cubits, contained the "ark of the testimony", i.e., the oblong chest containing the two tables of stone, the pot of manna, and Aaron's rod that budded. The holy place was the western and larger chamber of the tabernacle. Here were placed the table for the shewbread, the golden candlestick, and the golden altar of incense. Round about the tabernacle was a court, enclosed by curtains hung upon sixty pillars (Exodus 27:9). This court was 150 feet long and 75 feet broad. Within it were placed the altar of burnt offering, which measured 7 1/2 feet in length and breadth and 4 1/2 feet high, with horns at the four corners, and the laver of brass (Exodus 30:18), which stood between the altar and the tabernacle. The whole tabernacle was completed in seven months. On the first day of the first month of the second year after the Exodus, it was formally set up, and the cloud of the divine presence descended on it (Ex. 39:22-43; 40:1-38). It cost 29 talents 730 shekels of gold, 100 talents 1,775 shekels of silver, 70 talents 2,400 shekels of brass (Exodus 38:24). The tabernacle was so constructed that it could easily be taken down and conveyed from place to place during the wanderings in the wilderness. See map, The Tabernacle in the Wilderness The first encampment of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan was at Gilgal, and there the tabernacle remained for seven years (Joshua 4:19). It was afterwards removed to Shiloh (Joshua 18:1), where it remained during the time of the Judges, till the days of Eli, when the ark, having been carried out into the camp when the Israelites were at war with the Philistines, was taken by the enemy (1 Sam. 4), and was never afterwards restored to its place in the tabernacle. The old tabernacle erected by Moses in the wilderness was transferred to Nob (1 Samuel 21:1), and after the destruction of that city by Saul (1 Samuel 22:9; 1 Chronicles 16:39, 1 Chronicles 16:40), to Gibeon. It is mentioned for the last time in 1 Chronicles 21:29. A new tabernacle was erected by David at Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:17; 1 Chronicles 16:1), and the ark was brought from Perez-uzzah and deposited in it (2 Samuel 6:8; 2 Chronicles 1:4). The word thus rendered ( 'ohel ) in Exodus 33:7 denotes simply a tent, probably Moses' own tent, for the tabernacle was not yet erected.

Category:Feast of Tabernacles''' - The third of the great annual festivals of the Jews (Leviticus 23:33). It is also called the "feast of ingathering" (Exodus 23:16; Deuteronomy 16:13). It was celebrated immediately after the harvest, in the month Tisri, and the celebration lasted for eight days (Leviticus 23:33). During that period the people left their homes and lived in booths formed of the branches of trees. The sacrifices offered at this time are mentioned in Num. 29:13-38. It was at the time of this feast that Solomon's temple was dedicated (1 Kings 8:2). Mention is made of it after the return from the Captivity. This feast was designed (1.) to be a memorial of the wilderness wanderings, when the people dwelt in booths (Leviticus 23:43), and (2.) to be a harvest thanksgiving (Nehemiah 8:9). The Jews, at a later time, introduced two appendages to the original festival, viz., (1.) that of drawing water from the Pool of Siloam, and pouring it upon the altar (John 7:2, John 7:37), as a memorial of the water from the rock in Horeb; and (2.) of lighting the lamps at night, a memorial of the pillar of fire by night during their wanderings. "The feast of Tabernacles, the harvest festival of the Jewish Church, was the most popular and important festival after the Captivity. At Jerusalem it was a gala day. It was to the autumn pilgrims, who arrived on the 14th (of the month Tisri, the feast beginning on the 15th) day, like entrance into a silvan city. Roofs and courtyards, streets and squares, roads and gardens, were green with boughs of citron and myrtle, palm and willow. The booths recalled the pilgrimage through the wilderness. The ingathering of fruits prophesied of the spiritual harvest." Valling's Jesus Christ, p. 133.

Category:Tabitha''' - (in Greek called Dorcas ), gazelle, a disciple at Joppa. She was distinguished for her alms-deeds and good works. Peter, who was sent for from Lydda on the occasion of her death, prayed over the dead body, and said, "Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes and sat up; and Peter "gave her his hand, and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive" (Acts 9:36).

Category:Tables''' - (Mark 7:4) means banqueting-couches or benches, on which the Jews reclined when at meals. This custom, along with the use of raised tables like ours, was introduced among the Jews after the Captivity. Before this they had, properly speaking, no table. That which served the purpose was a skin or piece of leather spread out on the carpeted floor. Sometimes a stool was placed in the middle of this skin. (See ABRAHAM'S BOSOM; See BANQUET; See MEALS.)

Category:Tabor''' - A height. (1.) Now Jebel et-Tur, a cone-like prominent mountain, 11 miles west of the Sea of Galilee. It is about 1,843 feet high. The view from the summit of it is said to be singularly extensive and grand. This is alluded to in Psalms 89:12; Jeremiah 46:18. It was here that Barak encamped before the battle with Sisera (q.v.) Judges 4:6. There is an old tradition, which, however, is unfounded, that it was the scene of the transfiguration of our Lord. (See HERMON.) "The prominence and isolation of Tabor, standing, as it does, on the border-land between the northern and southern tribes, between the mountains and the central plain, made it a place of note in all ages, and evidently led the psalmist to associate it with Hermon, the one emblematic of the south, the other of the north." There are some who still hold that this was the scene of the transfiguration (q.v.). (2.) A town of Zebulun (1 Chronicles 6:77). (3.) The "plain of Tabor" (1 Samuel 10:3) should be, as in the Revised Category:Version, "the oak of Tabor." This was probably the Allon-bachuth of Genesis 35:8.

Category:Tablet''' - Probably a string of beads worn round the neck (Exodus 35:22; Numbers 31:50). In Isaiah 3:20 the Hebrew word means a perfume-box, as it is rendered in the Revised Category:Version.

Category:Tabret''' - (Heb. toph ), a timbrel (q.v.) or tambourine, generally played by women (Genesis 31:27; 1 Samuel 10:5; 1 Samuel 18:6). In Job 17:6 the word (Heb. topheth ) "tabret" should be, as in the Revised Category:Version, "an open abhorring" (marg., "one in whose face they spit;" lit., "a spitting in the face").

Category:Tabrimon''' - Good is Rimmon, the father of Benhadad, king of Syria (1 Kings 15:18).

Category:Taches''' - Hooks or clasps by which the tabernacle curtains were connected (Exodus 26:6, Exodus 26:11, Exodus 26:33; Exodus 35:11).

Category:Tachmonite''' - =Hachmonite a name given to Jashobeam (2 Samuel 23:8; compare 1 Chronicles 11:11).

Category:Tackling''' - (Isaiah 33:23), the ropes attached to the mast of a ship. In Acts 27:19 this word means generally the furniture of the ship or the "gear" (Acts 27:17), all that could be removed from the ship.

Category:Tadmor''' - Palm, a city built by Solomon "in the wilderness" (2 Chronicles 8:4). In 1 Kings 9:18, where the word occurs in the Authorized Category:Version, the Hebrew text and the Revised Category:Version read "Tamar," which is properly a city on the southern border of Palestine and toward the wilderness (compare Ezekiel 47:19; Ezekiel 48:28). In 2 Chronicles 8:14 Tadmor is mentioned in connection with Hamath-zobah. It is called Palmyra by the Greeks and Romans. It stood in the great Syrian wilderness, 176 miles from Damascus and 130 from the Mediterranean and was the centre of a vast commercial traffic with Western Asia. It was also an important military station. (See SOLOMON.) "Remains of ancient temples and palaces, surrounded by splendid colonnades of white marble, many of which are yet standing, and thousands of prostrate pillars, scattered over a large extent of space, attest the ancient magnificence of this city of palms, surpassing that of the renowned cities of Greece and Rome."

Category:Tahapanes''' - =Tahpanhes=Tehaphnehes (called "Daphne" by the Greeks, now Tell Defenneh), an ancient Egyptian city, on the Tanitic branch of the Nile, about 16 miles from Pelusium. The Jews from Jerusalem fled to this place after the death of Gedaliah (q.v.), and settled there for a time (Jeremiah 2:16; Jeremiah 43:7; Jeremiah 44:1; Jeremiah 46:14). A platform of brick-work, which there is every reason to believe was the pavement at the entry of Pharaoh's palace, has been discovered at this place. "Here," says the discoverer, Mr. Petrie, "the ceremony described by Jeremiah Jeremiah 43:8; "brick-kiln", i.e., pavement of brick] took place before the chiefs of the fugitives assembled on the platform, and here Nebuchadnezzar spread his royal pavilion" (R.V., "brickwork").

Category:Tahpenes''' - The wife of Pharaoh, who gave her sister in marriage to Hadad the Edomite (1 Kings 11:19, 1 Kings 11:20).

Category:Tahtim-hodshi''' - The land of the newly inhabited, (2 Samuel 24:6). It is conjectured that, instead of this word, the reading should be, "the Hittites of Kadesh," the Hittite capital, on the Orontes. It was apparently some region east of the Jordan and north of Gilead.

Category:Tale''' - (1.) Heb. tokhen, "a task," as weighed and measured out = tally, i.e., the number told off; the full number (Exodus 5:18; see 1 Samuel 18:27; 1 Chronicles 9:28). In Ezekiel 45:11 rendered "measure." (2.) Heb. hegeh, "a thought;" "meditation" (Psalms 90:9); meaning properly "as a whisper of sadness," which is soon over, or "as a thought." The LXX. and Vulgate render it "spider;" the Authorized Category:Version and Revised Category:Version, "as a tale" that is told. In Job 37:2 this word is rendered "sound;" Revised Category:Version margin, "muttering;" and in Ezekiel 2:10, "mourning."

Category:Talent''' - Of silver contained 3,000 shekels (Exodus 38:25, Exodus 38:26), and was equal to 94 3/7 lb. avoirdupois. The Greek talent, however, as in the LXX., was only 82 1/4 lb. It was in the form of a circular mass, as the Hebrew name kikkar denotes. A talent of gold was double the weight of a talent of silver (2 Samuel 12:30). Parable of the talents (Matthew 18:24; Matthew 25:15).

Category:Talitha Cumi''' - (Mark 5:41), a Syriac or Aramaic expression, meaning, "Littlemaid, arise." Peter, who was present when the miracle was wrought, recalled the actual words used by our Lord, and told them to Mark.

Category:Talmai''' - Abounding in furrows. (1.) One of the Anakim of Hebron, who were slain by the men of Judah under Caleb (Numbers 13:22; Joshua 15:14; Judges 1:10). (2.) A king of Geshur, to whom Absalom fled after he had put Amnon to death (2 Samuel 3:3; 2 Samuel 13:37). His daughter, Maachah, was one of David's wives, and the mother of Absalom (1 Chronicles 3:2).

Category:Talmon''' - Oppressed. (1.) A Levite porter (1 Chronicles 9:17; Nehemiah 11:19). (2.) One whose descendants returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem (Ezra 2:42; Nehemiah 7:45); probably the same as (1.).

Category:Tamar''' - Palm. (1.) A place mentioned by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 47:19; Ezekiel 48:28), on the southeastern border of Palestine. Some suppose this was "Tadmor" (q.v.). (2.) The daughter-in-law of Judah, to whose eldest son, Er, she was married (Genesis 38:6). After her husband's death, she was married to Onan, his brother (Genesis 38:8), and on his death, Judah promised to her that his third son, Shelah, would become her husband. This promise was not fulfilled, and hence Tamar's revenge and Judah's great guilt (Gen. 38:12-30). (3.) A daughter of David (2 Sam. 13:1-32; 1 Chronicles 3:9), whom Amnon shamefully outraged and afterwards "hated exceedingly," thereby illustrating the law of human nature noticed even by the heathen, "Proprium humani ingenii est odisse quem laeseris", i.e., "It is the property of human nature to hate one whom you have injured." (4.) A daughter of Absalom (2 Samuel 14:27).

Category:Tamarisk''' - Heb. 'eshel (Genesis 21:33; 1 Samuel 22:6; 1 Samuel 31:13, in the R.V.; but in A.V., "grove," "tree"); Arab. asal. Seven species of this tree are found in Palestine. It is a "very graceful tree, with long feathery branches and tufts closely clad with the minuteness of leaves, and surmounted in spring with spikes of beautiful pink blossoms, which seem to envelop the whole tree in one gauzy sheet of colour" (Tristram's Nat. Hist.).

Category:Tammuz''' - A corruption of Dumuzi, the Accadian sun-god (the Adonis of the Greeks), the husband of the goddess Ishtar. In the Chaldean calendar there was a month set apart in honour of this god, the month of June to July, the beginning of the summer solstice. At this festival, which lasted six days, the worshippers, with loud lamentations, bewailed the funeral of the god, they sat "weeping for Tammuz" (Ezekiel 8:14). The name, also borrowed from Chaldea, of one of the months of the Hebrew calendar.

Category:Tanhumeth''' - Consolation, a Netophathite; one of the captains who supported Gedaliah (2 Kings 25:23; Jeremiah 40:8).

Category:Tanis''' - (Ezekiel 30:14, marg.). See ZOAN.

Category:Tappuah''' - Apple-region. (1.) A town in the valley or lowland of Judah; formerly a royal city of the Canaanites (Joshua 12:17; Joshua 15:34). It is now called Tuffuh, about 12 miles west of Jerusalem. (2.) A town on the border of Ephraim (Joshua 16:8). The "land" of Tappuah fell to Manasseh, but the "city" to Ephraim (Joshua 17:8). (3.) En-tappuah - The well of the apple probably one of the springs near Yassuf (Joshua 17:7).

Category:Tarah''' - Stopping; station, an encampment of the Hebrews in the wilderness (Numbers 33:27, Numbers 33:28).

Category:Tares''' - The bearded darnel, mentioned only in Matthew 13:25. It is the Lolium temulentum, a species of rye-grass, the seeds of which are a strong soporific poison. It bears the closest resemblance to wheat till the ear appears, and only then the difference is discovered. It grows plentifully in Syria and Palestine.

Category:Target''' - (1 Samuel 17:6, A.V., after the LXX. and Vulg.), a kind of small shield. The margin has "gorget," a piece of armor for the throat. The Revised Category:Version more correctly renders the Hebrew word (kidon) by "javelin." The same Hebrew word is used in Joshua 8:18 (A.V., "spear;" R.V., "javelin"); Job 39:23 (A.V., "shield;" R.V., "javelin"); Job 41:29 (A.V., "spear;" R.V., "javelin").

Category:Tarshish''' - A Sanscrit or Aryan word, meaning "the sea coast." (1.) One of the "sons" of Javan (Genesis 10:4; 1 Chronicles 1:7). (2.) The name of a place which first comes into notice in the days of Solomon. The question as to the locality of Tarshish has given rise to not a little discussion. Some think there was a Tarshish in the East, on the Indian coast, seeing that "ships of Tarshish" sailed from Eziongeber, on the Red Sea (1 Kings 9:26; 1 Kings 22:48; 2 Chronicles 9:21). Some, again, argue that Carthage was the place so named. There can be little doubt, however, that this is the name of a Phoenician port in Spain, between the two mouths of the Guadalquivir (the name given to the river by the Arabs, and meaning "the great wady" or water-course). It was founded by a Carthaginian colony, and was the farthest western harbour of Tyrian sailors. It was to this port Jonah's ship was about to sail from Joppa. It has well been styled "the Peru of Tyrian adventure;" it abounded in gold and silver mines. It appears that this name also is used without reference to any locality. "Ships of Tarshish" is an expression sometimes denoting simply ships intended for a long voyage (Isaiah 23:1, Isaiah 23:14), ships of a large size (sea-going ships), whatever might be the port to which they sailed. Solomon's ships were so styled (1 Kings 10:22; 1 Kings 22:49).

Category:Tarsus''' - The chief city of Cilicia. It was distinguished for its wealth and for its schools of learning, in which it rivaled, nay, excelled even Athens and Alexandria, and hence was spoken of as "no mean city." It was the native place of the Apostle Paul (Acts 21:39). It stood on the banks of the river Cydnus, about 12 miles north of the Mediterranean. It is said to have been founded by Sardanapalus, king of Assyria. It is now a filthy, ruinous Turkish town, called Tersous. (See PAUL.)

Category:Tartak''' - Prince of darkness, one of the gods of the Arvites, who colonized part of Samaria after the deportation of Israel by Shalmaneser (2 Kings 17:31).

Category:Tartan''' - An Assyrian word, meaning "the commander-in-chief." (1.) One of Sennacherib's messengers to Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:17). (2.) One of Sargon's generals (Isaiah 20:1).

Category:Tatnai''' - Gift, a Persian governor (Heb. pehah, i.e., " satrap ;" modern " pasha ") "on this side the river", i.e., of the whole tract on the west of the Euphrates. This Hebrew title pehah is given to governors of provinces generally. It is given to Nehemiah (Nehemiah 5:14) and to Zerubbabel (Haggai 1:1). It is sometimes translated "captain" (1 Kings 20:24; Daniel 3:2, Daniel 3:3), sometimes also "deputy" (Esther 8:9; Esther 9:3). With others, Tatnai opposed the rebuilding of the temple (Ezra 5:6); but at the command of Darius, he assisted the Jews (Ezra 6:1).

Category:The Three Taverns''' - A place on the great "Appian Way," about 11 miles from Rome, designed for the reception of travelers, as the name indicates. Here Paul, on his way to Rome, was met by a band of Roman Christians (Acts 28:15). The "Tres Tabernae was the first mansio or mutatio, that is, halting-place for relays, from Rome, or the last on the way to the city. At this point three roads run into the Via Appia, that from Tusculum, that from Alba Longa, and that from Antium; so necessarily here would be a halting-place, which took its name from the three shops there, the general store, the blacksmith's, and the refreshment-house Tres Tabernae is translated as Three Taverns, but it more correctly means three shops" (Forbes's Footsteps of St. Paul, p. 20).

Category:Taxes''' - First mentioned in the command (Exodus 30:11) that every Jew from twenty years and upward should pay an annual tax of "half a shekel for an offering to the Lord." This enactment was faithfully observed for many generations (2 Chronicles 24:6; Matthew 17:24). Afterwards, when the people had kings to reign over them, they began, as Samuel had warned them (1 Samuel 8:10), to pay taxes for civil purposes (1 Kings 4:7; 1 Kings 9:15; 1 Kings 12:4). Such taxes, in increased amount, were afterwards paid to the foreign princes that ruled over them. In the New Testament the payment of taxes, imposed by lawful rulers, is enjoined as a duty (Romans 13:1; 1 Peter 2:13, 1 Peter 2:14). Mention is made of the tax (telos) on merchandise and travelers (Matthew 17:25); the annual tax (phoros) on property (Luke 20:22; Luke 23:2); the poll-tax (kensos, "tribute," Matthew 17:25; Matthew 22:17; Mark 12:14); and the temple-tax ("tribute money" = two drachmas = half shekel, Matthew 17:24; compare Exodus 30:13). (See TRIBUTE.)

Category:Taxing''' - (Luke 2:2; R.V., "enrollment"), "when Cyrenius was governor of Syria," is simply a census of the people, or an enrollment of them with a view to their taxation. The decree for the enrollment was the occasion of Joseph and Mary's going up to Bethlehem. It has been argued by some that Cyrenius (q.v.) was governor of Cilicia and Syria both at the time of our Lord's birth and some years afterwards. This decree for the taxing referred to the whole Roman world, and not to Judea alone. (See CENSUS.)

Category:Tebeth''' - (Esther 2:16), a word probably of Persian origin, denoting the cold time of the year; used by the later Jews as denoting the tenth month of the year. Assyrian tebituv, "rain."

Category:Teil Tree''' - (an old name for the lime-tree, the tilia), Isaiah 6:13, the terebinth, or turpentine-tree, the Pistacia terebinthus of botanists. The Hebrew word here used (elah) is rendered oak (q.v.) in Genesis 35:4; Judges 6:11, Judges 6:19; Isaiah 1:29, etc. In Isaiah 61:3 it is rendered in the plural "trees;" Hosea 4:13, "elm" (R.V., "terebinth"). Hosea 4:13, "elm" (R.V., "terebinth"). In 1 Samuel 17:2, 1 Samuel 17:19 it is taken as a proper name, "Elah" (R.V. marg., "terebinth"). "The terebinth of Mamre, or its lineal successor, remained from the days of Abraham till the fourth century of the Christian era, and on its site Constantine erected a Christian church, the ruins of which still remain." This tree "is seldom seen in clumps or groves, never in forests, but stands isolated and weird-like in some bare ravine or on a hill-side where nothing else towers above the low brushwood" (Tristram).

Category:Tekel''' - Weighed (Daniel 5:27).

Category:Tekoah Tekoa''' - Pitching of tents; fastening down, a town of Judah, about 12 miles south of Jerusalem, and visible from the city. From this place Joab procured a "wise woman," who pretended to be in great affliction, and skillfully made her case known to David. Her address to the king was in the form of an apology, similar to that of Nathan (2 Samuel 12:1). The object of Joab was, by the intervention of this woman, to induce David to bring back Absalom to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 14:2, 2 Samuel 14:4, 2 Samuel 14:9). This was also the birth-place of the prophet Amos (Amos 1:1). It is now the village of Tekua, on the top of a hill among ruins, 5 miles south of Bethlehem, and close to Beth-haccerem ("Herod's mountain").

Category:Tel-abib''' - Hill of corn, a place on the river Chebar, the residence of Ezekiel (Ezekiel 3:15). The site is unknown.

Category:Telaim''' - Young lambs, a place at which Saul gathered his army to fight against Amalek (1 Samuel 15:4); probably the same as Telem (2.).

Category:Telassar''' - Or Thelasar, (Isaiah 37:12; 2 Kings 19:12), a province in the south-east of Assyria, probably in Babylonia. Some have identified it with Tel Afer, a place in Mesopotamia, some 30 miles from Sinjar.

Category:Telem''' - Oppression. (1.) A porter of the temple in the time of Ezra (Ezra 10:24). (2.) A town in the southern border of Judah (Joshua 15:24); probably the same as Telaim.

Category:Tel-haresha''' - Hill of the wood, a place in Babylon from which some captive Jews returned to Jerusalem (Ezra 2:59; Nehemiah 7:61).

Category:Tel-melah''' - Hill of salt, a place in Babylon from which the Jews returned (id.).

Category:Tema''' - South; desert, one of the sons of Ishmael, and father of a tribe so called (Genesis 25:15; 1 Chronicles 1:30; Job 6:19; Isaiah 21:14; Jeremiah 25:23) which settled at a place to which he gave his name, some 250 miles south-east of Edom, on the route between Damascus and Mecca, in the northern part of the Arabian peninsula, toward the Syrian desert; the modern Teyma.

Category:Teman''' - Id. (1.) A grandson of Esau, one of the "dukes of Edom" (Genesis 36:11, Genesis 36:15, Genesis 36:42). (2.) A place in Southern Idumea, the land of "the sons of the east," frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. It was noted for the wisdom of its inhabitants (Amos 1:12; Obadiah 1:8; Jeremiah 49:7; Ezekiel 25:13). It was divided from the hills of Paran by the low plain of Arabah (Habakkuk 3:3).

Category:Temanite''' - A man of Teman, the designation of Eliphaz, one of Job's three friends (Job 2:11; Job 22:1).

Category:Temeni''' - One of the sons of Ashur, the father of Tekoa (1 Chronicles 4:6).

Category:Temple''' - First used of the tabernacle, which is called "the temple of the Lord" (1 Samuel 1:9). In the New Testament the word is used figuratively of Christ's human body (John 2:19, John 2:21). Believers are called "the temple of God" (1 Corinthians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 3:17). The Church is designated "an holy temple in the Lord" (Ephesians 2:21). Heaven is also called a temple (Revelation 7:5). We read also of the heathen "temple of the great goddess Diana" (Acts 19:27). This word is generally used in Scripture of the sacred house erected on the summit of Mount Moriah for the worship of God. It is called "the temple" (1 Kings 6:17); "the temple [R.V., 'house'] of the Lord" (2 Kings 11:10); "thy holy temple" (Psalms 79:1); "the house of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 23:5, 2 Chronicles 23:12); "the house of the God of Jacob" (Isaiah 2:3); "the house of my glory" (Isaiah 60:7); an "house of prayer" (Isaiah 56:7; Matthew 21:13); "an house of sacrifice" (2 Chronicles 7:12); "the house of their sanctuary" (2 Chronicles 36:17); "the mountain of the Lord's house" (Isaiah 2:2); "our holy and our beautiful house" (Isaiah 64:11); "the holy mount" (Isaiah 27:13); "the palace for the Lord God" (1 Chronicles 29:1); "the tabernacle of witness" (2 Chronicles 24:6); "Zion" (Psalms 74:2; Psalms 84:7). Christ calls it "my Father's house" (John 2:16).

Category:Solomon's Temple''' - Before his death David had "with all his might" provided materials in great abundance for the building of the temple on the summit of Mount Moriah (1 Chronicles 22:14; 1 Chronicles 29:4; 2 Chronicles 3:1), on the east of the city, on the spot where Abraham had offered up Isaac (Genesis 22:1). In the beginning of his reign Solomon set about giving effect to the desire that had been so earnestly cherished by his father, and prepared additional materials for the building. From subterranean quarries at Jerusalem he obtained huge blocks of stone for the foundations and walls of the temple. These stones were prepared for their places in the building under the eye of Tyrian master-builders. He also entered into a compact with Hiram II., king of Tyre, for the supply of whatever else was needed for the work, particularly timber from the forests of Lebanon, which was brought in great rafts by the sea to Joppa, whence it was dragged to Jerusalem (1 Kings 5). As the hill on which the temple was to be built did not afford sufficient level space, a huge wall of solid masonry of great height, in some places more than 200 feet high, was raised across the south of the hill, and a similar wall on the eastern side, and in the spaces between were erected many arches and pillars, thus raising up the general surface to the required level. Solomon also provided for a sufficient water supply for the temple by hewing in the rocky hill vast cisterns, into which water was conveyed by channels from the "pools" near Bethlehem. One of these cisterns, the "great sea," was capable of containing three millions of gallons. The overflow was led off by a conduit to the Kidron. In all these preparatory undertakings a space of about three years was occupied; and now the process of the erection of the great building began, under the direction of skilled Phoenician builders and workmen, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign, 480 years after the Exodus (1 Kings 6; 2 Chr. 3). Many thousands of labourers and skilled artisans were employed in the work. Stones prepared in the quarries underneath the city (1 Kings 5:17, 1 Kings 5:18) of huge dimension (see QUARRIES) were gradually placed on the massive walls, and closely fitted together without any mortar between, till the whole structure was completed. No sound of hammer or axe or any tool of iron was heard as the structure arose (1 Kings 6:7). "Like some tall palm the noiseless fabric sprang." The building was 60 cubits long, 20 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high. The engineers of the Palestine Exploration Fund, in their explorations around the temple area, discovered what is believed to have been the "chief corner stone" of the temple, "the most interesting stone in the world." It lies at the bottom of the south-eastern angle, and is 3 feet 8 inches high by 14 feet long. It rests on the solid rock at a depth of 79 feet 3 inches below the present surface. (See PINNACLE.) In examining the walls the engineers were "struck with admiration at the vastness of the blocks and the general excellence of the workmanship." At length, in the autumn of the eleventh year of his reign, seven and a half years after it had been begun, the temple was completed in all its architectural magnificence and beauty. For thirteen years there it stood, on the summit of Moriah, silent and unused. The reasons for this strange delay in its consecration are unknown. At the close of these thirteen years preparations for the dedication of the temple were made on a scale of the greatest magnificence. The ark was solemnly brought from the tent in which David had deposited it to the place prepared for it in the temple, and the glory-cloud, the symbol of the divine presence, filled the house. Then Solomon ascended a platform which had been erected for him, in the sight of all the people, and lifting up his hands to heaven poured out his heart to God in prayer (1 Kings 8; 2 Chr. 6, 7). The feast of dedication, which lasted seven days, followed by the feast of tabernacles, marked a new era in the history of Israel. On the eighth day of the feast of tabernacles, Solomon dismissed the vast assemblage of the people, who returned to their homes filled with joy and gladness, "Had Solomon done no other service beyond the building of the temple, he would still have influenced the religious life of his people down to the latest days. It was to them a perpetual reminder and visible symbol of God's presence and protection, a strong bulwark of all the sacred traditions of the law, a witness to duty, an impulse to historic study, an inspiration of sacred song." The temple consisted of, (1.) The oracle or most holy place (1 Kings 6:19; 1 Kings 8:6), called also the "inner house" (1 Kings 6:27), and the "holiest of all" (Hebrews 9:3). It was 20 cubits in length, breadth, and height. It was floored and wainscoted with cedar (1 Kings 6:16), and its walls and floor were overlaid with gold (1 Kings 6:20, 1 Kings 6:21, 1 Kings 6:30). There was a two-leafed door between it and the holy place overlaid with gold (2 Chronicles 4:22); also a veil of blue purple and crimson and fine linen (2 Chronicles 3:14; compare Exodus 26:33). It had no windows (1 Kings 8:12). It was indeed the dwelling-place of God. (2.) The holy place (q.v.), 1 Kings 8:8, called also the "greater house" (2 Chronicles 3:5) and the "temple" (1 Kings 6:17). (3.) The porch or entrance before the temple on the east (1 Kings 6:3; 2 Chronicles 3:4; 2 Chronicles 29:7). In the porch stood the two pillars Jachin and Boaz (1 Kings 7:21; 2 Kings 11:14; 2 Kings 23:3). (4.) The chambers, which were built about the temple on the southern, western, and northern sides (1 Kings 6:5). These formed a part of the building. Round about the building were, (a.) The court of the priests (2 Chronicles 4:9), called the "inner court" (1 Kings 6:36). It contained the altar of burnt-offering (2 Chronicles 15:8), the brazen sea (2 Chronicles 4:2, 2 Chronicles 4:10), and ten lavers (1 Kings 7:38, 1 Kings 7:39). (b.) The great court, which surrounded the whole temple (2 Chronicles 4:9). Here the people assembled to worship God (Jeremiah 19:14; Jeremiah 26:2). This temple erected by Solomon was many times pillaged during the course of its history, (1 Kings 14:25, 1 Kings 14:26; 2 Kings 14:14; 2 Kings 16:8, 2 Kings 16:17, 2 Kings 16:18; 2 Kings 18:15, 2 Kings 18:16). At last it was pillaged and destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar (2 Kings 24:13; 2 Chronicles 36:7). He burned the temple, and carried all its treasures with him to Babylon (2 Kings 25:9; 2 Chronicles 36:19; Isaiah 64:11). These sacred vessels were at length, at the close of the Captivity, restored to the Jews by Cyrus (Ezra 1:7).

Category:The Second Temple''' - After the return from captivity, under Zerubbabel (q.v.) and the high priest Jeshua, arrangements were almost immediately made to reorganize the long-desolated kingdom. The body of pilgrims, forming a band of 42,360, including children, having completed the long and dreary journey of some four months, from the banks of the Euphrates to Jerusalem, were animated in all their proceeding by a strong religious impulse, and therefore one of their first cares was to restore their ancient worship by rebuilding the temple. On the invitation of Zerubbabel, the governor, who showed them a remarkable example of liberality by contributing personally 1,000 golden darics (probably about $6,000), besides other gifts, the people with great enthusiasm poured their gifts into the sacred treasury (Ezra 2). First they erected and dedicated the altar of Jehovah on the exact spot where it had formerly stood, and they then cleared away the charred heaps of debris which occupied the site of the old temple; and in the second month of the second year (535 B.C.), amid great public excitement and rejoicing (Ps. 116; Psalms 117:1; 118), the foundations of the second temple were laid. A wide interest was felt in this great movement, although it was regarded with mingled feelings by the spectators (Haggai 2:3; Zechariah 4:10). The Samaritans made proposals for a co-operation in the work. Zerubbabel and Jeshua and the elders, however, declined all such cooperation: Judah must build the temple without help. Immediately evil reports were spread regarding the Jews. The Samaritans sought to "frustrate their purpose" (Ezra 4:5), and sent messengers to Ecbatana and Susa, with the result that the work was suspended. Seven years after this Cyrus died ingloriously, having killed himself in Syria when on his way back from Egypt to the east, and was succeeded by his son Cambyses (529-522 B.C.), on whose death the "false Smerdis," an impostor, occupied the throne for some seven or eight months, and then Darius Hystaspes became king (522 B.C.). In the second year of this monarch the work of rebuilding the temple was resumed and carried forward to its completion (Ezra 5:6; Ezra 6:1), under the stimulus of the earnest counsels and admonitions of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. It was ready for consecration in the spring of 516 B.C., twenty years after the return from captivity. This second temple had not the ark, the Urim and Thummim, the holy oil, the sacred fire, the tables of stone, the pot of manna, and Aaron's rod. As in the tabernacle, there was in it only one golden lamp for the holy place, one table of shewbread, and the incense altar, with golden censers, and many of the vessels of gold that had belonged to Solomon's temple that had been carried to Babylon but restored by Cyrus (Ezra 1:7). This second temple also differed from the first in that, while in the latter there were numerous "trees planted in the courts of the Lord," there were none in the former. The second temple also had for the first time a space, being a part of the outer court, provided for proselytes who were worshippers of Jehovah, although not subject to the laws of Judaism. The temple, when completed, was consecrated amid great rejoicing on the part of all the people (Ezra 6:16), although there were not wanting outward evidences that the Jews were no longer an independent people, but were subject to a foreign power. Haggai 2:9 is rightly rendered in the Revised Category:Version, "The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former," instead of, "The glory of this latter house," etc., in the Authorized Category:Version. The temple, during the different periods of its existence, is regarded as but one house, the one only house of God (compare Haggai 2:3). The glory here predicted is spiritual glory and not material splendour. "Christ himself, present bodily in the temple on Mount Zion during his life on earth, present spiritually in the Church now, present in the holy city, the heavenly Jerusalem, of which he is the temple, calling forth spiritual worship and devotion is the glory here predicted" (Perowne).

Category:Herod's Temple''' - The temple erected by the exiles on their return from Babylon had stood for about five hundred years, when Herod the Great became king of Judea. The building had suffered considerably from natural decay as well as from the assaults of hostile armies, and Herod, desirous of gaining the favour of the Jews, proposed to rebuild it. This offer was accepted, and the work was begun (B.C. 18), and carried out at great labour and expense, and on a scale of surpassing splendour. The main part of the building was completed in ten years, but the erection of the outer courts and the embellishment of the whole were carried on during the entire period of our Lord's life on earth (John 2:16, John 2:19), and the temple was completed only A.D. 65. But it was not long permitted to exist. Within forty years after our Lord's crucifixion, his prediction of its overthrow was accomplished (Luke 19:41). The Roman legions took the city of Jerusalem by storm, and notwithstanding the strenuous efforts Titus made to preserve the temple, his soldiers set fire to it in several places, and it was utterly destroyed (A.D. 70), and was never rebuilt. Several remains of Herod's stately temple have by recent explorations been brought to light. It had two courts-one intended for the Israelites only, and the other, a large outer court, called "the court of the Gentiles," intended for the use of strangers of all nations. These two courts were separated by a low wall, as Josephus states, some 4 1/2 feet high, with thirteen openings. Along the top of this dividing wall, at regular intervals, were placed pillars bearing in Greek an inscription to the effect that no stranger was, on the pain of death, to pass from the court of the Gentiles into that of the Jews. At the entrance to a graveyard at the north-western angle of the Haram wall, a stone was discovered by M. Ganneau in 1871, built into the wall, bearing the following inscription in Greek capitals: "No stranger is to enter within the partition wall and enclosure around the sanctuary. Whoever is caught will be responsible to himself for his death, which will ensue." There can be no doubt that the stone thus discovered was one of those originally placed on the boundary wall which separated the Jews from the Gentiles, of which Josephus speaks. It is of importance to notice that the word rendered "sanctuary" in the inscription was used in a specific sense of the inner court, the court of the Israelites, and is the word rendered "temple" in John 2:15 and Acts 21:28, Acts 21:29. When Paul speaks of the middle wall of partition (Ephesians 2:14), he probably makes allusion to this dividing wall. Within this partition wall stood the temple proper, consisting of, (1.) the court of the women, 8 feet higher than the outer court; (2.) 10 feet higher than this court was the court of Israel; (3.) the court of the priests, again 3 feet higher; and lastly (4.) the temple floor, 8 feet above that; thus in all 29 feet above the level of the outer court. The summit of Mount Moriah, on which the temple stood, is now occupied by the Haram esh-Sherif, i.e., "the sacred enclosure." This enclosure is about 1,500 feet from north to south, with a breadth of about 1,000 feet, covering in all a space of about 35 acres. About the centre of the enclosure is a raised platform, 16 feet above the surrounding space, and paved with large stone slabs, on which stands the Mohammedan mosque called Kubbet es-Sahkra i.e., the "Dome of the Rock," or the Mosque of Omar. This mosque covers the site of Solomon's temple. In the centre of the dome there is a bare, projecting rock, the highest part of Moriah (q.v.), measuring 60 feet by 40, standing 6 feet above the floor of the mosque, called the sahkra, i.e., "rock." Over this rock the altar of burnt-offerings stood. It was the threshing-floor of Araunah the Jebusite. The exact position on this "sacred enclosure" which the temple occupied has not been yet definitely ascertained. Some affirm that Herod's temple covered the site of Solomon's temple and palace, and in addition enclosed a square of 300 feet at the south-western angle. The temple courts thus are supposed to have occupied the southern portion of the "enclosure," forming in all a square of more than 900 feet. It is argued by others that Herod's temple occupied a square of 600 feet at the south-west of the "enclosure."

Category:Temptation''' - (1.) Trial; a being put to the test. Thus God "tempted Genesis 22:1; R.V., 'did prove'] Abraham;" and afflictions are said to tempt, i.e., to try, men (James 1:2, James 1:12; compare Deuteronomy 8:2), putting their faith and patience to the test. (2.) Ordinarily, however, the word means solicitation to that which is evil, and hence Satan is called "the tempter" (Matthew 4:3). Our Lord was in this way tempted in the wilderness. That temptation was not internal, but by a real, active, subtle being. It was not self-sought. It was submitted to as an act of obedience on his part. "Christ was led, driven. An unseen personal force bore him a certain violence is implied in the words" (Matthew 4:1). The scene of the temptation of our Lord is generally supposed to have been the mountain of Quarantania (q.v.), "a high and precipitous wall of rock, 1,200 or 1,500 feet above the plain west of Jordan, near Jericho." Temptation is common to all (Daniel 12:10; Zechariah 13:9; Psalms 66:10; Luke 22:31, Luke 22:40; Hebrews 11:17; James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:7; 1 Peter 4:12). We read of the temptation of Joseph (Gen. 39), of David (2 Sam. 24; 1 Chr. 21), of Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:31), of Daniel (Dan. 6), etc. So long as we are in this world we are exposed to temptations, and need ever to be on our watch against them.

Category:Tent''' - (1.) Heb. 'ohel (Genesis 9:21, Genesis 9:27). This word is used also of a dwelling or habitation (1 Kings 8:66; Isaiah 16:5; Jeremiah 4:20), and of the temple (Ezekiel 41:1). When used of the tabernacle, as in 1 Kings 1:39, it denotes the covering of goat's hair which was placed over the mishcan. (2.) Heb. mishcan (Song of Songs 1:8), used also of a dwelling (Job 18:21; Psalms 87:2), the grave (Isaiah 22:16; compare Isaiah 14:18), the temple (Psalms 46:4; Psalms 84:2; Psalms 132:5), and of the tabernacle (Exodus 25:9; Exodus 26:1; Exodus 40:9; Numbers 1:50, Numbers 1:53; Numbers 10:11). When distinguished from 'ohel, it denotes the twelve interior curtains which lay upon the framework of the tabernacle (q.v.). (3.) Heb. kubbah (Numbers 25:8), a dome-like tent devoted to the impure worship of Baal-peor. (4.) Heb. succah (2 Samuel 11:11), a tent or booth made of green boughs or branches (see Genesis 33:17; Leviticus 23:34, Leviticus 23:42; Psalms 18:11; Jonah 4:5; Isaiah 4:6; Nehemiah 8:15, where the word is variously rendered). Jubal was "the father of such as dwell in tents" (Genesis 4:20). The patriarchs were "dwellers in tents" (Genesis 9:21, Genesis 9:27; Genesis 12:8; Genesis 13:12; Genesis 26:17); and during their wilderness wanderings all Israel dwelt in tents (Exodus 16:16; Deuteronomy 33:18; Joshua 7:24). Tents have always occupied a prominent place in Eastern life (1 Samuel 17:54; 2 Kings 7:7; Psalms 120:5; Song of Songs 1:5). Paul the apostle's occupation was that of a tent-maker (Acts 18:3); i.e., perhaps a maker of tent cloth.

Category:Tenth Deal''' - I.e., the tenth part of an ephah (as in the R.V.), equal to an omer or six pints. The recovered leper, to complete his purification, was required to bring a trespass, a sin, and a burnt offering, and to present a meal offering, a tenth deal or an omer of flour for each, with oil to make it into bread or cakes (Leviticus 14:10, Leviticus 14:21; compare Exodus 16:36; Exodus 29:40).

Category:Terah''' - The wanderer; loiterer, for some unknown reason emigrated with his family from his native mountains in the north to the plains of Mesopotamia. He had three sons, Haran, Nahor, and Abraham, and one daughter, Sarah. He settled in "Ur of the Chaldees," where his son Haran died, leaving behind him his son Lot. Nahor settled at Haran, a place on the way to Ur. Terah afterwards migrated with Abraham (probably his youngest son) and Lot (his grandson), together with their families, from Ur, intending to go with them to Canaan; but he tarried at Haran, where he spent the remainder of his days, and died at the age of two hundred and five years (Genesis 11:24; Joshua 24:2). What a wonderful part the descendants of this Chaldean shepherd have played in the history of the world! See table of descendants: TERAH Haran Nahor Abraham Iscah Milcah Lot Bethuel (Of Hagar) (Of Sarah) Moab Ammon Leban Rebekah Ishmael Isaac Leah Rachel Esau Jacob (Of Leah) (Of Bilhah) (Of Zilpah) (Of Rachel) Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dinah Dan Naphtali Gad Asher Joseph Benjamin Ephraim Manasseh

Category:Teraphim''' - Givers of prosperity, idols in human shape, large or small, analogous to the images of ancestors which were revered by the Romans. In order to deceive the guards sent by Saul to seize David, Michal his wife prepared one of the household teraphim, putting on it the goat's, hair cap worn by sleepers and invalids, and laid it in a bed, covering it with a mantle. She pointed it out to the soldiers, and alleged that David was confined to his bed by a sudden illness (1 Samuel 19:13). Thus she gained time for David's escape. It seems strange to read of teraphim, images of ancestors, preserved for superstitious purposes, being in the house of David. Probably they had been stealthily brought by Michal from her father's house. "Perhaps," says Bishop Wordsworth, "Saul, forsaken by God and possessed by the evil spirit, had resorted to witchcraft); and God overruled evil for good, and made his very teraphim (by the hand of his own daughter) to be an instrument for David's escape.", Deane's David, p. 32. Josiah attempted to suppress this form of idolatry (2 Kings 23:24). The ephod and teraphim are mentioned together in Hosea 3:4. It has been supposed by some (Cheyne's Hosea) that the "ephod" here mentioned, and also in Judges 8:24, was not the part of the sacerdotal dress so called (Exodus 28:6), but an image of Jehovah overlaid with gold or silver (compare Judges 17:1, 18; 1 Samuel 21:9; 1 Samuel 23:6, 1 Samuel 23:9; 1 Samuel 30:7, 1 Samuel 30:8), and is thus associated with the teraphim. (See THUMMIM.)

Category:Terebinth''' - (R.V. marg. of Deuteronomy 11:30, etc.), the Pistacia terebinthus of botanists; a tree very common in the south and east of Palestine. (See OAK.)

Category:Teresh''' - Severe, a eunuch or chamberlain in the palace of Ahasuerus, who conspired with another to murder him. The plot was detected by Mordecai, and the conspirators were put to death (Esther 2:21; Esther 6:2).

Category:Tertius''' - The third, a Roman Christian whom Paul employed as his amanuensis in writing his epistle to the Romans (Romans 16:22).

Category:Tertullus''' - A modification of "Tertius;" a Roman advocate, whom the Jews employed to state their case against Paul in the presence of Felix (Acts 24:1). The charges he adduced against the apostle were, "First, that he created disturbances among the Romans throughout the empire, an offense against the Roman government (crimen majestatis). Secondly, that he was a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes; disturbed the Jews in the exercise of their religion, guaranteed by the state; introduced new gods, a thing prohibited by the Romans. And thirdly, that he attempted to profane the temple, a crime which the Jews were permitted to punish."

Category:Testament''' - Occurs twelve times in the New Testament (Hebrews 9:15, etc.) as the rendering of the Gr. diatheke, which is twenty times rendered "covenant" in the Authorized Category:Version, and always so in the Revised Category:Version. The Vulgate translates incorrectly by testamentum, whence the names "Old" and "New Testament," by which we now designate the two sections into which the Bible is divided. (See BIBLE.)

Category:Testimony''' - (1.) Witness or evidence (2 Thessalonians 1:10). (2.) The Scriptures, as the revelation of God's will (2 Kings 11:12; Psalms 19:7; Psalms 119:88; Isaiah 8:16, Isaiah 8:20). (3.) The altar raised by the Gadites and Reubenites (Joshua 22:10).

Category:Tabernacle of Testimony''' - The tabernacle, the great glory of which was that it contained "the testimony", i.e., the "two tables" (Exodus 38:21). The ark in which these tables were deposited was called the "ark of the testimony" (Exodus 40:3), and also simply the "testimony" (Exodus 27:21; Exodus 30:6).

Category:Tetrarch''' - Strictly the ruler over the fourth part of a province; but the word denotes a ruler of a province generally (Matthew 14:1; Luke 3:1, Luke 3:19; Luke 9:7; Acts 13:1). Herod and Phasael, the sons of Antipater, were the first tetrarchs in Palestine. Herod the tetrarch had the title of king (Matthew 14:9).

Category:Thaddaeus''' - Breast, the name of one of the apostles (Mark 3:18), called "Lebbaeus" in Matthew 10:3, and in Luke 6:16, "Judas the brother of James;" while John (John 14:22), probably referring to the same person, speaks of "Judas, not Iscariot." These different names all designate the same person, viz., Jude or Judas, the author of the epistle.

Category:Thahash''' - A badger, a son of Nahor, Abraham's brother (Genesis 22:24).

Category:Tharshish''' - (1 Kings 10:22; 1 Kings 22:48). See TARSHISH.

Category:Theatre''' - Only mentioned in Acts 19:29, Acts 19:31. The ruins of this theatre at Ephesus still exist, and they show that it was a magnificent structure, capable of accommodating some 56,700 persons. It was the largest structure of the kind that ever existed. Theatres, as places of amusement, were unknown to the Jews.

Category:Thebez''' - Brightness, a place some 11 miles north-east of Shechem, on the road to Scythopolis, the modern Tabas. Abimelech led his army against this place, because of its participation in the conspiracy of the men of Shechem; but as he drew near to the strong tower to which its inhabitants had fled for safety, and was about to set fire to it, a woman cast a fragment of millstone at him, and "all to brake his skull" i.e., "altogether brake," etc. His armourbearer thereupon "thrust him through, and he died" (Judges 9:50).

Category:Theft''' - Punished by restitution, the proportions of which are noted in 2 Samuel 12:6. If the thief could not pay the fine, he was to be sold to a Hebrew master till he could pay (Exodus 22:1). A night-thief might be smitten till he died, and there would be no blood-guiltiness for him (Exodus 22:2). A man-stealer was to be put to death (Exodus 21:16). All theft is forbidden (Exodus 20:15; Exodus 21:16; Leviticus 19:11; Deuteronomy 5:19; Deuteronomy 24:7; Psalms 50:18; Zechariah 5:3; Matthew 19:18; Romans 13:9; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Peter 4:15).

Category:Theocracy''' - A word first used by Josephus to denote that the Jews were under the direct government of God himself. The nation was in all things subject to the will of their invisible King. All the people were the servants of Jehovah, who ruled over their public and private affairs, communicating to them his will through the medium of the prophets. They were the subjects of a heavenly, not of an earthly, king. They were Jehovah's own subjects, ruled directly by him (compare 1 Samuel 8:6).

Category:Theophilus''' - Lover of God, a Christian, probably a Roman, to whom Luke dedicated both his Gospel (Luke 1:3) and the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:1). Nothing beyond this is known of him. From the fact that Luke applies to him the title "most excellent", the same title Paul uses in addressing Felix (Acts 23:26; Acts 24:3) and Festus (Acts 26:25), it has been concluded that Theophilus was a person of rank, perhaps a Roman officer.

Category:Epistles to the Thessalonians''' - The first epistle to the Thessalonians was the first of all Paul's epistles. It was in all probability written from Corinth, where he abode a "long time" (Acts 18:11, Acts 18:18), early in the period of his residence there, about the end of A.D. 52. The occasion of its being written was the return of Timotheus from Macedonia, bearing tidings from Thessalonica regarding the state of the church there (Acts 18:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:6). While, on] the whole, the report of [[:Category:Timothy|Timothy was encouraging, it also showed that divers errors and misunderstandings regarding the tenor of Paul's teaching had crept in amongst them. He addresses them in this letter with the view of correcting these errors, and especially for the purpose of exhorting them to purity of life, reminding them that their sanctification was the great end desired by God regarding them. The subscription erroneously states that this epistle was written from Athens. The second epistle to the Thessalonians was probably also written from Corinth, and not many months after the first. The occasion of the writing of this epistle was the arrival of tidings that the tenor of the first epistle had been misunderstood, especially with reference to the second advent of Christ. The Thessalonians had embraced the idea that Paul had taught that "the day of Christ was at hand", that Christ's coming was just about to happen. This error is corrected (2 Thessalonians 2:1), and the apostle prophetically announces what first must take place. "The apostasy" was first to arise. Various explanations of this expression have been given, but that which is most satisfactory refers it to the Church of Rome.

Category:Thessalonica''' - A large and populous city on the Thermaic bay. It was the capital of one of the four Roman districts of Macedonia, and was ruled by a praetor. It was named after Thessalonica, the wife of Cassander, who built the city. She was so called by her father, Philip, because he first heard of her birth on the day of his gaining a victory over the Thessalians. On his second missionary journey, Paul preached in the synagogue here, the chief synagogue of the Jews in that part of Macedonia, and laid the foundations of a church (Acts 17:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:9). The violence of the Jews drove him from the city, when he fled to Berea (Acts 17:5). The "rulers of the city" before whom the Jews "drew Jason," with whom Paul and Silas lodged, are in the original called politarchai, an unusual word, which was found, however, inscribed on an arch in Thessalonica. This discovery confirms the accuracy of the historian. Paul visited the church here on a subsequent occasion (Acts 20:1). This city long retained its importance. It is the most important town of European Turkey, under the name of Saloniki, with a mixed population of about 85,000.

Category:Theudas''' - Thanksgiving, referred to by Gamaliel in his speech before the council at Jerusalem (Acts 5:36). He headed an insurrection against the Roman authority. Beyond this nothing is known of him.

Category:Thick Clay''' - (Habakkuk 2:6) is correctly rendered in the Revised Category:Version "pledges." The Chaldean power is here represented as a rapacious usurer, accumulating the wealth that belonged to others.

Category:The Two Thieves''' - (Luke 23:32, Luke 23:39), robbers, rather brigands, probably followers of Barabbas. Our Lord's cross was placed between those of the "malefactors," to add to the ignominy of his position. According to tradition, Demas or Dismas was the name of the penitent thief hanging on the right, and Gestas of the impenitent on the left.

Category:Thistle''' - (1.) Heb. hoah (2 Kings 14:9; Job 31:40). In Job 41:2 the Hebrew word is rendered "thorn," but in the Revised Category:Version "hook." It is also rendered "thorn" in 2 Chronicles 33:11; Proverbs 26:9; Song of Songs 2:2; "brambles" in Isaiah 34:13. It is supposed to be a variety of the wild plum tree, but by some it is regarded as the common thistle, of which there are many varieties in Palestine. (2.) Heb. dardar, meaning "a plant growing luxuriantly" (Genesis 3:18; Hosea 10:8); Gr. tribolos, "a triple point" (Matthew 7:16; Hebrews 6:8, "brier," R.V. "thistle"). This was probably the star-thistle, called by botanists Centaurea calcitropa, or "caltrops," a weed common in corn-fields. (See THORNS.)

Category:Thomas''' - Twin, one of the twelve (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18, etc.). He was also called Didymus (John 11:16; John 20:24), which is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew name. All we know regarding him is recorded in the fourth Gospel (John 11:15, John 11:16; John 14:4, John 14:5; John 20:24, John 20:25, John 20:26). From the circumstance that in the lists of the apostles he is always mentioned along with Matthew, who was the son of Alphaeus (Mark 3:18), and that these two are always followed by James, who was also the son of Alphaeus, it has been supposed that these three, Matthew, Thomas, and James, were brothers.

Category:Thorn''' - (1.) Heb. hedek (Proverbs 15:19), rendered " brier " in Micah 7:4. Some thorny plant, of the Solanum family, suitable for hedges. This is probably the so-called "apple of Sodom," which grows very abundantly in the Jordan valley. "It is a shrubby plant, from 3 to 5 feet high, with very branching stems, thickly clad with spines, like those of the English brier, with leaves very large and woolly on the under side, and thorny on the midriff." (2.) Heb. kotz (Genesis 3:18; Hosea 10:8), rendered akantha by the LXX. In the New Testament this word akantha is also rendered "thorns" (Matthew 7:16; Matthew 13:7; Hebrews 6:8). The word seems to denote any thorny or prickly plant (Jeremiah 12:13). It has been identified with the Ononis spinosa by some. (3.) Heb. na'atzutz (Isaiah 7:19; Isaiah 55:13). This word has been interpreted as denoting the Zizyphus spina Christi, or the jujube tree. It is supposed by some that the crown of thorns placed in wanton cruelty by the Roman soldiers on our Saviour's brow before his crucifixion was plaited of branches of this tree. It overruns a great part of the Jordan valley. It is sometimes called the lotus-tree. "The thorns are long and sharp and recurved, and often create a festering wound." It often grows to a great size. (See CROWN OF THORNS.) (4.) Heb. atad (Psalms 58:9) is rendered in the LXX. and Vulgate by Rhamnus, or Lycium Europoeum, a thorny shrub, which is common all over Palestine. From its resemblance to the box it is frequently called the box-thorn.

Category:Thorn in the Flesh''' - (2 Corinthians 12:7). Many interpretations have been given of this passage. (1.) Roman Catholic writers think that it denotes suggestions to impiety. (2.) Luther, Calvin, and other Reformers interpret the expression as denoting temptation to unbelief. (3.) Others suppose the expression refers to "a pain in the ear or head," epileptic fits, or, in general, to some severe physical infirmity, which was a hindrance to the apostle in his work (compare 1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 10:10; 2 Corinthians 11:30; Galatians 4:13, Galatians 4:14; Galatians 6:17). With a great amount of probability, it has been alleged that his malady was defect of sight, consequent on the dazzling light which shone around him at his conversion acute opthalmia. This would account for the statements in Galatians 4:14; 2 Corinthians 10:10; also Acts 23:5, and for his generally making use of the help of an amanuensis (compare Romans 16:22, etc.). (4.) Another view which has been maintained is that this "thorn" consisted in an infirmity of temper, to which he occasionally gave way, and which interfered with his success (compare Acts 15:39; Acts 23:2). If we consider the fact, "which the experience of God's saints in all ages has conclusively established, of the difficulty of subduing an infirmity of temper, as well as the pain, remorse, and humiliation such an infirmity is wont to cause to those who groan under it, we may be inclined to believe that not the least probable hypothesis concerning the 'thorn' or 'stake' in the flesh is that the loving heart of the apostle bewailed as his sorest trail the misfortune that, by impatience in word, he had often wounded those for whom he would willingly have given his life" (Lias's Second Cor., Introd.).

Category:Thousands''' - (Micah 5:2), another name for "families" or "clans" (see Numbers 1:16; Numbers 10:4; Joshua 22:14, Joshua 22:21). Several "thousands" or "families" made up a "tribe."

Category:Threshing''' - See AGRICULTURE.

Category:Threshold''' - (1.) Heb. miphtan, probably a projecting beam at a higher point than the threshold proper (1 Samuel 5:4, 1 Samuel 5:5; Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4, Ezekiel 10:18; Ezekiel 46:2; Ezekiel 47:1); also rendered "door" and "door-post." (2.) 'Asuppim, pl. (Nehemiah 12:25), rendered correctly "storehouses" in the Revised Category:Version. In 1 Chronicles 26:15, 1 Chronicles 26:17 the Authorized Category:Version retains the word as a proper name, while in the Revised Category:Version it is translated "storehouses."

Category:Throne''' - (Heb. kiss'e ), a royal chair or seat of dignity (Deuteronomy 17:18; 2 Samuel 7:13; Psalms 45:6); an elevated seat with a canopy and hangings, which cover it. It denotes the seat of the high priest in 1 Samuel 1:9; 1 Samuel 4:13, and of a provincial governor in Nehemiah 3:7 and Psalms 122:5. The throne of Solomon is described at length in 1 Kings 10:18.

Category:Thummim''' - Perfection (LXX., "truth;" Vulg., "veritas"), Exodus 28:30; Deuteronomy 33:8; Judges 1:1; Judges 20:18; 1 Samuel 14:3, 1 Samuel 14:18; 1 Samuel 23:9; 2 Samuel 21:1. What the "Urim and Thummim" were cannot be determined with any certainty. All we certainly know is that they were a certain divinely-given means by which God imparted, through the high priest, direction and counsel to Israel when these were needed. The method by which this was done can be only a matter of mere conjecture. They were apparently material objects, quite distinct from the breastplate, but something added to it after all the stones had been set in it, something in addition to the breastplate and its jewels. They may have been, as some suppose, two small images, like the teraphim (compare Judges 17:5; Judges 18:14, Judges 18:17, Judges 18:20; Hosea 3:4), which were kept in the bag of the breastplate, by which, in some unknown way, the high priest could give forth his divinely imparted decision when consulted. They were probably lost at the destruction of the temple by Nebuchadnezzar. They were never seen after the return from captivity.

Category:Thunder''' - Often referred to in Scripture (Job 40:9; Psalms 77:18; Psalms 104:7). James and John were called by our Lord "sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17). In Job 39:19, instead of "thunder," as in the Authorized Category:Version, the Revised Category:Version translates ( ra'amah ) by "quivering main" (marg., "shaking"). Thunder accompanied the giving of the law at Sinai (Exodus 19:16). It was regarded as the voice of God (Job 37:2; Psalms 18:13; Psalms 81:7; compare John 12:29). In answer to Samuel's prayer (1 Samuel 12:17, 1 Samuel 12:18), God sent thunder, and "all the people greatly feared," for at such a season (the wheat-harvest) thunder and rain were almost unknown in Palestine.

Category:Thyatira''' - A city of Asia Minor, on the borders of Lydia and Mysia. Its modern name is Ak-hissar, i.e., "white castle." Here was one of the seven churches (Revelation 1:11; Revelation 2:18). Lydia, the seller of purple, or rather of cloth dyed with this colour, was from this city (Acts 16:14). It was and still is famous for its dyeing. Among the ruins, inscriptions have been found relating to the guild of dyers in that city in ancient times.

Category:Thyine Wood''' - Mentioned only in Revelation 18:12 among the articles which would cease to be purchased when Babylon fell. It was called citrus, citron wood, by the Romans. It was the Callitris quadrivalvis of botanists, of the cone-bearing order of trees, and of the cypress tribe of this order. The name of this wood is derived from the Greek word thuein, "to sacrifice," and it was so called because it was burnt in sacrifices, on account of its fragrance. The wood of this tree was reckoned very valuable, and was used for making articles of furniture by the Greeks and Romans. Like the cedars of Lebanon, it is disappearing from the forests of Palestine.

Category:Tiberias''' - A city, the modern Tubarich, on the western shore of the Sea of Tiberias. It is said to have been founded by Herod Antipas (A.D.16), on the site of the ruins of an older city called Rakkath, and to have been thus named by him after the Emperor Tiberius. It is mentioned only three times in the history of our Lord (John 6:1, John 6:23; John 21:1). In 1837 about one-half of the inhabitants perished by an earthquake. The population of the city is now about six thousand, nearly the one-half being Jews. "We do not read that our Lord ever entered this city. The reason of this is probably to be found in the fact that it was practically a heathen city, though standing upon Jewish soil. Herod, its founder, had brought together the arts of Greece, the idolatry of Rome, and the gross lewdness of Asia. There were in it a theatre for the performance of comedies, a forum, a stadium, a palace roofed with gold in imitation of those in Italy, statues of the Roman gods, and busts of the deified emperors. He who was not sent but to the lost sheep of the house of Israel might well hold himself aloof from such scenes as these" (Manning's Those Holy Fields). After the fall of Jerusalem (A.D. 70), Tiberias became one of the chief residences of the Jews in Palestine. It was for more than three hundred years their metropolis. from about A.D.150 the Sanhedrin settled here, and established rabbinical schools, which rose to great celebrity. Here the Jerusalem (or Palestinian) Talmud was compiled about the beginning of the fifth century. To this same rabbinical school also we are indebted for the Masora, a "body of traditions which transmitted the readings of the Hebrew text of the Old Testament, and preserved, by means of the vowel-system, the pronunciation of the Hebrew." In its original form, and in all manuscripts, the Hebrew is written without vowels; hence, when it ceased to be a spoken language, the importance of knowing what vowels to insert between the consonants. This is supplied by the Masora, and hence these vowels are called the "Masoretic vowel-points."

Category:Sea of Tiberias''' - Called also the Sea of Galilee (q.v.) and of Gennesaret]. In the Old Testament it is called the Sea of Chinnereth or Chinneroth. John (John 21:1) is the only evangelist who so designates this lake. His doing so incidentally confirms the opinion that he wrote after the other evangelists, and at a period subsequent to the taking of Jerusalem (A.D. 70). Tiberias had by this time become an important city, having been spared by the Romans, and made the capital of the province when Jerusalem was destroyed. It thus naturally gave its name to the lake.

Category:Tiberius Caesar''' - I.e., as known in Roman history, Tiberius Claudius Nero, only mentioned in Luke 3:1. He was the stepson of Augustus, whom he succeeded on the throne, A.D. 14. He was noted for his vicious and infamous life. In the fifteenth year of his reign John the Baptist entered on his public ministry, and under him also our Lord taught and suffered. He died A.D.37. He is frequently referred to simply as "Caesar" (Matthew 22:17, Matthew 22:21; Mark 12:14, Mark 12:16, Mark 12:17; Luke 20:22, Luke 20:24, Luke 20:25; Luke 23:2; John 19:12, John 19:15).

Category:Tibni''' - Building of Jehovah, the son of Ginath, a man of some position, whom a considerable number of the people chose as monarch. For the period of four years he contended for the throne with Omri (1 Kings 16:21, 1 Kings 16:22), who at length gained the mastery, and became sole monarch of Israel.

Category:Tidal''' - (in the LXX. called "Thorgal"), styled the "king of nations" (Genesis 14:1). Mentioned as Tudkhula on Arioch's brick. Goyyim, translated "nations," is the country called Gutium, east of Tigris and north of Elam.

Category:Tiglath-Pileser I''' - (not mentioned in Scripture) was the most famous of the monarchs of the first Assyrian empire (about B.C.1110). After his death, for two hundred years the empire fell into decay. The history of David and Solomon falls within this period. He was succeeded by his son, Shalmaneser II.

Category:Tiglath-Pileser III''' - Or Tilgath-Pilneser, the Assyrian throne-name of Pul (q.v.). He appears in the Assyrian records as gaining, in the fifth year of his reign (about 741 B.C.), a victory over Azariah (= Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26:1), king of Judah, whose achievements are described in 2 Chronicles 26:6. He is first mentioned in Scripture, however, as gaining a victory over Pekah, king of Israel, and Rezin of Damascus, who were confederates. He put Rezin to death, and punished Pekah by taking a considerable portion of his kingdom, and carrying off (B.C.734) a vast number of its inhabitants into captivity (2 Kings 15:29; 2 Kings 16:5; 1 Chronicles 5:6, 1 Chronicles 5:26), the Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh whom he settled in Gozan. In the Assyrian annals it is further related that, before he returned from Syria, he held a court at Damascus, and received submission and tribute from the neighbouring kings, among whom were Pekah of Samaria and "Yahu-khazi [i.e., Ahaz], king of Judah" (compare 2 Kings 16:10). He was the founder of what is called "the second Assyrian empire," an empire meant to embrace the whole world, the centre of which should be Nineveh. He died 728 B.C., and was succeeded by a general of his army, Ulula, who assumed the name Shalmaneser IV.

Category:Timaeus''' - Defiled, the father of blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46).

Category:Timbrel''' - (Heb. toph ), a small drum or tambourine; a tabret (q.v.). The antiquity of this musical instrument appears from the scriptural allusions to it (Genesis 31:27; Exodus 15:20; Judges 11:34, etc.) (See MUSIC.)

Category:Timnah''' - A portion. (1.) A town of Judah (Joshua 15:10). The Philistines took possession of it in the days of Ahaz (2 Chronicles 28:18). It was about 20 miles west of Jerusalem. It has been identified with Timnatha of Dan (Joshua 19:43), and also with Timnath (Judges 14:1, Judges 14:5). (2.) A city in the mountains of Judah (Joshua 15:57)= Tibna near Jeba'. (3.) A "duke" or sheik of Edom (Genesis 36:40).

Category:Timnath''' - Genesis 38:12, Genesis 38:14. (1.) Heb. Timnathah, which is appropriately rendered in the Revised Category:Version, Timnah, a town in Judah. (2.) The town where Samson sojourned, probably identical with "Timnah" (3.) (Judg. 14:1-18).

Category:Timnath-heres''' - Portion of the sun, where Joshua was buried (Judges 2:9). It was "in the mount of Ephraim, in the north side of the hill Gaash," 10 miles south-west of Shechem. The same as the following.

Category:Timnath-serah''' - Remaining portion, the city of Joshua in the hill country of Ephraim, the same as Timnath-heres (Joshua 19:50; Joshua 24:30). "Of all sites I have seen," says Lieut. -Col. Conder, "none is so striking as that of Joshua's home, surrounded as it is with deep valleys and wild, rugged hills." Opposite the town is a hill, on the northern side of which there are many excavated sepulchers. Among these is the supposed tomb of Joshua, which is said to be "the most striking monument in the country." It is a "square chamber with five excavations in three of its sides, the central one forming a passage leading into a second chamber beyond. A great number of lamp-niches cover the walls of the porch, upwards of two hundred, arranged in vertical rows. A single cavity with a niche for a lamp has been thought to be the resting-place of the warrior-chief of Israel." The modern Kefr Haris, 10 miles south-west of Shechem.

Category:Timnite''' - A man of Timnah. Samson's father-in-law is so styled (Judges 15:6).

Category:Timon''' - Honouring, one of the seven deacons at Jerusalem (Acts 6:5). Nothing further is known of him.

Category:Timotheus''' - The Greek form of the name of Timothy (Acts 16:1, etc.; the R.V. always "Timothy").

Category:Timothy''' - Honouring God, a young disciple who was Paul's companion in many of his journeying. His mother, Eunice, and his grandmother, Lois, are mentioned as eminent for their piety (2 Timothy 1:5). We know nothing of his father but that he was a Greek (Acts 16:1). He is first brought into notice at the time of Paul's second visit to Lystra (Acts 16:2), where he probably resided, and where it seems he was converted during Paul's first visit to that place (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 3:11). The apostle having formed a high opinion of his "own son in the faith," arranged that he should become his companion (Acts 16:3), and took and circumcised him, so that he might conciliate the Jews. He was designated to the office of an evangelist (1 Timothy 4:14), and went with Paul in his journey through Phrygia, Galatia, and Mysia; also to Troas and Philippi and Berea (Acts 17:14). Thence he followed Paul to Athens, and was sent by him with Silas on a mission to Thessalonica (Acts 17:15; 1 Thessalonians 3:2). We next find him at Corinth (1 Thessalonians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 1:1) with Paul. He passes now out of sight for a few years, and is again noticed as with the apostle at Ephesus (Acts 19:22), whence he is sent on a mission into Macedonia. He accompanied Paul afterwards into Asia (Acts 20:4), where he was with him for some time. When the apostle was a prisoner at Rome, Timothy joined him (Philippians 1:1), where it appears he also suffered imprisonment (Hebrews 13:23). During the apostle's second imprisonment he wrote to Timothy, asking him to rejoin him as soon as possible, and to bring with him certain things which he had left at Troas, his cloak and parchments (2 Timothy 4:13). According to tradition, after the apostle's death he settled in Ephesus as his sphere of labour, and there found a martyr's grave.

Category:First Epistle to Timothy''' - Paul in this epistle speaks of himself as having left Ephesus for Macedonia (1 Timothy 1:3), and hence not Laodicea, as mentioned in the subscription; but probably Philippi, or some other city in that region, was the place where this epistle was written. During the interval between his first and second imprisonments he probably visited the scenes of his former labours in Greece and Asia, and then found his way into Macedonia, whence he wrote this letter to Timothy, whom he had left behind in Ephesus. It was probably written about A.D. 66 or 67. The epistle consists mainly, (1.) of counsels to Timothy regarding the worship and organization of the Church, and the responsibilities resting on its several members; and (2.) of exhortation to faithfulness in maintaining the truth amid surrounding errors.

Category:Second Epistle to Timothy''' - Was probably written a year or so after the first, and from Rome, where Paul was for a second time a prisoner, and was sent to Timothy by the hands of Tychicus. In it he entreats Timothy to come to him before winter, and to bring Mark with him (compare Philippians 2:22). He was anticipating that "the time of his departure was at hand" (2 Timothy 4:6), and he exhorts his "son Timothy" to all diligence and steadfastness, and to patience under persecution (2 Timothy 1:6), and to a faithful discharge of all the duties of his office (2 Timothy 4:1), with all the solemnity of one who was about to appear before the Judge of quick and dead.

Category:Tin''' - Heb. bedil (Numbers 31:22; Ezekiel 22:18, Ezekiel 22:20), a metal well known in ancient times. It is the general opinion that the Phoenicians of Tyre and Sidon obtained their supplies of tin from the British Isles. In Ezekiel 27:12 it is said to have been brought from Tarshish, which was probably a commercial emporium supplied with commodities from other places. In Isaiah 1:25 the word so rendered is generally understood of lead, the alloy with which the silver had become mixed (Isaiah 1:22). The fire of the Babylonish Captivity would be the means of purging out the idolatrous alloy that had corrupted the people.

Category:Tinkling Ornaments''' - (Isaiah 3:18), anklets of silver or gold, etc., such as are still used by women in Syria and the East.

Category:Tiphsah''' - Passing over; ford, one of the boundaries of Solomon's dominions (1 Kings 4:24), probably "Thapsacus, a great and wealthy town on the western bank of the Euphrates," about 100 miles north-east of Tadmor. All the land traffic between the east and the west passed through it. Menahem undertook an expedition against this city, and "smote Tiphsah and all that were therein" (2 Kings 15:16). This expedition implied a march of some 300 miles from Tirzah if by way of Tadmor, and about 400 if by way of Aleppo; and its success showed the strength of the Israelite kingdom, for it was practically a defiance to Assyria. Conder, however, identifies this place with Khurbet Tafsah, some 6 miles west of Shechem.

Category:Tiras''' - Tiras, the youngest of the sons of Japheth (Genesis 10:2; 1 Chronicles 1:5).

Category:Tires''' - "To tire" the head is to adorn it (2 Kings 9:30). As a noun the word is derived from "tiara," and is the rendering of the Heb. p'er, a "turban" or an ornament for the head (Ezekiel 24:17; R.V., "head tire;" Ezekiel 24:23). In Isaiah 3:18 the word saharonim is rendered "round tires like the moon," and in Judges 8:21, Judges 8:26 "ornaments," but in both cases "crescents" in the Revised Category:Version.

Category:Tirhakah''' - The last king of Egypt of the Ethiopian (the fifteenth) dynasty. He was the brother-in-law of So (q.v.). He probably ascended the throne about 692 B.C., having been previously king of Ethiopia (2 Kings 19:9; Isaiah 37:9), which with Egypt now formed one nation. He was a great warrior, and but little is known of him. The Assyrian armies under Esarhaddon, and again under Assur-bani-pal, invaded Egypt and defeated Tirhakah, who afterwards retired into Ethiopia, where he died, after reigning twenty-six years.

Category:Tirshatha''' - A word probably of Persian origin, meaning "severity," denoting a high civil dignity. The Persian governor of Judea is so called (Ezra 2:63; Nehemiah 7:65, Nehemiah 7:70). Nehemiah is called by this name in Nehemiah 8:9; Nehemiah 10:1, and the "governor" (pehah) in Nehemiah 5:18. Probably, therefore, tirshatha = pehah = the modern pasha.

Category:Tirza''' - Pleasantness. (1.) An old royal city of the Canaanites, which was destroyed by Joshua (Joshua 12:24). Jeroboam chose it for his residence, and he removed to it from Shechem, which at first he made the capital of his kingdom. It remained the chief residence of the kings of Israel till Omri took Samaria (1 Kings 14:17; 1 Kings 15:21; 1 Kings 16:6, 1 Kings 16:8, etc.). Here Zimri perished amid the flames of the palace to which in his despair he had set fire (1 Kings 16:18), and here Menahem smote Shallum (2 Kings 15:14, 2 Kings 15:16). Solomon refers to its beauty (Song of Songs 6:4). It has been identified with the modern mud hamlet Teiasir, 11 miles north of Shechem. Others, however, would identify it with Telluza, a village about 6 miles east of Samaria. (2.) The youngest of Zelophehad's five daughters (Numbers 26:33; Joshua 17:3).

Category:Tishbite''' - Elijah the prophet was thus named (1 Kings 17:1; 1 Kings 21:17, 1 Kings 21:28, etc.). In 1 Kings 17:1 the word rendered "inhabitants" is in the original the same as that rendered "Tishbite," hence that verse may be read as in the LXX., "Elijah the Tishbite of Tishbi in Gilead." Some interpret this word as meaning "stranger," and read the verse, "Elijah the stranger from among the strangers in Gilead." This designation is probably given to the prophet as denoting that his birthplace was Tishbi, a place in Upper Galilee (mentioned in the apocryphal book of Tobit), from which for some reason he migrated into Gilead. Josephus, the Jewish historian (Ant. 1 Kings 8:13, 1 Kings 8:2), however, supposes that Tishbi was some place in the land of Gilead. It has been identified by some with el-Ishtib, a some place 22 miles due south of the Sea of Galilee, among the mountains of Gilead.

Category:Tisri''' - The first month of the civil year, and the seventh of the ecclesiastical year. See ETHANIM (1 Kings 8:2). Called in the Assyrian inscriptions Tasaritu, i.e. "beginning."

Category:Tithe''' - A tenth of the produce of the earth consecrated and set apart for special purposes. The dedication of a tenth to God was recognized as a duty before the time of Moses. Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20; Hebrews 7:6); and Jacob vowed unto the Lord and said, "Of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee." The first Mosaic law on this subject is recorded in Leviticus 27:30. Subsequent legislation regulated the destination of the tithes (Numbers 18:21, Numbers 18:26; Deuteronomy 12:5, Deuteronomy 12:6, Deuteronomy 12:11, Deuteronomy 12:17; Deuteronomy 14:22, Deuteronomy 14:23). The paying of the tithes was an important part of the Jewish religious worship. In the days of Hezekiah one of the first results of the reformation of religion was the eagerness with which the people brought in their tithes (2 Chronicles 31:5, 2 Chronicles 31:6). The neglect of this duty was sternly rebuked by the prophets (Amos 4:4; Malachi 3:8). It cannot be affirmed that the Old Testament law of tithes is binding on the Christian Church, nevertheless the principle of this law remains, and is incorporated in the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:13, 1 Corinthians 9:14); and if, as is the case, the motive that ought to prompt to liberality in the cause of religion and of the service of God be greater now than in Old Testament times, then Christians ought to go beyond the ancient Hebrew in consecrating both themselves and their substance to God. Every Jew was required by the Levitical law to pay three tithes of his property (1.) one tithe for the Levites; (2.) one for the use of the temple and the great feasts; and (3.) one for the poor of the land.

Category:Tittle''' - A point, (Matthew 5:18; Luke 16:17), the minute point or stroke added to some letters of the Hebrew alphabet to distinguish them from others which they resemble; hence, the very least point.

Category:Titus''' - Honourable, was with Paul and Barnabas at Antioch, and accompanied them to the council at Jerusalem (Galatians 2:1; Acts 15:2), although his name nowhere occurs in the Acts of the Apostles. He appears to have been a Gentile, and to have been chiefly engaged in ministering to Gentiles; for Paul sternly refused to have him circumcised, inasmuch as in his case the cause of gospel liberty was at stake. We find him, at a later period, with Paul and Timothy at Ephesus, whence he was sent by Paul to Corinth for the purpose of getting the contributions of the church there in behalf of the poor saints at Jerusalem sent forward (2 Corinthians 8:6; 2 Corinthians 12:18). He rejoined the apostle when he was in Macedonia, and cheered him with the tidings he brought from Corinth (2 Corinthians 7:6). After this his name is not mentioned till after Paul's first imprisonment, when we find him engaged in the organization of the church in Crete, where the apostle had left him for this purpose (Titus 1:5). The last notice of him is in 2 Timothy 4:10, where we find him with Paul at Rome during his second imprisonment. From Rome he was sent into Dalmatia, no doubt on some important missionary errand. We have no record of his death. He is not mentioned in the Acts.

Category:Epistle to Titus''' - Was probably written about the same time as the first epistle to Timothy, with which it has many affinities. "Both letters were addressed to persons left by the writer to preside in their respective churches during his absence. Both letters are principally occupied in describing the qualifications to be sought for in those whom they should appoint to offices in the church; and the ingredients of this description are in both letters nearly the same. Timothy and Titus are likewise cautioned against the same prevailing corruptions, and in particular against the same misdirection of their cares and studies. This affinity obtains not only in the subject of the letters, which from the similarity of situation in the persons to whom they were addressed might be expected to be somewhat alike, but extends in a great variety of instances to the phrases and expressions. The writer accosts his two friends with the same salutation, and passes on to the business of his letter by the same transition (compare 1 Timothy 1:2, 1 Timothy 1:3 with Titus 1:4, Titus 1:5; 1 Timothy 1:4 with Titus 1:13, Titus 1:14; Titus 3:9; 1 Timothy 4:12 with Titus 2:7, Titus 2:15)." Paley's Horce Paulince. The date of its composition may be concluded from the circumstance that it was written after Paul's visit to Crete (Titus 1:5). That visit could not be the one referred to in Acts 27:7, when Paul was on his voyage to Rome as a prisoner, and where he continued a prisoner for two year. We may warrantably suppose that after his release Paul sailed from Rome into Asia and took Crete by the way, and that there he left Titus "to set in order the things that were wanting." Thence he went to Ephesus, where he left Timothy, and from Ephesus to Macedonia, where he wrote First Timothy, and thence to Nicopolis in Epirus, from which place he wrote to Titus, about A.D. 66 or 67. In the subscription to the epistle it is said to have been written from "Nicopolis of Macedonia," but no such place is known. The subscriptions to the epistles are of no authority, as they are not authentic.

Category:The Land of Tob''' - A district on the east of Jordan, about 13 miles south-east of the Sea of Galilee, to which Jephthah fled from his brethren (Judges 11:3, Judges 11:5). It was on the northern boundary of Perea, between Syria and the land of Ammon (2 Samuel 10:6, 2 Samuel 10:8). Its modern name is Taiyibeh.

Category:Tob-adonijah''' - Good is Jehovah, my Lord, a Levite sent out by Jehoshaphat to instruct the people of Judah in the law (2 Chronicles 17:8).

Category:Tobiah''' - Pleasing to Jehovah, the "servant," the "Ammonite," who joined with those who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem after the Exile (Nehemiah 2:10). He was a man of great influence, which he exerted in opposition to the Jews, and "sent letters" to Nehemiah "to put him in fear" (Nehemiah 6:17). "Eliashib the priest" prepared for him during Nehemiah's absence "a chamber in the courts of the house of God," which on his return grieved Nehemiah sore, and therefore he "cast forth all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber" (Nehemiah 13:7, Nehemiah 13:8).

Category:Tobijah''' - Id., a Levite sent out through Judah by Jehoshaphat to teach the people (2 Chronicles 17:8).

Category:Tochen''' - Measured, a town of Simeon (1 Chronicles 4:32).

Category:Togarmah''' - (1.) A son of Gomer, and grandson of Japheth (Genesis 10:3). (2.) A nation which traded in horses and mules at the fairs of Tyre (Ezekiel 27:14; Ezekiel 38:6); probably an Armenian or a Scythian race; descendants of (1.).

Category:Tohu''' - One of Samuel's ancestors (1 Samuel 1:1).

Category:Toi''' - A king of Hamath, who sent "Joram his son unto King David to salute him," when he "heard that David had smitten all the host of Hadadezer" (2 Samuel 8:9, 2 Samuel 8:10). Called Tou (1 Chronicles 18:9, 1 Chronicles 18:10).

Category:Tola''' - A scarlet worm. (1.) Eldest son of Issachar (Genesis 46:13). (2.) A judge of the tribe of Issachar who "judged" Israel twenty-three years (Judges 10:1, Judges 10:2), when he died, and was buried in Shamir. He was succeeded by Jair.

Category:Tolad''' - Productive, a town of Simeon, in the south of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:29).

Category:Tolaites''' - Descendants of Tola (Numbers 26:23; 1 Chronicles 7:1, 1 Chronicles 7:2).

Category:Toll''' - One of the branches of the king of Persia's revenues (Ezra 4:13; Ezra 7:24), probably a tax levied from those who used the bridges and fords and highways.

Category:Tombs''' - Of the Hebrews were generally excavated in the solid rock, or were natural caves. Mention is made of such tombs in Judges 8:32; 2 Samuel 2:32; 2 Kings 9:28; 2 Kings 23:30. They were sometimes made in gardens (2 Kings 21:26; 2 Kings 23:16; Matthew 27:60). They are found in great numbers in and around Jerusalem and all over the land. They were sometimes whitewashed (Matthew 23:27, Matthew 23:29). The body of Jesus was laid in Joseph's new rock-hewn tomb, in a garden near to Calvary. All evidence is in favour of the opinion that this tomb was somewhere near the Damascus gate, and outside the city, and cannot be identified with the so-called "holy sepulchre." The mouth of such rocky tombs was usually closed by a large stone (Heb. golal ), which could only be removed by the united efforts of several men (Matthew 28:2; compare John 11:39). (See GOLGOTHA.)

Category:Confusion of Tongues''' - At Babel, the cause of the early separation of mankind and their division into nations. The descendants of Noah built a tower to prevent their dispersion; but God "confounded their language" (Genesis 11:1), and they were scattered over the whole earth. Till this time "the whole earth was of one language and of one speech." (See SHINAR.)

Category:Gift of Tongues''' - Granted on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:4), in fulfillment of a promise Christ had made to his disciples (Mark 16:17). What this gift actually was has been a subject of much discussion. Some have argued that it was merely an outward sign of the presence of the Holy Spirit among the disciples, typifying his manifold gifts, and showing that salvation was to be extended to all nations. But the words of Luke (Acts 2:9) clearly show that the various peoples in Jerusalem at the time of Pentecost did really hear themselves addressed in their own special language with which they were naturally acquainted (compare Joel 2:28, Joel 2:29). Among the gifts of the Spirit the apostle enumerates in 1 Cor. 12:10 - 14:30, "divers kinds of tongues" and the "interpretation of tongues." This "gift" was a different manifestation of the Spirit from that on Pentecost, although it resembled it in many particulars. Tongues were to be "a sign to them that believe not."

Category:Tooth''' - One of the particulars regarding which retaliatory punishment was to be inflicted (Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21). "Gnashing of teeth" = rage, despair (Matthew 8:12; Acts 7:54); "cleanness of teeth" = famine (Amos 4:6); "children's teeth set on edge" = children suffering for the sins of their fathers (Ezekiel 18:2).

Category:Topaz''' - Heb. pitdah (Ezekiel 28:13; Revelation 21:20), a golden yellow or "green" stone brought from Cush or Ethiopia (Job 28:19). It was the second stone in the first row in the breastplate of the high priest, and had the name of Simeon inscribed on it (Exodus 28:17). It is probably the chrysolite of the moderns.

Category:Tophel''' - Lime, a place in the wilderness of Sinai (Deuteronomy 1:1), now identified with Tafyleh or Tufileh, on the west side of the Edomitish mountains.

Category:Tophet''' - =Topheth, from Heb. toph "a drum," because the cries of children here sacrificed by the priests of Moloch were drowned by the noise of such an instrument; or from taph or toph, meaning "to burn," and hence a place of burning, the name of a particular part in the valley of Hinnom. "Fire being the most destructive of all elements, is chosen by the sacred writers to symbolize the agency by which God punishes or destroys the wicked. We are not to assume from prophetical figures that material fire is the precise agent to be used. It was not the agency employed in the destruction of Sennacherib, mentioned in Isaiah 30:33 Tophet properly begins where the Vale of Hinnom bends round to the east, having the cliffs of Zion on the north, and the Hill of Evil Counsel on the south. It terminates at Beer 'Ayub, where it joins the Valley of Jehoshaphat. The cliffs on the southern side especially abound in ancient tombs. Here the dead carcasses of beasts and every offal and abomination were cast, and left to be either devoured by that worm that never died or consumed by that fire that was never quenched." Thus Tophet came to represent the place of punishment. (See HINNOM.)

Category:Torches''' - On the night of his betrayal, when our Lord was in the garden of Gethsemane, Judas, "having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons" (John 18:1). Although it was the time of full moon, yet in the valley of the Kidron "there fell great, deep shadows from the declivity of the mountain and projecting rocks; there were there caverns and grottos, into which a fugitive might retreat; finally, there were probably a garden-house and tower, into whose gloom it might be necessary for a searcher to throw light around." Lange's Commentary. (Nahum 2:3, "torches," Revised Category:Version, "steel," probably should be "scythes" for war-chariots.)

Category:Torment''' - Gr. basanos (Matthew 4:24), the "touch-stone" of justice; hence inquisition by torture, and then any disease which racks and tortures the limbs.

Category:Tortoise''' - (Heb. tsabh ). Ranked among the unclean animals (Leviticus 11:29). Land tortoises are common in Syria. The LXX. renders the word by "land crocodile." The word, however, more probably denotes a lizard, called by the modern Arabs dhabb.

Category:Tow''' - (Judges 16:9). See FLAX.

Category:Towers Of Babel''' - (Genesis 11:4), Edar (Genesis 35:21), Penuel (Judges 8:9, Judges 8:17), Shechem (Judges 9:46), David (Song of Songs 4:4), Lebanon (Song of Songs 7:4), Syene (Ezekiel 29:10), Hananeel (Zechariah 14:10), Siloam (Luke 13:4). There were several towers in Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 26:9; Psalms 48:12). They were erected for various purposes, as watch-towers in vineyard (Isaiah 5:2; Matthew 21:33) and towers for defense.

Category:Tower of the Furnaces''' - (Nehemiah 3:11; Nehemiah 12:38), a tower at the north-western angle of the second wall of Jerusalem. It was probably so named from its contiguity to the "bakers' street" (Jeremiah 37:21).

Category:Trachonitis''' - A rugged region, corresponds to the Heb. Argob (q.v.), the Greek name of a region on the east of Jordan (Luke 3:1); one of the five Roman provinces into which that district was divided. It was in the tetrarchy of Philip, and is now called the Lejah.

Category:Tradition''' - Any kind of teaching, written or spoken, handed down from generation to generation. In Mark 7:3, Mark 7:9, Mark 7:13, Colossians 2:8, this word refers to the arbitrary interpretations of the Jews. In 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 Thessalonians 3:6, it is used in a good sense. Peter (1 Peter 1:18) uses this word with reference to the degenerate Judaism of the "strangers scattered" whom he addresses (compare Acts 15:10; Matthew 15:2; Galatians 1:14).

Category:Trance''' - (Gr. ekstasis, from which the word "ecstasy" is derived) denotes the state of one who is "out of himself." Such were the trances of Peter and Paul, Acts 10:10; Acts 11:5; Acts 22:17, ecstasies, "a preternatural, absorbed state of mind preparing for the reception of the vision", compare 2 Corinthians 12:1). In Mark 5:42 and Luke 5:26 the Greek word is rendered "astonishment," "amazement" (compare Mark 16:8; Acts 3:10).

Category:The Transfiguration''' - Of our Lord on a "high mountain apart," is described by each of the three evangelists (Matthew 17:1; Mark 9:2; Luke 9:28). The fullest account is given by Luke, who, no doubt, was informed by Peter, who was present on Category:On|the occasion. What these evangelists record was an absolute historical reality, and not a mere vision. The concurrence between them in all the circumstances of the incident is exact. John seems to allude to it also (John 1:14). Forty years after the event Peter distinctly makes mention of it (2 Peter 1:16). In describing the sanctification of believers, Paul also seems to allude to this majestic and glorious appearance of our Lord on the "holy mount" (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18). The place of the transfiguration was probably Mount Hermon (q.v.), and not Mount Tabor, as is commonly supposed.

Category:Treasure Cities''' - Store cities which the Israelites built for the Egyptians (Exodus 1:11). (See PITHOM.) Towns in which the treasures of the kings of Judah were kept were so designated (1 Chronicles 27:25).

Category:Treasure Houses''' - The houses or magazines built for the safe keeping of treasure and valuable articles of any kind (Ezra 5:17; Ezra 7:20; Nehemiah 10:38; Daniel 1:2).

Category:Treasury''' - (Matthew 27:6; Mark 12:41; John 8:20). It does not appear that there was a separate building so called. The name was given to the thirteen brazen chests, called "trumpets," from the form of the opening into which the offerings of the temple worshippers were put. These stood in the outer "court of the women." "Nine chests were for the appointed money-tribute and for the sacrifice-tribute, i.e., money-gifts instead of the sacrifices; four chests for freewill-offerings for wood, incense, temple decoration, and burnt-offerings" (Lightfoot's Hor. Heb.).

Category:Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil''' - Stood in the midst of the garden of Eden, beside the tree of life (Gen. 2, 3). Adam and Eve were forbidden to take of the fruit which grew upon it. But they disobeyed the divine injunction, and so sin and death by sin entered our world and became the heritage of Adam's posterity. (See ADAM.)

Category:Tree of Life''' - Stood also in the midst of the garden of Eden (Genesis 2:9; Genesis 3:22). Some writers have advanced the opinion that this tree had some secret virtue, which was fitted to preserve life. Probably the lesson conveyed was that life was to be sought by man, not in himself or in his own power, but from without, from Him who is emphatically the Life (John 1:4; John 14:6). Wisdom is compared to the tree of life (Proverbs 3:18). The "tree of life" spoken of in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 2:7; Revelation 22:2, Revelation 22:14) is an emblem of the joys of the celestial paradise.

Category:Trespass Offering''' - (Heb. 'asham, "debt"), the law concerning, given in Lev. 5:14 - 6:7; also in Numbers 5:5. The idea of sin as a "debt" pervades this legislation. The asham, which was always a ram, was offered in cases where sins were more private. (See OFFERING.)

Category:Tribe''' - A collection of families descending from one ancestor. The "twelve tribes" of the Hebrews were the twelve collections of families which sprang from the sons of Jacob. In Matthew 24:30 the word has a wider significance. The tribes of Israel are referred to as types of the spiritual family of God (Rev. 7). (See KINGDOM OF ISRAEL; OF JUDAH.)

Category:Tribulation''' - Trouble or affliction of any kind (Deuteronomy 4:30; Matthew 13:21; 2 Corinthians 7:4). In Romans 2:9 "tribulation and anguish" are the penal sufferings that shall overtake the wicked. In Matthew 24:21, Matthew 24:29, the word denotes the calamities that were to attend the destruction of Jerusalem.

Category:Tribute''' - A tax imposed by a king on his subjects (2 Samuel 20:24; 1 Kings 4:6; Romans 13:6). In Matthew 17:24 the word denotes the temple rate (the "didrachma," the "half-shekel," as rendered by the R.V.) which was required to be paid for the support of the temple by every Jew above twenty years of age (Exodus 30:12; 2 Kings 12:4; 2 Chronicles 24:6, 2 Chronicles 24:9). It was not a civil but a religious tax. In Matthew 22:17, Mark 12:14, Luke 20:22, the word may be interpreted as denoting the capitation tax which the Romans imposed on the Jewish people. It may, however, be legitimately regarded as denoting any tax whatever imposed by a foreign power on the people of Israel. The "tribute money" shown to our Lord (Matthew 22:19) was the denarius, bearing Caesar's superscription. It was the tax paid by every Jew to the Romans. (See PENNY.)

Category:Trinity''' - A word not found in Scripture, but used to express the doctrine of the unity of God as subsisting in three distinct Persons. This word is derived from the Gr. trias, first used by Theophilus (A.D. 168-183), or from the Lat. trinitas , first used by Tertullian (A.D. 220), to express this doctrine. The propositions involved in the doctrine are these: (1.) That God is one, and that there is but one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; 1 Kings 8:60; Isaiah 44:6; Mark 12:29, Mark 12:32; John 10:30). (2.) That the Father is a distinct divine Person ( hypostasis, subsistentia, persona, suppositum intellectuale ), distinct from the Son and the Holy Spirit. (3.) That Jesus Christ was truly God, and yet was a Person distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit. (4.) That the Holy Spirit is also a distinct divine Person.

Category:Troas''' - A city on the coast of Mysia, in the north-west of Asia Minor, named after ancient Troy, which was at some little distance from it (about 4 miles) to the north. Here Paul, on his second missionary journey, saw the vision of a "man of Macedonia," who appeared to him, saying, "Come over, and help us" (Acts 16:8). He visited this place also on other occasions, and on one of these visits he left his cloak and some books there (2 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Timothy 4:13). The ruins of Troas extend over many miles, the site being now mostly covered with a forest of oak trees. The modern name of the ruins is Eski Stamboul i.e., Old Constantinople.

Category:Trogyllium''' - A town on the western coast of Asia Minor, where Paul "tarried" when on his way from Assos to Miletus, on his third missionary journey (Acts 20:15).

Category:Trophimus''' - A foster-child, an Ephesian who accompanied Paul during a part of his third missionary journey (Acts 20:4; Acts 21:29). He was with Paul in Jerusalem, and the Jews, supposing that the apostle had brought him with him into the temple, raised a tumult which resulted in Paul's imprisonment. (See TEMPLE, HEROD'S.) In writing to Timothy, the apostle says, "Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick" (2 Timothy 4:20). This must refer to some event not noticed in the Acts.

Category:Trumpets''' - Were of a great variety of forms, and were made of divers materials. Some were made of silver (Numbers 10:2), and were used only by the priests in announcing the approach of festivals and in giving signals of war. Some were also made of rams' horns (Joshua 6:8). They were blown at special festivals, and to herald the arrival of special seasons (Leviticus 23:24; Leviticus 25:9; 1 Chronicles 15:24; 2 Chronicles 29:27; Psalms 81:3; Psalms 98:6). "Trumpets" are among the symbols used in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 1:10; Revelation 8:2). (See HORN.)

Category:Feast of Trumpets''' - Was celebrated at the beginning of the month Tisri, the first month of the civil year. It received its name from the circumstances that the trumpets usually blown at the commencement of each month were on that occasion blown with unusual solemnity (Leviticus 23:23; Numbers 10:10; Numbers 29:1). It was one of the seven days of holy convocation. The special design of this feast, which is described in these verses, is not known.

Category:Truth''' - Used in various senses in Scripture. In Proverbs 12:17, Proverbs 12:19, it denotes that which is opposed to falsehood. In Isaiah 59:14, Isaiah 59:15, Jeremiah 7:28, it means fidelity or truthfulness. The doctrine of Christ is called "the truth of the gospel" (Galatians 2:5), "the truth" (2 Timothy 3:7; 2 Timothy 4:4). Our Lord says of himself, "I am the way, and the truth" (John 14:6).

Category:Tryphena and Tryphosa''' - Two female Christians, active workers, whom Paul salutes in his epistle to the Romans (Romans 16:12).

Category:Tubal''' - (1.) The fifth son of Japheth (Genesis 10:2). (2.) A nation, probably descended from the son of Japheth. It is mentioned by Isaiah (Isaiah 66:19), along with Javan, and by Ezekiel (Ezekiel 27:13), along with Meshech, among the traders with Tyre, also among the confederates of Gog (Ezekiel 38:2, Ezekiel 38:3; Ezekiel 39:1), and with Meshech among the nations which were to be destroyed (Ezekiel 32:26). This nation was probably the Tiberini of the Greek historian Herodotus, a people of the Asiatic highland west of the Upper Euphrates, the southern range of the Caucasus, on the east of the Black Sea.

Category:Tubal-cain''' - The son of Lamech and Zillah, "an instructor of every artificer in brass and iron" (Genesis 4:22; R.V., "the forger of every cutting instrument of brass and iron").

Category:Turtle-dove Turtle''' - Its peculiar peaceful and gentle habit is often referred to in Scripture. A pair was offered in sacrifice by Mary at her purification (Luke 2:24). The pigeon and the turtle-dove were the only birds permitted to be offered in sacrifice (Leviticus 1:14; Leviticus 5:7; Leviticus 14:22; Leviticus 15:14, Leviticus 15:29, etc.). The Latin name of this bird, turtur, is derived from its note, and is a repetition of the Hebrew name tor. Three species are found in Palestine, (1.) the turtle-dove ( Turtur auritus ), (2.) the collared turtle (T. risorius ), and (3.) the palm turtle (T. Senegalensis ). But it is to the first of these species which the various passages of Scripture refer. It is a migratory bird (Jeremiah 8:7; Song of Songs 2:11, Song of Songs 2:12). "Search the glades and valleys, even by sultry Jordan, at the end of March, and not a turtle-dove is to be seen. Return in the second week of April, and clouds of doves are feeding on the cloves of plain. They over-spread the whole face of the land." "Immediately on its arrival it pours forth from every garden, grove, and wooded hill its melancholy yet soothing ditty unceasingly form early dawn till sunset. It is from its plaintive and continuous note, doubtless, that David, pouring forth his heart's sorrow to God, compares himself to a turtle-dove" (Psalms 74:19).

Category:Tychicus''' - Chance, an Asiatic Christian, a "faithful minister in the Lord" (Ephesians 6:21, Ephesians 6:22), who, with Trophimus, accompanied Paul on a part of his journey from Macedonia to Jerusalem (Acts 20:4). He is alluded to also in Colossians 4:7, Titus 3:12, and 2 Timothy 4:12 as having been with Paul at Rome, whence he sent him to Ephesus, probably for the purpose of building up and encouraging the church there.

Category:Type''' - Occurs only once in Scripture (1 Corinthians 10:11, A.V. marg.). The Greek word tupos is rendered "print" (John 20:25), "figure" (Acts 7:43; Romans 5:14), "fashion" (Acts 7:44), "manner" (Acts 23:25), "form" (Romans 6:17), "example" or "ensample" (1 Corinthians 10:6, 1 Corinthians 10:11; Philippians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:9; 1 Timothy 4:12). It properly means a "model" or "pattern" or "mould" into which clay or wax was pressed, that it might take the figure or exact shape of the mould. The word "type" is generally used to denote a resemblance between something present and something future, which is called the "antitype."

Category:Tyrannus''' - Prince, a Greek rhetorician, in whose "school" at Ephesus Paul disputed daily for the space of two years with those who came to him (Acts 19:9). Some have supposed that he was a Jew, and that his "school" was a private synagogue.

Category:Tyre''' - A rock, now es-Sur; an ancient Phoenician city, about 23 miles, in a direct line, north of Acre, and 20 south of Sidon. Sidon was the oldest Phoenician city, but Tyre had a longer and more illustrious history. The commerce of the whole world was gathered into the warehouses of Tyre. "Tyrian merchants were the first who ventured to navigate the Mediterranean waters; and they founded their colonies on the coasts and neighbouring islands of the Aegean Sea, in Greece, on the northern coast of Africa, at Carthage and other places, in Sicily and Corsica, in Spain at Tartessus, and even beyond the pillars of Hercules at Gadeira (Cadiz)" (Driver's Isaiah). In the time of David a friendly alliance was entered into between the Hebrews and the Tyrians, who were long ruled over by their native kings (2 Samuel 5:11; 1 Kings 5:1; 2 Chronicles 2:3). Tyre consisted of two distinct parts, a rocky fortress on the mainland, called "Old Tyre," and the city, built on a small, rocky island about half-a-mile distant from the shore. It was a place of great strength. It was besieged by Shalmaneser, who was assisted by the Phoenicians of the mainland, for five years, and by Nebuchadnezzar (B.C.586-573) for thirteen years, apparently without success. It afterwards fell under the power of Alexander the Great, after a siege of seven months, but continued to maintain much of its commercial importance till the Christian era. It is referred to in Matthew 11:21 and Acts 12:20. In A.D. 1291 it was taken by the Saracens, and has remained a desolate ruin ever since. "The purple dye of Tyre had a worldwide celebrity on account of the durability of its beautiful tints, and its manufacture proved a source of abundant wealth to the inhabitants of that city." Both Tyre and Sidon "were crowded with glass-shops, dyeing and weaving establishments; and among their cunning workmen not the least important class were those who were celebrated for the engraving of precious stones." (2 Chronicles 2:7, 2 Chronicles 2:14). The wickedness and idolatry of this city are frequently denounced by the prophets, and its final destruction predicted (Isaiah 23:1; Jeremiah 25:22; Ezekiel 26; 28:1-19; Amos 1:9, Amos 1:10; Zechariah 9:2). Here a church was founded soon after the death of Stephen, and Paul, on his return from his third missionary journey spent a week in intercourse with the disciples there (Acts 21:4). Here the scene at Miletus was repeated on his leaving them. They all, with their wives and children, accompanied him to the sea-shore. The sea-voyage of the apostle terminated at Ptolemais, about 38 miles from Tyre. Thence he proceeded to Caesarea (Acts 21:5). "It is noticed on monuments as early as B.C.1500, and claiming, according to Herodotus, to have been founded about 2700 B.C.. It had two ports still existing, and was of commercial importance in all ages, with colonies at Carthage (about 850 B.C.) and all over the Mediterranean. It was often attacked by Egypt and Assyria, and taken by Alexander the Great after a terrible siege in 332 B.C.. It is now a town of 3,000 inhabitants, with ancient tombs and a ruined cathedral. A short Phoenician text of the fourth century B.C. is the only monument yet recovered."

Category:Tyropoeon Valley''' - (i.e., "Valley of the Cheesemongers"), the name given by Josephus the historian to the valley or rugged ravine which in ancient times separated Mount Moriah from Mount Zion. This valley, now filled up with a vast accumulation of rubbish, and almost a plain, was spanned by bridges, the most noted of which was Zion Bridge, which was probably the ordinary means of communication between the royal palace on Zion and the temple. A fragment of the arch (q.v.) of this bridge (called "Robinson's Arch"), where it projects from the sanctuary wall, was discovered by Robinson in 1839. This arch was destroyed by the Romans when Jerusalem was taken. The western wall of the temple area rose up from the bottom of this valley to the height of 84 feet, where it was on a level with the area, and above this, and as a continuance of it, the wall of Solomon's cloister rose to the height of about 50 feet, "so that this section of the wall would originally present to view a stupendous mass of masonry scarcely to be surpassed by any mural masonry in the world."

Category:Ucal''' - The name of a person to whom Agur's words are addressed (Proverbs 30:1).

Category:Ulai''' - The Eulaus of the Greeks; a river of Susiana. It was probably the eastern branch of the Choasper (Kerkhan), which divided into two branches some 20 miles above the city of Susa. Hence Daniel (Daniel 8:2, Daniel 8:16) speaks of standing "between the banks of Ulai", i.e., between the two streams of the divided river.

Category:Ummah''' - Vicinity, a town of Asher (Joshua 19:30).

Category:Unction''' - (1 John 2:20, 1 John 2:27; R.V., "anointing"). Kings, prophets, and priests were anointed, in token of receiving divine grace. All believers are, in a secondary sense, what Christ was in a primary sense, "the Lord's anointed."

Category:Unicorn''' - Described as an animal of great ferocity and strength (Numbers 23:22, R.V., "wild ox," marg., "ox-antelope;" Numbers 24:8; Isaiah 34:7, R.V., "wild oxen"), and untamable (Job 39:9). It was in reality a two-horned animal; but the exact reference of the word so rendered (reem) is doubtful. Some have supposed it to be the buffalo; others, the white antelope, called by the Arabs rim. Most probably, however, the word denotes the Bos primigenius ("primitive ox"), which is now extinct all over the world. This was the auerochs of the Germans, and the urus described by Caesar (Gal. Bel., vi. 28) as inhabiting the Hercynian forest. The word thus rendered has been found in an Assyrian inscription written over the wild ox or bison, which some also suppose to be the animal intended (compare Deuteronomy 33:17; Psalms 22:21; Psalms 29:6; Psalms 92:10).

Category:Unni''' - Afflicted. (1.) A Levite whom David appointed to take part in bringing the ark up to Jerusalem from the house of Obed-edom by playing the psaltery on that occasion (1 Chronicles 15:18, 1 Chronicles 15:20). (2.) A Levite who returned with Zerubbabel from the Captivity (Nehemiah 12:9).

Category:Upharsin''' - And they divide, one of the words written by the mysterious hand on the wall of Belshazzar's palace (Daniel 5:25). It is a pure Chaldean word. "Peres" is only a simple form of the same word.

Category:Uphaz''' - Probably another name for Ophir (Jeremiah 10:9). Some, however, regard it as the name of an Indian colony in Yemen, southern Arabia; others as a place on or near the river Hyphasis (now the Ghana), the south-eastern limit of the Punjaub.

Category:Ur''' - Light, or the moon city, a city "of the Chaldees," the birthplace of Haran (Genesis 11:28, Genesis 11:31), the largest city of Shinar or northern Chaldea, and the principal commercial centre of the country as well as the centre of political power. It stood near the mouth of the Euphrates, on its western bank, and is represented by the mounds (of bricks cemented by bitumen) of el-Mugheir, i.e., "the bitumined," or "the town of bitumen," now 150 miles from the sea and some 6 miles from the Euphrates, a little above the point where it receives the Shat el-Hie, an affluent from the Tigris. It was formerly a maritime city, as the waters of the Persian Gulf reached thus far inland. Ur was the port of Babylonia, whence trade was carried on with the dwellers on the gulf, and with the distant countries of India, Ethiopia, and Egypt. It was abandoned about 500 B.C., but long continued, like Erech, to be a great sacred cemetery city, as is evident from the number of tombs found there. (See ABRAHAM.) The oldest king of Ur known to us is Ur-Ba'u (servant of the goddess Ba'u ), as Hommel reads the name, or Ur-Gur, as others read it. He lived some twenty-eight hundred years B.C., and took part in building the famous temple of the moon-god Sin in Ur itself. The illustration here given represents his cuneiform inscription, written in the Sumerian language, and stamped upon every brick of the temple in Ur. It reads: " Ur-Ba'u, king of Ur, who built the temple of the moon-god." "Ur was consecrated to the worship of Sin, the Babylonian moon-god. It shared this honour, however, with another city, and this city was Haran, or Harran. Harran was in Mesopotamia, and took its name from the highroad which led through it from the east to the west. The name is Babylonian, and bears witness to its having been founded by a Babylonian king. The same witness is still more decisively borne by the worship paid in it to the Babylonian moon-god and by its ancient temple of Sin. Indeed, the temple of the moon-god at Harran was perhaps even more famous in the Assyrian and Babylonian world than the temple of the moon god at Ur. "Between Ur and Harran there must, consequently, have been a close connection in early times, the record of which has not yet been recovered. It may be that Harran owed its foundation to a king of Ur; at any rate the two cities were bound together by the worship of the same deity, the closest and most enduring bond of union that existed in the ancient world. That Terah should have migrated from Ur to Harran, therefore, ceases to be extraordinary. If he left Ur at all, it was the most natural place to which to go. It was like passing from one court of a temple into another. "Such a remarkable coincidence between the Biblical narrative and the evidence of archaeological research cannot be the result of chance. The narrative must be historical; no writer of late date, even if he were a Babylonian, could have invented a story so exactly in accordance with what we now know to have been the truth. For a story of the kind to have been the invention of Palestinian tradition is equally impossible. To the unprejudiced mind there is no escape from the conclusion that the history of the migration of Terah from Ur to Harran is founded on fact" (Sayce).

Category:Uriah''' - The Lord is my light. (1.) A Hittite, the husband of Bathsheba, whom David first seduced, and then after Uriah's death married. He was one of the band of David's mighty men." The sad story of the cruel wrongs inflicted upon him by David and of his mournful death are simply told in the sacred record (2 Sam. 11:2 - 12:26). (See BATH-SHEBA; DAVID.) (2.) A priest of the house of Ahaz (Isaiah 8:2). (3.) The father of Meremoth, mentioned in Ezra 8:33.

Category:Uriel''' - God is my light. (1.) A Levite of the family of Kohath (1 Chronicles 6:24). (2.) The chief of the Kohathites at the time when the ark was brought up to Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 15:5, 1 Chronicles 15:11). (3.) The father of Michaiah, one of Rehoboam's wives, and mother of Abijah (2 Chronicles 13:2).

Category:Urijah''' - The lord is my light. (1.) A high priest in the time of Ahaz (2 Kings 16:10), at whose bidding he constructed an idolatrous altar like one the king had seen at Damascus, to be set up instead of the brazen altar. (2.) One of the priests who stood at the right hand of Ezra's pulpit when he read and expounded the law (Nehemiah 8:4). (3.) A prophet of Kirjath-jearim in the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah (Jeremiah 26:20). He fled into Egypt from the cruelty of the king, but having been brought back he was beheaded and his body "cast into the graves of the common people."

Category:Urim''' - Lights (Vulg."doctrina;" LXX. "revelation"). See THUMMIM.

Category:Usury''' - The sum paid for the use of money, hence interest; not, as in the modern sense, exorbitant interest. The Jews were forbidden to exact usury (Leviticus 25:36, Leviticus 25:37), only, however, in their dealings with each other (Deuteronomy 23:19, Deuteronomy 23:20). The violation of this law was viewed as a great crime (Psalms 15:5; Proverbs 28:8; Jeremiah 15:10). After the Return, and later, this law was much neglected (Nehemiah 5:7, Nehemiah 5:10).

Category:Uz''' - Fertile land. (1.) The son of Aram, and grandson of Shem (Genesis 10:23; 1 Chronicles 1:17). (2.) One of the Horite "dukes" in the land of Edom (Genesis 36:28). (3.) The eldest son of Nahor, Abraham's brother (Genesis 22:21, R.V.).

Category:The Land of Uz''' - Where Job lived (Job 1:1; Jeremiah 25:20; Lamentations 4:21), probably somewhere to the east or south-east of Palestine and north of Edom. It is mentioned in Scripture only in these three passages.

Category:Uzal''' - A wanderer, a descendant of Joktan (Genesis 10:27; 1 Chronicles 1:21), the founder apparently of one of the Arab tribes; the name also probably of the province they occupied and of their chief city.

Category:Uzza''' - Strength, a garden in which Manasseh and Amon were buried (2 Kings 21:18, 2 Kings 21:26). It was probably near the king's palace in Jerusalem, or may have formed part of the palace grounds. Manasseh may probably have acquired it from some one of this name.

Category:Uzzah''' - Strength, a son of Abinadab, in whose house the men of Kirjath-jearim placed the ark when it was brought back from the land of the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:1). He with his brother Ahio drove the cart on which the ark was placed when David sought to bring it up to Jerusalem. When the oxen stumbled, Uzzah, in direct violation of the divine law (Numbers 4:15), put forth his hand to steady the ark, and was immediately smitten unto death. The place where this occurred was henceforth called Perez-uzzah (1 Chronicles 13:11). David on this feared to proceed further, and placed the ark in the house of Obed-edom the Gittite (2 Samuel 6:2; 1 Chronicles 13:6).

Category:Uzzen-sherah''' - A town probably near Beth-horon. It derived its name from the daughter of Ephraim (1 Chronicles 7:24).

Category:Uzzi''' - The Lord is my strength. (1.) The son of Bukki, and a descendant of Aaron (1 Chronicles 6:5, 1 Chronicles 6:51; Ezra 7:4). (2.) A grandson of Issachar (1 Chronicles 7:2, 1 Chronicles 7:3). (3.) A son of Bela, and grandson of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 7:7). (4.) A Benjamite, a chief in the tribe (1 Chronicles 9:8). (5.) A son of Bani. He had the oversight of the Levites after the return from captivity (Nehemiah 11:22). (6.) The head of the house of Jedaiah, one of "the chief of the priests" (Nehemiah 12:19). (7.) A priest who assisted in the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 12:42).

Category:Uzziah''' - A contracted form of Azariah the Lord is my strength. (1.) One of Amaziah's sons, whom the people made king of Judah in his father's stead (2 Kings 14:21; 2 Chronicles 26:1). His long reign of about fifty-two years was "the most prosperous excepting that of Jehosaphat since the time of Solomon." He was a vigorous and able ruler, and "his name spread abroad, even to the entering in of Egypt" (2 Chronicles 26:8, 2 Chronicles 26:14). In the earlier part of his reign, under the influence of Zechariah, he was faithful to Jehovah, and "did that which was right in the sight of the Lord" (2 Kings 15:3; 2 Chronicles 26:4, 2 Chronicles 26:5); but toward the close of his long life "his heart was lifted up to his destruction," and he wantonly invaded the priest's office (2 Chronicles 26:16), and entering the sanctuary proceeded to offer incense on the golden altar. Azariah the high priest saw the tendency of such a daring act on the part of the king, and with a band of eighty priests he withstood him (2 Chronicles 26:17), saying, "It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense." Uzziah was suddenly struck with leprosy while in the act of offering incense (2 Chronicles 26:19), and he was driven from the temple and compelled to reside in "a several house" to the day of his death 2 Kings 15:5, 2 Kings 15:27; 2 Chronicles 26:3). He was buried in a separate grave "in the field of the burial which belonged to the kings" (2 Kings 15:7; 2 Chronicles 26:23). "That lonely grave in the royal necropolis would eloquently testify to coming generations that all earthly monarchy must bow before the inviolable order of the divine will, and that no interference could be tolerated with that unfolding of the purposes of God, which, in the fulness of time, would reveal the Christ, the true High Priest and King for evermore" (Dr. Green's Kingdom of Israel, etc.). (2.) The father of Jehonathan, one of David's overseers (1 Chronicles 27:25).

Category:Uzziel''' - Strength of God. (1.) One of the sons of Kohath, and uncle of Aaron (Exodus 6:18; Leviticus 10:4). (2.) A Simeonite captain (1 Chronicles 4:39). (3.) A son of Bela, and grandson of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 7:7). (4.) One of the sons of Heman (1 Chronicles 25:4); called also Azareel (1 Chronicles 25:18). (5.) A son of Jeduthan (2 Chronicles 29:14). (6.) The son of Harhaiah (Nehemiah 3:8).

Category:Vagabond''' - From Lat. vagabundus, "a wanderer," "a fugitive;" not used opprobriously (Genesis 4:12, R.V., "wanderer;" Psalms 109:10; Acts 19:13, R.V., "strolling").

Category:Vajezatha''' - Purity; worthy of honour one of Haman's sons, whom the Jews slew in the palace of Shushan (Esther 9:9).

Category:Valley''' - (1.) Heb. bik'ah, a "cleft" of the mountains (Deuteronomy 8:7; Deuteronomy 11:11; Psalms 104:8; Isaiah 41:18); also a low plain bounded by mountains, as the plain of Lebanon at the foot of Hermon around the sources of the Jordan (Joshua 11:17; Joshua 12:7), and the valley of Megiddo (2 Chronicles 35:22). (2.) 'Emek, "deep;" "a long, low plain" (Job 39:10, Job 39:21; Psalms 65:13; Song of Songs 2:1), such as the plain of Esdraelon; the "valley of giants" (Joshua 15:8), usually translated "valley of Rephaim" (2 Samuel 5:18); of Elah (1 Samuel 17:2), of Berachah (2 Chronicles 20:26); the king's "dale" (Genesis 14:17); of Jehoshaphat (Joel 3:2, Joel 3:12), of Achor (Joshua 7:24; Isaiah 65:10), Succoth (Psalms 60:6), Ajalon (Joshua 10:12), Jezreel (Hosea 1:5). (3.) Ge, "a bursting," a "flowing together," a narrow glen or ravine, such as the valley of the children of Hinnom (2 Kings 23:10); of Eshcol (Deuteronomy 1:24); of Sorek (Judges 16:4), etc. The "valley of vision" (Isaiah 22:1) is usually regarded as denoting Jerusalem, which "may be so called," says Barnes (Com. on Isa.), "either (1.) because there were several valleys within the city and adjacent to it, as the vale between Mount Zion and Moriah, the vale between Mount Moriah and Mount Ophel, between these and Mount Bezetha, and the valley of Jehoshaphat, the valley of the brook Kidron, etc., without the walls of the city; or (2.) more probably it was called the valley in reference to its being compassed with hills rising to a considerable elevation above the city" (Psalms 125:2; compare also Jeremiah 21:13, where Jerusalem is called a "valley"). (3.) Heb. nahal, a wady or water-course (Genesis 26:19; Song of Songs 6:11).

Category:Vashti''' - Beautiful, the queen of Ahasuerus, who was deposed from her royal dignity because she refused to obey the king when he desired her to appear in the banqueting hall of Shushan the palace (Esther 1:10). (See ESTHER.)

Category:Codex Vaticanus''' - Is said to be the oldest extant vellum manuscript. It and the Codex Sinaiticus are the two oldest uncial manuscripts. They were probably written in the fourth century. The Vaticanus was placed in the Vatican Library at Rome by Pope Nicolas V. in 1448, its previous history being unknown. It originally consisted in all probability of a complete copy of the Septuagint and of the New Testament. It is now imperfect, and consists of 759 thin, delicate leaves, of which the New Testament fills 142. Like the Sinaiticus, it is of the greatest value to Biblical scholars in aiding in the formation of a correct text of the New Testament. It is referred to by critics as Codex B.

Category:Veil''' - Or vail (1.) Heb. mitpahath (Ruth 3:15; marg., "sheet" or "apron;" R.V., "mantle"). In Isaiah 3:22 this word is plural, rendered "wimples;" R.V., "shawls" i.e., wraps. (2.) Massekah (Isaiah 25:7; in Isaiah 28:20 rendered "covering"). The word denotes something spread out and covering or concealing something else (compare 2 Corinthians 3:13). (3.) Masveh (Exodus 34:33, Exodus 34:35), the veil on the face of Moses. This verse should be read, "And when Moses had done speaking with them, he put a veil on his face," as in the Revised Category:Version. When Moses spoke to them he was without the veil; only when he ceased speaking he put on the veil (compare 2 Corinthians 3:13, etc.). (4.) Paroheth (Exodus 26:31), the veil of the tabernacle and the temple, which hung between the holy place and the most holy (2 Chronicles 3:14). In the temple a partition wall separated these two places. In it were two folding-doors, which are supposed to have been always open, the entrance being concealed by the veil which the high priest lifted when he entered into the sanctuary on the day of Atonement. This veil was rent when Christ died on the cross (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45). (5.) Tzaiph (Genesis 24:65). Rebekah "took a vail and covered herself." (See also Genesis 38:14, Genesis 38:19.) Hebrew women generally appeared in public without veils (Genesis 12:14; Genesis 24:16; Genesis 29:10; 1 Samuel 1:12). (6.) Radhidh (Song of Songs 5:7, R.V. "mantle;" Isaiah 3:23). The word probably denotes some kind of cloak or wrapper. (7.) Masak, the veil which hung before the entrance to the holy place (Exodus 26:36, Exodus 26:37).

Category:Version''' - A translation of the holy Scriptures. This word is not found in the Bible, nevertheless, as frequent references are made in this work to various ancient as well as modern versions, it is fitting that some brief account should be given of the most important of these. These versions are important helps to the right interpretation of the Word. (See SAMARITAN PENTATEUCH.) (1.) The Targums. After the return from the Captivity, the Jews, no longer familiar with the old Hebrew, required that their Scriptures should be translated for them into the Chaldaic or Aramaic language and interpreted. These translations and paraphrases were at first oral, but they were afterwards reduced to writing, and thus targums, i.e., "versions" or "translations", have come down to us. The chief of these are, (a.) The Onkelos Targum, i.e., the targum of Akelas = Aquila, a targum so called to give it greater popularity by comparing it with the Greek translation of Aquila mentioned below. This targum originated about the second century after Christ. (b.) The targum of Jonathan ben Uzziel comes next to that of Onkelos in respect of age and value. It is more a paraphrase on the Prophets, however, than a translation. Both of these targums issued from the Jewish school which then flourished at Babylon. (2.) The Greek Category:Versions. (a.) The oldest of these is the Septuagint, usually quoted as the LXX. The origin of this the most important of all the versions is involved in much obscurity. It derives its name from the popular notion that seventy-two translators were employed on it by the direction of Ptolemy Philadelphus, king of Egypt, and that it was accomplished in seventy-two days, for the use of the Jews residing in that country. There is no historical warrant for this notion. It is, however, an established fact that this version was made at Alexandria; that it was begun about 280 B.C., and finished about 200 or 150 B.C.; that it was the work of a number of translators who differed greatly both in their knowledge of Hebrew and of Greek; and that from the earliest times it has borne the name of "The Septuagint", i.e., The Seventy. "This version, with all its defects, must be of the greatest interest, (a) as preserving evidence for the text far more ancient than the oldest Hebrew manuscripts; (b) as the means by which the Greek Language was wedded to Hebrew thought; (c) as the source of the great majority of quotations from the Old Testament by writers of the New Testament. (b.) The New Testament manuscripts fall into two divisions, Uncials, written in Greek capitals, with no distinction at all between the different words, and very little even between the different lines; and cursive, in small Greek letters, and with divisions of words and lines. The change between the two kinds of Greek writing took place about the tenth century. Only five manuscripts of the New Testament approaching to completeness are more ancient than this dividing date. The first, numbered A, is the Alexandrian manuscript. Though brought to this country by Cyril Lucar, patriarch of Constantinople, as a present to Charles I., it is believed that it was written, not in that capital, but in Alexandria; whence its title. It is now dated in the fifth century A.D. The second, known as B, is the Vatican manuscript. (See VATICANUS.) The Third, C, or the Ephraem manuscript, was so called because it was written over the writings of Ephraem, a Syrian theological author, a practice very common in the days when writing materials were scarce and dear. It is believed that it belongs to the fifth century, and perhaps a slightly earlier period of it than the manuscript A. The fourth, D, or the manuscript of Beza, was so called because it belonged to the reformer Beza, who found it in the monastery of St. Irenaeus at Lyons in A.D. 1562 It is imperfect, and is dated in the sixth century. The fifth (called Aleph) is the Sinaitic manuscript. (See SINAITICUS.) (c.) The Syriac Category:Versions. (See SYRIAC.) (d.) The Latin Category:Versions. A Latin version of the Scriptures, called the "Old Latin," which originated in North Africa, was in common use in the time of Tertullian (A.D. 150). Of this there appear to have been various copies or recensions made. That made in Italy, and called the Itala, was reckoned the most accurate. This translation of the Old Testament seems to have been made not from the original Hebrew but from the LXX. This version became greatly corrupted by repeated transcription, and to remedy the evil Jerome (A.D. 329-420) was requested by Damasus, the bishop of Rome, to undertake a complete revision of it. It met with opposition at first, but was at length, in the seventh century, recognized as the "Vulgate" version. It appeared in a printed from about A.D. 1455, the first book that ever issued from the press. The Council of Trent (1546) declared it "authentic." It subsequently underwent various revisions, but that which was executed (1592) under the sanction of Pope Clement VIII. was adopted as the basis of all subsequent editions. It is regarded as the sacred original in the Roman Catholic Church. All modern European versions have been more or less influenced by the Vulgate. This version reads ipsa instead of ipse in Genesis 3:15, "She shall bruise thy head." (e.) There are several other ancient versions which are of importance for Biblical critics, but which we need not mention particularly, such as the Ethiopic, in the fourth century, from the LXX.; two Egyptian versions, about the fourth century, the Memphitic, circulated in Lower Egypt, and the Thebaic, designed for Upper Egypt, both from the Greek; the Gothic, written in the German language, but with the Greek alphabet, by Ulphilas (died A.D. 388), of which only fragments of the Old Testament remain; the Armenian, about A.D. 400; and the Slavonic, in the ninth century, for ancient Moravia. Other ancient versions, as the Arabic, the Persian, and the Anglo-Saxon, may be mentioned. (f.) The history of the English versions begins properly with Wyckliffe. Portions, however, of the Scriptures were rendered into Saxon (as the Gospel according to John, by Bede, A.D. 735), and also into English (by Orme, called the "Ormulum," a portion of the Gospels and of the Acts in the form of a metrical paraphrase, toward the close of the seventh century), long before Wyckliffe; but it is to him that the honour belongs of having first rendered the whole Bible into English (A.D. 1380). This version was made from the Vulgate, and renders Genesis 3:15 after that Category:Version, "She shall trede thy head." This was followed by Tyndale's translation (1525-1531); Miles Coverdale's (1535-1553); Thomas Matthew's (1537), really, however, the work of John Rogers, the first martyr under the reign of Queen Mary. This was properly the first Authorized Category:Version, Henry VIII. having ordered a copy of it to be got for every church. This took place in less than a year after Tyndale was martyred for the crime of translating the Scriptures. In 1539 Richard Taverner published a revised edition of Matthew's Bible. The Great Bible, so called from its great size, called also Cranmer's Bible, was published in 1539 and 1568. In the strict sense, the "Great Bible" is "the only authorized version; for the Bishops' Bible and the present Bible [the A.V.] never had the formal sanction of royal authority." Next in order was the Geneva version (1557-1560); the Bishops' Bible (1568); the Rheims and Douai versions, under Roman Catholic auspices (1582, 1609); the Authorized Category:Version (1611); and the Revised Category:Version of the New Testament in 1880 and of the Old Testament in 1884.

Category:Villages''' - (Judges 5:7, Judges 5:11). The Hebrew word thus rendered (perazon) means habitations in the open country, unwalled villages (Deuteronomy 3:5; 1 Samuel 6:18). Others, however, following the LXX. and the Vulgate versions, render the word "rulers."

Category:Vine''' - One of the most important products of Palestine. The first mention of it is in the history of Noah (Genesis 9:20). It is afterwards frequently noticed both in the Old and New Testaments, and in the ruins of terraced vineyards there are evidences that it was extensively cultivated by the Jews. It was cultivated in Palestine before the Israelites took possession of it. The men sent out by Moses brought with them from the Valley of Eshcol a cluster of grapes so large that "they bare it between two upon a staff" (Numbers 13:23). The vineyards of En-gedi (Song of Songs 1:14), Heshbon, Sibmah, Jazer, Elealeh (Isaiah 16:8; Jeremiah 48:32, Jeremiah 48:34), and Helbon (Ezekiel 27:18), as well as of Eshcol, were celebrated. The Church is compared to a vine (Psalms 80:8), and Christ says of himself, "I am the vine" (John 15:1). In one of his parables also (Matthew 21:33) our Lord compares his Church to a vineyard which "a certain householder planted, and hedged round about," etc.). Hosea 10:1 is rendered in the Revised Category:Version, "Israel is a luxuriant vine, which putteth forth his fruit," instead of "Israel is an empty vine, he bringeth forth fruit unto himself," of the Authorized Category:Version.

Category:Vine of Sodom''' - Referred to only in Deuteronomy 32:32. Among the many conjectures as to this tree, the most probable is that it is the 'osher of the Arabs, which abounds in the region of the Dead Sea. Its fruit are the so-called. "apples of Sodom," which, though beautiful to the eye, are exceedingly bitter to the taste. (See EN-GEDI.) The people of Israel are referred to here by Moses as being utterly corrupt, bringing forth only bitter fruit.

Category:Vinegar''' - Heb. hometz, Gr. oxos, Fr. vin aigre ; i.e., "sour wine." The Hebrew word is rendered vinegar in Psalms 69:21, a prophecy fulfilled in the history of the crucifixion (Matthew 27:34). This was the common sour wine ( posea ) daily made use of by the Roman soldiers. They gave it to Christ, not in derision, but from compassion, to assuage his thirst. Proverbs 10:26 shows that there was also a stronger vinegar, which was not fit for drinking. The comparison, "vinegar upon nitre ," probably means "vinegar upon soda" (as in the marg. of the R.V.), which then effervesces.

Category:Viol''' - Heb. nebel (Isaiah 5:12, R.V., "lute;" Isaiah 14:11), a musical instrument, usually rendered "psaltery" (q.v.)

Category:Viper''' - In Job 20:16, Isaiah 30:6; Isaiah 59:5, the Heb. word eph'eh is thus rendered. The Hebrew word, however, probably denotes a species of poisonous serpents known by the Arabic name of 'el ephah. Tristram has identified it with the sand viper, a species of small size common in sandy regions, and frequently found under stones by the shores of the Dead Sea. It is rapid in its movements, and highly poisonous. In the New Testament echidne is used (Matthew 3:7; Matthew 12:34; Matthew 23:33) for any poisonous snake. The viper mentioned in Acts 28:3 was probably the vipera aspis, or the Mediterranean viper. (See ADDER.)

Category:Virgin''' - In a prophecy concerning our Lord, Isaiah (Isaiah 7:14) says, "A virgin [R.V. marg., 'the virgin'] shall conceive, and bear a son" (compare Luke 1:31). The people of the land of Zidon are thus referred to by Isaiah (Isaiah 23:12), "O thou oppressed virgin, daughter of Zidon;" and of the people of Israel, Jeremiah (Jeremiah 18:13) says, "The virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing."

Category:Vision''' - (Luke 1:22), a vivid apparition, not a dream (compare Luke 24:23; Acts 26:19; 2 Corinthians 12:1).

Category:Vows''' - Voluntary promises which, when once made, were to be kept if the thing vowed was right. They were made under a great variety of circumstances (Genesis 28:18; Leviticus 7:16; Numbers 30:2; Deuteronomy 23:18; Judges 11:30, Judges 11:39; 1 Samuel 1:11; Jonah 1:16; Acts 18:18; Acts 21:23).

Category:Vulture''' - (1.) Heb. da'ah (Leviticus 11:14). In the parallel passage (Deuteronomy 14:13) the Hebrew word used is ra'ah, rendered " glede ;" LXX., " gups ;" Vulg., " milvus ." A species of ravenous bird, distinguished for its rapid flight. "When used without the epithet 'red,' the name is commonly confined to the black kite. The habits of the bird bear out the allusion in Isaiah 34:15, for it is, excepting during the winter three months, so numerous everywhere in Palestine as to be almost gregarious." (See EAGLE.) (2.) In Job 28:7 the Heb. 'ayyah is thus rendered. The word denotes a clamorous and a keen-sighted bird of prey. In Leviticus 11:14 and Deuteronomy 14:13 it is rendered "kite" (q.v.).

Category:Wafers''' - Thin cakes (Exodus 16:31; Exodus 29:2, Exodus 29:23; Leviticus 2:4; Leviticus 7:12; Leviticus 8:26; Numbers 6:15, Numbers 6:19) used in various offerings.

Category:Wages''' - Rate of (mention only in Matthew 20:2); to be punctually paid (Leviticus 19:13; Deuteronomy 24:14, Deuteronomy 24:15); judgments threatened against the withholding of (Jeremiah 22:13; Malachi 3:5; compare James 5:4); paid in money (Matthew 20:1); to Jacob in kind (Genesis 29:15, Genesis 29:20; Genesis 30:28; Genesis 31:7, Genesis 31:8, Genesis 31:41).

Category:Wagon''' - Heb. aghalah ; so rendered in Genesis 45:19, Genesis 45:21, Genesis 45:27; Genesis 46:5; Numbers 7:3, Numbers 7:7, Numbers 7:8, but elsewhere rendered "cart" (1 Samuel 6:7, etc.). This vehicle was used for peaceful purposes. In Ezekiel 23:24, however, it is the rendering of a different Hebrew word, and denotes a war-chariot.

Category:Jews Wailing-place - A section of the western wall of the temple area, where the Jews assemble every Friday afternoon to bewail their desolate condition (Psalms 79:1, Psalms 79:4, Psalms 79:5). The stones in this part of the wall are of great size, and were placed, as is generally believed, in the position in which they are now found in the time of Solomon. "The congregation at the wailing-place i one of the most solemn gatherings left to the Jewish Church, and as the writer gazed at the motley concourse he experienced a feeling of sorrow that the remnants of the chosen race should be heartlessly thrust outside the sacred enclosure of their fathers' holy temple by men of an alien race and an alien creed. Many of the elders, seated on the ground, with their backs against the wall, on the west side of the area, and with their faces turned toward the eternal house, read out of their well-thumbed Hebrew books passages from the prophetic writings, such as Isaiah 64:9" (King's Recent Discoveries, etc.). The wailing-place of the Jews, viewed in its past spiritual and historic relations, is indeed "the saddest nook in this vale of tears." (See LAMENTATIONS, BOOK OF.)

Category:Wall''' - Cities were surrounded by walls, as distinguished from "unwalled villages" (Ezekiel 38:11; Leviticus 25:29). They were made thick and strong (Numbers 13:28; Deuteronomy 3:5). Among the Jews walls were built of stone, some of those in the temple being of great size (1 Kings 6:7; 1 Kings 7:9; 1 Kings 20:30; Mark 13:1, Mark 13:2). The term is used metaphorically of security and safety (Isaiah 26:1; Isaiah 60:18; Revelation 21:12). (See FENCE.)

Category:Wandering''' - Of the Israelites in the wilderness in consequence of their rebellious fears to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14:26). They wandered for forty years before they were permitted to cross the Jordan (Joshua 4:19; Joshua 5:6). The record of these wanderings is given in Num. 33:1-49. Many of the stations at which they camped cannot now be identified. Questions of an intricate nature have been discussed regarding the "Wanderings," but it is enough for us to take the sacred narrative as it stands, and rest assured that "He led them forth by the right way" (Psalms 107:1, Psalms 107:33). (See WILDERNESS.)

Category:War''' - The Israelites had to take possession of the Promised Land by conquest. They had to engage in a long and bloody war before the Canaanitish tribes were finally subdued. Except in the case of Jericho and Ai, the war did not become aggressive till after the death of Joshua. Till then the attack was always first made by the Canaanites. Now the measure of the iniquity of the Canaanites was full, and Israel was employed by God to sweep them away from off the face of the earth. In entering on this new stage of the war, the tribe of Judah, according to divine direction, took the lead. In the days of Saul and David the people of Israel engaged in many wars with the nations around, and after the division of the kingdom into two they often warred with each other. They had to defend themselves also against the inroads of the Egyptians, the Assyrians, and the Babylonians. The whole history of Israel from first to last presents but few periods of peace. The Christian life is represented as a warfare, and the Christian graces are also represented under the figure of pieces of armor (Ephesians 6:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:8; 2 Timothy 2:3, 2 Timothy 2:4). The final blessedness of believers is attained as the fruit of victory (Revelation 3:21).

Category:The Book of the Wars of the Lord''' - (Numbers 21:14, Numbers 21:15), some unknown book so called (compare Genesis 14:14; Exodus 17:8; Numbers 14:40; Numbers 21:1, Numbers 21:21, Numbers 21:33; 31. The wars here recorded might be thus designated).

Category:Ward''' - A prison (Genesis 40:3, Genesis 40:4); a watch station (Isaiah 21:8); a guard (Nehemiah 13:30).

Category:Washing''' - (Mark 7:1). The Jews, like other Orientals, used their fingers when taking food, and therefore washed their hands before doing so, for the sake of cleanliness. Here the reference is to the ablutions prescribed by tradition, according to which "the disciples ought to have gone down to the side of the lake, washed their hands thoroughly, 'rubbing the fist of one hand in the hollow of the other, then placed the ten finger-tips together, holding the hands up, so that any surplus water might flow down to the elbow, and thence to the ground.'" To neglect to do this had come to be regarded as a great sin, a sin equal to the breach of any of the ten commandments. Moses had commanded washings oft, but always for some definite cause; but the Jews multiplied the legal observance till they formed a large body of precepts. To such precepts about ceremonial washing Mark here refers. (See ABLUTION.)

Category:Watches''' - The periods into which the time between sunset and sunrise was divided. They are so called because watchmen relieved each other at each of these periods. There are frequent references in Scripture to the duties of watchmen who were appointed to give notice of the approach of an enemy (2 Samuel 18:24; 2 Kings 9:17; Isaiah 21:5). They were sometimes placed for this purpose on watchtowers (2 Kings 17:9; 2 Kings 18:8). Ministers or teachers are also spoken of under this title (Jeremiah 6:17; Ezekiel 33:2; Hebrews 13:17). The watches of the night were originally three in number, (1.) "the beginning of the watches" (Lamentations 2:19); (2.) "the middle watch" (Judges 7:19); and (3.) "the morning watch" (Exodus 14:24; 1 Samuel 11:11), which extended from two o'clock to sunrise. But in the New Testament we read of four watches, a division probably introduced by the Romans (Matthew 14:25; Mark 6:48; Luke 12:38). (See DAY.)

Category:Watchings''' - (2 Corinthians 6:5), lit. "sleeplessnesses," the result of "manual labour, teaching, traveling, meditating, praying, cares, and the like" (Meyer's Com.).

Category:Water of Jealousy''' - A phrase employed (not, however, in Scripture) to denote the water used in the solemn ordeal prescribed by the law of Moses (Num. 5:11-31) in cases of "jealousy."

Category:Water of Purification''' - Used in cases of ceremonial cleansings at the consecration of the Levites (Numbers 8:7). It signified, figuratively, that purifying of the heart which must characterize the servants of God.

Category:Water of Separation''' - Used along with the ashes of a red heifer for the ceremonial cleansing of persons defiled by contact with a dead body (Num. 19).

Category:Waterspouts''' - (Psalms 42:7; marg. R.V., "cataracts"). If we regard this psalm as descriptive of David's feelings when banished from Jerusalem by the revolt of Absalom, this word may denote "waterfalls," inasmuch as Mahanaim, where he abode, was near the Jabbok, and the region abounded with rapids and falls.

Category:Wave Offerings''' - Parts of peace-offerings were so called, because they were waved by the priests (Exodus 29:24, Exodus 29:26, Exodus 29:27; Leviticus 7:20; Leviticus 8:27; Leviticus 9:21; Leviticus 10:14, Leviticus 10:15, etc.), in token of a solemn special presentation to God. They then became the property of the priests. The first-fruits, a sheaf of barley, offered at the feast of Pentecost (Leviticus 23:17), and wheat-bread, the first-fruits of the second harvest, offered at the Passover (Leviticus 23:10), were wave-offerings.

Category:Wax''' - Made by melting the combs of bees. Mentioned (Psalms 22:14; Psalms 68:2; Psalms 97:5; Micah 1:4) in illustration.

Category:Wean''' - Among the Hebrews children (whom it was customary for the mothers to nurse, Exodus 2:7; 1 Samuel 1:23; Song of Songs 8:1) were not generally weaned till they were three or four years old.

Category:Weasel''' - (Heb. holedh ), enumerated among unclean animals (Leviticus 11:29). Some think that this Hebrew word rather denotes the mole (Spalax typhlus) common in Palestine. There is no sufficient reason, however, to depart from the usual translation. The weasel tribe are common also in Palestine.

Category:Weaving''' - Or weavers, weaving was an art practiced in very early times (Exodus 35:35). The Egyptians were specially skilled in it (Isaiah 19:9; Ezekiel 27:7), and some have regarded them as its inventors. In the wilderness, the Hebrews practiced it (Exodus 26:1, Exodus 26:8; Exodus 28:4, Exodus 28:39; Leviticus 13:47). It is referred to in subsequent times as specially the women's work (2 Kings 23:7; Proverbs 31:13, Proverbs 31:24). No mention of the loom is found in Scripture, but we read of the "shuttle" (Job 7:6), "the pin" of the beam (Judges 16:14), "the web" (Judges 16:13, Judges 16:14), and "the beam" (1 Samuel 17:7; 2 Samuel 21:19). The rendering, "with pining sickness," in Isaiah 38:12 (A.V.) should be, as in the Revised Category:Version, "from the loom," or, as in the margin, "from the thrum." We read also of the "wrap" and "woof" (Leviticus 13:48, Leviticus 13:49, Leviticus 13:51, Leviticus 13:58, Leviticus 13:59), but the Revised Category:Version margin has, instead of "wrap," "woven or knitted stuff."

Category:Week''' - From the beginning, time was divided into weeks, each consisting of six days of working and one of rest (Genesis 2:2, Genesis 2:3; Genesis 7:10; Genesis 8:10, Genesis 8:12; Genesis 29:28). The references to this division of days becomes afterwards more frequent (Exodus 34:22; Leviticus 12:5; Numbers 28:26; Deuteronomy 16:16; 2 Chronicles 8:13; Jeremiah 5:24; Daniel 9:24; Daniel 10:2, Daniel 10:3). It has been found to exist among almost all nations.

Category:Feast of Weeks''' - See PENTECOST.

Category:Weights''' - Reduced to English troy-weight, the Hebrew weights were:, (1.) The gerah (Leviticus 27:25; Numbers 3:47), a Hebrew word, meaning a grain or kernel, and hence a small weight. It was the twentieth part of a shekel, and equal to 12 grains. (2.) Bekah (Exodus 38:26), meaning "a half" i.e., "half a shekel," equal to 5 pennyweight. (3.) Shekel, "a weight," only in the Old Testament, and frequently in its original form (Genesis 23:15, Genesis 23:16; Exodus 21:32; Exodus 30:13, Exodus 30:15; Exodus 38:24, etc.). It was equal to 10 pennyweight. (4.) Ma'neh, "a part" or "portion" (Ezekiel 45:12), equal to 60 shekels, i.e., to 2 lb. 6 oz. (5.) Talent of silver (2 Kings 5:22), equal to 3,000 shekels, i.e., 125 lb. (6.) Talent of gold (Exodus 25:39), double the preceding, i.e., 250 lb.

Category:Well''' - (Heb. beer ), to be distinguished from a fountain (Heb. 'ain ). A "beer" was a deep shaft, bored far under the rocky surface by the art of man, which contained water which percolated through the strata in its sides. Such wells were those of Jacob and Beersheba, etc. (see Genesis 21:19, Genesis 21:25, Genesis 21:30, Genesis 21:31; Genesis 24:11; Genesis 26:15, Genesis 26:18, Genesis 26:32, etc.). In the Pentateuch this word beer, so rendered, occurs twenty-five times.

Category:Westward''' - Sea-ward, i.e., toward the Mediterranean (Deuteronomy 3:27).

Category:Whale''' - The Hebrew word tan (plural, tannin) is so rendered in Job 7:12 (A.V.; but R.V., "sea-monster"). It is rendered by "dragons" in Deuteronomy 32:33; Psalms 91:13; Jeremiah 51:34; Psalms 74:13 (marg., "whales;" and marg. of R.V., "sea-monsters"); Isaiah 27:1; and "serpent" in Exodus 7:9 (R.V. marg., "any large reptile," and so in Exodus 7:10, Exodus 7:12). The words of Job (Job 7:12), uttered in bitter irony, where he asks, "Am I a sea or a whale?" simply mean, "Have I a wild, untamable nature, like the waves of the sea, which must be confined and held within bounds, that they cannot pass?" "The serpent of the sea, which was but the wild, stormy sea itself, wound itself around the land, and threatened to swallow it up... Job inquires if he must be watched and plagued like this monster, lest he throw the world into disorder" (Davidson's Job). The whale tribe are included under the general Hebrew name tannin (Genesis 1:21; Lamentations 4:3). "Even the sea-monsters [tanninim] draw out the breast." The whale brings forth its young alive, and suckles them. It is to be noticed of the story of Jonah's being "three days and three nights in the whale's belly," as recorded in Matthew 12:40, that here the Gr. ketos means properly any kind of sea-monster of the shark or the whale tribe, and that in the book of Jonah (Jonah 1:17) it is only said that "a great fish" was prepared to swallow Jonah. This fish may have been, therefore, some great shark. The white shark is known to frequent the Mediterranean Sea, and is sometimes found 30 feet in length.

Category:Wheat''' - One of the earliest cultivated grains. It bore the Hebrew name hittah, and was extensively cultivated in Palestine. There are various species of wheat. That which Pharaoh saw in his dream was the Triticum compositum, which bears several ears upon one stalk (Genesis 41:5). The "fat of the kidneys of wheat" (Deuteronomy 32:14), and the "finest of the wheat" (Psalms 81:16; Psalms 147:14), denote the best of the kind. It was exported from Palestine in great quantities (1 Kings 5:11; Ezekiel 27:17; Acts 12:20). Parched grains of wheat were used for food in Palestine (Ruth 2:14; 1 Samuel 17:17; 2 Samuel 17:28). The disciples, under the sanction of the Mosaic law (Deuteronomy 23:25), plucked ears of corn, and rubbing them in their hands, ate the grain unroasted (Matthew 12:1; Mark 2:23; Luke 6:1). Before any of the wheat-harvest, however, could be eaten, the first-fruits had to be presented before the Lord (Leviticus 23:14).

Category:Wheel''' - (Heb. galgal ; rendered "wheel" in Psalms 83:13, and "a rolling thing" in Isaiah 17:13; R.V. in both, "whirling dust"). This word has been supposed to mean the wild artichoke, which assumes the form of a globe, and in autumn breaks away from its roots, and is rolled about by the wind in some places in great numbers.

Category:White''' - A symbol of purity (2 Chronicles 5:12; Psalms 51:7; Isaiah 1:18; Revelation 3:18; Revelation 7:14). Our Lord, at his transfiguration, appeared in raiment "white as the light" (Matthew 17:2, etc.).

Category:Widows''' - To be treated with kindness (Exodus 22:22; Deuteronomy 14:29; Deuteronomy 16:11, Deuteronomy 16:14; Deuteronomy 24:17, Deuteronomy 24:19; Deuteronomy 26:12; Deuteronomy 27:19, etc.). In the New Testament the same tender regard for them is inculcated (Acts 6:1; 1 Timothy 5:3) and exhibited.

Category:Wife''' - The ordinance of marriage was sanctioned in Paradise (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4). Monogamy was the original law under which man lived, but polygamy early commenced (Genesis 4:19), and continued to prevail all down through Jewish history. The law of Moses regulated but did not prohibit polygamy. A man might have a plurality of wives, but a wife could have only one husband. A wife's legal rights (Exodus 21:10) and her duties (Prov. 31:10-31; 1 Timothy 5:14) are specified. She could be divorced in special cases (Deuteronomy 22:13), but could not divorce her husband. Divorce was restricted by our Lord to the single case of adultery (Matthew 19:3). The duties of husbands and wives in their relations to each other are distinctly set forth in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 7:2; Ephesians 5:22; Colossians 3:18, Colossians 3:19; 1 Peter 3:1).

Category:Wilderness''' - (1.) Heb. midhbar, denoting not a barren desert but a district or region suitable for pasturing sheep and cattle (Psalms 65:12; Isaiah 42:11; Jeremiah 23:10; Joel 1:19; Joel 2:22); an uncultivated place. This word is used of the wilderness of Beersheba (Genesis 21:14), on the southern border of Palestine; the wilderness of the Red Sea (Exodus 13:18); of Shur (Exodus 15:22), a portion of the Sinaitic peninsula; of Sin (Exodus 17:1), Sinai (Leviticus 7:38), Moab (Deuteronomy 2:8), Judah (Judges 1:16), Ziph, Maon, En-gedi (1 Samuel 23:14, 1 Samuel 23:24; 1 Samuel 24:1), Jeruel and Tekoa (2 Chronicles 20:16, 2 Chronicles 20:20), Kadesh (Psalms 29:8). "The wilderness of the sea" (Isaiah 21:1). Principal Douglas, referring to this expression, says: "A mysterious name, which must be meant to describe Babylon (see especially Isaiah 21:9), perhaps because it became the place of discipline to God's people, as the wilderness of the Red Sea had been (compare Ezekiel 20:35). Otherwise it is in contrast with the symbolic title in Isaiah 22:1. Jerusalem is the "valley of vision," rich in spiritual husbandry; whereas Babylon, the rival centre of influence, is spiritually barren and as restless as the sea (compare Isaiah 57:20)." A Short Analysis of the O.T. (2.) Jeshimon, a desert waste (Deuteronomy 32:10; Psalms 68:7). (3.) 'Arabah, the name given to the valley from the Dead Sea to the eastern branch of the Red Sea. In Deuteronomy 1:1; Deuteronomy 2:8, it is rendered "plain" (R.V., "Arabah"). (4.) Tziyyah, a "dry place" (Psalms 78:17; Psalms 105:41). (5.) Tohu, a "desolate" place, a place "waste" or "unoccupied" (Deuteronomy 32:10; Job 12:24; compare Genesis 1:2, "without form"). The wilderness region in the Sinaitic peninsula through which for forty years the Hebrews wandered is generally styled "the wilderness of the wanderings." This entire region is in the form of a triangle, having its base toward the north and its apex toward the south. Its extent from north to south is about 250 miles, and at its widest point it is about 150 miles broad. Throughout this vast region of some 1,500 square miles there is not a single river. The northern part of this triangular peninsula is properly the "wilderness of the wanderings" ( et-Tih ). The western portion of it is called the "wilderness of Shur" (Exodus 15:22), and the eastern the "wilderness of Paran." The "wilderness of Judaea" (Matthew 3:1) is a wild, barren region, lying between the Dead Sea and the Hebron Mountains. It is the "Jeshimon" mentioned in 1 Samuel 23:19.

Category:Willows''' - (1.) Heb. 'arabim (Leviticus 23:40; Job 40:22; Isaiah 15:7; Isaiah 44:3, Isaiah 44:4; Psalms 137:1, Psalms 137:2). This was supposed to be the weeping willow, called by Linnaeus Salix Babylonica, from the reference in Psalms 137:1. This tree is frequently found "on the coast, overhanging wells and pools. There is a conspicuous tree of this species over a pond in the plain of Acre, and others on the Phoenician plain." There are several species of the salix in Palestine, but it is not indigenous to Babylonia, nor was it cultivated there. Some are of opinion that the tree intended is the tamarisk or poplar. (2.) Heb. tzaphtzaphah (Ezekiel 17:5), called by the Arabs the safsaf, the general name for the willow. This may be the Salix Aegyptica of naturalists. Tristram thinks that by the "willow by the water-courses," the Nerium oleander, the rose-bay oleander, is meant. He says, "It fringes the Upper Jordan, dipping its wavy crown of red into the spray in the rapids under Hermon, and is nurtured by the oozy marshes in the Lower Jordan nearly as far as to Jericho.... On the Arnon, on the Jabbok, and the Yarmuk it forms a continuous fringe. In many of the streams of Moab it forms a complete screen, which the sun's rays can never penetrate to evaporate the precious moisture. The wild boar lies safely ensconced under its impervious cover."

Category:Wimple''' - Isaiah 3:22, (R.V., "shawls"), a wrap or veil. The same Hebrew word is rendered "vail" (R.V., "mantle") in Ruth 3:15.

Category:Window''' - Properly only an opening in a house for the admission of light and air, covered with lattice-work, which might be opened or closed (2 Kings 1:2; Acts 20:9). The spies in Jericho and Paul at Damascus were let down from the windows of houses abutting on the town wall (Joshua 2:15; 2 Corinthians 11:33). The clouds are metaphorically called the "windows of heaven" (Genesis 7:11; Malachi 3:10). The word thus rendered in Isaiah 54:12 ought rather to be rendered "battlements" (LXX., "bulwarks;" R.V., "pinnacles"), or as Gesenius renders it, "notched battlements, i.e., suns or rays of the sun" = having a radiated appearance like the sun.

Category:Winds''' - Blowing from the four quarters of heaven (Jeremiah 49:36; Ezekiel 37:9; Daniel 8:8; Zechariah 2:6). The east wind was parching (Ezekiel 17:10; Ezekiel 19:12), and is sometimes mentioned as simply denoting a strong wind (Job 27:21; Isaiah 27:8). This wind prevails in Palestine from February to June, as the west wind (Luke 12:54) does from November to February. The south was a hot wind (Job 37:17; Luke 12:55). It swept over the Arabian peninsula. The rush of invaders is figuratively spoken of as a whirlwind (Isaiah 21:1); a commotion among the nations of the world as a striving of the four winds (Daniel 7:2). The winds are subject to the divine power (Psalms 18:10; Psalms 135:7).

Category:Wine''' - The common Hebrew word for wine is yayin, from a root meaning "to boil up," "to be in a ferment." Others derive it from a root meaning "to tread out," and hence the juice of the grape trodden out. The Greek word for wine is oinos, and the Latin vinun. But besides this common Hebrew word, there are several others which are thus rendered. (1.) Ashishah (2 Samuel 6:19; 1 Chronicles 16:3; Song of Songs 2:5; Hosea 3:1), which, however, rather denotes a solid cake of pressed grapes, or, as in the Revised Category:Version, a cake of raisins. (2.) 'Asis, "sweet wine," or "new wine," the product of the same year (Song of Songs 8:2; Isaiah 49:26; Joel 1:5; Joel 3:18; Amos 9:13), from a root meaning "to tread," hence juice trodden out or pressed out, thus referring to the method by which the juice is obtained. The power of intoxication is ascribed to it. (3.) Hometz. See VINEGAR. (4.) Hemer, Deuteronomy 32:14 (rendered "blood of the grape") Isaiah 27:2 ("red wine"), Ezra 6:9; Ezra 7:22; Daniel 5:1, Daniel 5:2, Daniel 5:4. This word conveys the idea of "foaming," as in the process of fermentation, or when poured out. It is derived from the root hamar, meaning "to boil up," and also "to be red," from the idea of boiling or becoming inflamed. (5.) 'Enabh, a grape (Deuteronomy 32:14). The last clause of this verse should be rendered as in the Revised Category:Version, "and of the blood of the grape [ 'enabh ] thou drankest wine [ hemcr ]." In Hosea 3:1 the phrase in Authorized Category:Version, "flagons of wine," is in the Revised Category:Version correctly "cakes of raisins." (Compare Genesis 49:11; Numbers 6:3; Deuteronomy 23:24, etc., where this Hebrew word is rendered in the plural "grapes.") (6.) Mesekh, properly a mixture of wine and water with spices that increase its stimulating properties (Isaiah 5:22). Psalms 75:8, "The wine [ yayin ] is red; it is full of mixture [ mesekh ];" Proverbs 23:30, "mixed wine;" Isaiah 65:11, "drink offering" (R.V., "mingled wine"). (7.) Tirosh, properly "must," translated "wine" (Deuteronomy 28:51); "new wine" (Proverbs 3:10); "sweet wine" (Micah 6:15; R.V., "vintage"). This Hebrew word has been traced to a root meaning "to take possession of" and hence it is supposed that tirosh is so designated because in intoxicating it takes possession of the brain. Among the blessings promised to Esau (Genesis 27:28) mention is made of "plenty of corn and tirosh." Palestine is called "a land of corn and tirosh" (Deuteronomy 33:28; compare Isaiah 36:17). See also Deuteronomy 28:51; 2 Chronicles 32:28; Joel 2:19; Hosea 4:11, ("wine [ yayin ] and new wine [ tirosh ] take away the heart"). (8.) Sobhe (root meaning "to drink to excess," "to suck up," "absorb"), found only in Isaiah 1:22, Hosea 4:18 ("their drink;" Gesen. and marg. of R.V., "their carouse"), and Nahum 1:10 ("drunken as drunkards;" lit., "soaked according to their drink;" R.V., "drenched, as it were, in their drink", i.e., according to their sobhe ). (9.) Shekar, "strong drink," any intoxicating liquor; from a root meaning "to drink deeply," "to be drunken", a generic term applied to all fermented liquors, however obtained. Numbers 28:7, "strong wine" (R.V., "strong drink"). It is sometimes distinguished from wine, c.g., Leviticus 10:9, "Do not drink wine [ yayin ] nor strong drink [ shekar ];" Numbers 6:3; Judges 13:4, Judges 13:7; Isaiah 28:7 (in all these places rendered "strong drink"). Translated "strong drink" also in Isaiah 5:11; Isaiah 24:9; Isaiah 29:9; Isaiah 56:12; Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 31:6; Micah 2:11. (10.) Yekebh (Deuteronomy 16:13, but in R.V. correctly "wine-press"), a vat into which the new wine flowed from the press. Joel 2:24, "their vats;" Joel 3:13, "the fats;" Proverbs 3:10, "Thy presses shall burst out with new wine [ tirosh ];" Haggai 2:16; Jeremiah 48:33, "wine-presses;" 2 Kings 6:27; Job 24:11. (11.) Shemarim (only in plural), "less" or "dregs" of wine. In Isaiah 25:6 it is rendered "wines on the lees", i.e., wine that has been kept on the lees, and therefore old wine. (12.) Mesek, "a mixture," mixed or spiced wine, not diluted with water, but mixed with drugs and spices to increase its strength, or, as some think, mingled with the lees by being shaken (Psalms 75:8; Proverbs 23:30). In Acts 2:13 the word gleukos, rendered "new wine," denotes properly "sweet wine." It must have been intoxicating. In addition to wine the Hebrews also made use of what they called debash, which was obtained by boiling down must to one-half or one-third of its original bulk. In Genesis 43:11 this word is rendered "honey." It was a kind of syrup, and is called by the Arabs at the present day dibs. This word occurs in the phrase "a land flowing with milk and honey" (debash), Exodus 3:8, Exodus 3:17; Exodus 13:5; Exodus 33:3; Leviticus 20:24; Numbers 13:27. (See HONEY.) Our Lord miraculously supplied wine at the marriage feast in Cana of Galilee (John 2:1). The Rechabites were forbidden the use of wine (Jer. 35). The Nazarites also were to abstain from its use during the period of their vow (Numbers 6:1); and those who were dedicated as Nazarites from their birth were perpetually to abstain from it (Judges 13:4, Judges 13:5; Luke 1:15; Luke 7:33). The priests, too, were forbidden the use of wine and strong drink when engaged in their sacred functions (Leviticus 10:1, Leviticus 10:9). "Wine is little used now in the East, from the fact that Mohammedans are not allowed to taste it, and very few of other creeds touch it. When it is drunk, water is generally mixed with it, and this was the custom in the days of Christ also. The people indeed are everywhere very sober in hot climates; a drunken person, in fact, is never seen" (Geikie's Life of Christ). The sin of drunkenness, however, must have been not uncommon in the olden times, for it is mentioned either metaphorically or literally more than seventy times in the Bible. A drink-offering of wine was presented with the daily sacrifice (Exodus 29:40, Exodus 29:41), and also with the offering of the first-fruits (Leviticus 23:13), and with various other sacrifices (Numbers 15:5, Numbers 15:7, Numbers 15:10). Wine was used at the celebration of the Passover. And when the Lord's Supper was instituted, the wine and the unleavened bread then on the paschal table were by our Lord set apart as memorials of his body and blood. Several emphatic warnings are given in the New Testament against excess in the use of wine (Luke 21:34; Romans 13:13; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Timothy 3:8; Titus 1:7).

Category:Winefat''' - (Mark 12:1). The original word (hypolenion) so rendered occurs only here in the New Testament. It properly denotes the trough or lake (lacus), as it was called by the Romans, into which the juice of the grapes ran from the trough above it. It is here used, however, of the whole apparatus. In the parallel passage in Matthew 21:33 the Greek word lenos is used. This properly denotes the upper one of the two vats. (See WINE-PRESS.)

Category:Wine-press''' - Consisted of two vats or receptacles, (1.) a trough (Heb. gath, Gr. lenos ) into which the grapes were thrown and where they were trodden upon and bruised (Isaiah 16:10; Lamentations 1:15; Joel 3:13); and (2.) a trough or vat (Heb. yekebh , Gr. hypolenion ) into which the juice ran from the trough above, the gath (Nehemiah 13:15; Job 24:11; Isaiah 63:2, Isaiah 63:3; Haggai 2:16; Joel 2:24). Wine-presses are found in almost every part of Palestine. They are "the only sure relics we have of the old days of Israel before the Captivity. Between Hebron and Beersheba they are found on all the hill slopes; they abound in southern Judea; they are no less common in the many valleys of Carmel; and they are numerous in Galilee." The "treading of the wine-press" is emblematic of divine judgment (Isaiah 63:2; Lamentations 1:15; Revelation 14:19, Revelation 14:20).

Category:Winnow''' - Corn was winnowed, (1.) By being thrown up by a shovel against the wind. As a rule this was done in the evening or during the night, when the west wind from the sea was blowing, which was a moderate breeze and fitted for the purpose. The north wind was too strong, and the east wind came in gusts. (2.) By the use of a fan or van, by which the chaff was blown away (Ruth 3:2; Isaiah 30:24; Jeremiah 4:11, Jeremiah 4:12; Matthew 3:12).

Category:Wise''' - Or wisdom, a moral rather than an intellectual quality. To be "foolish" is to be godless (Psalms 14:1; compare Judges 19:23; 2 Samuel 13:13). True wisdom is a gift from God to those who ask it (Job 28:12-28; Proverbs 3:13; Romans 1:22; Romans 16:27; 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Corinthians 2:6; James 1:5). "Wisdom" in Proverbs 1:20; Proverbs 8:1; Proverbs 9:1 may be regarded not as a mere personification of the attribute of wisdom, but as a divine person, "Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God" (1 Corinthians 1:24). In Matthew 11:19 it is the personified principle of wisdom that is meant.

Category:Wise Men''' - Mentioned in Daniel 2:12 included three classes, (1.) astrologers, (2.) Chaldeans, and (3.) soothsayers. The word in the original (hakamim) probably means "medicine men. In Chaldea medicine was only a branch of magic. The "wise men" of Matthew 2:7, who came from the East to Jerusalem, were magi from Persia or Arabia.

Category:Witch''' - Occurs only in Exodus 22:18, as the rendering of mekhashshepheh, the feminine form of the word, meaning "enchantress" (R.V., "sorceress"), and in Deuteronomy 18:10, as the rendering of mekhashshepheth, the masculine form of the word, meaning "enchanter."

Category:Witchcraft''' - (1 Samuel 15:23; 2 Kings 9:22; 2 Chronicles 33:6; Micah 5:12; Nahum 3:4; Galatians 5:20). In the popular sense of the word no mention is made either of witches or of witchcraft in Scripture. The "witch of En-dor" (1 Sam. 28) was a necromancer, i.e., one who feigned to hold converse with the dead. The damsel with "a spirit of divination" (Acts 16:16) was possessed by an evil spirit, or, as the words are literally rendered, "having a spirit, a pithon." The reference is to the heathen god Apollo, who was regarded as the god of prophecy.

Category:Witness''' - More than one witness was required in criminal cases (Deuteronomy 17:6; Deuteronomy 19:15). They were the first to execute the sentence on the condemned (Deuteronomy 13:9; Deuteronomy 17:7; 1 Kings 21:13; Matthew 27:1; Acts 7:57, Acts 7:58). False witnesses were liable to punishment (Deuteronomy 19:16). It was also an offense to refuse to bear witness (Leviticus 5:1).

Category:Witness of the Spirit''' - (Romans 8:16), the consciousness of the gracious operation of the Spirit on the mind, "a certitude of the Spirit's presence and work continually asserted within us", manifested "in his comforting us, his stirring us up to prayer, his reproof of our sins, his drawing us to works of love, to bear testimony before the world," etc.

Category:Wizard''' - A pretender to supernatural knowledge and power, "a knowing one," as the original Hebrew word signifies. Such an one was forbidden on pain of death to practice his deceptions (Leviticus 19:31; Leviticus 20:6, Leviticus 20:27; 1 Samuel 28:3; Isaiah 8:19; Isaiah 19:3).

Category:Wolf''' - Heb. zeeb, frequently referred to in Scripture as an emblem of treachery and cruelty. Jacob's prophecy, "Benjamin shall ravin as a wolf" (Genesis 49:27), represents the warlike character of that tribe (see Judg. 19 - 21). Isaiah represents the peace of Messiah's kingdom by the words, "The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb" (Isaiah 11:6). The habits of the wolf are described in Jeremiah 5:6; Habakkuk 1:8; Zephaniah 3:3; Ezekiel 22:27; Matthew 7:15; Matthew 10:16; Acts 20:29. Wolves are still sometimes found in Palestine, and are the dread of shepherds, as of old.

Category:Woman''' - Was "taken out of man" (Genesis 2:23), and therefore the man has the preeminence. "The head of the woman is the man;" but yet honour is to be shown to the wife, "as unto the weaker vessel" (1 Corinthians 11:3, 1 Corinthians 11:8, 1 Corinthians 11:9; 1 Peter 3:7). Several women are mentioned in Scripture as having been endowed with prophetic gifts, as Miriam (Exodus 15:20), Deborah (Judges 4:4, Judges 4:5), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14), Noadiah (Nehemiah 6:14), Anna (Luke 2:36, Luke 2:37), and the daughters of Philip the evangelist (Acts 21:8, Acts 21:9). Women are forbidden to teach publicly (1 Corinthians 14:34, 1 Corinthians 14:35; 1 Timothy 2:11, 1 Timothy 2:12). Among the Hebrews it devolved upon women to prepare the meals for the household (Genesis 18:6; 2 Samuel 13:8), to attend to the work of spinning (Exodus 35:26; Proverbs 31:19), and making clothes (1 Samuel 2:19; Proverbs 31:21), to bring water from the well (Genesis 24:15; 1 Samuel 9:11), and to care for the flocks (Genesis 29:6; Exodus 2:16). The word "woman," as used in Matthew 15:28, John 2:4 and John 20:13, John 20:15, implies tenderness and courtesy and not disrespect. Only where revelation is known has woman her due place of honour assigned to her.

Category:Wood''' - See FOREST.

Category:Wood-offering''' - (Nehemiah 10:34; Nehemiah 13:31). It would seem that in the time of Nehemiah arrangements were made, probably on account of the comparative scarcity of wood, by which certain districts were required, as chosen by lot, to furnish wood to keep the altar fire perpetually burning (Leviticus 6:13).

Category:Wool''' - One of the first material used for making woven cloth (Leviticus 13:47, Leviticus 13:48, Leviticus 13:52, Leviticus 13:59; Leviticus 19:19). The first-fruit of wool was to be offered to the priests (Deuteronomy 18:4). The law prohibiting the wearing of a garment "of divers sorts, as of woolen and linen together" (Deuteronomy 22:11) may, like some other laws of a similar character, have been intended to express symbolically the separateness and simplicity of God's covenant people. The wool of Damascus, famous for its whiteness, was of great repute in the Tyrian market (Ezekiel 27:18).

Category:The Word''' - (Gr. Logos ), one of the titles of our Lord, found only in the writings of John (John 1:1; 1 John 1:1; Revelation 19:13). As such, Christ is the revealer of God. His office is to make God known. "No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him" (John 1:18). This title designates the divine nature of Christ. As the Word, he "was in the beginning" and "became flesh." "The Word was with God " and "was God," and was the Creator of all things (compare Psalms 33:6; Psalms 107:20; Psalms 119:89; Psalms 147:18; Isaiah 40:8).

Category:Word of God''' - (Hebrews 4:12, etc.). The Bible so called because the writers of its several books were God's organs in communicating his will to men. It is his "word," because he speaks to us in its sacred pages. Whatever the inspired writers here declare to be true and binding upon us, God declares to be true and binding. This word is infallible, because written under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and therefore free from all error of fact or doctrine or precept. (See INSPIRATION, BIBLE.) All saving knowledge is obtained from the word of God. In the case of adults it is an indispensable means of salvation, and is efficacious thereunto by the gracious influence of the Holy Spirit (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:15, 2 Timothy 3:16; 1 Peter 1:23).

Category:Good Works''' - The old objection against the doctrine of salvation by grace, that it does away with the necessity of good works, and lowers the sense of their importance (Rom. 6), although it has been answered a thousand times, is still alleged by many. They say if men are not saved by works, then works are not necessary. If the most moral of men are saved in the same way as the very chief of sinners, then good works are of no moment. And more than this, if the grace of God is most clearly displayed in the salvation of the vilest of men, then the worse men are the better. The objection has no validity. The gospel of salvation by grace shows that good works are necessary. It is true, unchangeably true, that without holiness no man shall see the Lord. "Neither adulterers, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards" shall inherit the kingdom of God. Works are "good" only when, (1.) they spring from the principle of love to God. The moral character of an act is determined by the moral principle that prompts it. Faith and love in the heart are the essential elements of all true obedience. Hence good works only spring from a believing heart, can only be wrought by one reconciled to God (Ephesians 2:10; James 2:18; 22). (2.) Good works have the glory of God as their object; and (3.) they have the revealed will of God as their only rule (Deuteronomy 12:32; Revelation 22:18, Revelation 22:19). Good works are an expression of gratitude in the believer's heart (John 14:15, John 14:23; Galatians 5:6). They are the fruits of the Spirit (Titus 2:10), and thus spring from grace, which they illustrate and strengthen in the heart. Good works of the most sincere believers are all imperfect, yet like their persons they are accepted through the mediation of Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:17), and so are rewarded; they have no merit intrinsically, but are rewarded wholly of grace.

Category:Covenant of Works''' - Entered into by God with Adam as the representative of the human race (compare Genesis 9:11, Genesis 9:12; Genesis 17:1-21), so styled because perfect obedience was its condition, thus distinguishing it from the covenant of grace. (See COVENANT OF WORKS.)

Category:Worm''' - (1.) Heb. sas (Isaiah 51:8), denotes the caterpillar of the clothes-moth. (2.) The manna bred worms ( tola'im ), but on the Sabbath there was not any worm ( rimmah ) therein (Exodus 16:20, Exodus 16:24). Here these words refer to caterpillars or larvae, which feed on corrupting matter. These two Hebrew words appear to be interchangeable (Job 25:6; Isaiah 14:11). Tola'im in some places denotes the caterpillar (Deuteronomy 28:39; Jonah 4:7), and rimmah, the larvae, as bred from putridity (Job 17:14; Job 21:26; Job 24:20). In Micah 7:17, where it is said, "They shall move out of their holes like worms," perhaps serpents or "creeping things," or as in the Revised Category:Version, "crawling things," are meant. The word is used figuratively in Job 25:6; Psalms 22:6; Isaiah 41:14; Mark 9:44, Mark 9:46, Mark 9:48; Isaiah 66:24.

Category:Wormwood''' - Heb. la'anah, the Artemisia absinthium of botanists. It is noted for its intense bitterness (Deuteronomy 29:18; Proverbs 5:4; Jeremiah 9:15; Amos 5:7). It is a type of bitterness, affliction, remorse, punitive suffering. In Amos 6:12 this Hebrew word is rendered "hemlock" (R.V., "wormwood"). In the symbolical language of the Apocalypse (Revelation 8:10, Revelation 8:11) a star is represented as falling on the waters of the earth, causing the third part of the water to turn wormwood. The name by which the Greeks designated it, absinthion, means "undrinkable." The absinthe of France is distilled from a species of this plant. The "southernwood" or "old man," cultivated in cottage gardens on account of its fragrance, is another species of it.

Category:Worship''' - Homage rendered to God which it is sinful (idolatry) to render to any created being (Exodus 34:14; Isaiah 2:8). Such worship was refused by Peter (Acts 10:25, Acts 10:26) and by an angel (Revelation 22:8, Revelation 22:9).

Category:Worshipper''' - (Gr. neocoros = temple sweeper Acts 19:35] of the great goddess Diana). This name neocoros appears on most of the extant Ephesian coins

Category:Wrestle''' - (Ephesians 6:12). See GAMES.

Category:Writing''' - The art of writing must have been known in the time of the early Pharaohs. Moses is commanded "to write for a memorial in a book" (Exodus 17:14) a record of the attack of Amalek. Frequent mention is afterwards made of writing (Exodus 28:11, Exodus 28:21, Exodus 28:29, Exodus 28:36; Exodus 31:18; Exodus 32:15, Exodus 32:16; Exodus 34:1, Exodus 34:28; Exodus 39:6, Exodus 39:14, Exodus 39:30). The origin of this art is unknown, but there is reason to conclude that in the age of Moses it was well known. The inspired books of Moses are the most ancient extant writings, although there are written monuments as old as about B.C.2000. The words expressive of "writing," "book," and "ink," are common to all the branches or dialects of the Semitic language, and hence it has been concluded that this art must have been known to the earliest Semites before they separated into their various tribes, and nations, and families. "The Old Testament and the discoveries of Oriental archaeology alike tell us that the age of the Exodus was throughout the world of Western Asia an age of literature and books, of readers and writers, and that the cities of Palestine were stored with the contemporaneous records of past events inscribed on imperishable clay. They further tell us that the kinsfolk and neighbours of the Israelites were already acquainted with alphabetic writing, that the wanderers in the desert and the tribes of Edom were in contact with the cultured scribes and traders of Ma'in Southern Arabia], and that the 'house of bondage' from which Israel had escaped was a land where the art of writing was blazoned not only on the temples of the gods, but also on the dwellings of the rich and powerful." Sayce. (See DEBIR; PHOENICIA.) The "Book of the Dead" was a collection of prayers and formulae, by the use of which the souls of the dead were supposed to attain to rest and peace in the next world. It was composed at various periods from the earliest time to the Persian conquest. It affords an interesting glimpse into the religious life and system of belief among the ancient Egyptians. We learn from it that they believed in the existence of one Supreme Being, the immortality of the soul, judgment after death, and the resurrection of the body. It shows, too, a high state of literary activity in Egypt in the time of Moses. It refers to extensive libraries then existing. That of Ramessium, in Thebes, e.g., built by Rameses II., contained 20,000 books. When the Hebrews entered Canaan it is evident that the art of writing was known to the original inhabitants, as appears, e.g., from the name of the city Debir having been at first Kirjath-sepher, i.e., the "city of the book," or the "book town" (Joshua 10:38; Joshua 15:15; Judges 1:11). The first mention of letter-writing is in the time of David (2 Samuel 11:14, 2 Samuel 11:15). Letters are afterwards frequently spoken of (1 Kings 21:8, 1 Kings 21:9, 1 Kings 21:11; 2 Kings 10:1, 2 Kings 10:3, 2 Kings 10:6, 2 Kings 10:7; 2 Kings 19:14; 2 Chronicles 21:12; 2 Chronicles 30:1, 2 Chronicles 30:6, etc.).

Category:Yarn''' - Found only in 1 Kings 10:28, 2 Chronicles 1:16. The Heb. word mikveh, i.e., "a stringing together," so rendered, rather signifies a host, or company, or a string of horses. The Authorized Category:Version has: "And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price;" but the Revised Category:Version correctly renders: "And the horses which Solomon had were brought out of Egypt; the king's merchants received them in droves, each drove at a price."

Category:Year''' - Heb. shanah, meaning "repetition" or "revolution" (Genesis 1:14; Genesis 5:3). Among the ancient Egyptians the year consisted of twelve months of thirty days each, with five days added to make it a complete revolution of the earth round the sun. The Jews reckoned the year in two ways, (1.) according to a sacred calendar, in which the year began about the time of the vernal equinox, with the month Abib; and (2.) according to a civil calendar, in which the year began about the time of the autumnal equinox, with the month Nisan. The month Tisri is now the beginning of the Jewish year.

Category:Yeshebi''' - The Hebrew word rendered "inhabitants" in Joshua 17:7, but probably rather the name of the village Yeshepheh, probably Yassuf, 8 miles south of Shechem.

Category:Yoke''' - (1.) Fitted on the neck of oxen for the purpose of binding to them the traces by which they might draw the plough, etc. (Numbers 19:2; Deuteronomy 21:3). It was a curved piece of wood called 'ol. (2.) In Jeremiah 27:2; Jeremiah 28:10, Jeremiah 28:12 the word in the Authorized Category:Version rendered "yoke" is motah, which properly means a "staff," or as in the Revised Category:Version, "bar." These words in the Hebrew are both used figuratively of severe bondage, or affliction, or subjection (Leviticus 26:13; 1 Kings 12:4; Isaiah 47:6; Lamentations 1:14; Lamentations 3:27). In the New Testament the word "yoke" is also used to denote servitude (Matthew 11:29, Matthew 11:30; Acts 15:10; Galatians 5:1). (3.) In 1 Samuel 11:7, 1 Kings 19:21, Job 1:3 the word thus translated is tzemed, which signifies a pair, two oxen yoked or coupled together, and hence in 1 Samuel 14:14 it represents as much land as a yoke of oxen could plough in a day, like the Latin jugum. In Isaiah 5:10 this word in the plural is translated "acres."

Category:Yoke-fellow''' - (Philippians 4:3), one of the apostle's fellow-labourers. Some have conjectured that Epaphroditus is meant. Wyckliffe renders the phrase "the german fellow", i.e., "thee, germane [= genuine] comrade."

Category:Zaanaim''' - Wanderings; the unloading of tents, so called probably from the fact of nomads in tents encamping amid the cities and villages of that region, a place in the north-west of Lake Merom, near Kedesh, in Naphtali. Here Sisera was slain by Jael, "the wife of Heber the Kenite," who had pitched his tent in the "plain [R.V., 'as far as the oak'] of Zaanaim" (Judges 4:11). It has been, however, suggested by some that, following the LXX. and the Talmud, the letter b, which in Hebrew means "in," should be taken as a part of the word following, and the phrase would then be "unto the oak of Bitzanaim," a place which has been identified with the ruins of Bessum, about half-way between Tiberias and Mount Tabor.

Category:Zaanan''' - Place of flocks, mentioned only in Micah 1:11. It may be identified with Zenan, in the plain country of Judah (Joshua 15:37).

Category:Zaanannim''' - =Zaanaim (Joshua 19:33).

Category:Zaavan''' - Terror, one of the "dukes of Edom" (Genesis 36:27); called also Zavan (1 Chronicles 1:42).

Category:Zabad''' - Gift. (1.) One of David's valiant men (1 Chronicles 11:41), the descendant of Ahlai, of the "children of Sheshan" (1 Chronicles 2:31). (2.) A descendant of Tahath (1 Chronicles 7:21). (3.) The son of Shemath. He conspired against Joash, king of Judah, and slew him (2 Chronicles 24:25, 2 Chronicles 24:26). He is called also Jozachar (2 Kings 12:21). (4.) Ezra 10:27. (5.) Ezra 10:33. (6.) Ezra 10:43.

Category:Zabbai''' - Wanderer; pure. (1.) Ezra 10:28. (2.) The father of Baruch, who "earnestly repaired" part of the wall of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 3:20; marg., "Zaccai").

Category:Zabbud''' - Gift, Ezra 8:14.

Category:Zabdi''' - Gift of Jehovah. (1.) An ancestor of Achan (Joshua 7:1, Joshua 7:17, Joshua 7:18). He is probably the "Zimri" of 1 Chronicles 2:6. (2.) A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:19). (3.) Called "the Shiphmite," one of David's officers, who had charge of his vineyards (1 Chronicles 27:27). (4.) A Levite, one of the sons of Asaph (Nehemiah 11:17); probably the same as Zichri (1 Chronicles 9:15), and Zaccur (Nehemiah 12:35).

Category:Zabdiel''' - Gift of God. (1.) The father of Jashobeam, who was one of David's officers (1 Chronicles 27:2). (2.) An overseer of the priests after the Captivity (Nehemiah 11:14).

Category:Zabud''' - Gift, the son of Nathan, who was "king's friend" in the court of Solomon (1 Kings 4:5).

Category:Zabulon''' - (Matthew 4:13, Matthew 4:15; Revelation 7:8). See ZEBULUN.

Category:Zaccai''' - Pure, one whose "sons" returned with Zerubbabel to Jerusalem (Ezra 2:9; Nehemiah 7:14). (See ZABBAI.)

Category:Zacchaeus''' - Pure, a superintendent of customs; a chief tax-gather (publicanus) at Jericho (Luke 19:1). "The collection of customs at Jericho, which at this time produced and exported a considerable quantity of balsam, was undoubtedly an important post, and would account for Zacchaeus being a rich man." Being short of stature, he hastened on before the multitude who were thronging about Christ as he passed through Jericho on his way to Jerusalem, and climbed up a sycamore tree that he might be able to see him. When our Lord reached the spot he looked up to the publican among the branches, and addressing him by name, told him to make haste and come down, as he intended that day to abide at his house. This led to the remarkable interview recorded by the evangelist, and to the striking parable of the ten pounds (Luke 19:12-27). At Er-riha (Jericho) there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which goes by the traditional name of the House of Zacchaeus.

Category:Zaccur''' - Mindful. (1.) Father of Shammua, who was one of the spies sent out by Moses (Numbers 13:4). (2.) A Merarite Levite (1 Chronicles 24:27). (3.) A son of Asaph, and chief of one of the courses of singers as arranged by David (1 Chronicles 25:2, 1 Chronicles 25:10). (4.) Son of Imri (Nehemiah 3:2). (5.) A Levite (Nehemiah 10:12). (6.) The son of Mattaniah (Nehemiah 13:13).

Category:Zachariah''' - Remembered by the Lord. (1.) Son of Jeroboam II., king of Israel. On the death of his father there was an interregnum of ten years, at the end of which he succeeded to the throne, which he occupied only six months, having been put to death by Shallum, who usurped the throne. "He did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord, as his fathers had done" (2 Kings 14:29; 2 Kings 15:8). In him the dynasty of Jehu came to an end. (2.) The father of Abi, who was the mother of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:2).

Category:Zacharias''' - (1.) A priest of the course of Abia, the eighth of the twenty-four courses into which the priests had been originally divided by David (1 Chr. 23:1-19). Only four of these courses or "families" of the priests returned from the Exile (Ezra 2:36); but they were then re-distributed under the old designations. The priests served at the temple twice each year, and only for a week each time. Zacharias's time had come for this service. During this period his home would be one of the chambers set apart for the priests on the sides of the temple ground. The offering of incense was one of the most solemn parts of the daily worship of the temple, and lots were drawn each day to determine who should have this great honour-an honour which no priest could enjoy more than once during his lifetime. While Zacharias ministered at the golden altar of incense in the holy place, it was announced to him by the angel Gabriel that his wife Elisabeth, who was also of a priestly family, now stricken in years, would give birth to a son who was to be called John, and that he would be the forerunner of the long-expected Messiah (Luke 1:12). As a punishment for his refusing to believe this message, he was struck dumb and "not able to speak until the day that these things should be performed" (Luke 1:20). Nine months passed away, and Elisabeth's child was born, and when in answer to their inquiry Zacharias wrote on a "writing tablet," "His name is John," his mouth was opened, and he praised God (Luke 1:60-79). The child (John the Baptist), thus "born out of due time," "waxed strong in spirit" (Luke 1:80). (2.) The "son of Barachias," mentioned as having been slain between the temple and the altar (Matthew 23:35; Luke 11:51). "Barachias" here may be another name for Jehoiada, as some think. (See ZECHARIAH.)

Category:Zacher''' - Memorial, a son of Jehiel (1 Chronicles 8:31; 1 Chronicles 9:35); called Zechariah (1 Chronicles 9:37).

Category:Zadok''' - Righteous. (1.) A son of Ahitub, of the line of Eleazer (2 Samuel 8:17; 1 Chronicles 24:3), high priest in the time of David (2 Samuel 20:25) and Solomon (1 Kings 4:4). He is first mentioned as coming to take part with David at Hebron (1 Chronicles 12:27, 1 Chronicles 12:28). He was probably on this account made ruler over the Aaronites (1 Chronicles 27:17). Zadok and Abiathar acted as high priests on several important occasions (1 Chronicles 15:11; 2 Samuel 15:24, 2 Samuel 15:35, 2 Samuel 15:36); but when Adonijah endeavoured to secure the throne, Abiathar went with him, and therefore Solomon "thrust him out from being high priest," and Zadok, remaining faithful to David, became high priest alone (1 Kings 2:27, 1 Kings 2:35; 1 Chronicles 29:22). In him the line of Phinehas resumed the dignity, and held it till the fall of Jerusalem. He was succeeded in his sacred office by his son Azariah (1 Kings 4:2; compare 1 Chronicles 6:3). (2.) The father of Jerusha, who was wife of King Uzziah, and mother of King Jotham (2 Kings 15:33; 2 Chronicles 27:1). (3.) "The scribe" set over the treasuries of the temple by Nehemiah along with a priest and a Levite (Nehemiah 13:13). (4.) The sons of Baana, one of those who assisted in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 3:4).

Category:Zair''' - Little, a place probably east of the Dead Sea, where Joram discomfited the host of Edom who had revolted from him (2 Kings 8:21).

Category:Zalmon''' - Shady. (1.) One of David's warriors, called the Ahohite (2 Samuel 23:28); called also Ilai (1 Chronicles 11:29). (2.) A wood near Shechem, from which Abimelech and his party brought boughs and "put them to the hold" of Shechem, "and set the hold on fire" (Judges 9:48). Probably the southern peak of Gerizim, now called Jebel Sulman. (See SALMON.)

Category:Zalmonah''' - Shady, one of the stations of the Israelites in the wilderness (Numbers 33:41, Numbers 33:42).

Category:Zalmunna''' - One of the two kings of Midian whom the "Lord delivered" into the hands of Gideon. He was slain afterwards with Zebah (Judg. 8:5-21). (See ZEBAH.)

Category:Zamzummims''' - A race of giants; "a people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims" (Deuteronomy 2:20, Deuteronomy 2:21). They were overcome by the Ammonites, "who called them Zamzummims." They belonged to the Rephaim, and inhabited the country afterwards occupied by the Ammonites. It has been conjectured that they might be Ham-zuzims, i.e., Zuzims dwelling in Ham, a place apparently to the south of Ashteroth (Genesis 14:5), the ancient Rabbath-ammon.

Category:Zanoah''' - Marsh. (1.) A town in the low country or shephelah of Judah, near Zorah (Joshua 15:34). It was re-occupied after the return from the Captivity (Nehemiah 11:30). Zanu'ah in Wady Ismail, 10 miles west of Jerusalem, occupies probably the same site. (2.) A town in the hill country of Judah, some 10 miles to the south-west of Hebron (Joshua 15:56).

Category:Zaphnath-paaneah''' - The name which Pharaoh gave to Joseph when he raised him to the rank of prime minister or grand vizier of the kingdom (Genesis 41:45). This is a pure Egyptian word, and has been variously explained. Some think it means "creator," or "preserver of life." Brugsch interprets it as "governor of the district of the place of life", i.e., of Goshen, the chief city of which was Pithom, "the place of life." Others explain it as meaning "a revealer of secrets," or "the man to whom secrets are revealed."

Category:Zarephath''' - Smelting-shop, "a workshop for the refining and smelting of metals", a small Phoenician town, now Surafend, about a mile from the coast, almost midway on the road between Tyre and Sidon. Here Elijah sojourned with a poor widow during the "great famine," when the "heaven was shut up three years and six months" (Luke 4:26; 1 Kings 17:10). It is called Sarepta in the New Testament (Luke 4:26).

Category:Zaretan''' - When the Hebrews crossed the Jordan, as soon as the feet of the priests were dipped in the water, the flow of the stream was arrested. The point of arrest was the "city of Adam beside Zaretan," probably near Succoth, at the mouth of the Jabbok, some 30 miles up the river from where the people were encamped. There the water "stood and rose upon an heap." Thus the whole space of 30 miles of the river-bed was dry, that the tribes might pass over (Joshua 3:16, Joshua 3:17; compare Psalms 104:3).

Category:Zareth-shahar''' - The splendour of the dawn, a city "in the mount of the valley" (Joshua 13:19). It is identified with the ruins of Zara, near the mouth of the Wady Zerka Main, on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea, some 3 miles south of the Callirrhoe. Of this town but little remains. "A few broken basaltic columns and pieces of wall about 200 yards back from the shore, and a ruined fort rather nearer the sea, about the middle of the coast line of the plain, are all that are left" (Tristram's Land of Moab).

Category:Zarthan''' - A place near Succoth, in the plain of the Jordan, "in the clay ground," near which Hiram cast the brazen utensils for the temple (1 Kings 7:46); probably the same as Zartan. It is also called Zeredathah (2 Chronicles 4:17). (See ZEREDA.)

Category:Zatthu''' - A sprout, Nehemiah 10:14.

Category:Zattu''' - Id., one whose descendants returned from the Captivity with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:8; Nehemiah 7:13); probably the same as Zatthu.

Category:Zaza''' - Plenty, a descendant of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:33).

Category:Zeal''' - An earnest temper; may be enlightened (Numbers 25:11; 2 Corinthians 7:11; 2 Corinthians 9:2), or ignorant and misdirected (Romans 10:2; Philippians 3:6). As a Christian grace, it must be grounded on right principles and directed to right ends (Galatians 4:18). It is sometimes ascribed to God (2 Kings 19:31; Isaiah 9:7; Isaiah 37:32; Ezekiel 5:13).

Category:Zealots''' - A sect of Jews which originated with Judas the Gaulonite (Acts 5:37). They refused to pay tribute to the Romans, on the ground that this was a violation of the principle that God was the only king of Israel. They rebelled against the Romans, but were soon scattered, and became a lawless band of mere brigands. They were afterwards called Sicarii, from their use of the sica, i.e., the Roman dagger.

Category:Zebadiah''' - Gift of Jehovah. (1.) A son of Asahel, Joab's brother (1 Chronicles 27:7). (2.) A Levite who took part as one of the teachers in the system of national education instituted by Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 17:7, 2 Chronicles 17:8). (3.) The son of Ishmael, "the ruler of the house of Judah in all the king's matters" (2 Chronicles 19:8). (4.) A son of Beriah (1 Chronicles 8:15). (5.) A Korhite porter of the Lord's house (1 Chronicles 26:2). Three or four others of this name are also mentioned.

Category:Zebah''' - Man-killer, or sacrifice, one of the two kings who led the vast host of the Midianites who invaded the land of Israel, and over whom Gideon gained a great and decisive victory (Judg. 8). Zebah and Zalmunna had succeeded in escaping across the Jordan with a remnant of the Midianite host, but were overtaken at Karkor, probably in the Hauran, and routed by Gideon. The kings were taken alive and brought back across the Jordan; and confessing that they had personally taken part in the slaughter of Gideon's brothers, they were put to death (compare 1 Samuel 12:11; Isaiah 10:26; Psalms 83:11).

Category:Zebaim''' - (Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59). "Pochereth of Zebaim" should be read as in the Revised Category:Version, "Pochereth-hazzebaim" ("snaring the antelopes"), probably the name of some hunter.

Category:Zebedee''' - A Galilean fisherman, the husband of Salome (q.v.), and the father of James and John, two of our Lord's disciples (Matthew 4:21; Matthew 27:56; Mark 15:40). He seems to have been a man of some position in Capernaum, for he had two boats (Luke 5:4) and "hired servants" (Mark 1:20) of his own. No mention is made of him after the call of his two sons by Jesus.

Category:Zeboim''' - Gazelles or roes. (1.) One of the "five cities of the plain" of Sodom, generally coupled with Admah (Genesis 10:19; Genesis 14:2; Deuteronomy 29:23; Hosea 11:8). It had a king of its own (Shemeber), and was therefore a place of some importance. It was destroyed along with the other cities of the plain. (2.) A valley or rugged glen somewhere near Gibeah in Benjamin (1 Samuel 13:18). It was probably the ravine now bearing the name Wady Shakh-ed-Dub'a, or "ravine of the hyena," north of Jericho. (3.) A place mentioned only in Nehemiah 11:34, inhabited by the Benjamites after the Captivity.

Category:Zebudah''' - Given, the wife of Josiah and mother of Jehoiakim (2 Kings 23:36).

Category:Zebul''' - Habitation, the governor of Shechem under Abimelech (Judges 9:28, Judges 9:30, Judges 9:36). He informed his master of the intention of the people of Shechem to transfer their allegiance to the Hivite tribe of Hamor. This led to Abimelech's destroying the city, when he put its entire population to the sword, and sowed the ruins with salt (Judg. 9:28-45).

Category:Zebulonite''' - The designation of Elon, the judge who belonged to the tribe of Zebulun (Judges 12:11, Judges 12:12).

Category:Zebulun''' - Dwelling, the sixth and youngest son of Jacob and Leah (Genesis 30:20). Little is known of his personal history. He had three sons (Genesis 46:14).

Category:Tribe of Zebulun''' - Numbered at Sinai (Numbers 1:31) and before entering Canaan (Numbers 26:27). It was one of the tribes which did not drive out the Canaanites, but only made them tributary (Judges 1:30). It took little interest in public affairs. It responded, however, readily to the summons of Gideon (Judges 6:35), and afterwards assisted in enthroning David at Hebron (1 Chronicles 12:33, 1 Chronicles 12:40). Along with the other northern tribes, Zebulun was carried away into the land of Assyria by Tiglath-pileser (2 Kings 15:29). In Deborah's song the words, "Out of Zebulun they that handle the pen of the writer" (Judges 5:14) has been rendered in the R.V., "They that handle the marshal's staff." This is a questionable rendering. "The word sopher ('scribe' or 'writer') defines the word shebhet ('rod' or 'pen') with which it is conjoined. The 'rod of the scribe' on the Assyrian monuments was the stylus of wood or metal, with the help of which the clay tablet was engraved, or the papyrus inscribed with characters. The scribe who wielded it was the associate and assistant of the 'lawgivers.'" (Sayce).

Category:Lot of Zebulun''' - In Galilee, to the north of Issachar and south of Asher and Naphtali (Joshua 19:10), and between the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean. According to ancient prophecy this part of Galilee enjoyed a large share of our Lord's public ministry (Isaiah 9:1, Isaiah 9:2; Matthew 4:12).

Category:Zechariah''' - Jehovah is renowned or remembered. (1.) A prophet of Judah, the eleventh of the twelve minor prophets. Like Ezekiel, he was of priestly extraction. He describes himself (Zechariah 1:1) as "the son of Berechiah." In Ezra 5:1 and Ezra 6:14 he is called "the son of Iddo," who was properly his grandfather. His prophetical career began in the second year of Darius (520 B.C.), about sixteen years after the return of the first company from exile. He was contemporary with Haggai (Ezra 5:1). His book consists of two distinct parts, Haggai 1:1 to 8, inclusive, and 9 to the end. It begins with a preface (Zechariah 1:1), which recalls the nation's past history, for the purpose of presenting a solemn warning to the present generation. Then follows a series of eight visions (Zech. 1:7 - 6:8), succeeding one another in one night, which may be regarded as a symbolical history of Israel, intended to furnish consolation to the returned exiles and stir up hope in their minds. The symbolical action, the crowning of Joshua (Zechariah 6:9), describes how the kingdoms of the world become the kingdom of God's Christ. Zechariah 7:1 and 8, delivered two years later, are an answer to the question whether the days of mourning for the destruction of the city should be any longer kept, and an encouraging address to the people, assuring them of God's presence and blessing. The second part of the book (Zech. 9 - 14) bears no date. It is probable that a considerable interval separates it from the first part. It consists of two burdens. The first burden (Zech. 9 - 11) gives an outline of the course of God's providential dealings with his people down to the time of the Advent. The second burden (Zech. 12 - 14) points out the glories that await Israel in "the latter day", the final conflict and triumph of God's kingdom. (2.) The son or grandson of Jehoiada, the high priest in the times of Ahaziah and Joash. After the death of Jehoiada he boldly condemned both the king and the people for their rebellion against God (2 Chronicles 24:20), which so stirred up their resentment against him that at the king's commandment they stoned him with stones, and he died "in the court of the house of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 24:21). Christ alludes to this deed of murder in Matthew 23:35, Luke 11:51. (See ZACHARIAS [2].) (3.) A prophet, who had "understanding in the seeing of God," in the time of Uzziah, who was much indebted to him for his wise counsel (2 Chronicles 26:5). Besides these, there is a large number of persons mentioned in Scripture bearing this name of whom nothing is known. (4.) One of the chiefs of the tribe of Reuben (1 Chronicles 5:7). (5.) One of the porters of the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 9:21). (6.) 1 Chronicles 9:37. (7.) A Levite who assisted at the bringing up of the ark from the house of Obededom (1 Chronicles 15:20). (8.) A Kohathite Levite (1 Chronicles 24:25). (9.) A Merarite Levite (1 Chronicles 27:21). (10.) The father of Iddo (1 Chronicles 27:21). (11.) One who assisted in teaching the law to the people in the time of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 17:7). (12.) A Levite of the sons of Asaph (2 Chronicles 20:14). (13.) One of Jehoshaphat's sons (2 Chronicles 21:2). (14.) The father of Abijah, who was the mother of Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 29:1). (15.) One of the sons of Asaph (2 Chronicles 29:13). (16.) One of the "rulers of the house of God" (2 Chronicles 35:8). (17.) A chief of the people in the time of Ezra, who consulted him about the return from captivity (Ezra 8:16); probably the same as mentioned in Nehemiah 8:4, (18.) Nehemiah 11:12. (19.) Nehemiah 12:16. (20.) Nehemiah 12:35, Nehemiah 12:41. (21.) Isaiah 8:2.

Category:Zedad''' - Side; sloping place, a town in the north of Palestine, near Hamath (Numbers 34:8; Ezekiel 47:15). It has been identified with the ruins of Sudud, between Emesa (Hums) and Baalbec, but that is uncertain.

Category:Zedekiah''' - Righteousness of Jehovah. (1.) The last king of Judah. He was the third son of Josiah, and his mother's name was Hamutal, the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah, and hence he was the brother of Jehoahaz (2 Kings 23:31; 2 Kings 24:17, 2 Kings 24:18). His original name was Mattaniah; but when Nebuchadnezzar placed him on the throne as the successor to Jehoiachin he changed his name to Zedekiah. The prophet Jeremiah was his counsellor, yet "he did evil in the sight of the Lord" (2 Kings 24:19, 2 Kings 24:20; Jeremiah 52:2, Jeremiah 52:3). He ascended the throne at the age of twenty-one years. The kingdom was at that time tributary to Nebuchadnezzar; but, despite the strong remonstrances of Jeremiah and others, as well as the example of Jehoiachin, he threw off the yoke of Babylon, and entered into an alliance with Hophra, king of Egypt. This brought up Nebuchadnezzar, "with all his host" (2 Kings 25:1), against Jerusalem. During this siege, which lasted about eighteen months, "every worst woe befell the devoted city, which drank the cup of God's fury to the dregs" (2 Kings 25:3; Lamentations 4:4, Lamentations 4:5, Lamentations 4:10). The city was plundered and laid in ruins. Zedekiah and his followers, attempting to escape, were made captive and taken to Riblah. There, after seeing his own children put to death, his own eyes were put out, and, being loaded with chains, he was carried captive (588 B.C.) to Babylon (2 Kings 25:1; 2 Chronicles 36:12; Jeremiah 32:4, Jeremiah 32:5; Jeremiah 34:2, Jeremiah 34:3; Jeremiah 39:1; Jeremiah 52:4; Ezekiel 12:12), where he remained a prisoner, how long is unknown, to the day of his death. After the fall of Jerusalem, Nebuzaraddan was sent to carry out its complete destruction. The city was razed to the ground. Only a small number of vinedressers and husbandman were permitted to remain in the land (Jeremiah 52:16). Gedaliah, with a Chaldean guard stationed at Mizpah, ruled over Judah (2 Kings 25:22, 2 Kings 25:24; Jeremiah 40:1, Jeremiah 40:2, Jeremiah 40:5, Jeremiah 40:6). (2.) The son of Chenaanah, a false prophet in the days of Ahab (1 Kings 22:11, 1 Kings 22:24; 2 Chronicles 18:10, 2 Chronicles 18:23). (3.) The son of Hananiah, a prince of Judah in the days of Jehoiakim (Jeremiah 36:12).

Category:Zeeb''' - The wolf, one of the two leaders of the great Midianite host which invaded Israel and was utterly routed by Gideon. The division of that host, which attempted to escape across the Jordan, under Oreb and Zeeb, was overtaken by the Ephraimites, who, in a great battle, completely vanquished them, their leaders being taken and slain (Judges 7:25; Psalms 83:11; Isaiah 10:26).

Category:Zelah''' - Slope; side, a town in Benjamin, where Saul and his son Jonathan were buried (2 Samuel 21:14). It was probably Saul's birthplace.

Category:Zelek''' - Cleft, an Ammonite; one of David's valiant men (2 Samuel 23:37).

Category:Zelophehad''' - First-born, of the tribe of Manasseh, and of the family of Gilead; died in the wilderness. Having left no sons, his daughters, concerned lest their father's name should be "done away from among his family," made an appeal to Moses, who, by divine direction, appointed it as "a statute of judgment" in Israel that daughters should inherit their father's portion when no sons were left (Numbers 27:1). But that the possession of Zelophehad might not pass away in the year of jubilee from the tribe to which he belonged, it was ordained by Moses that his daughters should not marry any one out of their father's tribe; and this afterwards became a general law (Numbers 36:1).

Category:Zelotes''' - (Luke 6:15). See SIMON; ZEALOTS.

Category:Zemaraim''' - (1.) A town of Benjamin (Joshua 18:22); now the ruin, rather two ruins, es-Sumrah, 4 miles north of Jericho. (2.) A mount in the highlands of Ephraim, to the north of Jerusalem (2 Chr. 13:4-20). Here the armies of Abijah and Jeroboam engaged in a bloody battle, which issued in the total defeat of the king of Israel, who never "recovered strength again," and soon after died.

Category:Zemarite''' - The designation of one of the Phoenician tribes (Genesis 10:18) who inhabited the town of Sumra, at the western base of the Lebanon range. In the Amarna tablets (1400 B.C.) Zemar, or Zumur, was one of the most important of the Phoenician cities, but it afterwards almost disappears from history.

Category:Zemira''' - Vine-dresser, a Benjamite; one of the sons of Becher (1 Chronicles 7:8).

Category:Zenas''' - A disciple called "the lawyer," whom Paul wished Titus to bring with him (Titus 3:13). Nothing more is known of him.

Category:Zephaniah''' - Jehovah has concealed, or Jehovah of darkness. (1.) The son of Cushi, and great-grandson of Hezekiah, and the ninth in the order of the minor prophets. He prophesied in the days of Josiah, king of Judah (641-610 B.C.), and was contemporary with Jeremiah, with whom he had much in common. The book of his prophecies consists of: (a) An introduction (Zephaniah 1:1), announcing the judgment of the world, and the judgment upon Israel, because of their transgressions. (b) The description of the judgment (Zephaniah 1:7). (c) An exhortation to seek God while there is still time (Zephaniah 2:1). (d) The announcement of judgment on the heathen (Zephaniah 2:4). (e) The hopeless misery of Jerusalem (Zephaniah 3:1). (f) The promise of salvation (Zephaniah 3:8). (2.) The son of Maaseiah, the "second priest" in the reign of Zedekiah, often mentioned in Jeremiah as having been sent from the king to inquire (Jeremiah 21:1) regarding the coming woes which he had denounced, and to entreat the prophet's intercession that the judgment threatened might be averted (Jeremiah 29:25, Jeremiah 29:26, Jeremiah 29:29; Jeremiah 37:3; Jeremiah 52:24). He, along with some other captive Jews, was put to death by the king of Babylon "at Riblah in the land of Hamath" (2 Kings 25:21). (3.) A Kohathite ancestor of the prophet Samuel (1 Chronicles 6:36). (4.) The father of Josiah, the priest who dwelt in Jerusalem when Darius issued the decree that the temple should be rebuilt (Zechariah 6:10).

Category:Zephath''' - Beacon; watch-tower, a Canaanite town; called also Hormah (q.v.), Judges 1:17. It has been identified with the pass of es-Sufah, but with greater probability with S'beita.

Category:Zephathah''' - A valley in the west of Judah, near Mareshah; the scene of Asa's conflict with Zerah the Ethiopian (2 Chronicles 14:9). Identified with the Wady Safieh.

Category:Zerah''' - Sunrise. (1.) An "Ethiopian," probably Osorkon II., the successor of Shishak on the throne of Egypt. With an enormous army, the largest we read of in Scripture, he invaded the kingdom of Judah in the days of Asa (2 Chronicles 14:9). He reached Zephathah, and there encountered the army of Asa. This is the only instance "in all the annals of Judah of a victorious encounter in the field with a first-class heathen power in full force." The Egyptian host was utterly routed, and the Hebrews gathered "exceeding much spoil." Three hundred years elapsed before another Egyptian army, that of Necho (609 B.C.), came up against Jerusalem. (2.) A son of Tamar (Genesis 38:30); called also Zara (Matthew 1:3). (3.) A Gershonite Levite (1 Chronicles 6:21, 1 Chronicles 6:41).

Category:Zered''' - =Zared, luxuriance; willow bush, a brook or valley communicating with the Dead Sea near its southern extremity (Numbers 21:12; Deuteronomy 2:14). It is called the "brook of the willows" (Isaiah 15:7) and the "river of the wilderness" (Amos 6:14). It has been identified with the Wady el-Aksy.

Category:Zereda''' - The fortress, a city on the north of Mount Ephraim; the birthplace of Jeroboam (1 Kings 11:26). It is probably the same as Zaretan (Joshua 3:16), Zererath (Judges 7:22), Zartanah (1 Kings 4:12), or the following.

Category:Zeredathah''' - A place in the plain of Jordan; the same as Zarthan (2 Chronicles 4:17; 1 Kings 7:46). Here Solomon erected the foundries in which Hiram made the great castings of bronze for the temple.

Category:Zererath''' - (Judges 7:22), perhaps identical with Zereda or Zeredathah. Some identify it with Zahrah, a place about 3 miles west of Beth-shean.

Category:Zeresh''' - Star of Venus, the wife of Haman, whom she instigated to prepare a gallows for Mordecai (Esther 5:10).

Category:Zeruah''' - Stricken, mother of Jeroboam, the first king of the ten tribes (1 Kings 11:26).

Category:Zerubbabel''' - The seed of Babylon, the son of Salathiel or Shealtiel (Haggai 1:1; Zorobabel, Matthew 1:12); called also the son of Pedaiah (1 Chronicles 3:17), i.e., according to a frequent usage of the word "son;" the grandson or the nephew of Salathiel. He is also known by the Persian name of Sheshbazzar (Ezra 1:8, Ezra 1:11). In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, he led the first band of Jews, numbering 42,360 (Ezra 2:64), exclusive of a large number of servants, who returned from captivity at the close of the seventy years. In the second year after the Return, he erected an altar and laid the foundation of the temple on the ruins of that which had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar (Ezra 3:8; Ezra 4 - 6). All through the work he occupied a prominent place, inasmuch as he was a descendant of the royal line of David.

Category:Zeruiah''' - Stricken of the Lord, David's sister, and the mother of Abishai, Joab, and Asahel (1 Chronicles 2:16), who were the three leading heroes of David's army, and being his nephews, they were admitted to the closest companionship with him.

Category:Zetham''' - Olive planter, a Levite (1 Chronicles 23:8).

Category:Zethan''' - A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 7:10).

Category:Zia''' - Fear, a Gadite (1 Chronicles 5:13).

Category:Ziba''' - Post; statue, "a servant of the house of Saul" (2 Samuel 9:2), who informed David that Mephibosheth, a son of Jonathan, was alive. He afterwards dealt treacherously toward Mephibosheth, whom he slanderously misrepresented to David.

Category:Zibeon''' - Robber; or dyed. (1.) A Hivite (Genesis 36:2). (2.) A Horite, and son of Seir (Genesis 36:20).

Category:Zibia''' - Gazelle, a Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:9).

Category:Zibiah''' - The mother of King Joash (2 Kings 12:1; 2 Chronicles 24:1).

Category:Zichri''' - Remembered; illustrious. (1.) A Benjamite chief (1 Chronicles 8:19). (2.) Another of the same tribe (1 Chronicles 8:23).

Category:Ziddim''' - Sides, a town of Naphtali (Joshua 19:35), has been identified with Kefr-Hattin, the "village of the Hittites," about 5 miles west of Tiberias.

Category:Zidkijah''' - The Lord is righteous, one who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah (Nehemiah 10:1).

Category:Zidon''' - A fishery, a town on the Mediterranean coast, about 25 miles north of Tyre. It received its name from the "first-born" of Canaan, the grandson of Noah (Genesis 10:15, Genesis 10:19). It was the first home of the Phoenicians on the coast of Palestine, and from its extensive commercial relations became a "great" city (Joshua 11:8; Joshua 19:28). It was the mother city of Tyre. It lay within the lot of the tribe of Asher, but was never subdued (Judges 1:31). The Zidonians long oppressed Israel (Judges 10:12). From the time of David its glory began to wane, and Tyre, its "virgin daughter" (Isaiah 23:12), rose to its place of pre-eminence. Solomon entered into a matrimonial alliance with the Zidonians, and thus their form of idolatrous worship found a place in the land of Israel (1 Kings 11:1, 1 Kings 11:33). This city was famous for its manufactures and arts, as well as for its commerce (1 Kings 5:6; 1 Chronicles 22:4; Ezekiel 27:8). It is frequently referred to by the prophets (Isaiah 23:2, Isaiah 23:4, Isaiah 23:12; Jeremiah 25:22; Jeremiah 27:3; Jeremiah 47:4; Ezekiel 27:8; Ezekiel 28:21, Ezekiel 28:22; Ezekiel 32:30; Joel 3:4). Our Lord visited the "coasts" of Tyre and Zidon = Sidon (q.v.), Matthew 15:21; Mark 7:24; Luke 4:26; and from this region many came forth to hear him preaching (Mark 3:8; Luke 6:17). From Sidon, at which the ship put in after leaving Caesarea, Paul finally sailed for Rome (Acts 27:3, Acts 27:4). This city is now a town of 10,000 inhabitants, with remains of walls built in the twelfth century A.D. In 1855, the sarcophagus of Eshmanezer was discovered. From a Phoenician inscription on its lid, it appears that he was a "king of the Sidonians," probably in the third century B.C., and that his mother was a priestess of Ashtoreth, "the goddess of the Sidonians." In this inscription Baal is mentioned as the chief god of the Sidonians.

Category:Zif''' - Brightness; splendour; i.e., "the flower month," mentioned only in 1 Kings 6:1, 1 Kings 6:37, as the "second month." It was called Iyar by the later Jews. (See MONTH.)

Category:Ziha''' - Drought. (1.) The name of a family of Nethinim (Ezra 2:43; Nehemiah 7:46). (2.) A ruler among the Nethinim (Nehemiah 11:21).

Category:Ziklag''' - A town in the Negeb, or south country of Judah (Joshua 15:31), in the possession of the Philistines when David fled to Gath from Ziph with all his followers. Achish, the king, assigned him Ziklag as his place of residence. There he dwelt for over a year and four months. From this time it pertained to the kings of Judah (1 Samuel 27:6). During his absence with his army to join the Philistine expedition against the Israelites (1 Samuel 29:11), it was destroyed by the Amalekites (1 Samuel 30:1, 1 Samuel 30:2), whom David, however, pursued and utterly routed, returning all the captives (1 Samuel 30:26). Two days after his return from this expedition, David received tidings of the disastrous battle of Gilboa and of the death of Saul (2 Sam. 1:1-16). He now left Ziklag and returned to Hebron, along with his two wives, Ahinoam and Abigail, and his band of 600 men. It has been identified with 'Asluj, a heap of ruins south of Beersheba. Conder, however, identifies it with Khirbet Zuheilikah, ruins found on three hills half a mile apart, some seventeen miles north-west of Beersheba, on the confines of Philistia, Judah, and Amalek.

Category:Zillah''' - Shadow, one of the wives of Lamech, of the line of Cain, and mother of Tubal-cain (Genesis 4:19, Genesis 4:22).

Category:Zilpah''' - Drooping, Leah's handmaid, and the mother of Gad and Asher (Genesis 30:9).

Category:Zilthai''' - Shadow (i.e., protection) of Jehovah. (1.) A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:20). (2.) One of the captains of the tribe of Manasseh who joined David at Ziklag (1 Chronicles 12:20).

Category:Zimmah''' - Mischief. (1.) A Gershonite Levite (1 Chronicles 6:20). (2.) Another Gershonite Levite (1 Chronicles 6:42). (3.) The father of Joah (2 Chronicles 29:12).

Category:Zimran''' - Vine-dressers; celebrated, one of the sons of Abraham by Keturah (Genesis 25:2).

Category:Zimri''' - Praise-worthy. (1.) A son of Salu, slain by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, because of his wickedness in bringing a Midianitish woman into his tent (Numbers 25:6). (2.) Murdered Elah at Tirzah, and succeeded him on the throne of Israel (1 Kings 16:8). He reigned only seven days, for Omri, whom the army elected as king, laid siege to Tirzah, whereupon Zimri set fire to the palace and perished amid its ruins (1 Kings 16:11). Omri succeeded to the throne only after four years of fierce war with Tibni, another claimant to the throne.

Category:Zin''' - A low palm-tree, the south-eastern corner of the desert et-Tih, the wilderness of Paran, between the Gulf of Akabah and the head of the Wady Guraiyeh (Numbers 13:21). To be distinguished from the wilderness of Sin (q.v.).

Category:Zina''' - Ornament, one of the sons of Shimei (1 Chronicles 23:10).

Category:Zion''' - Sunny; height, one of the eminences on which Jerusalem was built. It was surrounded on all sides, except the north, by deep valleys, that of the Tyropoeon (q.v.) separating it from Moriah (q.v.), which it surpasses in height by 105 feet. It was the south-eastern hill of Jerusalem. When David took it from the Jebusites (Joshua 15:63; 2 Samuel 5:7) he built on it a citadel and a palace, and it became "the city of David" (1 Kings 8:1; 2 Kings 19:21, 2 Kings 19:31; 1 Chronicles 11:5). In the later books of the Old Testament this name was sometimes used (Psalms 87:2; Psalms 149:2; Isaiah 33:14; Joel 2:1) to denote Jerusalem in general, and sometimes God's chosen Israel (Psalms 51:18; Psalms 87:5). In the New Testament (see SION) it is used sometimes to denote the Church of God (Hebrews 12:22), and sometimes the heavenly city (Revelation 14:1).

Category:Zior''' - Littleness, a city in the mountains of Judah (Joshua 15:54); the modern Si'air, 4 1/2 miles north-north-east of Hebron.

Category:Ziph''' - Flowing. (1.) A son of Jehaleleel (1 Chronicles 4:16). (2.) A city in the south of Judah (Joshua 15:24), probably at the pass of Sufah. (3.) A city in the mountains of Judah (Joshua 15:55), identified with the uninhabited ruins of Tell ez-Zif, about 5 miles south-east of Hebron. Here David hid himself during his wanderings (1 Samuel 23:19; Psalms 54:1, title).

Category:Ziphah''' - A descendant of Judah (1 Chronicles 4:16).

Category:Ziphron''' - Sweet odour, a city on the northern border of Palestine (Numbers 34:9), south-east of Hamath.

Category:Zippor''' - A little bird, the father of Balak, king of Moab (Numbers 22:2, Numbers 22:4).

Category:Zipporah''' - A female bird. Reuel's daughter, who became the wife of Moses (Exodus 2:21). In consequence of the event recorded in Exodus 4:24, she and her two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, when so far on the way with Moses toward Egypt, were sent back by him to her own kinsfolk, the Midianites, with whom they sojourned till Moses afterwards joined them (Exodus 18:2).

Category:Zithri''' - The Lord protects, a Levite, son of Uzziel (Exodus 6:22).

Category:Ziz''' - Projecting; a flower, a cleft or pass, probably that near En-gedi, which leads up from the Dead Sea (2 Chronicles 20:16) in the direction of Tekoa; now Tell Hasasah.

Category:Ziza''' - Splendour; abundance. (1.) A Simeonite prince (1 Chronicles 4:37). (2.) A son of Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:20).

Category:Zizah''' - A Gershonite Levite (1 Chronicles 23:11).

Category:Zoan''' - (Old Egypt. Sant = "stronghold," the modern San). A city on the Tanitic branch of the Nile, called by the Greeks Tanis. It was built seven years after Hebron in Palestine (Numbers 13:22). This great and important city was the capital of the Hyksos, or Shepherd kings, who ruled Egypt for more than 500 years. It was the frontier town of Goshen. Here Pharaoh was holding his court at the time of his various interviews with Moses and Aaron. "No trace of Zoan exists; Tanis was built over it, and city after city has been built over the ruins of that" (Harper, Bible and Modern Discovery). Extensive mounds of ruins, the wreck of the ancient city, now mark its site (Isaiah 19:11, Isaiah 19:13; Isaiah 30:4; Ezekiel 30:14). "The whole constitutes one of the grandest and oldest ruins in the world." This city was also called "the Field of Zoan" (Psalms 78:12, Psalms 78:43) and "the Town of Rameses" (q.v.), because the oppressor rebuilt and embellished it, probably by the forced labour of the Hebrews, and made it his northern capital.

Category:Zoar''' - Small, a town on the east or south-east of the Dead Sea, to which Lot and his daughters fled from Sodom (Genesis 19:22, Genesis 19:23). It was originally called Bela (Genesis 14:2, Genesis 14:8). It is referred to by the prophets Isaiah (Isaiah 15:5) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 48:34). Its ruins are still seen at the opening of the ravine of Kerak, the Kir-Moab referred to in 2 Kings 3, the modern Tell esh-Shaghur.

Category:Zobah''' - =Aram-Zobah (Psalms 60:1, title), a Syrian province or kingdom to the south of Coele-Syria, and extending from the eastern slopes of Lebanon north and east toward the Euphrates. Saul and David had war with the kings of Zobah (1 Samuel 14:47; 2 Samuel 8:3; 2 Samuel 10:6).

Category:Zohar''' - Brightness. (1.) The father of Ephron the Hittite (Genesis 23:8). (2.) One of the sons of Simeon (Genesis 46:10; Exodus 6:15).

Category:Zoheleth''' - The serpent-stone, a rocky plateau near the centre of the village of Siloam, and near the fountain of En-rogel, to which the women of the village resort for water (1 Kings 1:5). Here Adonijah (q.v.) feasted all the royal princess except Solomon and the men who took part with him in his effort to succeed to the throne. While they were assembled here Solomon was proclaimed king, through the intervention of Nathan. On hearing this, Adonijah fled and took refuge in the sanctuary (1 Kings 1:49). He was afterwards pardoned. Zoheleth projects into or slightly over-hangs the Kidron valley. It is now called ez-Zehwell or Zahweileh.

Category:Zoheth''' - Snatching (?), one of the sons of Ishi (1 Chronicles 4:20).

Category:Zophah''' - Spreading out, a son of Helem (1 Chronicles 7:35), a chief of Asher.

Category:Zophar''' - Chirping, one of Job's friends who came to condole with him in his distress (Job 2:11. The LXX. render here "king of the Mineans" = Ma'in, Maonites, Judges 10:12, in Southern Arabia). He is called a Naamathite, or an inhabitant of some unknown place called Naamah.

Category:Field of Zophim''' - Field of watchers, a place in Moab on the range of Pisgah (Numbers 23:14). To this place Balak brought Balaam, that he might from thence curse the children of Israel. Balaam could only speak the word of the Lord, and that was blessing. It is the modern Tal'at-es-Safa. (See PISGAH.)

Category:Zorah''' - Place of wasps, a town in the low country of Judah, afterwards given to Dan (Joshua 19:41; Judges 18:2), probably the same as Zoreah (Joshua 15:33). This was Samson's birthplace (Judges 13:2, Judges 13:25), and near it he found a grave (Judges 16:31). It was situated on the crest of a hill overlooking the valley of Sorek, and was fortified by Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:10). It has been identified with Sur'ah, in the Wady Surar , 8 miles west of Jerusalem. It is noticed on monuments in the fifteenth century B.C. as attacked by the Abiri or Hebrews.

Category:Zuph''' - Honeycomb, a Kohathite Levite, ancestor of Elkanah and Samuel (1 Samuel 1:1); called also Zophai (1 Chronicles 6:26).

Category:Land of Zuph''' - (1 Samuel 9:5, 1 Samuel 9:6), a district in which lay Samuel's city, Ramah. It was probably so named after Elkanah's son, Zuph (1 Chronicles 6:26, marg.).

Category:Zur''' - Rock. (1.) One of the five Midianite kings whom the Israelites defeated and put to death (Numbers 31:8). (2.) A Benjamite (1 Chronicles 8:30).

Category:Zuriel''' - Rock of God, chief of the family of the Merarites (Numbers 3:35) at the time of the Exodus.

Category:Zurishaddai''' - Rock of the Almighty, the father of Shelumiel, who was chief of the tribe of Simeon when Israel was encamped at Sinai (Numbers 1:6; Numbers 2:12).

Category:Zuzims''' - Restless; sprouting, were smitten "in Ham" by Chedorlaomer and his allies (Genesis 14:5). Some have identified this tribe with the Zamzummims (q.v.).