Topical Encyclopedia Lameness in the Bible is often depicted as a physical condition characterized by an inability to walk properly due to injury, disease, or congenital defect. It serves as both a literal ailment and a metaphorical symbol throughout the Scriptures, illustrating spiritual truths and divine intervention.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, lameness is frequently mentioned in the context of physical healing and divine power. One of the earliest references is found in Genesis 32:31, where Jacob, after wrestling with God, is left with a limp: "The sun rose above him as he passed by Penuel, and he was limping because of his hip." This incident signifies a transformative encounter with God, marking Jacob's transition to Israel and symbolizing the spiritual journey of God's people. Levitical law also addresses lameness, particularly in the context of priestly qualifications and sacrificial offerings. Leviticus 21:18 states, "No man who has any defect may approach: no man who is blind, lame, disfigured, or deformed." This regulation underscores the requirement for physical wholeness in those who serve in the sanctuary, reflecting the holiness and perfection of God. Prophetic Imagery The prophets often use lameness as a metaphor for spiritual restoration and divine healing. Isaiah 35:6 prophesies a time of renewal: "Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the mute tongue will shout for joy. For waters will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert." This imagery points to the Messianic age, where physical and spiritual restoration will be realized through the coming of the Messiah. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfills these prophetic visions through His healing ministry. The Gospels record numerous instances where Jesus heals the lame, demonstrating His divine authority and compassion. In Matthew 11:5, Jesus affirms His Messianic identity by listing His miracles: "The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor." One notable healing occurs in John 5:8-9, where Jesus heals a man who had been lame for thirty-eight years: "Then Jesus said to him, 'Get up, pick up your mat, and walk.' Immediately the man was made well, and he picked up his mat and began to walk." This miracle not only restores the man's physical ability but also signifies the spiritual liberation that Jesus offers. Apostolic Ministry The apostles continue Jesus' healing work, empowered by the Holy Spirit. In Acts 3:6-8, Peter heals a lame beggar at the temple gate: "But Peter said, 'Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!' Taking him by the right hand, Peter helped him up, and at once the man's feet and ankles were made strong." This act of healing serves as a testament to the ongoing power of Jesus' name and the establishment of the early Church. Spiritual Implications Lameness in the Bible often symbolizes spiritual weakness or moral deficiency. Hebrews 12:13 exhorts believers to "make straight paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed." This passage encourages Christians to pursue righteousness and holiness, ensuring that their spiritual walk is aligned with God's will. Throughout Scripture, lameness serves as a powerful reminder of human frailty and the need for divine intervention. It highlights God's compassion and the transformative power of faith, offering hope for both physical and spiritual healing. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The condition or quality of being lame; as, the lameness of an excuse or an argument.Strong's Hebrew 6455. pisseach -- lame... Word Origin from pasach Definition lame NASB Word Usage lame (12), lame man (1), lameness (1). lame. From pacach; lame -- lame. see HEBREW pacach. 6454, 6455 ... /hebrew/6455.htm - 6k Library The Fourth Breviate. The Fifth Breviate. The Evil of Lust Does not Take Away the Good of Marriage. The Lame Man Cured by Peter and John. Meditations of the Blessed State of the Regenerate Man after Death ... "He Has Trusted Me," Said the Cardinal, -- "I have Found Him... Special Practices of Uniformity. The Way of Salvation Miracles of Healing Hebrews xii. 13-Nov Thesaurus Lameness (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The condition or quality of being lame; as, the lameness of an excuse or an argument. ...Lameness (1 Occurrence). ... /l/lameness.htm - 6k Lament (44 Occurrences) Lamedh (1 Occurrence) Lame (35 Occurrences) Founder (5 Occurrences) Pricking (1 Occurrence) Prick (2 Occurrences) Curb (5 Occurrences) Halt (12 Occurrences) Resources What was in the shadow of Peter that healed people (Acts 5:15-16)? | GotQuestions.orgLameness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lameness (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 15:21 Subtopics Lameness: Disqualified Animals for Sacrificial Uses Lameness: Disqualified Priests from Exercising the Priestly office Related Terms |
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