Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "allure" in the Bible often relates to the idea of temptation, enticement, or attraction, particularly in the context of leading individuals away from God's commandments and into sin. The term itself may not be explicitly used in all translations, but the underlying theme is prevalent throughout Scripture.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, allure is frequently associated with idolatry and the temptation to follow other gods. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against being enticed by the practices and deities of surrounding nations. In Deuteronomy 11:16 , the Israelites are cautioned: "Be careful that you are not enticed to turn aside to worship and bow down to other gods." This warning underscores the danger of being allured away from the worship of Yahweh, the one true God. The account of Samson and Delilah in Judges 16 illustrates the power of allure through personal relationships. Delilah's persistent enticement leads Samson to reveal the secret of his strength, resulting in his downfall. This narrative highlights how allure can manifest through individuals who draw others away from their divine calling and purpose. Wisdom Literature The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the theme of allure, particularly in the context of sexual temptation. Proverbs 7:21-23 describes the seductive speech of an adulteress: "With her great persuasion she entices him; with her flattering lips she lures him. He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap, until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare—not knowing it will cost him his life." Here, allure is depicted as a dangerous force that can lead to spiritual and physical destruction. New Testament Context In the New Testament, allure is often linked to the broader concept of worldliness and the temptations that can lead believers away from their faith. James 1:14-15 explains the process of temptation: "But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." This passage emphasizes personal responsibility in resisting allure and the progression from temptation to sin. The Apostle Paul warns against the allure of false teachings and philosophies that can lead believers astray. In Colossians 2:8 , he writes, "See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ." Here, allure is associated with intellectual and spiritual deception that diverts attention from the truth of the Gospel. Spiritual Warfare The allure of sin is also a component of spiritual warfare. Believers are encouraged to remain vigilant and to put on the full armor of God to resist the devil's schemes (Ephesians 6:11). The allure of sin is a tactic used by the enemy to weaken the believer's resolve and draw them away from their relationship with God. Practical Application Christians are called to be discerning and to guard their hearts against the allure of sin. This involves cultivating a deep relationship with God through prayer, studying Scripture, and being part of a faith community. By doing so, believers can strengthen their ability to recognize and resist the enticements that seek to lead them away from their faith and commitment to God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To attempt to draw; to tempt by a lure or bait, that is, by the offer of some good, real or apparent; to invite by something flattering or acceptable; to entice; to attract.2. (n.) Allurement. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ALLUREa-lur' (pathah, "to persuade," "woo," "entice"; deleazo, "to entrap," "lay a bait"): Greek 1185. deleazo -- to lure ... to lure. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: deleazo Phonetic Spelling: (del-eh-ad'-zo) Short Definition: I allure, entice by a bait Definition: I allure ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1185.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 5496. suth -- to incite, allure, instigate... 5495, 5496. suth. 5497 . to incite, allure, instigate. Transliteration: suth Phonetic Spelling: (sooth) Short Definition: incited. Word Origin a prim. ... /hebrew/5496.htm - 6k 6601. pathah -- to be spacious, wide or open 6601b. pathah -- to be simple Library The Demons Allure Men to the Worship of Images. Holy Exercises of Contrition. The Authority and Utility of the Scriptures A Plea for the Christians Acknowledgment of Her Excellence and Wisdom. Of Meditating on the Future Life. Howe -- the Redeemer's Tears Over Lost Souls He Restoreth My Soul. The Ninth Season The Testament of Benjamin Concerning a Pure Mind. Thesaurus Allure (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ALLURE. ... (2) "They allure through the lusts of the flesh" (2 Peter 2:18, the Revised Version (British and American) "entice"). ... /a/allure.htm - 7k Vanity (100 Occurrences) Lead (192 Occurrences) Lure (2 Occurrences) Wantonness (6 Occurrences) Win (27 Occurrences) Invite (20 Occurrences) Fled (181 Occurrences) Tempting (12 Occurrences) Tenderly (9 Occurrences) Resources How can I stay focused on Christ? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was the worship of Baal and Asherah a constant struggle for the Israelites? | GotQuestions.org Is gambling a sin? What does the Bible say about gambling? | GotQuestions.org Allure: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Allure (1 Occurrence)Hosea 2:14 Subtopics Related Terms |