Topical Encyclopedia Augur is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Proverbs, specifically in Proverbs 30. The name "Augur" is derived from the Hebrew word "אָגוּר" (Agur), which means "collector" or "gatherer." Augur is identified as the son of Jakeh, and his sayings are recorded in Proverbs 30:1-33. This chapter is often referred to as "The Sayings of Augur."Biblical Context The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed primarily to King Solomon. However, Proverbs 30 is distinct in that it is attributed to Augur, son of Jakeh. The chapter begins with an introduction that sets the tone for the sayings that follow: "The words of Augur son of Jakeh, the oracle: This man declares to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal" (Proverbs 30:1). The identity of Ithiel and Ucal is not explicitly known, and they are not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. Some scholars suggest that these names could be symbolic or represent Augur's students or companions. Themes and Content Augur's sayings in Proverbs 30 are characterized by their humility, wisdom, and reflection on the nature of God and humanity. Augur begins with an acknowledgment of his own limitations and a plea for divine wisdom: "Surely I am the most ignorant of men, and I lack the understanding of a man. I have not learned wisdom, and I have no knowledge of the Holy One" (Proverbs 30:2-3). This expression of humility sets the stage for the insights that follow. Augur's sayings cover a range of topics, including the nature of God, human behavior, and the created order. One of the notable features of this chapter is the use of numerical proverbs, which present lists of observations about the world: "There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, 'Enough!': Sheol, the barren womb, land never satisfied with water, and fire that never says, 'Enough!'" (Proverbs 30:15-16). These numerical proverbs are a distinctive literary device used to convey wisdom through memorable and thought-provoking lists. Theological Insights Augur's sayings provide valuable theological insights, particularly regarding the nature of God and the human condition. He emphasizes the transcendence and incomprehensibility of God, as seen in his rhetorical questions: "Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in His hands? Who has bound up the waters in His cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is the name of His Son—surely you know!" (Proverbs 30:4). This passage highlights the majesty and sovereignty of God, as well as the mystery of His divine nature. Augur's reference to "His Son" is particularly intriguing and has been the subject of much theological reflection, especially in light of Christian beliefs about the Messiah. Moral and Ethical Teachings Augur's sayings also contain practical moral and ethical teachings. He offers a prayer for a balanced life, free from the extremes of poverty and wealth, which could lead to sin: "Two things I ask of You—do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and deceitful words far from me. Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the bread that is my portion. Otherwise, I may have too much and deny You, saying, 'Who is the LORD?' Or I may become poor and steal, profaning the name of my God" (Proverbs 30:7-9). This prayer reflects a desire for integrity and dependence on God, avoiding the temptations that come with both abundance and lack. Conclusion While Augur is a relatively obscure figure in the Bible, his sayings in Proverbs 30 offer profound insights into the nature of God, human limitations, and the pursuit of wisdom. His teachings continue to resonate with readers seeking to understand the complexities of life and the divine. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To predict; to prognosticate; to foreshow; to conjecture from signs or omens;2. (n.) An official diviner who foretold events by the singing, chattering, flight, and feeding of birds, or by signs or omens derived from celestial phenomena, certain appearances of quadrupeds, or unusual occurrences. 3. (n.) One who foretells events by omens; a soothsayer; a diviner; a prophet. 4. (v. i.) To anticipate, to foretell, or to indicate a favorable or an unfavorable issue; as, to augur well or ill. 5. (v. t.) To predict or foretell, as from signs or omens; to betoken; to presage; to infer. Library The True God, However, Neither Employs Irrational Animals, nor any ... Quirinius the Governor of Syria These Testimonies of the Soul are Simple as True... Of Dyeing the Hair. Light at Evening Time Printed Texts of the Septuagint. The Fourth Clause. Apollo the Soothsaying and False. Of the Use of Reason in Religion; and of Dreams, Auguries, Oracles ... That Astrology, Soothsaying, and Similar Arts are the Invention of ... Thesaurus Augur (1 Occurrence)... 4. (vi) To anticipate, to foretell, or to indicate a favorable or an unfavorable issue; as, to augur well or ill. ...Augur (1 Occurrence). ... /a/augur.htm - 7k Augur's Augury (5 Occurrences) Oak (22 Occurrences) Omen (6 Occurrences) Auguries (4 Occurrences) Augments (1 Occurrence) Augustus (4 Occurrences) Meonenim (1 Occurrence) Divination (25 Occurrences) Resources Augur: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Augur (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 18:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
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