Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "brow" refers to the forehead or the prominent ridge over the eyes. It is often used metaphorically to convey expressions of emotion, character, or divine interaction. The brow is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, symbolizing strength, determination, and sometimes defiance.Old Testament References 1. Ezekiel 3:8-9: In this passage, God speaks to the prophet Ezekiel, saying, "Behold, I have made your face as hard as their faces, and your forehead as hard as their foreheads. I have made your forehead like a diamond, harder than flint. Do not be afraid of them or dismayed by their looks, though they are a rebellious house." Here, the "brow" or "forehead" symbolizes resilience and steadfastness in the face of opposition. God equips Ezekiel with the strength to confront the rebellious Israelites, emphasizing the prophet's divine empowerment. 2. Isaiah 48:4: The prophet Isaiah conveys God's message to Israel, stating, "Because I knew that you are stubborn, and your neck is iron, and your forehead is bronze." The "brow" in this context represents obstinacy and resistance to divine instruction. The imagery of a bronze forehead underscores the people's hardened hearts and unwillingness to heed God's commands. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not explicitly mention the "brow" in the same metaphorical sense as the Old Testament, the concept of the forehead remains significant in biblical symbolism. The Book of Revelation, for instance, speaks of marks on the forehead as signs of allegiance, either to God or to the beast (Revelation 13:16-17; 14:1). Symbolism and Interpretation In biblical symbolism, the brow often represents the seat of thought, will, and determination. A hardened brow can indicate stubbornness or defiance against God, while a strong brow can signify courage and divine fortitude. The imagery of the brow is used to convey the inner spiritual state of individuals or groups, reflecting their relationship with God. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the forehead was considered a significant part of the body, often associated with identity and character. The practice of marking the forehead, whether through anointing, tattooing, or other means, was common in various religious and cultural rituals. This cultural understanding provides a backdrop for the biblical use of "brow" as a symbol of spiritual and moral attributes. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the concept of the brow in Scripture underscores the importance of inner strength and resolve in the life of faith. Believers are called to have a "forehead like flint," demonstrating unwavering commitment to God's truth and commands. At the same time, the warnings against a hardened brow serve as a caution against pride and rebellion, urging individuals to remain open to divine guidance and correction. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The prominent ridge over the eye, with the hair that covers it, forming an arch above the orbit.2. (n.) The hair that covers the brow (ridge over the eyes); the eyebrow. 3. (n.) The forehead; as, a feverish brow. 4. (n.) The general air of the countenance. 5. (n.) The edge or projecting upper part of a steep place; as, the brow of a precipice; the brow of a hill. 6. (v. t.) To bound to limit; to be at, or form, the edge of. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BROWbrou: Is found in Isaiah 48:4, "thy brow brass" as the translation of metsch, meaning "to be clear," i.e. conspicuous. In Luke 4:29 "led him unto the brow of the hill" is the rendering of ophras, literally "the eyebrow," but used throughout Greek literature as any prominent point or projection of land (compare use of supercilium in Verg. Georg. i.108). Greek 3790. ophrus -- an eyebrow ... an eyebrow. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: ophrus Phonetic Spelling: (of-roos') Short Definition: the brow, a ridge Definition: the brow, a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3790.htm - 6k 1238. diadema -- a diadem, a crown Strong's Hebrew 4696. metsach -- brow, forehead... 4695, 4696. metsach. 4697 . brow, forehead. Transliteration: metsach Phonetic Spelling: (may'-tsakh) Short Definition: forehead. ... brow, forehead, impudent. ... /hebrew/4696.htm - 6k 5869. ayin -- an eye Library A Halo Rests Upon Thy Brow, Confirmation 369. The Cross is on Our Brow Olive's Brow. LM Christ in Gethsemane. Explanation of the Phrase: "For I Delight in the Law of God after ... I am Told, to Take Another Point, that one of his Followers ... Introduction. Heaven and Hell I Brought My Merits to the Throne, Earth's Crown. The Old Earth. Thesaurus Brow (24 Occurrences)... orbit. 2. (n.) The hair that covers the brow (ridge over the eyes); the eyebrow. 3. (n.) The forehead; as, a feverish brow. 4. (n ... /b/brow.htm - 14k Blush (16 Occurrences) Brazen (42 Occurrences) Leper (34 Occurrences) Disease (213 Occurrences) Broughtest (17 Occurrences) Brown (5 Occurrences) Responsible (242 Occurrences) Error (90 Occurrences) Offerings (480 Occurrences) Resources Is “you reap what you sow” biblical? | GotQuestions.orgIs it wrong for a woman to get an epidural and/or other pain relievers during childbirth? | GotQuestions.org Does God need us? | GotQuestions.org Brow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Brow (24 Occurrences)Mark 10:22 Luke 4:29 Revelation 14:9 Revelation 17:5 Genesis 3:19 Genesis 49:26 Exodus 13:9 Exodus 13:16 Exodus 28:38 Leviticus 13:42 Leviticus 13:43 Deuteronomy 6:8 Deuteronomy 11:18 Deuteronomy 33:16 Judges 5:26 1 Samuel 17:49 2 Chronicles 26:19 2 Chronicles 26:20 Job 16:15 Isaiah 48:4 Jeremiah 3:3 Ezekiel 3:7 Ezekiel 3:8 Ezekiel 3:9 Subtopics Related Terms |