Topical Encyclopedia The term "gnashes" is often associated with expressions of intense anguish, anger, or suffering, particularly in the context of judgment and condemnation. In the Bible, the act of gnashing one's teeth is frequently depicted as a response to extreme emotional or spiritual distress.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, gnashing of teeth is used metaphorically to describe the actions of the wicked or the enemies of the righteous. For example, in Psalm 37:12 , it is written, "The wicked scheme against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them." Here, gnashing of teeth signifies hostility and malice directed towards the righteous by those who oppose God's ways. Similarly, in Lamentations 2:16 , the enemies of Jerusalem are described as gloating over the city's downfall: "All your enemies open their mouths against you; they hiss and gnash their teeth." This imagery conveys the contempt and derision of those who rejoice in the suffering of others. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the phrase "weeping and gnashing of teeth" is frequently used by Jesus to describe the fate of the unrighteous in the final judgment. This expression appears in several parables and teachings of Jesus, emphasizing the severe consequences of rejecting God's kingdom. For instance, in Matthew 8:12 , Jesus warns, "But the sons of the kingdom will be cast into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." This statement underscores the sorrow and regret experienced by those who are excluded from the blessings of God's kingdom due to unbelief or disobedience. Similarly, in Matthew 13:41-42 , Jesus explains the parable of the weeds: "The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will weed out of His kingdom every cause of sin and all who practice lawlessness. And they will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." Here, gnashing of teeth is associated with the anguish of those who face divine judgment. Theological Significance The imagery of gnashing teeth serves as a powerful reminder of the reality of divine justice and the consequences of sin. It reflects the deep emotional and spiritual turmoil experienced by those who find themselves separated from God's presence and blessings. The repeated use of this expression in the teachings of Jesus highlights the seriousness of the choices individuals make regarding their relationship with God. In a broader theological context, gnashing of teeth can be seen as a symbol of the ultimate frustration and despair of those who reject God's grace and persist in rebellion against His will. It serves as a sobering call to repentance and faith, urging individuals to seek reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ to avoid the fate of eternal separation and suffering. Strong's Hebrew 2786. charaq -- to gnash or grind... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to gnash or grind NASB Word Usage gnash (2), gnashed (2), gnashes (1). gnash. A primitive root; to grate the teeth -- gnash. ... /hebrew/2786.htm - 5k Library Household Salvation Two Standpoints. The First and Great Commandment Panegyric on the Splendor of Affairs. part viii. Heaven and Hell The Wedding Garment Thesaurus Gnashes (4 Occurrences)...Gnashes (4 Occurrences). Mark 9:18 and wheresoever it seizes him it tears him, and he foams and gnashes his teeth, and he is withering away. ... /g/gnashes.htm - 7k Gnasheth (4 Occurrences) Gnashed (3 Occurrences) Gnash (12 Occurrences) Withering (2 Occurrences) Tears (58 Occurrences) Plots (20 Occurrences) Spoke (799 Occurrences) Plot (53 Occurrences) Teeth (50 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Gnashes (4 Occurrences)Mark 9:18 Job 16:9 Psalms 37:12 Psalms 112:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
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