In the Bible, infants and babies are often depicted as symbols of innocence, purity, and the beginning of life. They are seen as blessings from God and are integral to the narratives and teachings found throughout Scripture.

Creation and Blessing

The Bible begins with the creation of humanity, where God commands Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28). This command underscores the importance of procreation and the blessing of children. Infants are seen as a fulfillment of God's promise and a continuation of His creation.

Symbol of Innocence

Infants are frequently used as symbols of innocence and purity. In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the importance of childlike faith and humility. He states, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3). This highlights the value of innocence and trust in one's relationship with God.

Protection and Care

The Bible places a strong emphasis on the protection and care of infants. In the Old Testament, the account of Moses begins with his mother hiding him to protect him from Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew male infants (Exodus 2:1-10). This narrative illustrates the lengths to which parents will go to safeguard their children.

In the New Testament, King Herod's massacre of the infants in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16) is a tragic event that underscores the vulnerability of infants and the evil that can befall them. This event also fulfills the prophecy of Jeremiah, highlighting the sorrow and lamentation associated with the loss of innocent lives (Matthew 2:17-18).

Spiritual Significance

Infants hold spiritual significance in the Bible. The birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior, is marked by His incarnation as a baby. The angel's announcement to the shepherds, "Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11), signifies the profound impact of an infant's birth on the world.

Furthermore, the dedication of infants to God is a practice seen in the Bible. Hannah dedicates her son Samuel to the Lord, saying, "I prayed for this boy, and since the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him, I now dedicate the boy to the LORD" (1 Samuel 1:27-28). This act of dedication reflects the belief that children are a gift from God and should be raised in His ways.

Moral and Ethical Teachings

The Bible also addresses the moral and ethical treatment of infants. The commandment "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) implicitly includes the protection of the most vulnerable, including infants. The sanctity of life is a fundamental principle, and the care for infants is a reflection of this belief.

In summary, infants and babies in the Bible are portrayed as blessings from God, symbols of innocence, and bearers of spiritual significance. They are to be protected, cherished, and raised in the knowledge and fear of the Lord, reflecting the values and teachings found throughout Scripture.