Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the hen is used figuratively to convey themes of protection, care, and nurturing. This imagery is most prominently found in the New Testament, where Jesus employs the metaphor of a hen to express His deep, compassionate desire to gather and protect His people.Biblical References: 1. Matthew 23:37 : "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!" In this passage, Jesus laments over Jerusalem, expressing His sorrow over the city's rejection of His message and His messengers. The hen metaphor highlights His longing to provide shelter and safety, akin to a hen gathering her chicks under her wings. This imagery underscores the protective and nurturing nature of Christ's love, as well as the tragedy of Jerusalem's unwillingness to accept it. 2. Luke 13:34 : "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!" This parallel passage in Luke reiterates the same poignant message found in Matthew. The repetition of this metaphor in two Gospels emphasizes its significance in conveying Jesus' heartfelt desire to care for His people, despite their persistent resistance. Theological Implications: The hen metaphor in these passages is rich with theological meaning. It reflects the maternal aspect of God's care, illustrating His desire to protect and nurture His people. This imagery is consistent with other biblical depictions of God's protective nature, such as in Psalm 91:4 : "He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart." The hen metaphor thus serves as a powerful reminder of God's unwavering love and the safety found in His presence. Furthermore, the use of this metaphor by Jesus highlights the personal and relational aspect of His ministry. It underscores His deep emotional connection to humanity and His willingness to embrace and shelter those who come to Him. The hen's instinct to gather her chicks is a vivid illustration of Christ's mission to seek and save the lost, offering them refuge and security. Cultural Context: In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, the image of a hen gathering her chicks would have been a familiar and relatable one. Hens were common in rural settings, and their behavior was well-known to the people. This familiarity would have made Jesus' metaphor particularly poignant and accessible to His audience, effectively communicating His message of love and protection. Application: For believers, the hen metaphor serves as a call to recognize and respond to the protective love of Christ. It invites individuals to seek refuge under His wings, trusting in His care and provision. Additionally, it challenges the faithful to reflect Christ's nurturing love in their own relationships, embodying His compassion and care for others. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 23:37O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you that kill the prophets, and stone them which are sent to you, how often would I have gathered your children together, even as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings, and you would not! Nave's Topical Index Luke 13:34 Strong's Hebrew 2581. Chen -- "favor," a contemporary of Zerubbabel... Hen. The same as chen; grace; Chen, a figurative name for an Israelite -- Hen. see HEBREW chen. 2580, 2581. Chen. 2582 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/2581.htm - 6k Library Letter Xlvi. Paula and Eustochium to Marcella. Jesus' Last Public Discourse. Denunciation of Scribes and ... Hid in Light All who Walk According to Truth are Children of God. Of the Pharisees who Sit in the Seat of Moses, and Enjoin Things ... Excursus B. On 22 (Note 3). On the Morrow of the Transfiguration Difficulties and Objections Ephesians iv. 7-Apr Seances Historiques De Geneve --The National Church. Resources Does God love me? | GotQuestions.orgIs the Holy Spirit a "He," "She," or “It,” male, female, or neuter? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical solution to the problem of evil? | GotQuestions.org Hen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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