Definition and Nature:
Violence and strife are recurring themes in the Bible, often depicted as manifestations of human sinfulness and rebellion against God's order. Violence refers to the use of physical force to harm others, while strife encompasses conflict, discord, and contention among individuals or groups.

Biblical Instances:
The Bible provides numerous accounts of violence and strife, beginning with the early chapters of Genesis. The first act of violence is recorded in Genesis 4:8, where Cain, in a fit of jealousy and anger, murders his brother Abel. This act sets a precedent for the destructive nature of sin and its consequences on human relationships.

The pre-flood world was characterized by widespread violence, prompting God's judgment through the flood. Genesis 6:11-13 states, "Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and full of violence. God looked upon the earth and saw that it was corrupt; for all living creatures on the earth had corrupted their ways. Then God said to Noah, 'I have determined to put an end to all living creatures, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. Therefore, I am about to destroy them along with the earth.'"

Throughout the history of Israel, violence and strife are evident in the narratives of conquest, warfare, and internal conflict. The period of the Judges is marked by cycles of violence as Israel repeatedly turns away from God, leading to oppression by surrounding nations and subsequent deliverance by judges raised by God.

Wisdom Literature and Prophetic Warnings:
The wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly the Book of Proverbs, frequently warns against the dangers of violence and strife. Proverbs 3:31 advises, "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways," highlighting the destructive path of those who engage in violence.

The prophets also speak against violence and strife, calling the people to repentance and justice. Isaiah 59:6-8 describes the consequences of such behavior: "Their cobwebs cannot be made into clothing, and they cannot cover themselves with their works. Their deeds are sinful deeds, and acts of violence are in their hands. Their feet run to evil; they are swift to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are sinful thoughts; ruin and destruction lie in their wake. The way of peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their tracks. They have turned them into crooked paths; no one who treads on them will know peace."

Teachings of Jesus and the New Testament:
Jesus Christ, in His teachings, emphasized peace and reconciliation, contrasting the ways of violence and strife. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). He calls His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44), promoting a radical departure from the cycle of violence.

The apostle Paul, in his epistles, urges believers to live in harmony and avoid strife. Romans 12:18 instructs, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." Paul also warns against the works of the flesh, which include "hostility, strife, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions" (Galatians 5:20).

Eschatological Perspective:
The Bible presents an eschatological hope where violence and strife will be eradicated. In the prophetic vision of the new creation, Isaiah 2:4 foretells, "He will judge between the nations and will mediate for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer take up the sword against nation, nor will they train anymore for war."

Revelation 21:4 offers a glimpse of the ultimate peace in God's kingdom: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This vision underscores the hope for a future where violence and strife are no more, replaced by eternal peace and harmony under God's reign.