Topical Encyclopedia Appalment is a term that appears in the context of biblical literature to describe a state of shock, horror, or dismay, often in response to divine judgment or the manifestation of God's power. The concept is closely associated with the reaction of individuals or nations when confronted with the consequences of sin or the awe-inspiring presence of God.In the Old Testament, appalment is frequently depicted as a response to the judgment of God upon Israel or other nations. For instance, in the book of Jeremiah, the prophet speaks of the desolation that will come upon the land as a result of the people's unfaithfulness: "I will make this city a desolation and an object of scorn. Everyone who passes by will be appalled and will scoff because of all its wounds" (Jeremiah 19:8). Here, appalment is linked to the visible devastation and the moral and spiritual decay that provoke a reaction of horror and derision from onlookers. Similarly, in the book of Ezekiel, the prophet describes the reaction of the nations to the fall of Tyre: "All the inhabitants of the coastlands are appalled over you; their kings shudder with horror, their faces are contorted" (Ezekiel 27:35). This passage highlights the widespread impact of God's judgment, causing even distant nations to tremble and be filled with dread. Appalment is not limited to the reaction of nations but is also a personal experience for individuals who encounter the holiness and majesty of God. In the book of Daniel, the prophet describes his own reaction to a divine vision: "So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision; I had no strength left, my face grew deathly pale, and I was powerless" (Daniel 10:8). Daniel's appalment is a result of the overwhelming presence of God, which leaves him physically and emotionally drained. The theme of appalment serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment. It underscores the need for repentance and the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). The biblical portrayal of appalment calls believers to recognize the gravity of turning away from God and the inevitable consequences that follow. In the New Testament, while the specific term "appalment" may not be used, the concept is present in the reactions of individuals to the works and words of Jesus Christ. For example, when Jesus calms the storm, the disciples are filled with awe and fear, asking, "Who is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?" (Matthew 8:27). This reaction reflects a profound recognition of Jesus' divine authority and power, evoking a sense of appalment at His command over nature. Overall, appalment in the biblical context serves as a powerful expression of the human response to the divine, whether in judgment or revelation. It is a theme that calls for reflection on the holiness of God and the appropriate reverence and awe due to Him. Concordance Appalment (10 Occurrences)Jeremiah 8:21 Jeremiah 25:18 Ezekiel 4:16 Ezekiel 7:27 Ezekiel 12:19 Ezekiel 23:33 Daniel 8:13 Daniel 9:27 Daniel 11:31 Daniel 12:11 Thesaurus Appalment (10 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Appalment (10 Occurrences). Jeremiah 8:21 For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt: I mourn; dismay hath taken hold on me. ... /a/appalment.htm - 9k Palsied (7 Occurrences) Apparatus (1 Occurrence) Appalling (2 Occurrences) Apply (19 Occurrences) Cursing (53 Occurrences) Allow (86 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |