Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "barbs" is not directly mentioned; however, the concept can be related to various scriptural themes and imagery, particularly in the context of warfare, speech, and spiritual battles. The Bible often uses vivid imagery to convey deeper spiritual truths, and the idea of barbs can be associated with sharp, piercing elements that can cause harm or provoke.Warfare Imagery The Bible frequently uses the imagery of warfare to describe spiritual and physical battles. In this context, barbs can be likened to arrows or other sharp weapons used in combat. For instance, in Psalm 120:4 , the psalmist speaks of "sharp arrows of the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree." This imagery conveys the idea of words or actions that can pierce and cause significant damage, much like barbs in battle. Speech and Tongue The concept of barbs can also be metaphorically applied to speech. The Bible warns about the power of the tongue and the potential harm it can inflict. In James 3:8 , it is written, "but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." Here, the tongue is depicted as a weapon capable of delivering barbed words that can wound others deeply. Proverbs 12:18 further illustrates this by stating, "There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Spiritual Warfare In the realm of spiritual warfare, barbs can symbolize the attacks of the enemy. Ephesians 6:16 instructs believers to take up "the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." These flaming arrows can be seen as barbs—spiritual attacks or temptations designed to harm or lead believers astray. The imagery emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and the protective power of faith. Symbolism in Prophecy Prophetic literature in the Bible often uses symbolic language to convey messages. In some instances, barbs or similar imagery might be used to describe the judgment or wrath of God against nations or individuals. For example, in Isaiah 5:28 , the prophet describes the arrows of God's judgment as "sharp, and all their bows bent; their horses' hooves will be like flint, and their wheels like a whirlwind." This vivid imagery underscores the precision and inevitability of divine judgment. Conclusion While the term "barbs" is not explicitly found in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout Scripture in various forms. Whether through the imagery of warfare, the power of speech, or the dynamics of spiritual battles, the Bible provides a rich tapestry of themes that reflect the piercing and potentially destructive nature of barbs. Believers are called to be mindful of their words and actions, to guard against spiritual attacks, and to rely on God's strength and wisdom in all aspects of life. Strong's Hebrew 4170. moqesh -- a bait or lure, a snare... Word Origin from yaqosh Definition a bait or lure, a snare NASB Word Usage bait (1), barbs (1), ensnared (2), snare (12), snares (8), trap (4). ... /hebrew/4170.htm - 6k Library The High Priest's Prayer On the Lord's Passion iv. , Delivered on Wednesday in Holy Week. Letter clxvii . To Rusticus, Bishop of Gallia Narbonensis, with ... To Bishop Timotheus. There is a Definite Moment at which the Seed is Ripe... The Germination of the Earth. Love and Fear Christ Triumphant The Great Controversy The Meal at Emmaus Thesaurus Barbs (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Barbs (2 Occurrences). Numbers 33:55 "But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before ... /b/barbs.htm - 6k Web (5 Occurrences) Barchus Barber's (1 Occurrence) Barbed (1 Occurrence) Spear (55 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Barbs (2 Occurrences)Numbers 33:55 Job 40:24 Subtopics Related Terms |