Topical Encyclopedia The term "basest" is used in the Bible to describe individuals or actions that are considered lowly, morally degraded, or of the lowest status. It often conveys a sense of contempt or disdain for those who are seen as lacking in virtue or nobility. The concept of being "base" or "basest" is frequently associated with behaviors or characteristics that are contrary to the values upheld by Scripture.In the Old Testament, the term is used to describe people of low status or those who act in a morally reprehensible manner. For example, in the book of Daniel, the term is used in the context of God's sovereignty over human kingdoms. Daniel 4:17 states, "This decision is by the decree of the watchers, and the sentence by the word of the holy ones, so that the living may know that the Most High rules over the kingdom of men and gives it to whom He wishes, and sets over it the basest of men." Here, the term "basest" is used to emphasize that God can choose to elevate even the most humble or morally low individuals to positions of power, underscoring His ultimate authority and the unpredictability of His choices. The use of "basest" in this context highlights a recurring biblical theme: God's ability to use the least likely individuals to fulfill His purposes. This is consistent with other biblical narratives where God chooses the younger, the weaker, or the less esteemed to accomplish His will, such as David, the youngest son of Jesse, being chosen as king over his older brothers (1 Samuel 16). In a broader sense, the concept of "basest" can also be applied to actions or attitudes that are considered ignoble or unworthy. The Bible frequently contrasts base behavior with the virtues that believers are called to embody, such as righteousness, humility, and integrity. For instance, in the New Testament, believers are exhorted to live lives that reflect the holiness and moral standards of God, avoiding behaviors that would be considered base or dishonorable. The term "basest" serves as a reminder of the biblical call to rise above the moral and ethical standards of the world and to pursue a life that is pleasing to God. It challenges believers to examine their own lives and to strive for a character that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God, rather than the base inclinations of human nature. Strong's Hebrew 8215. shephal -- low (in station)... Word Origin (Aramaic) from shephel Definition low (in station) NASB Word Usage lowliest (1). basest. (Aramaic) from shphal; low -- basest. see HEBREW shphal. ... /hebrew/8215.htm - 6k 8217. shaphal -- low Library The Fruits of Grace "And the Redeemer Shall Come unto Zion, and unto them that Turn," "This Then is the Message which we have Heard of Him, and Declare ... Matt. xix. 27 "For what the Law could not Do, in that it was Weak through the ... Guilt of Neglecting the Heathen. Apion Book 2 Footnotes The Anti-Missionary Agitation. Solomon's Reign. Matt. 8:11 Many Thesaurus Basest (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Basest (2 Occurrences). Ezekiel 29:15 It shall be the basest of the kingdoms; neither shall it exalt itself ... /b/basest.htm - 7k Lowliest (3 Occurrences) Ruleth (21 Occurrences) Basework (1 Occurrence) Bases (80 Occurrences) Nero Exalt (56 Occurrences) Dispersion (4 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Basest (2 Occurrences)Ezekiel 29:15 Daniel 4:17 Subtopics Related Terms |