Topical Encyclopedia The term "bestead" is an archaic English word that appears in some older translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version. It is derived from the Old English "bestead," meaning to be situated or placed in a particular condition or circumstance, often implying being in a state of distress or difficulty. In the context of Scripture, "bestead" is used to describe a condition of hardship or oppression.In the Berean Standard Bible , the term "bestead" is not used, as modern translations often opt for more contemporary language to convey the same meaning. However, understanding the concept of being "bestead" can provide insight into the experiences of individuals and nations described in the Bible who faced adversity and divine judgment. Biblical Context The concept of being "bestead" is closely associated with the themes of divine judgment and human suffering. In the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, the condition of being "bestead" often reflects the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting hardships that come upon individuals or nations. For example, in Isaiah 8:21 (KJV), the term is used to describe the distress of the people: "And they shall pass through it, hardly bestead and hungry: and it shall come to pass, that when they shall be hungry, they shall fret themselves, and curse their king and their God, and look upward." In this passage, the people of Israel are depicted as being in a state of severe distress and hunger due to their disobedience and lack of faith in God. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage with more contemporary language: "They will roam the land, dejected and hungry. When they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God." Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the condition of being "bestead" serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God. The hardships faced by the people of Israel, as described in the prophetic books, are often portrayed as a direct result of their rebellion against God's commandments and their failure to trust in His provision and protection. The concept also underscores the justice of God, who allows His people to experience the natural consequences of their actions as a means of correction and eventual restoration. Despite the severity of their circumstances, the prophetic messages often include a call to repentance and a promise of hope for those who turn back to God. Practical Application For believers today, the notion of being "bestead" can serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of straying from God's path. It encourages self-examination and a commitment to living in accordance with God's will, trusting in His guidance even in times of difficulty. The experiences of those who were "bestead" in the Bible remind Christians of the importance of faithfulness and the assurance that God is ever-present, ready to restore and bless those who seek Him with a sincere heart. Easton's Bible Dictionary The rendering in Isaiah 8:21, where alone it occurs, of a Hebrew word meaning to oppress, or be in circumstances of hardship. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (imp. & p. p.) of Bestead.2. (v. t.) To put in a certain situation or condition; to circumstance; to place. 3. (v. t.) To put in peril; to beset. 4. (v. t.) To serve; to assist; to profit; to avail. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BESTEADbe-sted' (niqsheh, "caught in a snare," "entrapped"; as Judah hard pressed in their own land by the Assyrians (Isaiah 8:21 the King James Version)): Found only here. Old English word steden meaning "place," hence, "set," "beset"; usually with "ill," "sorely bested." In the Revised Version (British and American) rendered "sore distressed." Library Stephen's vision Acts ii. 22 The Baptism of Jesus: Its Higher Meaning. Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ... Thesaurus Bestead (1 Occurrence)... 1. (imp. & pp) of Bestead. 2. (vt) To put in a certain situation or condition; to circumstance; to place. ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BESTEAD. ... /b/bestead.htm - 7k Bestiality Deborah (10 Occurrences) Fret (9 Occurrences) Hardly (26 Occurrences) Best (252 Occurrences) Hard-pressed (4 Occurrences) Hunger (52 Occurrences) Harddiness Hardiness Resources Bestead: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bestead (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 8:21 Subtopics Related Terms |