Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, brand-marks were physical marks or scars that indicated ownership, allegiance, or identity. These marks were often used in the context of slavery, servitude, or religious devotion. The concept of brand-marks can be explored through various scriptural references and cultural practices of the ancient Near East.Old Testament Context While the Old Testament does not explicitly mention brand-marks in the sense of physical markings on the body, the idea of marking for ownership or dedication is present. For example, in Exodus 21:5-6, a servant who chooses to remain with his master rather than go free is to have his ear pierced as a sign of perpetual servitude: "But if the servant declares, ‘I love my master and my wife and children; I do not want to go free,’ then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or the doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life." This act of piercing the ear served as a physical and public declaration of the servant's loyalty and commitment to his master, akin to a brand-mark. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul uses the concept of brand-marks metaphorically to describe his own sufferings and dedication to Christ. In Galatians 6:17, Paul states, "From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus." Here, Paul refers to the physical scars and injuries he endured as a result of his missionary work and persecution for the sake of the Gospel. These "marks of Jesus" symbolize his total commitment and identification with Christ. The imagery of brand-marks in this context highlights the idea of belonging to Christ and bearing the consequences of discipleship. It reflects the notion that true followers of Christ may endure suffering and persecution as a testament to their faith and allegiance. Cultural and Historical Background In the ancient world, branding or marking was a common practice for identifying slaves, soldiers, or devotees of a particular deity. Such marks served as a visible sign of ownership or religious dedication. In some cultures, devotees would voluntarily mark themselves to show their allegiance to a god or goddess, similar to the way Paul describes his own sufferings as marks of his devotion to Christ. Theological Implications The concept of brand-marks in the Bible underscores themes of identity, ownership, and allegiance. For believers, it serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to bear the marks of Christ in their lives. It challenges Christians to consider the visible and invisible ways they demonstrate their commitment to Jesus and His teachings. In a broader theological sense, brand-marks can be seen as a symbol of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, marking them as belonging to God and set apart for His purposes. This aligns with the New Testament teaching that Christians are "sealed with the promised Holy Spirit" (Ephesians 1:13), indicating their identity and security in Christ. Greek 4742b. stigma -- a tattoo mark or brand ... 4742a, 4742b. stigma. 4743 . a tattoo mark or brand. Transliteration: stigma Short Definition: brand-marks. Word Origin from stizo ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4742b.htm - 5k 4742. stigma -- a bed of leaves or rushes Thesaurus Brand-marks (1 Occurrence)Brand-marks. Brandishing, Brand-marks. Brands . Multi-Version Concordance Brand-marks (1 Occurrence). Galatians 6:17 ... /b/brand-marks.htm - 6k Brands (7 Occurrences) Brandishing (3 Occurrences) Resources What is the Community of Christ (RLDS)? | GotQuestions.orgWhen the Bible is translated into English, how do the translators decide what punctuation to use? | GotQuestions.org Is the 9Marks series biblically sound? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Brand-marks (1 Occurrence)Galatians 6:17 Subtopics Related Terms |
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