Topical Encyclopedia The term "cheek-teeth" refers to the molars and premolars located in the back of the mouth, which are primarily used for grinding food. In biblical literature, the mention of cheek-teeth often carries symbolic or metaphorical significance, reflecting themes of strength, power, and sometimes judgment or destruction.Biblical References: 1. Deuteronomy 32:24 : "They will be wasted from hunger and ravaged by pestilence and bitter plague; I will send the fangs of wild beasts against them, with the venom of vipers that slither in the dust." While this verse does not explicitly mention cheek-teeth, it alludes to the destructive power of wild beasts, which can be understood to include their teeth as instruments of God's judgment. 2. Job 29:17 : "I shattered the fangs of the unjust and snatched the prey from his teeth." Here, Job speaks of his past actions in defending the oppressed. The "fangs" and "teeth" symbolize the power and aggression of the wicked, which Job neutralized in his role as a righteous man. 3. Joel 1:6 : "For a nation has invaded My land, powerful and without number; its teeth are the teeth of a lion, and it has the fangs of a lioness." This passage uses the imagery of a lion's teeth to describe the invading nation, emphasizing their strength and the devastation they bring. Symbolism and Interpretation: In the biblical context, cheek-teeth often symbolize strength and the ability to crush or destroy. This imagery is frequently used to describe the power of enemies or the judgment of God. The metaphor of teeth, particularly those of predatory animals like lions, conveys a sense of fearsome might and the capacity to inflict harm. The use of cheek-teeth in Scripture can also reflect the protective and righteous power of God's servants, as seen in Job's defense of the vulnerable. In this sense, the imagery of teeth is not solely negative but can also represent the righteous exercise of power to uphold justice and deliver the oppressed. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the imagery of cheek-teeth underscores the reality of divine judgment and the power dynamics present in the world. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the ultimate authority of God over creation. The righteous, like Job, are called to use their strength to protect and deliver, reflecting God's justice and mercy. In summary, cheek-teeth in the Bible are a potent symbol of strength, judgment, and the moral responsibility to use power for the defense of the innocent and the execution of justice. Library The Locust-Swarms The Prophet Joel. Thesaurus Cheek-teeth (1 Occurrence)Cheek-teeth. Cheeks, Cheek-teeth. Cheer . Multi-Version Concordance Cheek-teeth (1 Occurrence). Psalms 58:6 Break their ... /c/cheek-teeth.htm - 6k Cheek (9 Occurrences) Cheeks (8 Occurrences) Cheer (22 Occurrences) Teeth (50 Occurrences) Cheekbone (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible mean when it refers to the gnashing of teeth? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said, “I never knew you. Depart from me”? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Matthew | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cheek-teeth (1 Occurrence)Psalms 58:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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