In biblical terminology, the term "churl" is used to describe a person who is considered rude, surly, or miserly. The word is often associated with individuals who are ungenerous or lacking in nobility of spirit. The concept of a churl is primarily found in the Old Testament, where it is used to depict a person of low character or base behavior.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 32:5-7 : "No longer will a fool be called noble, nor a scoundrel be respected. For a fool speaks folly, and his mind is busy with iniquity: He practices ungodliness and spreads error concerning the LORD; he deprives the hungry of food and withholds drink from the thirsty. The weapons of the scoundrel are destructive; he hatches plots to destroy the poor with lies, even when the plea of the needy is just."

In this passage, the term "scoundrel" is often translated as "churl" in older versions of the Bible. The churl is depicted as someone who is deceitful and unjust, taking advantage of the poor and needy. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of condemning those who exploit others and act with selfish intent.

2. 1 Samuel 25:3 : "The man’s name was Nabal, and his wife’s name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband was harsh and evil in his dealings—he was a Calebite."

Although the term "churl" is not directly used in this verse, Nabal is often considered a quintessential example of a churlish character. His harsh and evil dealings, as well as his refusal to assist David and his men, illustrate the characteristics of a churl: selfishness, rudeness, and a lack of generosity.

Characteristics of a Churl:

· Selfishness: A churl is primarily concerned with their own interests, often at the expense of others. This is evident in their unwillingness to share resources or assist those in need.

· Rudeness: Churls are often described as having a surly or unpleasant demeanor. Their interactions with others are marked by a lack of courtesy and respect.

· Deceitfulness: The biblical depiction of a churl includes a tendency towards dishonesty and manipulation, using deceit to achieve their own ends.

· Lack of Compassion: A churl is characterized by a lack of empathy and compassion for others, particularly the poor and needy. This is in direct contrast to the biblical call for kindness and generosity.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the concept of a churl serves as a warning against behaviors that are contrary to the values of the Kingdom of God. The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of generosity, kindness, and integrity. The churl, by embodying the opposite of these virtues, serves as a negative example for believers. The call to avoid churlish behavior is a call to live in a manner that reflects the character of God, who is generous, loving, and just.

In summary, the biblical portrayal of a churl is that of a person who is selfish, rude, and deceitful, lacking the virtues that are esteemed in the Scriptures. The warnings against such behavior serve to guide believers towards a life that honors God and serves others.

"He Hardened his Heart"
... spell over the spot. But whatever the cause, the race of churls and their
riches have escaped misfortune. Thinkest thou not, good ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xxx he hardened his.htm

Further Diplomacy
... "Thou timid child! frightened with the ravings of a discarded wanton. She and
her following of churls can do nothing against the Son of Ptah. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xxvi further diplomacy.htm

Christian Sympathy
... Brethren, I entertain no fear that you will ever win the badge of infamy which hangs
about the neck of churls. 3. But I have better arguments to use with you. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 8 1863/christian sympathy.htm

The Spiced Wine of My Pomegranate;
... Yet such is often the believer's case. The Lord casts His lavish bounties at
our doors, and we, like churls, scarcely look out to thank Him. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/till he come/the spiced wine of my.htm

'Never in Bondage'
... incident of the grateful leper, who was a Samaritan, the refusal to allow the eager
Apostles to bring down fire from heaven to consume inhospitable churls in a ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture i/never in bondage.htm

"The Pharaoh Drew Nigh"
... Would ye hear me deny, protest, deprecate? Go to! ye glowering churls, I disappoint
you! Flock to the king; dandle the royal babe a while! ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xliii the pharaoh drew.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

Churls (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Churls (1 Occurrence). Job 30:8 They are children of fools,
yea, children of base men; They were scourged out of the land. (See JPS). ...
/c/churls.htm - 6k

Churn (1 Occurrence)

/c/churn.htm - 7k

Churlishness (1 Occurrence)

/c/churlishness.htm - 6k

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