Definition and Etymology:
The term "crumbleth" is an archaic English word that means to fall apart, disintegrate, or break into small fragments. It is derived from the verb "crumble," with the suffix "-eth" indicating the third person singular present tense in older forms of English. While "crumbleth" itself does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible , the concept of crumbling or disintegration is present in various biblical passages.

Biblical Context and Usage:
The idea of crumbling or disintegration is often used metaphorically in the Bible to describe the fate of the wicked, the impermanence of earthly structures, or the judgment of God upon nations and individuals. This imagery serves to remind believers of the transient nature of worldly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God.

Scriptural References:

1. Judgment and the Wicked:
The Bible frequently uses imagery of crumbling to describe the fate of the wicked. In Psalm 37:20 , it is written, "But the wicked will perish; the enemies of the LORD will be like the glory of the fields. They will vanish—like smoke they will vanish away." This passage emphasizes the temporary nature of the wicked's prosperity and their ultimate downfall.

2. Impermanence of Earthly Structures:
The concept of crumbling is also applied to physical structures, symbolizing the impermanence of human achievements. In Matthew 24:2 , Jesus speaks of the destruction of the temple: "Do you see all these things? He replied. Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." This prophecy highlights the transient nature of even the most magnificent human constructions.

3. Divine Judgment on Nations:
The prophets often used the imagery of crumbling to describe God's judgment on nations. In Isaiah 30:13 , the prophet warns, "this iniquity will be to you like a breach about to fall, a bulge in a high wall, whose collapse comes suddenly—in an instant." This metaphor illustrates the sudden and complete nature of divine judgment.

4. Spiritual Lessons:
The imagery of crumbling serves as a spiritual lesson for believers, reminding them to place their trust in God rather than in worldly things. In Matthew 7:26-27 , Jesus compares those who do not act on His words to a foolish man who built his house on sand: "The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its collapse." This parable underscores the importance of a strong spiritual foundation.

Theological Implications:
The concept of crumbling in the Bible underscores the themes of divine justice, the fleeting nature of human endeavors, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. It serves as a warning to the wicked and a call to righteousness for believers. By understanding the transient nature of earthly power and possessions, Christians are encouraged to focus on eternal values and the unshakeable foundation found in Christ.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the imagery of crumbling walls and collapsing structures would have been a powerful visual metaphor. Cities were often fortified with walls, and their destruction symbolized defeat and vulnerability. The biblical use of this imagery would resonate deeply with the original audience, reinforcing the message of God's sovereignty and the futility of opposing His will.

The Greatness of the Soul,
... Also, we see how quickly the body, when the soul is under a fear of the rebukes
of justice, how soon, I say, it wastes, moulders away, and crumbleth into the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the greatness of the soul.htm

Crumbleth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Crumbleth (1 Occurrence). Job 14:18 But the mountain falling
cometh to nought; And the rock is removed out of its place; (See JPS). ...
/c/crumbleth.htm - 6k

Crumbles (1 Occurrence)
... Crumbles (1 Occurrence). Job 14:18 And surely the mountain falling crumbleth away,
and the rock is removed out of its place; (See NAS RSV NIV). ...
/c/crumbles.htm - 6k

Crumbling (1 Occurrence)

/c/crumbling.htm - 6k

Moves (30 Occurrences)
... him. (See RSV). Job 14:18 And surely the mountain falling crumbleth away,
and the rock is removed out of its place; (See NAS). Job ...
/m/moves.htm - 14k

Falls (79 Occurrences)
... RSV NIV). Job 14:18 And surely the mountain falling crumbleth away, and
the rock is removed out of its place; (See RSV). Job 18:12 ...
/f/falls.htm - 28k

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