Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the term "defiler" refers to an individual or entity that causes impurity or corruption, often in a spiritual or moral sense. The concept of defilement is significant in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is associated with actions, thoughts, or conditions that render a person or object unclean or unholy before God.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, defilement is frequently linked to the ceremonial laws given to the Israelites. These laws outlined various forms of impurity, including contact with dead bodies, certain diseases, and the consumption of unclean foods. Leviticus 11-15 provides detailed instructions on what constitutes defilement and the necessary rituals for purification. For example, Leviticus 11:44-45 states, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy. You shall not defile yourselves with any creature that moves along the ground." Defilement could also occur through idolatry and immoral behavior. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against adopting the practices of surrounding nations, which were seen as defiling. In Ezekiel 20:7 , God commands, "And I said to them: ‘Each of you must throw away the abominations before his eyes, and not defile yourselves with the idols of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.’" New Testament Context In the New Testament, the focus shifts from external to internal defilement. Jesus Christ emphasized that defilement comes from within a person, from the heart, rather than from external sources. In Mark 7:20-23 , Jesus teaches, "What comes out of a man, that is what defiles him. For from within the hearts of men come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy, slander, arrogance, and foolishness. All these evils come from within, and these are what defile a man." The Apostle Paul also addresses the concept of defilement in his epistles, urging believers to maintain purity in both body and spirit. In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 , Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple." Spiritual and Moral Implications The notion of defilement extends beyond physical impurity to encompass spiritual and moral corruption. Believers are called to live lives that reflect the holiness of God, avoiding actions and thoughts that would defile their relationship with Him. This includes abstaining from sexual immorality, idolatry, and other sinful behaviors that are contrary to God's commandments. The call to purity is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, urging believers to seek holiness and avoid defilement in all aspects of life. As stated in 2 Corinthians 7:1 , "Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Conclusion The concept of defilement in the Bible serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining spiritual and moral purity. It underscores the need for believers to be vigilant in their walk with God, ensuring that their actions, thoughts, and intentions align with His holy standards. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who defiles; one who corrupts or violates; that which pollutes.Library The Folly of Slander. Part 2. The Pharisee and the Publican A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican Thesaurus Defiler (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) One who defiles; one who corrupts or violates; that which pollutes. Multi-Version Concordance Defiler (1 Occurrence). ... /d/defiler.htm - 6k Defiles (12 Occurrences) Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) Unrighteous (32 Occurrences) Defilements (1 Occurrence) Resources Defiler: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Defiler (1 Occurrence)James 3:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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