In the context of a Bible Encyclopedia or Topical Bible, "duellists" refers to individuals who engage in dueling, a practice historically involving combat between two people, often with weapons, to settle a matter of honor. While the Bible does not explicitly mention dueling, the principles and teachings found within Scripture provide insight into how such practices are viewed from a biblical perspective.

Biblical Principles on Violence and Conflict

The Bible consistently advocates for peace and reconciliation over violence and personal vengeance. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This beatitude underscores the value placed on those who seek peace rather than conflict.

Furthermore, Jesus instructs His followers to turn the other cheek rather than retaliate: "But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to them the other also" (Matthew 5:39). This teaching challenges the notion of responding to personal affronts with violence or dueling.

The Sanctity of Life

The Bible upholds the sanctity of human life, as seen in the commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). Dueling, which often results in serious injury or death, stands in opposition to this commandment. The value of life is further emphasized in Genesis 9:6 : "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in His own image God has made mankind."

Vengeance and Justice

Scripture teaches that vengeance belongs to the Lord, not to individuals seeking personal justice through means such as dueling. Romans 12:19 states, "Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.'" This passage encourages believers to trust in God's justice rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness

The Bible places a strong emphasis on reconciliation and forgiveness as the preferred means of resolving conflicts. In Matthew 18:15-17 , Jesus outlines a process for addressing grievances within the community, emphasizing dialogue and reconciliation over hostility. Additionally, Ephesians 4:32 exhorts believers to "be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you."

Historical Context and Christian Ethics

Historically, dueling was often associated with notions of personal honor and social status. However, Christian ethics, rooted in biblical teachings, prioritize humility, love, and the well-being of others over personal pride or reputation. Philippians 2:3-4 advises, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

In summary, while the Bible does not directly address the practice of dueling, its teachings on peace, the sanctity of life, vengeance, and reconciliation provide a framework that discourages such practices. Believers are called to embody the principles of love, forgiveness, and peace, reflecting the character of Christ in all their interactions.

Voluntary Suffering
... to avoid him. We may confidently ascribe the pretended gallantry of modern
duellists to the same meanness of sentiment. They fight ...
/.../newton/messiah vol 1/sermon xviii voluntary suffering.htm

The Scheme of Necessity Denies that Man is Responsible for the ...
... infallibly does in relation to all the actions of men." But the king, in the supposed
case, does not act on the minds of the duellists; their disposition to ...
/.../a theodicy or vindication of the divine glory/chapter i the scheme of.htm

Duellists (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Duellists (2 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 17:4 And there
goeth out a man of the duellists from the camps of the ...
/d/duellists.htm - 7k

Dues (2 Occurrences)

/d/dues.htm - 6k

Camps (33 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 17:4 And there goeth out a man of the duellists from the camps of the
Philistines, Goliath 'is' his name, from Gath; his height 'is' six cubits and a ...
/c/camps.htm - 16k

Due (93 Occurrences)

/d/due.htm - 35k

Heareth (137 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 17:23 And he is speaking with them, and lo, a man of the duellists is coming
up, Goliath the Philistine 'is' his name, of Gath, out of the ranks of ...
/h/heareth.htm - 37k

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