Topical Encyclopedia The term "environ" is derived from the concept of surrounding or encircling something. In the context of the Bible, it is often used to describe the act of surrounding a city, a person, or an area, typically in a military or protective sense. The word itself is not frequently found in modern translations, but the concept is prevalent throughout the biblical narrative.Biblical Usage and Context 1. Military Encirclement: One of the primary uses of "environ" in the Bible is in the context of military strategy. In ancient warfare, armies would often surround a city to cut off supplies and force a surrender. This tactic is seen in various biblical accounts where cities are besieged by enemy forces. For example, in the conquest narratives of the Old Testament, the Israelites often surrounded cities as part of their divinely ordained mission to take possession of the Promised Land. 2. Divine Protection: The concept of being environed is also used metaphorically to describe God's protection over His people. In Psalm 34:7 , it is written, "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them." Here, the imagery of being surrounded by divine forces provides comfort and assurance of God's safeguarding presence. 3. Spiritual Warfare: In the New Testament, the idea of being surrounded takes on a spiritual dimension. Believers are encouraged to be vigilant and aware of the spiritual forces that seek to encircle and attack them. Ephesians 6:11 advises, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This passage underscores the need for spiritual readiness and the protective power of God's provision. 4. Community and Fellowship: The concept of being environed can also extend to the community of believers. The early church is depicted as a close-knit community that surrounds its members with love, support, and accountability. Acts 2:42 describes the early Christians as devoted to fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, creating an environment of mutual support and spiritual growth. Theological Implications The notion of being environed in the Bible carries significant theological implications. It reflects God's sovereignty and His ability to protect and deliver His people from physical and spiritual threats. It also emphasizes the importance of community and the role of the church in providing a supportive and nurturing environment for believers. In summary, while the specific term "environ" may not frequently appear in modern translations, the concept is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of protection, warfare, and community. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To surround; to encompass; to encircle; to hem in; to be round about; to involve or envelop.Strong's Hebrew 5437. sabab -- to turn about, go around, surround... avoid, beset (about), besiege, bring again, carry (about), change, cause to come about, X circuit, (fetch a) compass (about, round), drive, environ, X on every ... /hebrew/5437.htm - 7k Library The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Achan's Sin, Israel's Defeat And Why Should we Add Many Words Concerning those who are Sisted ... "Whereby we Cry, Abba, Father. " To My Christian Brethren in the United States of America. Psalm 69 Differences as to the Theatre of Christ's Labours. How the Desire to Praise God Makes us Aspire to Heaven. A Manifestation of God in Answer to Prayer The Sheltering Wing Thesaurus Environ (1 Occurrence)... or envelop. 2. (adv.) About; around. Multi-Version Concordance Environ (1 Occurrence). Joshua 7:9 For the Canaanites and all the ... /e/environ.htm - 6k Environs (7 Occurrences) Girdle (44 Occurrences) Enviously (1 Occurrence) Compass (51 Occurrences) Surrounding (78 Occurrences) Resources Environ: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Environ (1 Occurrence)Joshua 7:9 Subtopics Related Terms |