Topical Encyclopedia Fainting, also known as syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness often caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain. In the Bible, fainting is used both literally and metaphorically to describe physical weakness, spiritual exhaustion, or overwhelming fear and distress. The concept of fainting is addressed in various contexts, illustrating human frailty and the need for divine strength and support.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, fainting is often associated with physical exhaustion and fear. In Genesis 25:29-30, Esau returns from the field "famished" and "faint," highlighting his physical weakness and desperation for food. The Hebrew word used here, "ʿāyēp̄," can denote exhaustion or weariness. The Psalms frequently use the imagery of fainting to express spiritual longing and distress. Psalm 27:13 states, "Still I am certain to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living." This verse, while not using the word "faint," implies a struggle against despair and a reliance on God's goodness to sustain the psalmist. Isaiah 40:29-31 provides a powerful promise of renewal for those who are faint: "He gives power to the faint and increases the strength of the weak. Even youths may faint and grow weary, and young men stumble and fall. But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." This passage emphasizes God's ability to restore and empower those who trust in Him. New Testament References In the New Testament, fainting is often linked to spiritual perseverance and the challenges of discipleship. Jesus, in the parable of the persistent widow, encourages His followers to pray and not lose heart (Luke 18:1): "Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart." Here, "lose heart" is synonymous with fainting, urging believers to remain steadfast in prayer. The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the theme of not fainting in the face of trials. In 2 Corinthians 4:16 , he writes, "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day." Paul acknowledges the physical and emotional toll of ministry but emphasizes the inner renewal provided by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 6:9 also encourages perseverance: "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." The exhortation to not grow weary or faint underscores the importance of endurance in the Christian life. Spiritual Implications Fainting, both physically and spiritually, serves as a reminder of human limitations and the necessity of relying on God's strength. The Bible consistently points to the Lord as the source of renewal and encouragement for those who are weary. Believers are called to wait upon the Lord, trust in His promises, and draw strength from His presence to overcome the challenges of life. In summary, the biblical concept of fainting encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions, illustrating the need for divine intervention and the sustaining power of faith. Through Scripture, God assures His people that He is ever-present to uplift and empower them, ensuring that they do not faint in their journey of faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Faint.2. (n.) Syncope, or loss of consciousness owing to a sudden arrest of the blood supply to the brain, the face becoming pallid, the respiration feeble, and the heat's beat weak. Greek 674. apopsucho -- to leave off breathing, ie faint ... 21:26). Word Origin from apo and psucho Definition to leave off breathing, ie faint NASB Word Usage fainting (1). to faint. From ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/674.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 3544. keheh -- dim, dull, faint... Word Origin from kahah Definition dim, dull, faint NASB Word Usage dim (3), dimly (1), faded (3), faint (1), fainting (1). somewhat ... /hebrew/3544.htm - 6k 4523. mas -- despairing 5848c. ataph -- to be feeble or faint Library The Fainting Warrior The Fainting Soul Revived Unfailing Stabs and Fainting Men How Christ is to be Made Use of as Our Life, in Case of ... Calvary How to Make Use of Christ for Steadfastness, in a Time when Truth ... How to Make Use of Christ, as Truth, for Comfort, when Truth is ... Swooning and Reviving Christ's Feet. Some General Uses. Timeliness in Doing Good. Thesaurus Fainting (9 Occurrences)... beat weak. Multi-Version Concordance Fainting (9 Occurrences). Matthew 9:36 And when He saw the crowds He was touched with pity for ... /f/fainting.htm - 9k Faint (76 Occurrences) Swoon (3 Occurrences) Faint-hearted (7 Occurrences) Opposition (22 Occurrences) Gainsaying (6 Occurrences) Wax (32 Occurrences) Weary (77 Occurrences) Fail (130 Occurrences) Resources Fainting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fainting (9 Occurrences)Matthew 9:36 Luke 21:26 Hebrews 12:3 Job 6:14 Job 22:7 Isaiah 10:18 Isaiah 61:3 Jeremiah 4:31 Jonah 2:7 Subtopics Fainting: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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