The forearm, as a part of the human body, is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. However, the concept of the arm, which includes the forearm, is frequently referenced in both literal and metaphorical contexts throughout Scripture. The arm often symbolizes strength, power, and action, attributes that can be associated with the forearm as well.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. Strength and Power: The arm is often used to denote strength and might. In the context of God's power, the arm represents His ability to save and deliver. For example, in Exodus 6:6 , God declares, "I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment." While the forearm is not specifically mentioned, it is part of the arm that signifies God's powerful intervention.

2. Human Action and Labor: The forearm, as part of the arm, is essential for work and labor. Proverbs 31:17 speaks of the virtuous woman: "She girds herself with strength and shows that her arms are strong." This passage highlights the importance of physical strength and diligence, attributes in which the forearm plays a crucial role.

3. Protection and Defense: In a metaphorical sense, the arm, including the forearm, is associated with protection and defense. Psalm 44:3 states, "For it was not by their sword that they took the land; their arm did not bring them victory. It was by Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your face, for You delighted in them." Here, the arm signifies divine protection and favor.

4. Divine Judgment: The arm is also a symbol of divine judgment. Isaiah 30:30 describes God's judgment: "The LORD will cause His majestic voice to be heard and will reveal His arm descending with fierce anger, with a consuming fire, and with cloudburst, storm, and hailstones." The forearm, as part of the arm, is implicated in the execution of divine justice.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the arm was a common symbol of power and authority. This cultural understanding is reflected in the biblical text, where the arm, including the forearm, is often used to convey messages of strength, protection, and divine intervention. The physicality of the forearm, with its ability to wield tools and weapons, underscores its role in labor and warfare, both of which are significant themes in biblical narratives.

Practical Implications

The biblical symbolism of the arm, encompassing the forearm, serves as a reminder of the importance of strength, diligence, and reliance on God's power. Believers are encouraged to use their physical and spiritual strength in service to God and others, reflecting the virtues of hard work and divine reliance exemplified in Scripture.

The Immaculate Conception
... On the top of the head was something like a little high vessel or bushel of fruit;
the elbows were close to the body, while the forearms were held out in a ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ii the immaculate conception.htm

Pagan Shrines and Temples.
... in black porphyry. The monsters are sitting on their hind legs, with the
paws of the forearms resting on the knees. Their bases ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter ii pagan shrines and.htm

The Gods of Egypt
... or a layer of cut flints. The forearms and the hands were subjected to
the same treatment as the head. In many cases no trace of ...
/.../chapter ii the gods of egypt.htm

Forearms (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Forearms (1 Occurrence). Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees,
and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their ...
/f/forearms.htm - 6k

Unless (102 Occurrences)
... Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their
hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. ...
/u/unless.htm - 36k

Jews (287 Occurrences)
... Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their
hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. ...
/j/jews.htm - 36k

Fore-appoint (2 Occurrences)
Fore-appoint. Fore-announced, Fore-appoint. Forearms . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(YLT). Fore-announced, Fore-appoint. Forearms . Reference Bible.
/f/fore-appoint.htm - 7k

Forebear (1 Occurrence)

/f/forebear.htm - 6k

Elders (203 Occurrences)
... Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their
hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. ...
/e/elders.htm - 39k

Ceremonial (11 Occurrences)
... Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their
hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. (See RSV). ...
/c/ceremonial.htm - 10k

Tradition (13 Occurrences)
... Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their
hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. ...
/t/tradition.htm - 17k

Wash (105 Occurrences)
... Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they wash their
hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. ...
/w/wash.htm - 45k

Holding (62 Occurrences)
... (See NAS). Mark 7:3 (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, don't eat unless they
wash their hands and forearms, holding to the tradition of the elders. ...
/h/holding.htm - 27k

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