Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "gape" is often used to describe an action of opening the mouth wide, typically in astonishment, desire, or derision. The concept of gaping can be found in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, illustrating both physical and metaphorical expressions of human emotion and behavior.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the imagery of gaping is frequently associated with enemies or adversaries who open their mouths wide against the righteous. This action symbolizes hostility, mockery, or a desire to devour. For instance, in the book of Job, Job laments his suffering and the scorn of his friends, saying, "They gape at me with their mouths; they strike my cheeks with reproach; they unite against me" (Job 16:10). Here, gaping is a gesture of contempt and aggression, reflecting the deep anguish and isolation Job feels. Similarly, in the Psalms, David often describes his adversaries as those who gape at him, highlighting their malicious intent. In Psalm 22, a messianic psalm that foreshadows the suffering of Christ, David cries out, "They open their mouths against me like lions that roar and maul" (Psalm 22:13). This vivid imagery conveys the ferocity and relentless nature of his enemies, drawing a parallel to the spiritual and physical trials faced by Jesus. New Testament Context While the specific term "gape" is less frequently used in the New Testament, the concept can still be observed in the reactions of crowds and individuals to the miraculous works of Jesus. The astonishment and awe that accompany Jesus' teachings and miracles often leave onlookers with mouths agape, metaphorically speaking, as they witness the power and authority of the Son of God. For example, in the Gospel of Mark, after Jesus heals a deaf and mute man, the crowd is described as being "astonished beyond measure" (Mark 7:37). Though the term "gape" is not explicitly used, the reaction of the crowd can be understood as one of open-mouthed wonder and amazement at the divine intervention they have witnessed. Theological Implications The act of gaping, whether in derision or awe, serves as a powerful symbol of human response to the divine and the adversarial forces at work in the world. In a spiritual sense, gaping can represent the vulnerability and exposure of the human soul, either to the attacks of the enemy or to the overwhelming presence of God. From a theological perspective, the imagery of gaping mouths in Scripture underscores the tension between the forces of good and evil, the righteous and the wicked. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual battles faced by believers and the ultimate victory promised through faith in Christ. The open mouth, whether in scorn or wonder, reflects the heart's posture towards God and His works, challenging individuals to respond with faith and reverence rather than disbelief and mockery. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. i.) To open the mouth wide2. (v. i.) Expressing a desire for food; as, young birds gape. 3. (v. i.) Indicating sleepiness or indifference; to yawn. 4. (v. i.) To pen or part widely; to exhibit a gap, fissure, or hiatus. 5. (v. i.) To long, wait eagerly, or cry aloud for something; -- with for, after, or at. 6. (n.) The act of gaping; a yawn. 7. (n.) The width of the mouth when opened, as of birds, fishes, etc. Greek 5490. chasma -- a chasm, wide space ... gulf. From a form of an obsolete primary chao (to "gape" or "yawn"); a "chasm" or vacancy (impassable interval) -- gulf. (chasma) -- 1 Occurrence. 5489, 5490 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5490.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 6473. paar -- to open wide (the mouth)... gape, open wide. A primitive root; to yawn, ie Open wide (literally or figuratively) -- gape, open (wide). 6472, 6473. paar. 6474 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/6473.htm - 6k 6475. patsah -- to part, open 3445. yeshach -- perhaps emptiness 6362. patar -- to separate, remove, set free 7779. shuph -- to bruise Library Texts Explained; Twelfthly, Matthew xxvi. 39; John xii. 27, &C. ... V. ... Death. Against Excessive Fondness for Jewels and Gold Ornaments. On Eating. Behaviour in the Baths. Ridicule of the Statues Erected by the Greeks. But we are not Here Concerned with the Nature and Existence of the ... A New Kind of King Of Divers Unseemly Practices that Follow them that Lack the Work ... Thesaurus Gape (2 Occurrences)... 1. (vi) To open the mouth wide. 2. (vi) Expressing a desire for food; as, young birds gape. ... Multi-Version Concordance Gape (2 Occurrences). ... /g/gape.htm - 7k Gap (4 Occurrences) Gaped (2 Occurrences) Gulf (3 Occurrences) Check (9 Occurrences) Cormorant (4 Occurrences) Cheeks (8 Occurrences) Mouth (534 Occurrences) Range (9 Occurrences) Resources Gape: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gape (2 Occurrences)Job 16:10 Psalms 22:13 Subtopics Related Terms |
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