Topical Encyclopedia The term "gaped" is used in the Bible to describe an action of opening the mouth wide, often in a context of hostility, mockery, or astonishment. This expression is typically associated with enemies or adversaries who display their contempt or scorn towards an individual, often in a time of distress or suffering.Biblical References: 1. Job 16:10 : "They open their mouths against me and strike my cheeks with scorn; they unite together against me." In this passage, Job laments the treatment he receives from his friends and others who have turned against him. The act of opening their mouths wide, or gaping, signifies their derision and the verbal attacks they launch against him during his time of affliction. 2. Psalm 22:13 : "They open their jaws against me like lions that roar and maul." This verse is part of a Messianic psalm that prophetically describes the suffering of Christ. The imagery of enemies gaping with their mouths like roaring lions conveys the intensity of their aggression and the overwhelming nature of the opposition faced by the psalmist, which Christians interpret as a foreshadowing of the crucifixion of Jesus. 3. Lamentations 2:16 : "All your enemies open their mouths against you; they hiss and gnash their teeth. They say, 'We have swallowed her up. Surely this is the day we have waited for; we have lived to see it.'" Here, the prophet Jeremiah describes the reaction of Jerusalem's enemies following its destruction. The gaping mouths symbolize their triumph and malicious joy over the city's downfall, reflecting the deep animosity they held. Theological Significance: In the biblical context, the act of gaping is more than a mere physical gesture; it is a manifestation of the heart's attitude. It often represents the culmination of enmity and the desire to see the downfall of another. This expression of hostility is not only directed towards individuals like Job or the psalmist but also towards God’s chosen people, as seen in Lamentations. From a theological perspective, these instances of gaping mouths serve as a reminder of the spiritual battles faced by the faithful. They highlight the reality of opposition and persecution that believers may encounter. However, they also point to the ultimate vindication and deliverance that God provides, as seen in the resurrection of Christ, who overcame the scorn and mockery of His adversaries. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the act of opening one's mouth wide in a hostile manner was a common expression of contempt and aggression. It was a non-verbal way to demonstrate dominance and to intimidate an opponent. This cultural understanding enriches the biblical narrative, providing insight into the severity of the situations described. Application for Believers: For contemporary believers, the imagery of gaping mouths serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual opposition that exists in the world. It encourages Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God's justice and ultimate victory over all forms of evil and hostility. The biblical accounts of gaping adversaries also call believers to respond to persecution with grace and confidence in God's sovereign plan. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Gape.Strong's Hebrew 6473. paar -- to open wide (the mouth)... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to open wide (the mouth) NASB Word Usage gaped (1), opened (2), opened my wide (1). gape, open wide. ... /hebrew/6473.htm - 6k Library When Diamond Went Home to Breakfast, He Found his Father and ... Gregory the Patriarch and the Society at Kunwald, 1457-1473. Ambassadors for Christ The Founder and Finisher of the Temple Wesley in St. Albans Abbey Wesley at Greenock and Glasgow Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. "It is Finished" You have Therefore the Will of My God. ... Thesaurus Gaped (2 Occurrences)...Gaped (2 Occurrences). Job 16:10 They have gaped on me with their mouth. ... Psalms 22:13 They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion. ... /g/gaped.htm - 7k Gape (2 Occurrences) Unite (10 Occurrences) Jeer (2 Occurrences) Gapes (1 Occurrence) Insolently (6 Occurrences) Ravening (6 Occurrences) Reproachfully (3 Occurrences) Cheek (9 Occurrences) Slapped (5 Occurrences) Resources Gaped: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gaped (2 Occurrences)Job 16:10 Psalms 22:13 Subtopics Related Terms |