Topical Encyclopedia Gnashing, often referred to as "gnashing of teeth," is a vivid expression found in the Bible that conveys intense emotion, typically associated with anger, anguish, or despair. This term appears in several scriptural contexts, primarily in the New Testament, and is frequently linked to the final judgment and the fate of the unrighteous.Biblical References: 1. Old Testament Context: While the specific phrase "gnashing of teeth" is more prevalent in the New Testament, the concept can be traced back to the Old Testament. In Job 16:9, Job describes his adversaries: "His anger tears at me, and He gnashes His teeth at me; my opponent fastens His gaze on me." Here, gnashing of teeth is associated with hostility and aggression. 2. New Testament Usage: The phrase "gnashing of teeth" is prominently featured in the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the context of judgment and separation from God's kingdom. In Matthew 8:12, Jesus warns, "But the sons of the kingdom will be cast into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." This imagery is repeated in several other passages, including Matthew 13:42, 50; 22:13; 24:51; and 25:30, each time emphasizing the sorrow and regret of those who are excluded from the kingdom of heaven. 3. Acts and Revelation: In Acts 7:54, during the account of Stephen's martyrdom, the crowd's reaction is described: "When they heard this, they were enraged, and they gnashed their teeth at him." This instance highlights gnashing as an expression of intense anger and opposition to the truth of the Gospel. In Revelation, while the specific phrase is not used, the imagery of judgment and the fate of the wicked aligns with the concept of gnashing of teeth. Theological Significance: Gnashing of teeth in the biblical context serves as a powerful metaphor for the emotional and spiritual state of those who are separated from God. It underscores the reality of divine judgment and the consequences of rejecting God's grace. The repeated use of this imagery by Jesus in the Gospels highlights the seriousness of the choices individuals make regarding their faith and obedience to God. From a theological perspective, gnashing of teeth is not merely a physical reaction but a representation of the inner turmoil and regret experienced by those who face eternal separation from God. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as the means of salvation and entry into the kingdom of heaven. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern culture, gnashing of teeth was a common expression of extreme emotion, often associated with grief or anger. This cultural understanding would have resonated with the original audience of the biblical texts, providing a vivid picture of the consequences of spiritual rebellion and the anguish of those who reject God's offer of salvation. Overall, the concept of gnashing of teeth in the Bible is a poignant reminder of the eternal significance of one's relationship with God and the ultimate reality of divine justice. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gnash.Greek 1030. brugmos -- a biting, a gnashing of teeth ... a biting, a gnashing of teeth. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: brugmos Phonetic Spelling: (broog-mos') Short Definition: a grinding or gnashing ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1030.htm - 6k 1031. brucho -- to bite, to gnash 3599. odous -- a tooth Library The Parable of the Tares, by Bishop Latimer, Preached on the 7Th ... Having Therefore done Many and Dreadful Things against Jesus that ... And He Set Forth to them Another Parable, and Said... Simon Cephas Said unto Him, Our Lord, is it to us that Thou Hast ... On the Words of the Gospel, Mark viii. 5, Etc. , Where the Miracle ... Luke x. The Latter Part of the 25Th Verse. On the Wedding Garment Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin The Strait Gate Thesaurus Gnashing (10 Occurrences)... & vb. n.) of Gnash. Multi-Version Concordance Gnashing (10 Occurrences). ... There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (WEB KJV WEY ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ... /g/gnashing.htm - 9k Gnash (12 Occurrences) Weeping (237 Occurrences) Weep (97 Occurrences) Teeth (50 Occurrences) Aloud (141 Occurrences) Utter (111 Occurrences) Outside (215 Occurrences) Throw (135 Occurrences) Outer (98 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible mean when it refers to the gnashing of teeth? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the outer darkness in Matthew 22:13? | GotQuestions.org What is ultimate reconciliation? | GotQuestions.org Gnashing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gnashing (10 Occurrences)Matthew 8:12 Matthew 13:42 Matthew 13:50 Matthew 22:13 Matthew 24:51 Matthew 25:30 Luke 13:28 Acts 7:54 Psalms 35:16 Psalms 37:12 Subtopics Gnashing of Teeth: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |