Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "growls" is often associated with the sounds made by animals, particularly lions, and is used metaphorically to describe the actions or emotions of people or nations. The imagery of growling is employed to convey a sense of threat, power, or unrest.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 5:29 · "Their roaring is like a lion’s; they roar like young lions. They growl as they seize their prey and carry it away, with no one to rescue it." In this passage, the prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of lions growling to describe the impending judgment and destruction that will come upon the people. The growling signifies the ferocity and inevitability of the coming judgment, emphasizing the power and might of the invading forces. 2. Isaiah 31:4 · "For this is what the LORD has said to me: 'As a lion or young lion growls over its prey—and though a band of shepherds is called out against it, it is not terrified by their shouting or subdued by their noise—so the LORD of Hosts will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and its heights.'" Here, the growling of a lion over its prey is used to illustrate the LORD's determination and strength in defending Jerusalem. Just as a lion is undeterred by the noise of shepherds, so the LORD will not be swayed by opposition when He comes to protect His people. 3. Jeremiah 51:38 · "They will roar together like young lions; they will growl like lion cubs." In this verse, the growling of lions is used to depict the Babylonians' fierce and aggressive nature. The imagery suggests a sense of impending danger and the destructive power of the Babylonian forces as they prepare to attack. Theological Implications: The use of growling in the Bible often serves as a metaphor for divine judgment or the power of God. It reflects the seriousness of God's actions against sin and rebellion. The growling of lions, in particular, is a powerful image that conveys both the might of God and the fearsome nature of His judgment. In a broader sense, growling can also symbolize the unrest and turmoil within nations or individuals who are in opposition to God's will. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's path and the ultimate authority of God over all creation. Symbolism and Imagery: The imagery of growling is rich in symbolism, often representing strength, authority, and the inevitability of divine intervention. In the ancient Near Eastern context, lions were seen as symbols of power and dominance, and their growling was a natural representation of these attributes. The biblical authors used this imagery to communicate the overwhelming power of God and the certainty of His plans. Practical Application: For believers, the metaphor of growling serves as a call to recognize the power and authority of God in their lives. It is a reminder to live in obedience to God's commands and to trust in His protection and justice. The imagery encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God is a mighty defender against the forces of evil and chaos. Strong's Hebrew 5098. naham -- to growl, groan... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to growl, groan NASB Word Usage groan (2), growl (1), growls (1), roaring (1). mourn, roaring. ... /hebrew/5098.htm - 5k 1897. hagah -- to moan, growl, utter, speak, muse Library The Exile --Continued. Faith Stopping the Mouths of Lions Three Pictures of one Reality Continued. The Carcass and the Eagles Jesus the Good Shepherd. San Josef Ancient Chaldaea Thesaurus Growls (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Growls (2 Occurrences). Isaiah 5:29 The sound of their armies will be like the voice of a lion, and their ... /g/growls.htm - 7k Growling (4 Occurrences) Grown (77 Occurrences) Resources Who/what is the Lion of the tribe of Judah? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Growls (2 Occurrences)Isaiah 5:29 Isaiah 31:4 Subtopics Related Terms |