Topical Encyclopedia The term "harbored" in a biblical context often refers to the act of providing shelter, refuge, or a safe place for individuals or thoughts. This concept can be seen both in physical and metaphorical senses throughout the Scriptures.Physical Shelter and Refuge In the Bible, the idea of harboring is frequently associated with providing physical shelter or refuge. For instance, the cities of refuge in the Old Testament served as safe havens for those who accidentally committed manslaughter. Numbers 35:11-12 states, "Select cities to be your cities of refuge, so that a manslayer who kills someone unintentionally may flee there. These cities will be a refuge from the avenger, so that the manslayer will not die until he stands trial before the assembly." The concept of harboring is also evident in the account of Rahab, who provided shelter to the Israelite spies in Jericho. Joshua 2:1-4 recounts how Rahab hid the spies on her roof, thus harboring them from the king's men and ensuring their safety. Her actions were later commended in the New Testament as an example of faith (Hebrews 11:31). Metaphorical Harboring Beyond physical shelter, the Bible also addresses the harboring of thoughts and intentions. In a spiritual sense, harboring can refer to the nurturing of certain attitudes or sins within one's heart. James 3:14 warns, "But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth." Here, the act of harboring is linked to the internal cultivation of negative emotions that can lead to discord and sin. Similarly, the Apostle Paul speaks to the importance of harboring positive and godly thoughts. Philippians 4:8 encourages believers, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." This passage highlights the importance of intentionally harboring thoughts that align with God's will. Harboring in the Context of Forgiveness and Reconciliation The Bible also addresses the concept of harboring in the context of forgiveness and reconciliation. Jesus taught about the dangers of harboring unforgiveness in the heart. In Matthew 6:14-15 , He states, "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours." This teaching underscores the spiritual peril of harboring resentment and the necessity of releasing it to maintain a right relationship with God. Conclusion The biblical concept of harboring encompasses both the physical act of providing refuge and the spiritual act of nurturing thoughts and attitudes. Whether offering shelter to those in need or guarding one's heart against negative emotions, the Scriptures provide guidance on how to harbor in a manner that honors God and reflects His love and righteousness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Harbor.Library Repentance, The Life of St. Paul the Apostle The Epistle to the Colossians. The Baptist's Inquiry and Jesus' Discourse Suggested Thereby. How on the Discovery of Prohibited Books among the Heretics, Many ... April 13. "Rejoice Evermore" (I. Thess. v. 16). "Getting Things from God" Things which Defile "In Remembrance of Me" Brorson's Childhood and Youth Thesaurus Harbored (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Harbor. Multi-Version Concordance Harbored (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 35:5 Because you have ... /h/harbored.htm - 6k Wickedness (232 Occurrences) Harbor (9 Occurrences) Harbors (2 Occurrences) Resources The Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is goodness? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Judas Iscariot? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about hate? | GotQuestions.org Harbored: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Harbored (1 Occurrence)Ezekiel 35:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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