Topical Encyclopedia The term "harried" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of being harried—meaning to be persistently troubled, distressed, or tormented—can be seen throughout the Scriptures. This entry explores the biblical understanding of being harried, drawing from various passages that illustrate the experiences of individuals and groups who faced relentless challenges and adversities.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Israelites often found themselves harried by surrounding nations and internal strife. The period of the Judges, for example, was marked by cycles of oppression and deliverance. Judges 2:14 states, "Then the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He handed them over to raiders who plundered them. He sold them into the hands of their enemies all around, whom they were no longer able to resist." This verse highlights the distress and turmoil experienced by the Israelites due to their disobedience and the resulting divine judgment. King David, before ascending to the throne, was frequently harried by King Saul, who sought his life out of jealousy and fear. In 1 Samuel 23:14 , it is recorded, "David stayed in the wilderness strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not give David into his hands." Despite being pursued relentlessly, David found refuge and strength in God, often expressing his distress and trust in the Psalms. Psalms and Expressions of Being Harried The Psalms provide a rich tapestry of human emotion, including the experience of being harried. Psalm 31:9-10 captures the plea for mercy amidst distress: "Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress; my eyes fail from sorrow, my soul and body as well. For my life is consumed with grief and my years with groaning; my iniquity has drained my strength, and my bones are wasting away." Here, the psalmist articulates the physical and emotional toll of being harried by adversities. Psalm 55:2-3 further illustrates this theme: "Attend to me and answer me. I am restless in my complaint, and distraught at the voice of the enemy, at the pressure of the wicked. For they bring down trouble upon me and revile me in their anger." The psalmist's cry reflects the overwhelming nature of being pursued and oppressed by enemies. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the early Christians faced harassment and persecution for their faith. Jesus Himself warned His disciples of the trials they would encounter, saying in John 16:33 , "I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world." This assurance from Christ provides comfort and hope amidst the harrying experiences of life. The Apostle Paul, in his ministry, frequently encountered opposition and distress. In 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 , he writes, "We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed." Paul's resilience and faith in the face of relentless challenges serve as an example for believers enduring similar trials. Spiritual Implications The experience of being harried, while distressing, often leads to a deeper reliance on God. Scripture encourages believers to cast their burdens upon the Lord, as seen in 1 Peter 5:7 : "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." The biblical narrative consistently points to God's faithfulness and deliverance, even when His people are harried by external and internal forces. In summary, while the term "harried" is not explicitly used in the Bible, the concept is woven throughout the biblical text, illustrating the trials faced by God's people and the divine comfort and strength available to them. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Harry.Library Book I to Pleasant Songs My Work was Erstwhile Given, and Bright ... "We must Increase, but I must Decrease. " A Gracious Dismissal And After. (xxx, xxxi, xxxix-Xliv. ) Call for Volunteers. Be for Thou Art' The Young Saul and the Aged Paul [Footnote: to the Young. ] At the Front or the Base Shiloah and Euphrates On the Councils, Or, the Faith of the Easterns. Thesaurus Harried (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (imp. & pp) of Harry. Multi-Version Concordance Harried (1 Occurrence). Ezra 4:4 Then the people of the ... /h/harried.htm - 6k Harrow (3 Occurrences) Harp-singers (2 Occurrences) Harry (1 Occurrence) Resources What is Tibetan Buddhism? | GotQuestions.orgIs Zechariah 11:12-13 a Messianic prophecy? | GotQuestions.org Harried: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Harried (1 Occurrence)Ezra 4:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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