Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature: Harshness refers to a severe, unkind, or cruel manner of behavior or speech. It is characterized by a lack of gentleness, compassion, or empathy. In the biblical context, harshness is often contrasted with the virtues of kindness, gentleness, and love, which are fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Biblical References and Examples: The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings regarding harshness, often warning against it and promoting a spirit of gentleness and love instead. 1. Proverbs on Harshness: The book of Proverbs frequently addresses the consequences of harsh words and actions. Proverbs 15:1 states, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This highlights the destructive potential of harshness in communication and relationships. 2. Parental Guidance: In the context of family, the Bible advises against harshness, particularly in parenting. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." Similarly, Colossians 3:21 warns, "Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged." These verses emphasize the importance of nurturing and guiding children with patience and understanding rather than with harshness. 3. Leadership and Authority: Leaders and those in positions of authority are cautioned against harshness. In 1 Peter 5:2-3 , elders are encouraged to "shepherd the flock of God among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but because it is God's will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." This passage underscores the call for leaders to exercise their roles with humility and care, avoiding harsh or domineering behavior. 4. Jesus’ Example: Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of gentleness and compassion. In Matthew 11:29 , Jesus invites, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." His interactions with sinners, the sick, and the marginalized consistently reflect a spirit of love and gentleness, contrasting sharply with the harshness often exhibited by the religious leaders of His time. 5. Paul’s Teachings: The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the need for gentleness in his epistles. In 2 Timothy 2:24-25 , he advises, "And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing. He must gently reprove those who oppose him, in the hope that God may grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth." Paul’s instructions highlight the importance of correcting others with a spirit of gentleness rather than harshness. Theological Implications: Harshness is often seen as a manifestation of the sinful nature, which believers are called to put aside in favor of the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24). The call to avoid harshness is rooted in the Christian imperative to love one's neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:39) and to emulate the character of Christ, who embodies perfect love and gentleness. Practical Application: Christians are encouraged to examine their own behavior and speech, seeking to eliminate harshness and cultivate a spirit of gentleness and kindness. This involves being mindful of how words and actions affect others and striving to reflect the love of Christ in all interactions. Prayer, study of Scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit are essential in this transformative process. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The quality or state of being harsh.Greek 663. apotomia -- sharpness, steepness ... steepness. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: apotomia Phonetic Spelling: (ap-ot-om-ee'-ah) Short Definition: harshness, severity Definition: (lit ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/663.htm - 6k 4239. praus -- meekness 2261. epios -- gentle, mild 4235. praos -- meek. 5544. chrestotes -- goodness, excellence, uprightness 4236. praotes -- meekness. 4088. pikria -- bitterness Strong's Hebrew 6531. perek -- harshness, severity... 6530, 6531. perek. 6532 . harshness, severity. Transliteration: perek Phonetic Spelling: (peh'-rek) Short Definition: severity. ... /hebrew/6531.htm - 6k 2685. chatsaph -- to show insolence or harshness 4995. na -- raw Library Unfairness of Charging the Disciples of the New Prophecy with ... We must Observe a Right Standard Between Too Great Mildness and ... Gentleness. Whether Evil is Properly the Motive of Mercy? God's Slaves From Examples Tertullian Passes to Direct Dogmatic Teachings He ... I have Cast About Widely to Find a Title for this Section... 2 Cor. vii. 2, 3 Letter cxxxiii. (AD 412. ) Concerted Prayer Thesaurus Severity (7 Occurrences)... 2. (n.) Gravity or austerity; extreme strictness; rigor; harshness; as, the severity of a reprimand or a reproof; severity of discipline or government ... /s/severity.htm - 9k Ruthlessly (8 Occurrences) Rule (291 Occurrences) Harshness (5 Occurrences) Liquid (15 Occurrences) Wolf (4 Occurrences) Flow (85 Occurrences) Revere (26 Occurrences) Easy (14 Occurrences) Embittered (12 Occurrences) Resources Is faith in God a crutch? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean by "an eye for an eye"? | GotQuestions.org Who was Job in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Harshness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Harshness (5 Occurrences)Exodus 1:13 Exodus 1:14 Leviticus 25:43 Leviticus 25:46 Leviticus 25:53 Subtopics Related Terms |
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