Topical Encyclopedia In biblical contexts, the term "hatch" is not directly referenced in the Scriptures as a specific word or concept. However, the idea of hatching, particularly in relation to birds and eggs, can be inferred from various passages that discuss birds, nests, and the natural processes of life. The imagery of birds and their behaviors often serves as a metaphor for divine care, protection, and the unfolding of God's creation.Biblical Imagery and Symbolism 1. Birds and Nests: The Bible frequently uses the imagery of birds and their nests to convey messages of safety, provision, and divine oversight. For instance, in Psalm 84:3 , it is written, "Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she places her young near Your altars, O LORD of Hosts, my King and my God." This verse highlights the idea of a nest as a place of security and nurturing, akin to the protective nature of God's presence. 2. Divine Care: The process of hatching, though not explicitly mentioned, can be associated with the broader theme of God's care for His creation. In Matthew 6:26 , Jesus teaches, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" This passage underscores the providence of God, who ensures the sustenance and survival of even the smallest creatures. 3. Metaphorical Use: While the act of hatching itself is not detailed, the concept can be metaphorically linked to themes of new beginnings and the unfolding of God's plans. Isaiah 40:31 states, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." The renewal and strength symbolized by the eagle's wings can be seen as a spiritual hatching, where believers emerge into new life and vigor through faith. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, the notion of hatching can be viewed as part of the divine order established by God in creation. The intricate processes of life, including the birth and growth of creatures, reflect the wisdom and sovereignty of the Creator. In Genesis 1:20-22 , God commands the waters to teem with living creatures and the birds to fly above the earth, blessing them to be fruitful and multiply. This divine command encompasses the entire life cycle, including the hatching of eggs as a natural and ordained part of creation. Practical Applications For believers, the concept of hatching can serve as a reminder of God's continuous work in their lives. Just as a bird hatches from an egg, emerging into a new phase of existence, Christians are called to experience spiritual rebirth and growth. This transformation is central to the Christian faith, as expressed in 2 Corinthians 5:17 : "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" In summary, while the specific term "hatch" is not found in the Bible, the themes and imagery associated with it are woven throughout Scripture, illustrating God's care, the beauty of creation, and the promise of new beginnings for those who trust in Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To cross with lines in a peculiar manner in drawing and engraving. See Hatching.2. (v. t.) To cross; to spot; to stain; to steep. 3. (v. t.) To produce, as young, from an egg or eggs by incubation, or by artificial heat; to produce young from (eggs); as, the young when hatched. 4. (v. t.) To contrive or plot; to form by meditation, and bring into being; to originate and produce; to concoct; as, to hatch mischief; to hatch heresy. 5. (v. i.) To produce young; -- said of eggs; to come forth from the egg; -- said of the young of birds, fishes, insects, etc. 6. (n.) The act of hatching. 7. (n.) Development; disclosure; discovery. 8. (n.) The chickens produced at once or by one incubation; a brood. 9. (n.) A door with an opening over it; a half door, sometimes set with spikes on the upper edge. 10. (n.) A frame or weir in a river, for catching fish. 11. (n.) A flood gate; a sluice gate. 12. (n.) A bedstead. 13. (n.) An opening in the deck of a vessel or floor of a warehouse which serves as a passageway or hoistway; a hatchway; also; a cover or door, or one of the covers used in closing such an opening. 14. (n.) An opening into, or in search of, a mine. 15. (v. t.) To close with a hatch or hatches. Strong's Hebrew 1234. baqa -- to cleave, break open or through... open (1), broke through (2), broken (3), burst (2), burst open (1), cleaved (1), dashed to pieces (1), divide (1), divided (4), forth (1), hatch (2), hews (1 ... /hebrew/1234.htm - 6k 3205. yalad -- to bear, bring forth, beget Library Hatch Preface Presbyters or Bishops. The Angels of the Seven Churches. James of ... Letter H Narrative Concerning John the Apostle. Hymn Writers of the Church Isaiah's Discourse The Mistakes of Christ's Foes and Friends How St Francis Tamed the Wild Doves Flimsy Garments Thesaurus Conversation (30 Occurrences)... It is the common Hebrew idea of conduct, possibly due, as Hatch thinks, to the fact that in Syria intercourse between village and village was so much on foot ... /c/conversation.htm - 19k Egg (3 Occurrences) Spider (3 Occurrences) Brood (19 Occurrences) Partridge (2 Occurrences) Mystery (31 Occurrences) Messenger (235 Occurrences) Hatch (3 Occurrences) Serpent (40 Occurrences) Paul (207 Occurrences) Resources Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about snakes? Are snakes evil? | GotQuestions.org Hatch: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hatch (3 Occurrences)Isaiah 34:15 Isaiah 59:5 Jeremiah 17:11 Subtopics Related Terms |