Topical Encyclopedia The term "hoary" is often used in the Bible to describe the gray or white hair associated with old age, symbolizing wisdom, experience, and honor. In the biblical context, hoary hair is frequently regarded as a crown of glory, representing a life lived in righteousness and the accumulation of wisdom over time.Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 16:31 : "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is attained along the path of righteousness." This verse highlights the honor and respect due to those who have reached old age, particularly when their lives have been marked by righteousness. The imagery of a "crown of glory" suggests that hoary hair is not merely a sign of aging but a testament to a life well-lived in accordance with God's principles. 2. Leviticus 19:32 : "You are to rise in the presence of the elderly, honor the aged, and fear your God. I am the LORD." This commandment underscores the respect and reverence that should be shown to the elderly, associating the hoary head with wisdom and the fear of God. It reflects the cultural and religious importance of honoring those who have accumulated years and, presumably, wisdom. 3. Job 12:12 : "Wisdom is found with the elderly, and understanding comes with long life." Here, the association between age and wisdom is made explicit. The hoary head is emblematic of the deep understanding and insight that can come with many years of life experience. 4. Isaiah 46:4 : "Even to your old age I will be the same, and even to your gray hairs I will carry you. I have made you, and I will bear you; I will sustain you and deliver you." This passage reassures the faithful of God's enduring support and care throughout their lives, including into old age. The mention of "gray hairs" serves as a reminder of God's unchanging nature and His promise to sustain His people regardless of their age. Cultural and Theological Significance: In biblical times, the elderly were often revered for their wisdom and experience. The hoary head was a visible sign of a person's journey through life and their potential to offer guidance and counsel. This respect for the aged is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, where longevity is frequently seen as a blessing from God. Theologically, the concept of hoary hair as a "crown of glory" aligns with the biblical theme of honoring one's parents and elders, as seen in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12). It reflects the broader biblical principle of valuing wisdom and understanding, which are often associated with age and experience. In summary, the term "hoary" in the Bible is rich with meaning, symbolizing not only the physical signs of aging but also the spiritual and moral qualities that are to be esteemed and respected. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) White or whitish.2. (a.) White or gray with age; hoar; as, hoary hairs. 3. (a.) remote in time past; as, hoary antiquity. 4. (a.) Moldy; mossy; musty. 5. (a.) of a pale silvery gray. 6. (a.) Covered with short, dense, grayish white hairs; canescent. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HOAR; HOARYhor, hor'-i. HOAR-FROST; HOARY hor'-frost. Strong's Hebrew 7872. sebah -- hoary head, old age... 7871, 7872. sebah. 7873 . hoary head, old age. Transliteration: sebah Phonetic Spelling: (say-baw') Short Definition: hair. Word ... /hebrew/7872.htm - 6k 7867. sib -- to be hoary 7868. sib -- to be hoary 7869. seb -- (hoary) age 3713. kphowr -- a bowl Library Against Men who Embellish Themselves. David's Dying Prayer The God of the Aged The Death of Saint Denis. For this Deep and Disabling Reason Therefore, Its Cynical and ... The Greeks but Children Compared with the Hebrews. The Hymnwriter Hebrews iv. 13-Nov A Bundle of Proverbs The Good Man's Life and Death Thesaurus Hoary (10 Occurrences)... 1. (a.) White or whitish. 2. (a.) White or gray with age; hoar; as, hoary hairs. 3. (a.) remote in time past; as, hoary antiquity. ... HOAR; HOARY. ... /h/hoary.htm - 9k Hoary-headed (1 Occurrence) Hoar-frost (3 Occurrences) Colors (12 Occurrences) Color (18 Occurrences) Hoar (5 Occurrences) Gray (16 Occurrences) Hobab (3 Occurrences) Joab (128 Occurrences) Gender (2 Occurrences) Resources Hoary: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hoary (10 Occurrences)Leviticus 19:32 1 Kings 2:6 1 Kings 2:9 2 Chronicles 36:17 Job 38:29 Job 41:32 Psalms 71:18 Proverbs 16:31 Proverbs 20:29 Isaiah 46:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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