Topical Encyclopedia Definition and General Understanding:Hopping, in its most basic sense, refers to the act of jumping or leaping on one foot or with both feet. While the specific term "hopping" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of leaping or jumping is present in various contexts, often symbolizing joy, celebration, or divine intervention. Biblical References and Symbolism: 1. Joy and Celebration: · In the Bible, leaping is often associated with expressions of joy and celebration. For instance, in the context of healing and divine intervention, leaping is a physical manifestation of newfound freedom and joy. In Acts 3:8 , after being healed by Peter and John, the lame man "leaped up, stood, and began to walk, and he went with them into the temple courts, walking and leaping and praising God." This act of leaping signifies the man's gratitude and the miraculous power of God at work. 2. Divine Intervention: · The act of leaping can also symbolize the transformative power of God in the lives of His people. In Isaiah 35:6 , the prophet speaks of a future time of restoration and healing: "Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the mute tongue will shout for joy." This imagery conveys the hope and renewal that comes from God's intervention, where physical limitations are overcome, and joy is fully realized. 3. Prophetic Imagery: · Leaping is used in prophetic literature to describe the exuberance and vitality of creation in response to God's redemptive work. In Malachi 4:2 , it is written, "But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings, and you will go out and leap like calves from the stall." This passage uses the imagery of leaping calves to depict the joy and freedom experienced by those who revere God, highlighting the transformative impact of His righteousness. 4. Spiritual Warfare and Victory: · While not directly related to hopping, the concept of leaping can also be seen in the context of spiritual warfare and victory. In Psalm 18:29 , David declares, "For in You I can charge an army, and with my God I can scale a wall." The imagery of scaling a wall suggests a leap of faith and the overcoming of obstacles through divine strength and support. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, physical expressions such as leaping and dancing were integral to religious and communal celebrations. These acts were often part of worship and festivities, reflecting the communal joy and reverence for the divine. The biblical references to leaping align with this cultural understanding, where physical expressions are intertwined with spiritual experiences. Theological Implications: The act of leaping, as depicted in the Bible, underscores the themes of joy, liberation, and divine intervention. It serves as a reminder of God's power to transform lives, bringing healing and restoration. The physical act of leaping becomes a metaphor for the spiritual leaps of faith that believers are called to make, trusting in God's promises and rejoicing in His presence. Conclusion: While the specific term "hopping" is not found in the biblical text, the related concept of leaping carries rich theological and symbolic significance. It reflects the joy and freedom that come from encountering God's grace and power, encouraging believers to express their faith with exuberance and trust in His redemptive work. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Hop.2. (n.) The act of one who, or that which, hops; a jumping, frisking, or dancing. Strong's Hebrew 6833. tsippor -- a bird... bird, fowl, sparrow. Or tsippor {tsip-pore'}; from tsaphar; a little bird (as hopping) -- bird, fowl, sparrow. see HEBREW tsaphar. 6832, 6833. ... /hebrew/6833.htm - 6k Library The Best of All, God is with Us What the Redbird Told Me Early School Days The Treasure House How to Work for God with Success. False Profession. The Northern Mountains The High Woods Jacob and Doubting Souls --A Parallel The Presentation of the Blessed virgin in the Temple Thesaurus Hopping (2 Occurrences)... jumping, frisking, or dancing. 3. (n.) A gathering of hops. Multi-Version Concordance Hopping (2 Occurrences). Leviticus 11:21 Yet ... /h/hopping.htm - 7k Hor (14 Occurrences) Plagues (28 Occurrences) Hopper (1 Occurrence) Hop (1 Occurrence) Locust (25 Occurrences) Egypt (596 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about church-hopping? | GotQuestions.orgIs Joel 1:4 referring to literal locusts? When was this prophecy fulfilled? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about consumerism? | GotQuestions.org Hopping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hopping (2 Occurrences)Leviticus 11:21 Joel 1:4 Subtopics Related Terms |