Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context The term "humiliate" refers to the act of lowering someone in dignity or pride, often through shame or embarrassment. In the biblical context, humiliation can be both a consequence of sin and a tool used by God to bring about repentance and humility. It is important to distinguish between humiliation as a punitive measure and as a redemptive process that leads to spiritual growth. Old Testament References In the Old Testament, humiliation often comes as a result of disobedience to God. For instance, the Israelites experienced humiliation when they turned away from God and faced defeat by their enemies. In Deuteronomy 8:2-3 , God reminds the Israelites of their time in the wilderness: "Remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, so that He might humble you and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments." The account of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 is a vivid example of divine humiliation. Nebuchadnezzar's pride led to his downfall, and God humbled him by causing him to live like an animal until he acknowledged God's sovereignty. Daniel 4:37 records Nebuchadnezzar's realization: "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, for all His works are true and all His ways are just. And He is able to humble those who walk in pride." New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the concept of humiliation is closely tied to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself experienced humiliation, most notably in His crucifixion, which was a public and shameful death. Philippians 2:7-8 describes Jesus' humility: "But He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." Believers are called to follow Christ's example of humility. James 4:10 exhorts, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This verse highlights the redemptive aspect of humiliation, where lowering oneself before God leads to exaltation in His timing. Theological Implications Humiliation in the biblical sense is not merely about shame or disgrace but is often a necessary step towards humility and spiritual maturity. It serves as a reminder of human limitations and the need for dependence on God. The process of being humbled can lead to a deeper understanding of God's grace and mercy. The Bible also warns against the humiliation of others as a form of pride or malice. Proverbs 11:2 states, "When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom." This suggests that those who seek to humiliate others may themselves face disgrace, while those who embrace humility gain wisdom. Practical Application For Christians, understanding the role of humiliation in spiritual life is crucial. It encourages believers to embrace humility, recognizing that God often uses difficult circumstances to refine and strengthen faith. It also serves as a caution against pride and the temptation to elevate oneself above others. In relationships, Christians are called to treat others with respect and dignity, avoiding actions that would humiliate or belittle. Instead, they are encouraged to build one another up, as seen in Ephesians 4:29 : "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (v. t.) To shame; to reduce to a lower position in one's own eyes, or in the eyes of others; to humble; to mortify.Greek 5013. tapeinoo -- to make low, fig. to humble ... to humble. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: tapeinoo Phonetic Spelling: (tap-i-no'-o) Short Definition: I humble, humiliate Definition: I make or bring ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5013.htm - 7k 3058. loidoreo -- to abuse, revile Strong's Hebrew 8213. shaphel -- to be or become low, to be abased... Figuratively, to humiliate, intransitive or transitive) -- abase, bring (cast, put) down, debase, humble (self), be (bring, lay, make, put) low(-er). ... /hebrew/8213.htm - 6k 3728. kaphash -- to make bent, press or bend together 3665. kana -- to be humble 6800. tsana -- to be modest or humble Library Fast-Day Service The Birth of Mary the Holy Mother of God, and Very Glorious Mother ... The Perseverance of the Saints The Question of Jesus. Ch. 20:41-44 Patmos Letter xvi to Rainald, Abbot of Foigny Ministry Early Lessons in the Life of Faith Hence Spring Forth the Daily Sins of Infirmity, and Blemishes ... The Fifteenth Chapter: the Grace of Devotion is Acquired through ... Thesaurus Humiliate (3 Occurrences)... mortify. Multi-Version Concordance Humiliate (3 Occurrences). 1 Corinthians 11:22 What, don't you have houses to eat and to drink in? ... /h/humiliate.htm - 7k Bring (1372 Occurrences) Abase (7 Occurrences) Humiliated (25 Occurrences) Humble (97 Occurrences) Humbly (4 Occurrences) Resources What is the Queen James Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about spousal/marital rape? | GotQuestions.org When is it necessary to rebuke another believer? | GotQuestions.org Humiliate: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Humiliate (3 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 11:22 2 Corinthians 12:21 Proverbs 25:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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