Topical Encyclopedia A lancet, in biblical times, refers to a small, sharp instrument used for making incisions or cuts. The term is most notably mentioned in the context of the prophets of Baal during the contest on Mount Carmel, as recorded in the Old Testament. The use of lancets in this context highlights the practices and rituals of pagan worship, contrasting them with the worship of the God of Israel.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to a lancet is found in 1 Kings 18:28. During the dramatic confrontation between the prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal, the latter resorted to extreme measures to invoke their god. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So they shouted louder and cut themselves with knives and lances, as was their custom, until their blood gushed out." This passage illustrates the fervent, yet futile, attempts of the Baal prophets to elicit a response from their deity. The use of lancets in this ritualistic self-mutilation underscores the desperation and misguided zeal of idol worship, which often involved physical acts of self-harm to demonstrate devotion or to provoke a divine response. Cultural and Religious Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, self-mutilation was a common practice among certain pagan religions. It was believed that such acts could appease or attract the attention of the gods. The use of lancets and other sharp instruments was part of a broader set of rituals that included loud cries, dances, and other forms of ecstatic behavior. The biblical narrative in 1 Kings 18 serves to highlight the stark contrast between the practices of the pagan prophets and the faith of Elijah, who relied solely on the power and sovereignty of the God of Israel. Elijah's simple yet profound prayer to God, without the need for physical harm or elaborate rituals, resulted in a miraculous demonstration of divine power when fire descended from heaven to consume the offering. Theological Implications: The account of the prophets of Baal using lancets is a powerful reminder of the futility of idolatry and the dangers of deviating from the worship of the one true God. It underscores the biblical teaching that God does not require self-inflicted pain or elaborate rituals to hear and respond to the prayers of His people. Instead, God desires a heart of faith, obedience, and sincere devotion. The use of lancets by the prophets of Baal also serves as a cautionary tale against adopting practices that are contrary to the teachings and character of God. It calls believers to discernment and faithfulness in their worship, ensuring that their practices align with the truth of Scripture and the nature of God as revealed in the Bible. Conclusion: While the term "lancet" appears only briefly in the biblical text, its mention provides significant insight into the religious practices of the time and the theological truths that the Bible seeks to convey. The account of Elijah and the prophets of Baal remains a powerful testament to the supremacy of God and the importance of true worship. Smith's Bible Dictionary LancetThis word is found in (1 Kings 18:28) only. The Hebrew term is romach , which is elsewhere rendered, and appears to mean a javelin or light spear. In the original edition of the Authorized Version (1611) the word is "lancers." Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A surgical instrument of various forms, commonly sharp-pointed and two-edged, used in venesection, and in opening abscesses, etc.2. (n.) An iron bar used for tapping a melting furnace. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia LANCE; LANCER; LANCETlans, lan'-ser, lan'-set. See ARMOR, III, 4, (3); 1 Kings 18:28 the Revised Version (British and American) "lances." Strong's Hebrew 7420. romach -- a spear, lance... buckler, javelin, lancet, spear. From an unused root meaning to hurl; a lance (as thrown); especially the iron point -- buckler, javelin, lancet, spear. ... /hebrew/7420.htm - 6k Library Cast Your Eye Round the Room in which You Sit... Psalm LI. The Axe at the Root --A Testimony against Puseyite Idolatry The Earth Brings Forth, as if by Suppuration... Confession of Sin Illustrated by the Cases of Dr. Pritchard and ... You have Therefore the Will of My God. ... Faith Illustrated Letter xxi. --Things Painful to Nature. Thou that Makest Men to Dwell of one Mind in one House... February 18. "Christ in You" (Col. I. 27). Thesaurus Lancet... 2. (n.) An iron bar used for tapping a melting furnace. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. LANCE; LANCER; LANCET. lans, lan'-ser, lan'-set. ... /l/lancet.htm - 6k Lance (7 Occurrences) Lancer Lancets (1 Occurrence) Lances (1 Occurrence) Resources Lancet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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