In the context of biblical literature, the term "leaner" is not directly referenced as a specific word or concept. However, the idea of leaning, both physically and metaphorically, is prevalent throughout the Scriptures. The concept of leaning often symbolizes reliance, trust, and dependence, whether on God, others, or one's own understanding.

Leaning on God

The Bible frequently encourages believers to lean on God for strength, guidance, and support. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This passage underscores the importance of relying on divine wisdom rather than human insight. Leaning on God is portrayed as an act of faith and submission, recognizing His sovereignty and wisdom.

Leaning on Others

Scripture also acknowledges the value of leaning on fellow believers for support and encouragement. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up!" This passage highlights the importance of community and mutual support among believers, emphasizing that leaning on one another is a source of strength and resilience.

Leaning on One's Own Understanding

Conversely, the Bible warns against leaning solely on one's own understanding or strength. Isaiah 31:1 cautions, "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the abundance of chariots and in the great strength of horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or seek help from the LORD." This verse serves as a reminder that self-reliance, apart from God, can lead to spiritual peril and is often depicted as a lack of faith.

Metaphorical Leaning

The metaphorical use of leaning is also evident in the imagery of the shepherd and the sheep. Psalm 23 portrays the Lord as a shepherd who provides, guides, and protects, illustrating the believer's dependence on God's care. The imagery of leaning on the shepherd conveys trust and security, as the sheep rely on the shepherd for sustenance and safety.

Leaning in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the concept of leaning is exemplified in the relationship between Jesus and His disciples. John 13:23 describes, "One of His disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at His side." This intimate act of leaning on Jesus during the Last Supper symbolizes closeness, trust, and the deep bond between Christ and His followers.

Overall, while the specific term "leaner" may not be explicitly found in the Bible, the themes of leaning, reliance, and trust are woven throughout the biblical narrative, encouraging believers to place their confidence in God and to support one another in faith.

The Morning Light
... It is evident, that the morality which is so highly admired by the Christian world,
and set in opposition to the Gospel of Christ, is much leaner, and more ...
//christianbookshelf.org/newton/messiah vol 1/sermon vii the morning light.htm

The Universal Presence
... his powers of spiritual receptivity by trust and obedience and humility, and the
results will exceed anything he may have hoped in his leaner and weaker days. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tozer/the pursuit of god/v the universal presence.htm

Life and Character of John
... 7, 20. The Greek fathers call John ho epistethios, the leaner on the bosom,
or, as we would say, the bosom-friend (of Jesus). [564 ...
/.../history of the christian church volume i/section 41 life and character.htm

Leaner (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Leaner (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 13:4 And he said unto
him, Why, O son of the king, art thou thus lean from day to day? ...
/l/leaner.htm - 6k

Leaneth (6 Occurrences)

/l/leaneth.htm - 8k

Leaned (14 Occurrences)

/l/leaned.htm - 10k

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