The term "lionlike" in the Bible is used to describe individuals or characteristics that embody the strength, courage, and ferocity associated with lions. Lions are frequently mentioned in Scripture, symbolizing power, majesty, and sometimes danger. The imagery of a lion is often employed to convey the might and valor of warriors or the formidable nature of certain adversaries.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 23:20 : "Then Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant warrior from Kabzeel, performed great exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and on a snowy day he went down into a pit and killed a lion." Benaiah's actions are described as lionlike due to his bravery and strength in overcoming formidable foes, including a literal lion.

2. 1 Chronicles 12:8 : "Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the wilderness. They were brave warriors, ready for battle, and able to handle the shield and spear. Their faces were the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles in the mountains." The Gadites are described as having faces like lions, indicating their fierce and intimidating presence in battle.

3. Judges 14:5-6 : "Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Suddenly a young lion came roaring at him, and the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as one would tear a young goat." Samson's encounter with the lion demonstrates his lionlike strength, empowered by the Spirit of the LORD.

Symbolism and Characteristics:

· Strength and Courage: The lion is often a symbol of strength and courage in the Bible. Those described as lionlike are typically warriors or leaders who exhibit these qualities in their actions and demeanor.

· Majesty and Authority: Lions are also associated with majesty and authority. In biblical times, the lion was considered the king of beasts, and this imagery is used to convey the authority and dominion of certain figures, such as the tribe of Judah, which is likened to a lion in Genesis 49:9.

· Ferocity and Fearlessness: The ferocity of a lion is another aspect of the lionlike description. This characteristic is often attributed to those who are fearless in the face of danger or who confront their enemies with overwhelming force.

Theological Implications:

In a theological context, the lionlike attributes can be seen as a reflection of divine empowerment. Figures like Samson and Benaiah are depicted as having extraordinary strength and courage, which are gifts from God. This divine empowerment enables them to accomplish feats that would be impossible through human strength alone.

The lion is also a messianic symbol, as seen in Revelation 5:5, where Jesus is referred to as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah." This title emphasizes His authority, power, and role as the ultimate conqueror and king.

Conclusion:

The concept of being lionlike in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for strength, courage, and divine empowerment. It highlights the qualities that are esteemed in leaders and warriors and points to the ultimate authority and majesty of Christ as the Lion of Judah.(a.) Like a lion; brave as a lion.739. Ariel -- "lioness of El," an Israelite name, also a man of ...
... lion of God, lion-like men. Or (arilel {ar-ee-ale'}; from 'ariy and 'el; lion of
God; ie Heroic -- lionlike men. see HEBREW 'ariy. see HEBREW 'el. 738, 739. ...
/hebrew/739.htm - 6k

False Teachings of the Apostasy.
... Thus we could continue. In Isa.35:9 it says that no lion shall be in the highway
of holiness. In a Christian's holy life there is no lionlike nature. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter iii false teachings of.htm

Chapter xlix
... After such a bold beast has thus lain down, "who would dare to rouse him?" All this
furnishes a bold, clear picture of Judah's lionlike courage and strength. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlix.htm

Lionlike (2 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (a.) Like a lion; brave as a lion. Multi-Version
Concordance Lionlike (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 23:20 And ...
/l/lionlike.htm - 7k

Lionesses (3 Occurrences)

/l/lionesses.htm - 7k

Ariel (7 Occurrences)
... Here the King James Version translates "two lionlike men of Moab." (2) A name applied
to Jerusalem (Isaiah 29:1, 2, 7). The many explanations of the name are ...
/a/ariel.htm - 10k

Snowy (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 11:22 Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel,
who had done many acts; he slew two lionlike men of Moab: also he went ...
/s/snowy.htm - 7k

Lions (50 Occurrences)

/l/lions.htm - 26k

Acts (271 Occurrences)

/a/acts.htm - 101k

Lionlike: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus