Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "lower parts of the earth" appears in several passages of the Bible and has been the subject of theological discussion and interpretation. This term is often understood in a metaphorical or symbolic sense, reflecting various aspects of biblical cosmology, anthropology, and soteriology.Biblical References: 1. Psalm 63:9 : "But those who seek my life to destroy it will go into the depths of the earth." Here, the "depths of the earth" is often interpreted as a reference to Sheol, the abode of the dead, indicating a place of judgment or separation from the living. 2. Ephesians 4:9 : "What does 'He ascended' mean, except that He also descended to the lower parts of the earth?" This passage is frequently interpreted as referring to Christ's descent into Hades or Sheol between His crucifixion and resurrection, a doctrine known as the Harrowing of Hell. This descent is seen as a demonstration of Christ's victory over death and His proclamation of triumph to the spirits in prison (cf. 1 Peter 3:19). 3. Psalm 139:15 : "My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in secret, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth." In this context, the "depths of the earth" is often understood metaphorically, referring to the hidden and mysterious process of human formation in the womb, emphasizing God's intimate knowledge and creative power. Theological Interpretations: · Sheol and the Afterlife: In the Old Testament, the "lower parts of the earth" is frequently associated with Sheol, the shadowy realm of the dead. It is depicted as a place of silence and forgetfulness, where the deceased reside apart from the living. This understanding underscores the separation between life and death and the hope of eventual redemption and resurrection. · Christ's Descent: In Christian theology, particularly within the Apostles' Creed, the phrase is linked to the belief that Jesus descended into Hades. This event is seen as a pivotal moment in the redemptive work of Christ, where He proclaimed victory over sin and death, liberating the righteous who had died before His coming. · Creation and Formation: The metaphorical use of the "lower parts of the earth" in Psalm 139 highlights the mystery and sanctity of human life. It reflects the belief in God's sovereign role in creation, emphasizing that life begins under His watchful care and design. Symbolism and Imagery: The imagery of the "lower parts of the earth" serves to convey themes of depth, mystery, and the unseen. It evokes a sense of the profound and often hidden aspects of God's creation and redemptive plan. The term can symbolize both the physical reality of the grave and the spiritual realities of sin, death, and ultimately, redemption through Christ. Conclusion: The "lower parts of the earth" is a multifaceted biblical concept that encompasses themes of death, creation, and redemption. It serves as a reminder of the depths of God's involvement in the world, from the formation of life to the ultimate victory over death through Jesus Christ. ATS Bible Dictionary Lower Parts of the EarthValleys, Isaiah 44:23; also the grave, or the abode of disembodied spirits secluded from our view, "That undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveler returns." Psalm 63:9 139:15 Ephesians 4:9. Library Sing, O Ye Heavens, and Shout all Ye Lower Parts of the Earth... Whether Christ Went Down into the Hell of the Lost? Ephesians iv. 7-Apr The Central Sun The Preservation of Our Bodies is Confirmed by the Resurrection ... The Christian Idea of the Position of Hades; the Blessedness of ... A Description of the Temple. What Opinions those have Followed who have Set Divers Gods Over ... Of the World, and Its Parts, the Elements and Seasons. And I Joseph Begged the Body of Jesus, and Put it in a New Tomb... Resources Where is hell? What is the location of hell? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about classism? | GotQuestions.org What are redaction criticism and higher criticism? | GotQuestions.org Lower: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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