Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Mauling refers to the act of being attacked or injured by an animal, often resulting in severe wounds or death. In biblical times, encounters with wild animals were not uncommon, and such incidents are occasionally mentioned in the Scriptures. The term "mauling" is not explicitly used in the Bible, but the concept is illustrated through various narratives and laws. Biblical References: 1. 2 Kings 2:23-24 : One of the most notable accounts of mauling in the Bible involves the prophet Elisha. As Elisha was traveling to Bethel, a group of boys came out of the city and mocked him, saying, "Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!" In response, Elisha turned around, looked at them, and called down a curse on them in the name of the LORD. Consequently, two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the boys. This incident underscores the seriousness of mocking God's prophets and serves as a divine warning against disrespect. 2. 1 Samuel 17:34-36 : David, before facing Goliath, recounts his experiences as a shepherd protecting his flock from predators. He tells King Saul, "Your servant has been tending his father’s sheep, and whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a lamb from the flock, I went after it, struck it down, and rescued the lamb from its mouth. If it reared up against me, I would grab it by its fur, strike it down, and kill it." David's encounters with these wild animals highlight his bravery and reliance on God's strength to protect and deliver him from danger. 3. Proverbs 28:15 : The book of Proverbs uses the imagery of a mauling animal to describe the destructive nature of a wicked ruler: "Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people." This metaphor illustrates the fear and harm that such leaders can inflict upon their subjects, akin to the threat posed by wild beasts. Theological Implications: In the biblical narrative, mauling by animals often serves as a symbol of divine judgment or protection. The incident with Elisha and the bears demonstrates God's defense of His chosen servants and the consequences of irreverence. David's triumph over lions and bears signifies God's empowerment and preparation for greater challenges, such as his confrontation with Goliath. The Bible also uses the imagery of wild animals to convey moral and spiritual lessons. The comparison of a wicked ruler to a mauling beast in Proverbs emphasizes the chaos and suffering that result from unrighteous leadership. This serves as a cautionary message about the importance of godly governance and the protection of the vulnerable. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, encounters with wild animals were a real and present danger. Shepherds, like David, had to be vigilant and courageous to protect their flocks from predators. The presence of lions, bears, and other wild animals in the region is well-documented, and their behavior would have been familiar to the original audience of the biblical texts. The biblical accounts of mauling reflect the broader theme of God's sovereignty over creation. Whether as instruments of judgment or as challenges to be overcome, wild animals in the Bible serve to remind believers of God's power and the need for faithfulness and trust in His protection. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Maul.2. (n.) A severe beating with a stick, cudgel, or the fist. Greek 4937. suntribo -- to break in pieces, crush ... Definition to break in pieces, crush NASB Word Usage battered (1), broke (1), broken (1), broken in pieces (1), broken to pieces (1), crush (1), mauling (1). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4937.htm - 7k Library Here Peradventure Some Man May Say, "If it was Bodily Work that ... Praises and Vows Accepted in Zion Thesaurus Mauling (1 Occurrence)... 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Maul. 2. (n.) A severe beating with a stick, cudgel, or the fist. Multi-Version Concordance Mauling (1 Occurrence). ... /m/mauling.htm - 6k Mauled (3 Occurrences) Mauls (1 Occurrence) Resources Why did the Prophet Elisha curse the “youths” for making fun of his baldness (2 Kings 2:23-24)? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Elisha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Mauling: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mauling (1 Occurrence)Luke 9:39 Subtopics Related Terms |
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