Topical Bible: Medication

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Definition and Historical Context:
Medication refers to substances used for medical treatment, particularly for healing and alleviating symptoms of illness. In biblical times, the use of natural remedies and herbal treatments was common. The ancient Israelites, like other cultures of the time, relied on the medicinal properties of plants, oils, and other natural resources.

Biblical References and Usage:
The Bible contains several references to the use of natural substances for healing purposes. While the term "medication" as understood today is not explicitly mentioned, the Scriptures do provide insight into the use of various remedies.

1. Balm of Gilead:
Jeremiah 8:22 asks, "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then has the health of the daughter of my people not been restored?" The balm of Gilead was a well-known healing ointment, suggesting the use of natural remedies for physical ailments.

2. Oil and Wine:
In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Luke 10:34 states, "He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine." Oil and wine were commonly used for their antiseptic and soothing properties, indicating an early form of medical treatment.

3. Leaves for Healing:
Revelation 22:2 describes the tree of life, "And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations." This imagery reflects the belief in the healing properties of plants, a concept that aligns with the use of herbal medicine.

Theological Considerations:
The Bible emphasizes that God is the ultimate healer. Exodus 15:26 declares, "For I am the LORD who heals you." While human efforts, including the use of medication, are acknowledged, they are seen as part of God's provision for health and healing.

Role of Physicians:
The role of physicians is recognized in Scripture. Jesus Himself acknowledged the need for doctors in Luke 5:31 , "Jesus answered, 'It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.'" This acknowledgment supports the use of medical professionals and treatments in the care of the sick.

Faith and Medicine:
The relationship between faith and medicine is a recurring theme. James 5:14-15 advises, "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick." This passage highlights the integration of prayer, faith, and physical remedies in the healing process.

Conclusion:
While the Bible does not provide a comprehensive medical guide, it does offer principles that support the use of medication as part of God's provision for healing. The integration of faith, prayer, and medical treatment reflects a holistic approach to health, recognizing God as the ultimate source of healing.

Topical Bible Verses

1 Timothy 5:23
Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your often infirmities.
Topicalbible.org

James 5:14
Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
Topicalbible.org

Greek

5331. pharmakeia -- the use of medicine, drugs or spells
... sorcery, witchcraft. From pharmakeus; medication ("pharmacy"), ie (by extension)
magic (literally or figuratively) -- sorcery, witchcraft. see GREEK pharmakeus. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5331.htm - 7k

3931. paregoria -- exhortation, comfort
... quiet or soothe" (M. Vincent). The English term , "soothing medication,"
comes from this Greek word.]. Word Origin from paregoreo ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3931.htm - 7k

Library

The Sunday School or Church School
... Even where the boy spirit needs medication, the means employed need not be sepulchral
gloom, solemn warning, other-world songs, and penitential prayers, with ...
/.../alexander/the boy and the sunday school/iv the sunday school or.htm

Elucidations.
... Augustine [5190] regards as the "daily medication" of our ordinary life, habitual
penitence and faith and the baptismal covenant being presupposed. ...
/.../tertullian/the five books against marcion/elucidations.htm

Go Teach all Nations
... agencies of nature. While He did not give countenance to drug medication, He
sanctioned the use of simple and natural remedies. To many ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 86 go teach all.htm