Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of a "mongrel" is often associated with the idea of mixed lineage or impurity, particularly in the context of Israel's covenantal identity. The term itself is not directly used in most English translations of the Bible, but the underlying concept can be found in various passages that address the mixing of different peoples and the resulting spiritual and cultural implications.Biblical Context The Old Testament frequently emphasizes the importance of maintaining the purity of the Israelite community, both in terms of worship and lineage. This is rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where the Israelites were called to be a distinct and holy people. The concern over "mongrel" or mixed populations often arises in the context of intermarriage with surrounding nations, which was seen as a threat to Israel's religious and cultural identity. Key Passages 1. Deuteronomy 7:3-4 : "Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following Me to serve other gods. Then the anger of the LORD will burn against you, and He will swiftly destroy you." This passage highlights the concern that intermarriage with pagan nations could lead to idolatry and a departure from the worship of Yahweh. The prohibition against intermarriage was not based on ethnic prejudice but on the potential for spiritual compromise. 2. Ezra 9:1-2 : "After these things had been done, the leaders came to me and said, 'The people of Israel, including the priests and Levites, have not kept themselves separate from the peoples of the lands with their abominations... Indeed, the Israelite men have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons, so that the holy seed has been mixed with the peoples of the lands.'" In the post-exilic period, Ezra confronted the issue of intermarriage, which had led to a dilution of Israel's distinctiveness as God's chosen people. The term "holy seed" underscores the importance of maintaining a pure lineage in accordance with God's covenant. 3. Nehemiah 13:23-27 : Nehemiah also dealt with the issue of intermarriage, expressing concern that the children of such unions could not speak the language of Judah, indicating a loss of cultural and religious identity. He reminded the people of Solomon's downfall due to foreign wives, emphasizing the dangers of such alliances. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the concern over "mongrel" populations in the Bible is primarily about preserving the sanctity and distinctiveness of God's people. The Israelites were called to be a light to the nations, and their unique identity was integral to their mission. The mixing of peoples, particularly through intermarriage, was seen as a potential threat to this identity, leading to idolatry and a departure from God's commandments. Contemporary Reflections In contemporary discussions, these biblical themes are often explored in the context of spiritual purity and the importance of maintaining a distinct Christian identity in a pluralistic world. While the New Testament opens the way for all nations to be grafted into the people of God through faith in Christ (Galatians 3:28), the call to holiness and distinctiveness remains central to the Christian life. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The progeny resulting from a cross between two breeds; anything of mixed breed.2. (a.) Not of a pure breed. 3. (a.) of mixed kinds; as, mongrel language. Strong's Hebrew 4464. mamzer -- a bastard, child of incest... Word Origin from an unused word Definition a bastard, child of incest NASB Word Usage illegitimate birth (1), mongrel race (1), one of illegitimate birth (1). ... /hebrew/4464.htm - 6k 6154. ereb -- mixture, mixed company Library Mongrel Religion The Pilgrim Band, 1736-1743. Analysis Necessary. Tiberianus Wesley Instructs Parents The Scotch Covenants and the Scotch Kirk. The Greek of the Septuagint. The Gathering Storm Sovereign Grace and Man's Responsibility Introduction Thesaurus Mongrel (1 Occurrence)... 2. (a.) Not of a pure breed. 3. (a.) of mixed kinds; as, mongrel language. Multi-Version Concordance Mongrel (1 Occurrence). ... /m/mongrel.htm - 6k Monitor (1 Occurrence) Money-value (1 Occurrence) Place (9195 Occurrences) High (4559 Occurrences) Resources Mongrel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mongrel (1 Occurrence)Zechariah 9:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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