Topical Encyclopedia The moon holds significant symbolism and practical importance throughout the biblical narrative. As one of the two great lights created by God, the moon is mentioned in the context of timekeeping, signs, and seasons. In Genesis 1:16 , it is written, "God made two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night. He also made the stars." Here, the moon is established as the "lesser light" that governs the night, serving as a fundamental part of God's creation.Symbolism and Imagery The moon often symbolizes constancy and the passage of time. In Psalm 89:37 , the enduring nature of God's covenant is compared to the moon: "like the moon, established forever, a faithful witness in the sky." This imagery underscores the moon's role as a steadfast witness to God's promises and the natural order He established. In prophetic literature, the moon is sometimes used to depict cosmic disturbances or divine judgment. For instance, in Joel 2:31 , it is prophesied, "The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and awesome day of the LORD." Such imagery conveys the magnitude of God's intervention in human history and the dramatic changes that accompany His judgment. Lunar Calendar and Festivals The moon plays a crucial role in the Hebrew calendar, which is primarily lunar. The phases of the moon determine the timing of various religious festivals and observances. For example, the new moon marks the beginning of months, as seen in Numbers 10:10 : "Also at your times of rejoicing—your appointed feasts and New Moon festivals—you are to sound the trumpets over your burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, and they will be a memorial for you before your God. I am the LORD your God." The New Moon festivals were times of worship and celebration, highlighting the moon's role in the rhythm of religious life. These observances were opportunities for communal gathering, sacrifice, and reflection on God's provision and sovereignty. Eschatological Significance In eschatological contexts, the moon is often mentioned alongside the sun and stars as part of apocalyptic visions. In Matthew 24:29 , Jesus speaks of the end times, saying, "Immediately after the tribulation of those days: ‘The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken.’" Such descriptions emphasize the cosmic scale of the events surrounding the return of Christ and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, the moon was often associated with various deities and religious practices. However, the biblical narrative consistently affirms the moon as part of God's creation, distinct from any pagan worship. The Israelites were warned against idolatry, including the worship of celestial bodies. Deuteronomy 4:19 cautions, "And when you look to the heavens and see the sun and moon and stars—all the host of heaven—do not be enticed to bow down and worship what the LORD your God has apportioned to all the nations under heaven." The moon, therefore, serves as a reminder of God's creative power and His authority over all creation. It is a testament to His order and faithfulness, woven into the fabric of biblical theology and the life of His people. Library The Moon's Age Set Forth in the Julian Calendar. ... The Moon's Increase and Wane; the Manich??an Trifling Respecting ... Furthermore, as to the Proposal Subjoined to Your Epistle... Moreover, the Allegation which they Sometimes Make against Us... To Us, However, with whom it is Impossible for all These Things to ... Concerning Light, Fire, the Luminaries, Sun, Moon and Stars. The Paschal Canon of Anatolius of Alexandria This Cycle of Nineteen Years is not Approved of by Certain African ... Fragment xvi. On the Seventy Weeks of Daniel. ... Hymn for all Hours Thesaurus Moon's (1 Occurrence)...Moon's (1 Occurrence). 1 Corinthians 15:41 one the sun's glory, and another the moon's glory, and another the stars' glory; for star differs from star in glory. ... /m/moon's.htm - 6k Moons (17 Occurrences) Quarter (33 Occurrences) Lunatick (2 Occurrences) Month (197 Occurrences) Moored (1 Occurrence) Sun's (3 Occurrences) Easter (1 Occurrence) Astrology Astronomy Resources What is the Unification Church? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any significance to a full moon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Moon's (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 15:41 Subtopics Related Terms |
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