Topical Encyclopedia Gall, in biblical terms, refers to a bitter or poisonous substance, often associated with bile. The term is used metaphorically in Scripture to describe bitterness, suffering, or the presence of sin. It is frequently mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments, symbolizing the harshness and severity of certain experiences or conditions.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, gall is often associated with bitterness and poison. Deuteronomy 29:18 warns against idolatry, stating, "Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the LORD our God to go and worship the gods of those nations; make sure there is no root among you bearing poisonous and bitter fruit." Here, the term "poisonous and bitter fruit" is understood to be akin to gall, symbolizing the spiritual corruption and bitterness that result from turning away from God. Job, in his lament, uses the imagery of gall to express his deep anguish and suffering. In Job 13:26 , he cries out, "For You record bitter accusations against me and bequeath to me the iniquities of my youth." The bitterness of gall here reflects Job's perception of his undeserved suffering and the weight of his afflictions. Jeremiah also uses the imagery of gall to describe the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. In Jeremiah 8:14 , the prophet declares, "Why are we sitting here? Gather together; let us flee to the fortified cities and perish there, for the LORD our God has doomed us. He has given us poisoned water to drink, because we have sinned against the LORD." The "poisoned water" is a metaphor for the judgment and bitterness that come as a result of Israel's disobedience. New Testament References In the New Testament, gall is mentioned in the context of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Matthew 27:34 recounts, "There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, He refused to drink it." This act fulfilled the prophecy found in Psalm 69:21 , "They poisoned my food with gall and gave me vinegar to quench my thirst." The offering of gall to Jesus symbolizes the bitterness and suffering He endured on behalf of humanity. The Apostle Peter, in Acts 8:23 , uses the term metaphorically when rebuking Simon the Sorcerer: "For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and captive to iniquity." Here, gall represents the spiritual corruption and bitterness that can ensnare a person, leading them away from the truth of the Gospel. Symbolism and Theological Implications Gall, as a symbol of bitterness and poison, serves as a powerful metaphor for the consequences of sin and the suffering that results from separation from God. It underscores the severity of spiritual rebellion and the need for repentance and redemption. The use of gall in the crucifixion narrative highlights the depth of Christ's suffering and His willingness to endure the bitterness of sin for the sake of humanity's salvation. In a broader theological context, gall reminds believers of the importance of remaining faithful to God and the dangers of allowing bitterness and sin to take root in their lives. It calls for a continual reliance on God's grace and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit to overcome the bitterness of sin and to live in the fullness of Christ's love and redemption. Nave's Topical Index Job 16:13His archers compass me round about, he splits my reins asunder, and does not spare; he pours out my gall on the ground. Nave's Topical Index Library Ephesians iv. 31 Resources Which psalms predict the coming of Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is wisdom literature? | GotQuestions.org What were the seven last words of Jesus Christ on the cross and what do they mean? | GotQuestions.org Gall: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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