Topical Encyclopedia Gall, a term often associated with bitterness, is mentioned in the context of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, gall is referenced as a bitter substance offered to Jesus during His suffering on the cross. This event is significant in the narrative of the Passion, highlighting both the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and the depth of Christ's suffering for humanity.Biblical Account The offering of gall to Jesus is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. As Jesus was crucified, He was offered wine mixed with gall: "There they offered Him wine mixed with gall to drink; but after tasting it, He refused to drink it." (Matthew 27:34) The mixture of wine and gall was likely intended as a crude form of analgesic, meant to dull the pain of those being crucified. However, upon tasting it, Jesus chose not to drink it, signifying His willingness to fully experience the suffering of the crucifixion without mitigation. Old Testament Prophecy The offering of gall to Jesus is seen as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. In Psalm 69, a Messianic psalm attributed to David, there is a reference to gall: "They put gall in my food and gave me vinegar to quench my thirst." (Psalm 69:21) This verse is understood by many Christian theologians to foreshadow the events of the crucifixion, where Jesus was offered both gall and vinegar (sour wine) as He hung on the cross. The fulfillment of this prophecy underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan as revealed through Scripture. Symbolism and Theological Significance Gall, as a symbol of bitterness, reflects the intense suffering and anguish that Jesus endured. By refusing the gall, Jesus demonstrated His commitment to fully embrace the cup of suffering appointed to Him by the Father. This act is seen as an expression of His obedience and sacrificial love, willingly bearing the full weight of humanity's sin without seeking relief. Theologically, the offering of gall and Jesus' refusal to partake can be interpreted as a testament to His role as the Suffering Servant, as prophesied in Isaiah 53. Jesus' acceptance of suffering, without alleviation, highlights His identification with human pain and His ultimate victory over sin and death. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient world, gall was known for its bitterness and was sometimes used in medicinal concoctions. The mixture of wine and gall offered to Jesus was likely a customary practice intended to show a measure of mercy to those being executed. However, the Roman soldiers' actions, whether intended as mercy or mockery, ultimately served to fulfill the divine plan as foretold in Scripture. In summary, the mention of gall in the crucifixion narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the bitterness of Christ's suffering and the fulfillment of prophetic Scripture, emphasizing the depth of His sacrifice for the redemption of mankind. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 69:21They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 27:34 Library A Christmas Question The Fulfilled Prophecies of the Bible Bespeak the Omniscience of ... Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Words of Jesus on the Cross. Against Marcionists and Manich??ans. Christ's Priestly Office Hail, Jesus; But, According to Celsus, "The Christians, Making Certain ... Fasting, and the Goat Sent Away, were Types of Christ. On the Words of the Gospel, "When Jesus had Finished These Sayings ... Whosoever Confesses that one God is the Author of Both Testaments ... Resources Why did Jesus say, “I thirst,” from the cross? | GotQuestions.orgMiscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.org Topical: Biblical Culture ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Gall: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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