Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "gnashing of teeth" is a vivid biblical expression often associated with intense anguish, anger, or despair. It appears in both the Old and New Testaments, frequently in contexts of judgment and suffering. This entry explores the scriptural occurrences and theological implications of this expression.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, gnashing of teeth is primarily associated with expressions of enmity and suffering. For instance, in the Psalms, the psalmist describes the wicked as those who gnash their teeth at the righteous: · Psalm 35:16 : "Like godless jesters at a feast, they gnashed their teeth at me." This imagery conveys hostility and malice, illustrating the deep-seated animosity of the wicked towards the righteous. Similarly, in the book of Lamentations, gnashing of teeth is used to depict the intense suffering and scorn faced by the people: · Lamentations 2:16 : "All your enemies open their mouths against you; they hiss and gnash their teeth, saying, 'We have swallowed her up. Surely this is the day we have waited for; we have lived to see it.'" Here, the gnashing of teeth signifies the triumph and derision of the enemies of Jerusalem, highlighting the city's desolation and the people's anguish. New Testament References In the New Testament, the phrase is predominantly used by Jesus in the context of final judgment and the fate of the unrighteous. It is often paired with "weeping," underscoring the profound regret and torment experienced by those who are cast out from God's presence: · Matthew 8:12 : "But the sons of the kingdom will be cast into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." · Matthew 13:42 : "And they will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." · Matthew 22:13 : "Then the king told the servants, 'Tie him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'" These passages emphasize the severe consequences of rejecting God's kingdom and the sorrowful realization of lost opportunity. The gnashing of teeth symbolizes not only physical suffering but also the emotional and spiritual anguish of those who face eternal separation from God. Theological Implications The consistent use of "gnashing of teeth" in contexts of judgment and suffering underscores the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine justice. It serves as a stark warning of the consequences of unbelief and rebellion against God. The imagery conveys a sense of irrevocable loss and the deep regret that accompanies the rejection of God's grace. In summary, the biblical motif of gnashing of teeth is a powerful expression of the anguish and despair associated with divine judgment. It serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of one's choices and the importance of aligning oneself with God's will. Nave's Topical Index Job 16:9He tears me in his wrath, who hates me: he gnashes on me with his teeth; my enemy sharpens his eyes on me. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 35:1,6 Psalm 37:12 Psalm 112:10 Lamentations 2:16 Matthew 8:12 Matthew 13:42 Matthew 22:13 Matthew 24:51 Matthew 25:30 Luke 13:28 Library The Draw-Net. The Parting Promises of the Saviour. The Necessity of Regeneration, Argued from the Immutable ... Appendix V in the Directory. The Strait Gate; The Doctrine of the Last Things. 1 Cor. I. 26, 27 Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount Treatise on the Priesthood. Book iv. Salvation by Knowing the Truth Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “I never knew you. Depart from me”? | GotQuestions.orgIs hell literally a place of fire and brimstone? | GotQuestions.org What does hell look like? How hot is hell? | GotQuestions.org Gnashing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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