Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the hand is frequently used as a symbol of power, authority, and action. This metaphorical use is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating the hand's significance in conveying divine and human strength, control, and influence.Divine Power and Authority The hand of God is often depicted as a representation of His omnipotence and sovereign will. In Exodus 15:6, the song of Moses celebrates God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, proclaiming, "Your right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power; Your right hand, O LORD, has shattered the enemy." Here, the right hand of God symbolizes His mighty intervention and victory over the forces of oppression. Similarly, in Isaiah 41:10, God reassures His people of His support and strength: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." The righteous right hand of God is a metaphor for His unwavering support and protection, emphasizing His ability to sustain and uphold His people. Human Power and Authority The hand also symbolizes human power and authority, often in the context of leadership and governance. In the book of Nehemiah, the hand of God is seen as guiding and empowering Nehemiah in his mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah 2:18 states, "I also told them about the gracious hand of my God upon me and what the king had said to me." Here, the hand of God is associated with divine favor and the successful execution of a divinely appointed task. In the New Testament, the laying on of hands is a significant act that conveys authority and the impartation of spiritual gifts. In Acts 6:6, the apostles laid hands on the seven chosen men, signifying their appointment to serve: "They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them." This act symbolizes the transfer of authority and the empowerment of individuals for ministry. Judgment and Discipline The hand is also a symbol of judgment and discipline. In the book of Daniel, the mysterious hand that writes on the wall during Belshazzar's feast is a divine message of impending judgment. Daniel 5:5 describes the scene: "Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace." This hand signifies God's direct intervention and the execution of His judgment against the Babylonian king. Protection and Deliverance Conversely, the hand of God is a source of protection and deliverance for His people. In Psalm 139:10, the psalmist expresses confidence in God's guiding presence: "Even there Your hand will lead me; Your right hand will hold me fast." The hand of God is depicted as a comforting and guiding force, ensuring the safety and well-being of the faithful. Conclusion Throughout Scripture, the hand serves as a powerful symbol of both divine and human authority, judgment, protection, and empowerment. Whether illustrating God's mighty acts or the conferral of authority among His people, the hand remains a potent emblem of power and influence in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 23:11He stretched out his hand over the sea, he shook the kingdoms: the LORD has given a commandment against the merchant city, to destroy the strong holds thereof. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 41:10 Library The Spirit of Power Appendix iii. Rabbinic views as to the Lawfulness of Images ... The Birth and Early Life of John the Baptist. Jehovah Nissi A Second Time the Master Zachyas, Doctor of the Law... The First Miracle in Cana --The Water Made Wine The Preacher's Cry --Pray for Us! Those who Teach Others, Ought to Excel in virtues. The Names on Aaron's Breastplate Gideon's Fleece Resources What is the right hand of fellowship (Galatians 2:9)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hand of Hamsa? | GotQuestions.org Why did oaths involve putting a hand under someone's thigh (Genesis 24:9)? | GotQuestions.org Hand: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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