Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context:Sorrow, in the biblical context, refers to a deep sense of grief, sadness, or distress often experienced as a result of sin, suffering, or loss. It is a common human experience acknowledged throughout Scripture, reflecting the fallen state of the world and the human condition. However, the Bible also offers hope and assurance that sorrow is temporary and will ultimately be eradicated. Biblical References: The phrase "sorrow and sighing will flee away" is found in the book of Isaiah, specifically in Isaiah 35:10 : "And the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee." This verse is part of a prophetic vision of restoration and redemption, where God promises to transform the current state of suffering into one of joy and peace. Theological Significance: 1. Promise of Redemption: The assurance that sorrow and sighing will flee away is rooted in the redemptive work of God. It points to the ultimate restoration that God will bring to His people. This promise is not only for the immediate context of Israel's return from exile but also foreshadows the eternal redemption through Jesus Christ. 2. Eschatological Hope: The imagery of sorrow fleeing away is often associated with the eschatological hope found in the New Testament. Revelation 21:4 echoes this promise: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This future hope is central to Christian belief, where the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom will bring an end to all forms of sorrow. 3. Present Comfort: While the complete eradication of sorrow is a future promise, believers are encouraged to find comfort in God's presence and promises in their current circumstances. The Holy Spirit, referred to as the Comforter, provides peace and solace amidst trials, as seen in John 14:26-27 . Practical Implications: 1. Endurance in Trials: Understanding that sorrow is temporary encourages believers to endure present trials with hope and faith. Romans 8:18 states, "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us." 2. Ministry of Comfort: Christians are called to comfort others with the comfort they have received from God (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). This involves empathizing with those in sorrow and pointing them to the hope found in Christ. 3. Joy in Worship: The anticipation of a future without sorrow inspires joy and gratitude in worship. Believers are encouraged to rejoice in the Lord always, as their ultimate joy is secure in Him (Philippians 4:4). Conclusion: The biblical promise that "sorrow and sighing will flee away" offers profound hope and assurance to believers. It underscores the transient nature of suffering and the certainty of God's redemptive plan. As Christians navigate the challenges of life, they are reminded of the joy and peace that await them in God's eternal kingdom, where sorrow will be no more. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 35:10And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy on their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Nave's Topical Index Library From this Perfection of Our Restored Bodies Will Flow the ... May 15 Morning What Life's Journey May Be The Tabernacle of God with Men. The Millennium in Relation to the World. The Gospel Day Seen in Prophecy. The Redeemer's Return is Necessitated by the Present Degradation ... Zion Awakened 'Deliver us from Evil' Isaiah's Discourse Resources What is penitence? What does the Bible say about penitence? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a lament in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the prayer of Jabez? | GotQuestions.org Sorrow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |