Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "whisperer" is often synonymous with a slanderer or a talebearer, someone who spreads harmful gossip or secrets with the intent to damage reputations or sow discord. The act of whispering in this context is not merely about speaking softly but carries a connotation of deceit and malice, often done in secrecy to avoid detection.Old Testament References The concept of the whisperer is addressed in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Proverbs. Proverbs 16:28 states, "A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." Here, the whisperer is depicted as a divisive figure, one who disrupts harmony and trust within relationships. The Hebrew word often translated as "gossip" or "whisperer" is "nirgan," which implies a secretive spreading of rumors. Proverbs 18:8 further illustrates the destructive nature of whispering: "The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down into the inmost being." This verse highlights the insidious appeal of gossip, suggesting that while it may be enticing, it ultimately corrupts the heart and soul of both the speaker and the listener. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of whispering in his epistles. Romans 1:29-30 lists whisperers among those who are filled with all manner of unrighteousness: "They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful." Here, whisperers are grouped with other serious sins, indicating the severity of their actions in the eyes of God. Paul's admonition to the Corinthian church also touches on this behavior. In 2 Corinthians 12:20 , he expresses concern about finding "quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalries, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder" among them. The inclusion of gossip and slander in this list underscores the potential for such behavior to disrupt the unity and spiritual health of the Christian community. Moral and Spiritual Implications From a biblical perspective, the whisperer is not merely a social nuisance but a moral and spiritual threat. The act of slandering or gossiping is seen as contrary to the values of truth, love, and unity that are central to Christian teaching. Whispering undermines the commandment to love one's neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:31) and violates the principle of speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). The destructive power of the whisperer is further emphasized by the potential to cause division within the body of Christ. As such, believers are called to guard their tongues and to speak words that edify and build up rather than tear down (Ephesians 4:29). The biblical exhortation is clear: to avoid the path of the whisperer and to pursue righteousness, peace, and love in all interactions. Nave's Topical Index Romans 1:29Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Nave's Topical Index 2 Corinthians 12:20 Greek 5588. psithuristes -- a whisperer ... of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: psithuristes Phonetic Spelling: (psith-oo-ris-tace') Short Definition: a whisperer, secret slanderer Definition: ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5588.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 5372. nirgan -- talebearer, whisperer... talebearer, whisperer From an unused root meaning to roll to pieces; a slanderer -- talebearer, whisperer. 5371, 5372. nirgan. 5373 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/5372.htm - 5k 7279. ragan -- to murmur, whisper Library A Bundle of Proverbs Resources What does the Bible say about a sixth sense / third eye? | GotQuestions.orgWhisperer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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