In the context of biblical teachings, the concept of "playmates" can be understood through the lens of companionship, friendship, and the influence of peers, particularly in the formative years of childhood and adolescence. The Bible, while not explicitly using the term "playmates," provides guidance on the nature of relationships and the importance of choosing companions wisely.

Biblical Principles of Companionship

The Bible emphasizes the significance of relationships and the impact they have on one's character and spiritual journey. Proverbs 13:20 states, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." This verse underscores the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who exhibit wisdom and godliness, as their influence can lead to personal growth and spiritual maturity.

Similarly, 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" This admonition highlights the potential negative impact of associating with those who do not uphold biblical values, suggesting that one's playmates or companions can significantly affect one's moral and spiritual development.

Childhood and Play

The Bible acknowledges the innocence and joy of childhood, often using children as examples of purity and humility. Jesus Himself valued children, as seen in Matthew 19:14 : "But Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'" This passage reflects the importance of nurturing children in an environment that encourages their spiritual growth and aligns with the values of the kingdom of heaven.

While the Bible does not specifically address playmates, it does provide principles for raising children in a godly manner. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs, "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This passage emphasizes the role of parents and guardians in guiding children, which includes overseeing their interactions and friendships.

The Role of Parents and Guardians

Parents and guardians are tasked with the responsibility of guiding their children in choosing appropriate playmates and companions. Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This training involves instilling biblical values and helping children discern the qualities of good friendships.

The influence of playmates can extend beyond childhood, affecting one's choices and behaviors into adulthood. Therefore, it is crucial for parents to model and teach discernment, encouraging children to seek friendships that reflect the love, kindness, and integrity taught in Scripture.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not directly address the concept of playmates, it provides ample guidance on the nature of relationships and the importance of choosing companions who reflect godly values. By adhering to biblical principles, individuals can foster friendships that contribute positively to their spiritual and moral development.

From the World to God
... And as she had to pass the door of the refectory, where the servant sat, he besought
one of her playmates to bring her in by some cunning device, and then to ...
/.../bevan/three friends of god/chapter lviii from the world.htm

Temptations.
... Her playmates notice a change in her, for she can no longer hide her feelings.
She blushes when mention is made of her preference for him. ...
/.../byrum/the value of a praying mother/chapter xvii temptations.htm

A Little Maid
... old times, or shoot one another as they do now; but to carry a mother away from
her children, or take a little girl away from her home and playmates and make a ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/a little maid.htm

The Ugly Princess
... oil. They little know what dreams have been My playmates, night and day;
Of equal kindness, helpful care, A mother's perfect sway. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/andromeda and other poems/the ugly princess.htm

The Demoniac.
... He told me to come home and tell you all about it." The children by and by gather
about his knee, and the elder ones run to tell their playmates what wonderful ...
/.../moody/moodys anecdotes and illustrations/the demoniac.htm

Jesus Praises John the Baptist
... "To what shall I compare the people of to-day? They are like children sitting
in the market-places, who call to their playmates and say: ...
/.../sherman/the childrens bible/jesus praises john the baptist.htm

Marriage of the Blessed virgin to Joseph
... the wedding festivities were over, Anna went back to Nazareth with her relations,
and Mary also went there, accompanied by several of her playmates who had ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/vii marriage of the blessed.htm

The Founder of Christianity.
... prodigy of a child to whom wild animals, trees, and dumb idols bowed, and who changed
balls of clay into flying birds for the amusement of his playmates. ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 15 the founder of.htm

Early School Days
... for his witty remarks, made in a manner so droll and unpretentious that often merry
bursts of laughter were heard from his teacher as well as his playmates. ...
/.../byrum/how john became a man/chapter iv early school days.htm

The Birth of Cyrus.
... his boyhood. He took the lead of his playmates in their sports, and made
them submit to his regulations and decisions. Not only ...
//christianbookshelf.org/abbott/cyrus the great/chapter ii the birth of.htm

Playmates (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Playmates (1 Occurrence). ... It is like children sitting
in the open places, who call to their playmates. (WEY RSV). ...
/p/playmates.htm - 6k

Playing (37 Occurrences)

/p/playing.htm - 18k

Plays (4 Occurrences)

/p/plays.htm - 7k

Present (577 Occurrences)
... Matthew 11:16 "But to what shall I compare the present generation? It is like children
sitting in the open places, who call to their playmates. (WEY). ...
/p/present.htm - 38k

Open (586 Occurrences)
... (BBE). Matthew 11:16 "But to what shall I compare the present generation? It is
like children sitting in the open places, who call to their playmates. (WEY). ...
/o/open.htm - 41k

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