Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the concept of a "resting place" carries significant theological and spiritual connotations, often symbolizing peace, security, and divine presence. The term is used both literally and metaphorically throughout Scripture, reflecting God's provision and the ultimate hope of eternal rest for His people.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "resting place" is menuchah, which conveys a sense of rest, repose, or a place of rest. One of the earliest mentions is found in Genesis 8:9, where Noah's dove finds no resting place for its feet, symbolizing the ongoing chaos of the floodwaters. This imagery underscores the need for divine intervention to bring about true rest and order. The concept of a resting place is also central to the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 12:9, Moses tells the Israelites, "For you have not yet come to the resting place and the inheritance the LORD your God is giving you." Here, the resting place is synonymous with the land of Canaan, a physical location where the Israelites would find peace and security under God's covenant. Psalm 23:2 further illustrates this theme, where David writes, "He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." The imagery of green pastures and still waters evokes a sense of divine provision and tranquility, a resting place for the soul. The Temple as a Resting Place The temple in Jerusalem is frequently described as God's resting place. In 1 Chronicles 28:2, King David refers to the temple as "the footstool of our God," indicating a place where God's presence dwells among His people. Similarly, in Psalm 132:14, God declares, "This is My resting place forever and ever; here I will dwell, for I have desired this home." The temple thus becomes a symbol of God's abiding presence and the spiritual rest available to His people. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the concept of a resting place evolves to encompass the spiritual rest found in Christ. Jesus invites those who are weary to find rest in Him, as seen in Matthew 11:28-29: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." The book of Hebrews expands on this theme, presenting the idea of a Sabbath rest for the people of God. Hebrews 4:9-10 states, "So there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His." This passage emphasizes the spiritual rest and eternal security believers find through faith in Christ, pointing to the ultimate resting place in the presence of God. Eschatological Hope The ultimate resting place for believers is depicted in the eschatological vision of the new heavens and new earth. Revelation 14:13 offers a glimpse of this eternal rest: "Then I heard a voice from heaven saying, 'Write: Blessed are the dead—those who die in the Lord from this moment on.' 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'they will rest from their labors, for their deeds will follow them.'" This promise of eternal rest serves as a source of hope and encouragement for Christians, affirming the assurance of a future resting place in God's eternal kingdom. Library Gregory Nazianzen. Thesaurus Restingplace (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Restingplace (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 50:6 My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused ... /r/restingplace.htm - 6k Resting (117 Occurrences) Resting-place (211 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Restingplace (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 50:6 Subtopics Related Terms Resting-place (211 Occurrences) |
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