Topical Encyclopedia The term "robbers of temples" refers to individuals who commit sacrilege by stealing from places of worship, an act considered deeply offensive and sinful in biblical times. This concept is addressed in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the gravity of such offenses in the eyes of God and society.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the sanctity of the temple and its treasures is emphasized repeatedly. The temple in Jerusalem was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, and its contents were consecrated for divine service. The act of robbing a temple was not merely theft but a direct affront to God Himself. In 2 Kings 12:18, King Jehoash of Judah is described as taking sacred items from the temple to appease Hazael, king of Aram, illustrating the desperation and moral decline that could lead to such actions. The prophets often spoke against the desecration of holy places. In Jeremiah 7:9-11, the prophet condemns those who steal and then come to the temple, thinking they are safe because they are in the house of the Lord. This passage underscores the hypocrisy and false security of those who disrespect sacred spaces. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the issue of temple robbery is addressed in Acts 19:37. During the uproar in Ephesus, the city clerk defends Paul and his companions by stating, "For you have brought these men here who are neither robbers of temples nor blasphemers of our goddess." This defense highlights the serious nature of such accusations and the importance of maintaining respect for religious sites, even in a pagan context. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, emphasizes the importance of respecting what is holy. In Romans 2:22, he challenges the Jews by asking, "You who abhor idols, do you rob temples?" This rhetorical question points to the inconsistency of claiming to detest idolatry while engaging in acts that desecrate sacred spaces. Cultural and Religious Significance In ancient cultures, temples were not only religious centers but also repositories of wealth and symbols of divine protection. Robbing a temple was seen as an act of extreme impiety and was often met with severe punishment. The act was considered a violation of both divine and societal laws, reflecting a profound disrespect for the sacred. The biblical injunctions against temple robbery serve as a reminder of the need to honor and protect what is dedicated to God. The sanctity of worship spaces and the items within them is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, underscoring the belief that such places are set apart for the glory of God. Moral and Theological Implications From a theological perspective, robbing a temple is an act that reveals a heart far from God. It demonstrates a lack of reverence and fear of the Lord, qualities that are foundational to a righteous life. The Bible consistently calls believers to uphold the holiness of God's name and the places dedicated to His worship. In summary, the concept of "robbers of temples" in the Bible serves as a powerful illustration of the broader principle of respecting what is sacred. It challenges believers to examine their own attitudes towards the holy and to live in a manner that honors God and His dwelling places. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Robbers of TemplesROBBERS OF TEMPLES (hierosuloi, "guilty of sacrilege"): A term used by the town clerk of Ephesus (Acts 19:37, the King James Version "robbers of churches"). As the temple of Diana (Artemas) had a great treasure-chamber, the offense might not be unknown among them; compare Romans 2:22. Greek 2417. hierosulos -- robbing temples ... sacrilegious. Word Origin from hieros and sulao Definition robbing temples NASB Word Usage robbers of temples (1). robber of temples. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2417.htm - 6k Library Paul's Trials and victories at Ephesus The Uproar in Ephesus. Of Images, and the Ornaments of Temples, and the Contempt in which ... Christians, Temples of the Living God Acts XIX But Perhaps, as You Say, the Goddesses Took the Greatest Pleasure ... Here Also the Advocates of Images are Wont to Say this Also... We are Worshippers of one God, of Whose Existence and Character ... Nero Adds Four Cities to Agrippas Kingdom; but the Other Parts of ... He Passes from Philosophy to the Philosophers, Beginning with ... Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Good Samaritan? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the money changers in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view gun control? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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