Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Symbolism Roundness, as a concept, often symbolizes completeness, perfection, and eternity due to its continuous and unbroken nature. In biblical literature, roundness can be associated with divine creation, the cyclical nature of life, and the eternal nature of God. Biblical References While the Bible does not frequently use the term "roundness" explicitly, the concept is implied in various passages and objects described in Scripture. The circular form is often seen in the design of sacred objects and in the natural world, reflecting God's order and perfection. 1. The Earth: The Bible alludes to the roundness of the earth in passages that describe its form and the heavens. Isaiah 40:22 states, "He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth; its dwellers are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them out like a tent to dwell in." The term "circle" here suggests a roundness that aligns with the ancient understanding of the earth's shape. 2. The Tabernacle and Temple: The design of the Tabernacle and later the Temple included circular elements, such as the basins and bowls used in worship. These items, crafted with precision, symbolized purity and the unending nature of God's covenant with His people. 3. The Wheel: In Ezekiel's vision, the wheel within a wheel (Ezekiel 1:16) represents the complexity and perfection of God's creation and His omnipresence. The roundness of the wheels signifies the completeness and eternal nature of God's plans. 4. The Sun and Moon: The celestial bodies, often described in their circular form, are part of God's creation that marks time and seasons. Psalm 19:4-6 speaks of the sun's circuit, emphasizing its round and consistent path across the sky, a testament to God's orderly design. Theological Implications Roundness in biblical symbolism often points to the divine nature of God—His perfection, eternity, and completeness. The circle, having no beginning or end, mirrors the eternal nature of God, who is described as the Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8). This symbolism is further reflected in the cyclical patterns of life and the universe, which are under God's sovereign control. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, roundness was often associated with divinity and the cosmos. The circular shape was used in various religious artifacts and architecture, symbolizing the heavens and the divine order. The biblical use of roundness aligns with these cultural understandings, yet it uniquely points to the one true God as the creator and sustainer of all things. Conclusion Roundness, though not frequently mentioned explicitly in Scripture, carries significant symbolic weight in biblical theology. It reflects God's perfection, the eternal nature of His covenant, and the orderliness of His creation. Through the imagery of roundness, believers are reminded of the completeness and unchanging nature of God's promises. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The quality or state of being round in shape; as, the roundness of the globe, of the orb of the sun, of a ball, of a bowl, a column, etc.2. (n.) Fullness; smoothness of flow; as, the roundness of a period; the roundness of a note; roundness of tone. 3. (n.) Openness; plainness; boldness; positiveness; as, the roundness of an assertion. Strong's Hebrew 5469. sahar -- roundness... roundness. Transliteration: sahar Phonetic Spelling: (cah'-har) Short Definition: round. ... round. From an unused root meaning to be round; roundness -- round. ... /hebrew/5469.htm - 5k 5470. sohar -- perhaps roundness Library "The Shewing is not Other than of Faith, nor Less nor More" A Comparison Showing How a Monk Ought to Keep Guard Over his ... That God Alone is the Creator of Every Kind of Creature, Whatever ... Whether the Angels are Incorruptible? On Descartes' "Discourse Touching the Method of Using One's Reason ... The Speaking Voice Of the Parts of Man: the Eyes and Ears. The Fidelity of the Senses, Impugned by Plato, vindicated by ... That Right as by the Defailing of Our Bodily Wits we Begin More ... How Trifling Therefore to Say no Worse of it is that Learning... Thesaurus Roundness (1 Occurrence)... 1. (n.) The quality or state of being round in shape; as, the roundness of the globe, of the orb of the sun, of a ball, of a bowl, a column, etc. ... /r/roundness.htm - 7k Lacks (27 Occurrences) Lacketh (17 Occurrences) Rounds (2 Occurrences) Roundings (1 Occurrence) Encircled (17 Occurrences) Mixture (16 Occurrences) Sphere (3 Occurrences) Fenced (61 Occurrences) Basin (37 Occurrences) Resources Roundness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Roundness (1 Occurrence)Song of Songs 7:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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