Topical Encyclopedia Seclusion, in the biblical context, refers to the act of withdrawing from society or public life, often for the purpose of prayer, reflection, or spiritual renewal. This practice is evident throughout Scripture, where individuals seek solitude to commune with God, gain clarity, or prepare for significant tasks.Old Testament Examples In the Old Testament, seclusion is often associated with prophets and leaders who sought God's guidance. Moses is a prominent example; he frequently withdrew to Mount Sinai to receive the Law and commune with God. Exodus 24:18 states, "Then Moses entered the cloud as he went up on the mountain, and he remained on the mountain forty days and forty nights." This period of seclusion was crucial for receiving divine instruction. Elijah also experienced seclusion when he fled to Horeb, the mountain of God. In 1 Kings 19:9, it is recorded, "There Elijah entered a cave and spent the night. And the word of the LORD came to him, saying, 'What are you doing here, Elijah?'" This time alone allowed Elijah to hear God's still, small voice and receive encouragement for his prophetic mission. New Testament Examples In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies the practice of seclusion. He often withdrew from the crowds to pray and seek the Father's will. Mark 1:35 notes, "Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up and slipped out to a solitary place to pray." This pattern of seeking solitude is seen throughout His ministry, especially before significant events such as choosing the twelve apostles (Luke 6:12) and His transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-2). The Apostle Paul also experienced seclusion after his conversion. In Galatians 1:17-18, Paul recounts, "I did not go up to Jerusalem to the apostles who came before me, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus. Only after three years did I go up to Jerusalem to confer with Cephas." This period of isolation likely served as a time of preparation and revelation for his future ministry. Purpose and Benefits Seclusion in the Bible is often portrayed as a time for spiritual renewal, preparation, and divine encounter. It allows individuals to focus on God without the distractions of daily life. In Psalm 46:10, believers are encouraged to "Be still and know that I am God," highlighting the importance of quietness and solitude in recognizing God's presence and sovereignty. Moreover, seclusion can be a time for introspection and repentance. In the book of Jonah, the prophet's time in the belly of the great fish serves as a forced seclusion, leading to repentance and renewed obedience to God's call (Jonah 2:1-9). Practical Application For contemporary believers, the biblical principle of seclusion can be applied through personal retreats, dedicated prayer times, and moments of silence before God. These practices can help cultivate a deeper relationship with God, provide clarity in decision-making, and offer rest for the soul amidst the busyness of life. As Jesus demonstrated, seclusion is not an end in itself but a means to engage more fully with God's mission and purpose. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Separation from society or connection; a withdrawing; privacy; as, to live in seclusion.Greek 4032. perikrupto -- to conceal entirely ... around it). Word Origin from peri and krupto Definition to conceal entirely NASB Word Usage kept...in seclusion (1). hide. From ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4032.htm - 6k Library The Classes and the Masses All Saints' Day Instruction iii Chrysostom as a Monk. AD 374-381. Jesus' Brothers Advise Him to Go to Jerusalem. Smerdis the Magian. The Mother of Xerxes. The Home Scene. The Nativity of Jesus the Messiah. From the Commencement of the Revolution in 1776, to Its ... Thesaurus Seclusion (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Separation from society or connection; a withdrawing; privacy; as, to live in seclusion. ...Seclusion (1 Occurrence). ... /s/seclusion.htm - 6k Retirement (1 Occurrence) Secluded (7 Occurrences) Birth (357 Occurrences) Bethany (13 Occurrences) Confinement (6 Occurrences) Ahimelech (17 Occurrences) Ahijah (23 Occurrences) Secrecy (1 Occurrence) Solitude (3 Occurrences) Resources Why, when, and for how long was the apostle Paul in Arabia? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Gospel Coalition? | GotQuestions.org Who was Elizabeth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Seclusion: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Seclusion (1 Occurrence)Luke 1:24 Subtopics Related Terms Second-in-command (1 Occurrence) |