Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage in Scripture:The term "shattering" in the Bible often refers to the act of breaking or destroying something into pieces. It is used both literally and metaphorically to describe physical destruction, emotional devastation, or the breaking of nations and powers. The concept of shattering is frequently associated with God's judgment, the consequences of sin, and the ultimate triumph of divine justice. Old Testament References: In the Old Testament, shattering is often depicted as an act of divine judgment against nations and individuals who oppose God's will. For example, in Jeremiah 51:20-23 , God speaks of using Babylon as His weapon of war: "You are My war club, My weapon for battle—with you I shatter nations, with you I destroy kingdoms, with you I shatter horse and rider, with you I shatter chariot and driver, with you I shatter man and woman, with you I shatter old man and youth, with you I shatter young man and maiden, with you I shatter shepherd and flock, with you I shatter farmer and oxen, with you I shatter governors and officials." The imagery of shattering is also present in the Psalms, where it is used to describe God's power over His enemies. Psalm 2:9 states, "You will break them with an iron scepter; You will shatter them like pottery." This verse highlights the authority and strength of the Messiah, who will ultimately triumph over rebellious nations. Prophetic and Apocalyptic Contexts: In prophetic literature, shattering often symbolizes the downfall of empires and the establishment of God's kingdom. The book of Daniel contains visions of shattering that foretell the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms. Daniel 2:34-35 describes a stone that "struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay and crushed them. Then the iron, clay, bronze, silver, and gold were shattered and became like chaff on the threshing floor in summer." This vision represents the ultimate victory of God's eternal kingdom over temporal powers. New Testament Insights: While the New Testament does not frequently use the term "shattering," the concept is present in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The breaking of the old covenant and the establishment of the new covenant through Christ's sacrifice can be seen as a form of shattering. Hebrews 8:13 states, "By speaking of a new covenant, He has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear." Theological Implications: The theme of shattering in the Bible underscores the transient nature of human power and the enduring sovereignty of God. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against divine authority. Shattering also points to the hope of restoration and renewal, as God's ultimate purpose is to bring about a new creation where righteousness dwells. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to reflect on the areas of their lives that may need to be "shattered" or broken down in order to align with God's will. This process, though painful, can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. The imagery of shattering challenges Christians to trust in God's redemptive power and to seek His kingdom above all else. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Shatter.Greek 4486. rhegnumi -- to break apart, by ext. to throw down ... ie (especially) to sunder (by separation of the parts; katagnumi being its intensive (with the preposition in composition), and thrauo a shattering to minute ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4486.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 7524. retsach -- a shattering... 7523, 7524. retsach. 7525 . a shattering. Transliteration: retsach Phonetic Spelling: (reh-tsakh) Short Definition: shattering. ... /hebrew/7524.htm - 6k 4660. mappats -- a shattering 5310a. naphats -- to shatter Library Essay vi. "The Way of Ancient Ordinance, Though it Winds, is yet ... section 4 The Soul's Origin Defined Out of the Simple Words of Scripture. Ode to the North-East Wind On Eutropius, the Eunuch, Patrician and Consul. The New Garment Bent The Shepherd-King Of the Fact That, on the Subject of the Destruction of Idols, the ... January. "There was Also an Illustrious Name of Another Anchorite in those ... Thesaurus Shattering (5 Occurrences)...Shattering (5 Occurrences). Revelation 2:27 He will rule them with a rod of iron, shattering them like clay pots; as I also have received of my Father: (WEB). ... /s/shattering.htm - 8k Shatters (8 Occurrences) Pots (30 Occurrences) Dash (30 Occurrences) Shatterer (1 Occurrence) Scepter (28 Occurrences) Shipwreck (3 Occurrences) Rod (138 Occurrences) Clay (50 Occurrences) Rehoboam (42 Occurrences) Resources What should I do when God says no? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a publican in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why is marital infidelity so destructive? | GotQuestions.org Shattering: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Shattering (5 Occurrences)Revelation 2:27 Psalms 42:10 Ezekiel 9:2 Daniel 8:7 Daniel 12:7 Subtopics Related Terms |