Topical Encyclopedia The term "shoulder-blade" refers to the flat, triangular bone located on the upper back, known anatomically as the scapula. In biblical times, the shoulder-blade was significant not only in human anatomy but also in various cultural and religious contexts.Biblical References and Symbolism While the specific term "shoulder-blade" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the shoulder and its surrounding areas are frequently referenced, often symbolizing strength, burden-bearing, and authority. For instance, the shoulder is mentioned in the context of carrying burdens or responsibilities. In Isaiah 9:6 , the prophecy concerning the Messiah states, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders." This imagery conveys the idea of the Messiah bearing the weight of leadership and authority. In the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, the shoulder was a significant part of the offerings. Leviticus 7:32-33 instructs, "You are to give the right thigh to the priest as a contribution from your peace offering. The son of Aaron who presents the blood and fat of the peace offering shall have the right thigh as a portion." Although the term "shoulder-blade" is not used, the shoulder area, including the scapula, was part of the sacrificial portions given to the priests, symbolizing provision and sustenance for those serving in the temple. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the shoulder and its bones, including the shoulder-blade, were often associated with strength and the ability to bear burdens. This is reflected in various biblical passages where the shoulder is used metaphorically to describe the carrying of loads or responsibilities. For example, in Genesis 21:14 , Hagar places her son Ishmael on her shoulder as she departs into the wilderness, illustrating the physical and emotional burden she carries. The shoulder-blade, as part of the shoulder, also played a role in the physical labor and daily life of biblical peoples. Shepherds, farmers, and laborers would have relied on the strength of their shoulders to perform their duties, making the shoulder-blade an essential component of their physical capabilities. Theological Implications Theologically, the shoulder and its associated imagery often point to themes of strength, support, and divine authority. The use of the shoulder in sacrificial rituals underscores the idea of offering one's strength and service to God. Additionally, the prophetic imagery of the Messiah bearing the government on His shoulders highlights the divine authority and responsibility that Christ assumes for His people. In summary, while the specific term "shoulder-blade" may not appear in the biblical text, the broader concept of the shoulder is rich with symbolic meaning and cultural significance, reflecting themes of strength, burden-bearing, and divine authority throughout Scripture. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHOULDER-BLADEshol'der-blad (shikhmah): "Then let my shoulder (kathephi) fall from the shoulder-blade (shikhmah), and mine arm (zeroa` be broken from the bone (qaneh)" (Job 31:22). The Hebrew word is the feminine form of shekhem (see SHOULDER). It is found only in this passage. Strong's Hebrew 7929. shikmah -- shoulder blade... shikmah. 7930 . shoulder blade. Transliteration: shikmah Phonetic Spelling: (shik-maw') Short Definition: blade. Word Origin fem. of shekem, qv. shoulder blade ... /hebrew/7929.htm - 5k 3802. katheph -- shoulder, shoulder blade, side Library Christian Sympathy Whether a Suitable Cause Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies which ... Pagan Cemeteries. Thesaurus Shoulderblade... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHOULDER-BLADE. shol'der-blad (shikhmah): "Then let my shoulder (kathephi) fall from the shoulder... /s/shoulderblade.htm - 6k Shoulder-blade (1 Occurrence) Blade (23 Occurrences) Shoulder (72 Occurrences) Joint (12 Occurrences) Elbow (1 Occurrence) Socket (5 Occurrences) Shoulderpiece Bone (35 Occurrences) Arm (110 Occurrences) Resources Did Jesus have a tattoo (Revelation 19:16)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Issachar? | GotQuestions.org What was the significance of the ephod? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Shoulder-blade (1 Occurrence)Job 31:22 Subtopics Related Terms |
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