The term "sighest" is an archaic form of the verb "sigh," which appears in some older translations of the Bible. In the context of Scripture, sighing often conveys a deep emotional response, such as grief, longing, or relief. It is an expression of the human condition in its interaction with the divine, reflecting moments of sorrow, repentance, or yearning for God's intervention.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Expression of Grief and Sorrow: Sighing is frequently associated with mourning and lamentation. In the Bible, it is often used to describe the emotional state of individuals or groups who are experiencing profound distress. For example, in the book of Ezekiel, the prophet is instructed to "sigh" as a sign of the impending judgment upon Israel: "Sigh in silence, make no mourning for the dead" (Ezekiel 24:17). This act of sighing serves as a prophetic symbol of the nation's impending suffering.

2. Longing for Deliverance: Sighing can also represent a deep yearning for deliverance or redemption. In Romans 8:23, the Apostle Paul speaks of believers who "groan inwardly" as they await the redemption of their bodies. This groaning or sighing is a manifestation of the hope and anticipation for the fulfillment of God's promises.

3. Repentance and Contrition: In some instances, sighing is linked to repentance and a contrite heart. The psalmist, in his plea for God's mercy, expresses his sorrow and repentance through sighing: "I am feeble and utterly crushed; I groan in anguish of heart" (Psalm 38:8). Here, sighing is an outward expression of inner turmoil and a desire for reconciliation with God.

4. Divine Response to Human Suffering: The Bible also portrays God as being attentive to the sighs of His people. In Exodus 2:23-24, the Israelites' sighs and cries under the bondage of Egypt reach God, prompting Him to remember His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This passage highlights God's compassion and readiness to respond to the suffering of His people.

5. Symbol of Relief and Comfort: While often associated with negative emotions, sighing can also signify relief and comfort. In Mark 7:34, Jesus sighs before healing a deaf and mute man, indicating His deep compassion and the impending relief that His miraculous intervention will bring.

Theological Implications

Sighing, as depicted in the Bible, underscores the depth of human emotion and the complexity of the human experience in a fallen world. It serves as a reminder of the brokenness that sin has introduced into creation and the longing for restoration and redemption. Moreover, the biblical portrayal of sighing emphasizes God's intimate involvement in the lives of His people, as He hears their cries and responds with grace and deliverance.

In summary, the concept of sighing in the Bible is rich with meaning, reflecting the multifaceted nature of human emotions and the hope of divine intervention. It is a poignant reminder of the believer's journey through trials and the assurance of God's presence and ultimate redemption.

Ezekiel's Discourse
... shalt thou sigh before their eyes. And it shall be, when they say unto
thee, Wherefore sighest thou? that thou shalt say, Because ...
/.../various/select masterpieces of biblical literature/vi ezekiels discourse.htm

Psalm L.
... The sweetness of His presence shall come; thou art not changed, thou art not awakened,
thou sighest not, thou longest not: thou embracest thy sins and the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm l.htm

Sighest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Sighest (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 21:7 And it shall
be, when they say unto thee, Wherefore sighest thou? ...
/s/sighest.htm - 6k

Sighed (7 Occurrences)

/s/sighed.htm - 8k

Drip (12 Occurrences)
... be weak as water. (See JPS). Ezekiel 21:7 And it shall be, when they say unto
thee, Wherefore sighest thou? that thou shalt say, Because ...
/d/drip.htm - 10k

Slack (19 Occurrences)
... be weak as water. (See JPS). Ezekiel 21:7 And it shall be, when they say unto
thee, Wherefore sighest thou? that thou shalt say, Because ...
/s/slack.htm - 12k

Sigheth (1 Occurrence)

/s/sigheth.htm - 6k

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