Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context and MeaningThe concept of being "smitten by the sun" is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern understanding of the sun's power and its potential to harm. In the Bible, the sun is often seen as a source of light and life, but it also holds the capacity to cause distress and suffering. This duality is reflected in various passages where the sun's intense heat is depicted as a form of divine judgment or natural consequence. Scriptural References One of the most direct references to the sun's harmful potential is found in Psalm 121:6, which states, "The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night" . This verse is part of a larger passage that emphasizes God's protection over His people. The promise that the sun will not "strike" or "smite" the faithful suggests divine safeguarding against natural elements that could cause harm. In the prophetic literature, the sun's scorching heat is sometimes used metaphorically to describe the intensity of God's judgment. For instance, in Isaiah 49:10, it is written, "They will not hunger or thirst, nor will the scorching heat or sun beat down on them. For He who has compassion on them will guide them and lead them beside springs of water" . Here, the absence of the sun's smiting is a sign of God's provision and care for His people. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the imagery of being smitten by the sun serves as a reminder of human vulnerability and the need for divine protection. It underscores the belief that God is a refuge and shield against both physical and spiritual adversities. The assurance that the sun will not harm the faithful is a testament to God's sovereignty over creation and His commitment to the well-being of His followers. Cultural and Historical Background In the ancient Near East, the sun was a powerful symbol, often associated with deities and seen as a source of life and sustenance. However, the harsh climate of the region also meant that the sun could be a source of danger, leading to heatstroke, dehydration, and other ailments. This dual nature of the sun is reflected in biblical texts, where it is both a blessing and a potential curse. The Israelites, living in a predominantly arid environment, would have been acutely aware of the sun's power. Their agricultural lifestyle depended on the sun for crop growth, yet they also recognized the need for protection from its excessive heat. This understanding is woven into the fabric of biblical literature, where the sun's smiting serves as a metaphor for various forms of trial and tribulation. Practical Application For believers, the concept of being smitten by the sun can serve as a metaphor for enduring life's challenges with faith in God's protection. It encourages reliance on divine strength and the assurance that God watches over His people, shielding them from harm. This theme is a call to trust in God's providence, even when faced with the harsh realities of life. In summary, the biblical motif of smiting by the sun encapsulates the tension between the sun's life-giving and potentially harmful aspects. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's protective care and the believer's reliance on His unfailing love and guidance. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Smiting By the SunSMITING BY THE SUN See SUN, SMITING BY. Library J. The Death and Burial. Ch. 23:44-56 Appendix Andromeda Hebrews xi. 28-31 On the Words of the Gospel, John x. 14, "I am the Good Shepherd ... Why all Things Work for Good Transformation by Beholding 1 Cor. xv. 35, 36 The Magnificence of Prayer Continued. Resources What did Jesus mean when He instructed us to turn the other cheek? | GotQuestions.orgWhy were Michael and Satan disputing over the body of Moses (Jude 9)? | GotQuestions.org Smiting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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