Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terms, the concept of a "spoiler" can be understood as one who despoils, plunders, or brings ruin. The term is often associated with destruction and the act of taking by force, reflecting a broader theme of judgment and divine retribution found throughout Scripture.Old Testament Context The Hebrew word often translated as "spoiler" is "shadad," which means to devastate or ruin. This term is frequently used in the context of God's judgment against nations and peoples who have turned away from His commandments. For instance, in the book of Jeremiah, the prophet warns of impending judgment upon Babylon, a nation that acted as a spoiler to many: "Behold, I am against you, O destroying mountain, who destroys the whole earth," declares the LORD. "I will stretch out My hand against you, roll you down from the cliffs, and make you a burnt mountain." (Jeremiah 51:25) Here, Babylon is depicted as a "destroying mountain," a spoiler that will itself face destruction as a consequence of its actions. The imagery of a spoiler is used to convey the seriousness of divine justice and the certainty of God's sovereign plans. New Testament Context While the specific term "spoiler" is less frequently used in the New Testament, the concept is present in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The New Testament often speaks of spiritual forces and false teachers as spoilers who seek to lead believers astray. In John 10:10, Jesus contrasts His mission with that of the thief: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness." (John 10:10) Here, the thief can be seen as a spoiler, one who seeks to destroy the spiritual well-being of individuals. This passage highlights the protective and redemptive role of Christ, who offers life in contrast to the destruction brought by spiritual spoilers. Theological Implications The theme of the spoiler in the Bible underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the ongoing battle between good and evil. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of remaining vigilant against those who would seek to lead believers away from the truth of the Gospel. The presence of spoilers in the biblical narrative also points to the ultimate victory of God over all forms of evil and destruction. Practical Application For believers, the concept of a spoiler serves as a call to discernment and faithfulness. Christians are encouraged to be aware of the spiritual and moral threats that can spoil their relationship with God. The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This call to spiritual readiness is a defense against the spoilers of faith and integrity. In summary, the biblical portrayal of spoilers is multifaceted, encompassing both physical and spiritual dimensions of destruction. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance, faithfulness, and reliance on God's strength in the face of opposition. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One who spoils; a plunderer; a pillager; a robber; a despoiler.2. (n.) One who corrupts, mars, or renders useless. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SPOILERspoil'-er (ha-shodhedh, "the spoiler"): A favorite expression of the prophet Jeremiah by which he describes generally the enemies that invade and devastate a country-with special reference to enemies that invade Judah (Jeremiah 12:12; Jeremiah 15:8); to enemies who devastate Moab (48:8, 18); to enemies from the North who are to assail Babylon (51:48), and in one case (6:26) to Nebuchadrezzar making an irresistible advance upon Jerusalem. the American Standard Revised Version uniformly renders "destroyer." Strong's Hebrew 8154. shasah -- to spoil, plunder... destroyer, rob, spoiler. Or shasah (Isa. 10:13) {shaw-saw'}; a primitive root; to plunder -- destroyer, rob, spoil(-er). 8153, 8154. shasah or shasah. 8155 > ... /hebrew/8154.htm - 6k 7998. shalal -- a prey, spoil, plunder, booty 7843. shachath -- perhaps to go to ruin 7703. shadad -- to deal violently with, despoil, devastate, ruin Library The Spoiler Antichrist in Jeremiah Antichrist in Isaiah John ix. 34-36 Order and Argument in Prayer Lupus of Troyes. The Tears of Christ. Introduction The Third Homily. On the Annunciation to the Holy virgin Mary. The Scales of Judgment Thesaurus Spoiler (11 Occurrences)... 2. (n.) One who corrupts, mars, or renders useless. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SPOILER. ... Multi-Version Concordance Spoiler (11 Occurrences). ... /s/spoiler.htm - 11k Ceaseth (21 Occurrences) Covert (18 Occurrences) Spoilers (19 Occurrences) Noon-day (8 Occurrences) Jaazer (12 Occurrences) Weeps (7 Occurrences) Inhabitress (12 Occurrences) Ravager (2 Occurrences) Recompences (2 Occurrences) Resources Who is the destroying angel? | GotQuestions.orgSpoiler: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Spoiler (11 Occurrences)1 Samuel 14:48 Isaiah 16:4 Isaiah 21:2 Isaiah 33:1 Isaiah 42:24 Jeremiah 6:26 Jeremiah 15:8 Jeremiah 48:8 Jeremiah 48:18 Jeremiah 48:32 Jeremiah 51:56 Subtopics Related Terms |