The term "staggereth" is an archaic form of the verb "stagger," which appears in various translations of the Bible to describe a state of instability, wavering, or unsteadiness. In the context of Scripture, it often conveys a spiritual or moral faltering, as well as physical unsteadiness. The Berean Standard Bible uses more contemporary language, but the concept remains significant in understanding biblical teachings on faith, judgment, and human frailty.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Spiritual Unsteadiness: The concept of staggering is frequently used metaphorically to describe a lack of faith or spiritual wavering. In Romans 4:20 , the Apostle Paul speaks of Abraham's faith, stating, "He did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God." Here, the idea of not staggering in faith is highlighted as a virtue, contrasting with those who doubt or falter in their trust in God's promises.

2. Judgment and Consequences: The imagery of staggering is also used to depict the consequences of divine judgment. In Isaiah 51:17 , the prophet calls Jerusalem to awaken from the stupor of God's wrath: "Awake, awake! Rise up, O Jerusalem, you who have drunk from the hand of the LORD the cup of His wrath, you who have drained to its dregs the goblet that makes men stagger." This passage illustrates the overwhelming nature of God's judgment, causing those under it to reel as if intoxicated.

3. Moral Faltering: Staggering can also symbolize moral or ethical instability. In Psalm 107:27 , the psalmist describes those in distress: "They reeled and staggered like drunkards, and all their skill was useless." This verse portrays the helplessness and confusion of those who stray from righteousness, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and guidance.

4. Physical Unsteadiness: While often metaphorical, the term can also refer to literal physical unsteadiness. In the context of battle or hardship, individuals may stagger due to exhaustion or injury. This physical manifestation serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual and moral truths throughout Scripture.

Theological Implications

The use of "staggereth" in the Bible underscores the importance of steadfastness in faith and righteousness. It serves as a warning against the dangers of doubt, disobedience, and the consequences of sin. The imagery of staggering highlights human vulnerability and the need for reliance on God's strength and guidance. Believers are encouraged to remain firm in their faith, trusting in God's promises and resisting the temptations and trials that may cause them to waver.

Related Concepts

· Faith and Doubt: The contrast between unwavering faith and staggering doubt is a recurring theme in Scripture. Believers are called to emulate the steadfast faith of figures like Abraham, who did not stagger in unbelief.
· Divine Judgment: The imagery of staggering under God's wrath serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine justice.
· Moral Integrity: Maintaining moral and ethical stability is a key aspect of the Christian life, with staggering representing the dangers of moral compromise and the need for repentance and renewal.

In summary, the concept of "staggereth" in the Bible serves as a vivid illustration of the challenges of faith, the consequences of sin, and the call to spiritual and moral steadfastness.

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... upon it. Yea, our earth reels and staggereth to and fro like a drunkard,
the transgression thereof is heavy upon it. Courteous reader ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

What are the Clouds?
... smile at us, as we do sometimes at a little child who takes up a load too heavy
for it (but which ye could hold between your fingers), and staggereth, and saith ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/what are the clouds.htm

John Bunyan on the Terms of Communion and Fellowship of Christians ...
... of God. For whoso staggereth at the certainty of his calling, cannot
comfortably hope for a share in eternal life. 'Remember the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/john bunyan on the terms.htm

Israel's Hope Encouraged;
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/israels hope encouraged.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

Staggereth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Staggereth (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 19:14 The LORD
hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof: and ...
/s/staggereth.htm - 6k

Staggering (7 Occurrences)

/s/staggering.htm - 8k

Drunkard (15 Occurrences)
... 14 Jehovah hath mingled a spirit of perverseness in the midst thereof; and they
have caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunkard staggereth in his ...
/d/drunkard.htm - 11k

Dizziness (1 Occurrence)
... hath mingled a spirit of perverseness in the midst of her; and they have caused
Egypt to go astray in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his ...
/d/dizziness.htm - 6k

Staggered (4 Occurrences)

/s/staggered.htm - 7k

Err (41 Occurrences)
... 19:14 The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof: and they have
caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his ...
/e/err.htm - 22k

Mingled (62 Occurrences)
... 19:14 The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof: and they have
caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his ...
/m/mingled.htm - 29k

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