The term "sucketh" is an archaic form of the verb "suck," which appears in various contexts throughout the Bible. It is primarily used to describe the act of nursing or drawing nourishment, often in the context of infants and young children. This term is found in several passages, illustrating both literal and metaphorical meanings.

Literal Usage:

In the literal sense, "sucketh" refers to the natural process of breastfeeding, a vital aspect of nurturing and sustaining life in infancy. This is seen in passages that describe the early stages of life and the dependence of a child on its mother for nourishment. For example, in the book of Job, the term is used to describe the vulnerability and innocence of a newborn:

· Job 3:12 : "Why were there knees to receive me, and breasts that I should suck?"

This verse highlights the natural and essential act of nursing, emphasizing the care and provision that a mother provides to her child.

Metaphorical Usage:

Beyond its literal application, "sucketh" is also used metaphorically in Scripture to convey spiritual truths and deeper meanings. It often symbolizes dependence, sustenance, and the nurturing relationship between God and His people. In the prophetic literature, the imagery of nursing is employed to describe the abundance and blessing that God provides to His faithful:

· Isaiah 66:11 : "so that you may nurse and be satisfied at her comforting breasts; you may drink deeply and delight in her glorious abundance."

Here, the act of nursing is a metaphor for the spiritual nourishment and comfort that God offers to His people, portraying a relationship of care and provision akin to that of a mother and her child.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

In the cultural context of the Bible, the act of nursing was a fundamental aspect of family life and child-rearing. It was a time of bonding between mother and child, reflecting the intimate and nurturing aspects of God's character. The use of "sucketh" in Scripture underscores the importance of reliance on God for sustenance and the intimate relationship He desires with His followers.

Theologically, the imagery of nursing serves as a reminder of the spiritual nourishment that believers receive from God. Just as a child depends on its mother for physical sustenance, Christians are called to depend on God for spiritual growth and sustenance. This dependence is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the need for faith and trust in God's provision.

In summary, the term "sucketh" in the Bible carries both literal and metaphorical meanings, illustrating the themes of dependence, nourishment, and the nurturing relationship between God and His people. Through its use, Scripture conveys the essential nature of God's care and the spiritual sustenance He provides to those who trust in Him.

Library

The Testament of Zebulun Concerning Compassion and Mercy.
... 9. Mark the waters, that they flow together, and sweep along stones, trees, sand;
but if they are divided into many streams, the earth sucketh them up, and ...
/.../vi the testament of zebulun concerning.htm

Psalm CXLVIII.
... Who gave its sting to the gnat, for it to suck blood with? How narrow is the pipe
whereby it sucketh! Who arranged all this? who made all this? ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cxlviii.htm

Thesaurus

Sucketh (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Sucketh (1 Occurrence). Job 20:16 Gall of asps
he sucketh, Slay him doth the tongue of a viper. (YLT). ...
/s/sucketh.htm - 6k

Sucking (7 Occurrences)

/s/sucking.htm - 8k

Suckest (1 Occurrence)

/s/suckest.htm - 6k

Gall (17 Occurrences)
... asps within him. (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS RSV). Job 20:16 Gall of asps he sucketh,
Slay him doth the tongue of a viper. (YLT). Job 20:25 ...
/g/gall.htm - 17k

Resources

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