The term "swarmeth" is an archaic English verb form that appears in older translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version (KJV), and is derived from the verb "swarm." In the context of Scripture, "swarmeth" is used to describe the action of creatures, particularly insects or small animals, moving in large numbers or congregating densely. This term is often associated with the abundance and prolific nature of God's creation, as well as the dynamic and sometimes overwhelming presence of certain creatures.

Biblical Context and Usage

In the Berean Standard Bible , the equivalent concept is often rendered with more contemporary language, but the idea remains consistent with the original intent. The notion of swarming is frequently used in the Old Testament to illustrate the fecundity and vitality of life as ordained by God. It is also used to depict the plagues and judgments that God brings upon the earth, particularly in the narrative of the Exodus.

Creation and Abundance

The concept of swarming is first introduced in the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:20-21 , God commands the waters to "teem with living creatures," and the skies to be filled with birds. This teeming, or swarming, is a testament to God's creative power and the abundance of life He has set forth:

"And God said, 'Let the waters teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth in the open expanse of the sky.' So God created the great sea creatures and every living thing that moves, with which the waters teemed, according to their kinds, and every bird of flight after its kind. And God saw that it was good."

Here, the swarming of creatures is a sign of the earth's fullness and the richness of God's provision.

Judgment and Plagues

The imagery of swarming is also used in the context of divine judgment. In the book of Exodus, the plagues that God sends upon Egypt include swarms of creatures as a demonstration of His power and as a means to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Exodus 8:21 describes one such plague:

"But if you will not let My people go, I will send swarms of flies on you and your officials, on your people and into your houses. The houses of the Egyptians will be full of flies, and even the ground where they stand."

The swarming of flies serves as a tangible manifestation of God's displeasure and a tool of His judgment against the oppressors of His people.

Symbolism and Theological Implications

Theologically, the concept of swarming can be seen as a reflection of both the blessings and the curses that come from God. On one hand, swarming represents the blessing of fruitfulness and the fulfillment of God's command to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28). On the other hand, it can symbolize the chaos and destruction that result from disobedience to God's will, as seen in the plagues of Egypt.

In a broader sense, the imagery of swarming underscores the sovereignty of God over creation. Whether in blessing or in judgment, the swarming of creatures is a reminder of God's ultimate authority and the intricate balance of His creation. It calls believers to recognize the power and majesty of God, who controls the natural world and uses it to accomplish His divine purposes.

Of the Subject to whom to the Key of Church Priviledge, Power, or ...
... Church of Christ shall grow so full of members, as all of them cannot heare the
voyce of their Ministers; then as an Hive full of Bees swarmeth forth, so is ...
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Swarmeth (5 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Swarmeth (5 Occurrences). Genesis 7:21 And all
flesh died that moved upon the earth, both birds, and cattle ...
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Swarms (18 Occurrences)
... Genesis 7:21 And all flesh perished that moved upon the earth, both fowl, and cattle,
and beast, and every swarming thing that swarmeth upon the earth, and ...
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Swarm (26 Occurrences)
... Genesis 7:21 And all flesh perished that moved upon the earth, both fowl, and cattle,
and beast, and every swarming thing that swarmeth upon the earth, and ...
/s/swarm.htm - 15k

Swarming (19 Occurrences)

/s/swarming.htm - 12k

Swarmed (3 Occurrences)

/s/swarmed.htm - 7k

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