The term "tearest" is an archaic form of the verb "tear," which appears in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. It is used to describe the act of tearing or rending, often in the context of grief, repentance, or divine judgment. While the Berean Standard Bible does not use the term "tearest," understanding its usage in the KJV can provide insight into the cultural and theological significance of tearing garments or other items in biblical times.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Expression of Grief and Mourning: In ancient Israel, tearing one's garments was a common expression of deep sorrow or mourning. This act symbolized the heart's anguish and was often accompanied by other signs of lamentation, such as wearing sackcloth and ashes. For example, when Jacob believed that his son Joseph had been killed, he tore his clothes in mourning (Genesis 37:34).

2. Repentance and Humility: Tearing garments was also a sign of repentance and humility before God. In Joel 2:13, the prophet calls the people to "rend your heart and not your garments," emphasizing that true repentance is an inward transformation rather than merely an outward display. This highlights the importance of sincerity in one's relationship with God.

3. Divine Judgment and Prophetic Acts: Prophets sometimes tore their garments as a symbolic act to convey God's impending judgment or displeasure. In 1 Kings 11:30-31, the prophet Ahijah tore his new cloak into twelve pieces to symbolize the division of Solomon's kingdom, illustrating the serious consequences of disobedience to God.

4. Cultural and Historical Significance: The act of tearing garments is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the Bible. It reflects the ancient Near Eastern customs of expressing intense emotions and serves as a physical manifestation of inner turmoil or conviction. Understanding this practice helps modern readers grasp the depth of emotion and commitment involved in biblical narratives.

Theological Implications

The act of tearing, as seen in the Bible, underscores the importance of genuine emotion and sincerity in one's relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that God desires a contrite heart and true repentance rather than mere outward rituals. This theme is consistent throughout Scripture, where God calls His people to live authentically and humbly before Him.

In summary, while the term "tearest" itself may not appear in modern translations like the Berean Standard Bible, the concept it represents is integral to understanding the expressions of grief, repentance, and divine communication in the biblical narrative.

That Sons are not to be Bewailed.
... Thou tearest thy face, thou beatest thy breast, thou takest off thy garments; and
dost thou not fear the Lord, whose kingdom thou desirest to behold? ...
/.../commodianus/the instructions of commodianus/lxxiii that sons are not to.htm

Rom. xii. 4, 5
... salter, or, a mummy) for distresses, yet leapest upon him now that he is down, and
tearest his body by thine insults, and gatherest storm after storm, and ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxi rom xii 4.htm

Tearest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Tearest (1 Occurrence). Job 18:4 Thou that tearest
thyself in thine anger, Shall the earth be forsaken for thee? ...
/t/tearest.htm - 6k

Teareth (6 Occurrences)

/t/teareth.htm - 8k

Rocks (48 Occurrences)
... (See RSV NIV). Job 18:4 Thou that tearest thyself in thine anger, shall the earth
be forsaken for thee? Or shall the rock be removed out of its place? (See NIV) ...
/r/rocks.htm - 21k

Tear (97 Occurrences)

/t/tear.htm - 37k

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