Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the metaphor of "arrows" is often used to describe the harmful and destructive nature of false accusations and deceitful words. The imagery of arrows conveys the idea of precision, intent, and the potential to cause deep harm, much like the physical damage inflicted by an actual arrow. This metaphor is particularly relevant in the context of false witnesses, who use their words as weapons to harm others unjustly.Biblical Context The concept of false witnesses is addressed in several passages throughout the Bible, emphasizing the moral and spiritual dangers associated with bearing false testimony. In the Ten Commandments, God explicitly commands, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16). This command underscores the importance of truthfulness and integrity in maintaining justice and righteousness within the community. The Psalms frequently employ the imagery of arrows to describe the attacks of the wicked, including those who bear false witness. Psalm 64:3-4 states, "They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows, ambushing the innocent in seclusion, shooting suddenly, without fear." Here, the psalmist portrays the words of false witnesses as deliberate and stealthy attacks, designed to harm the innocent without warning. Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The Book of Proverbs also addresses the destructive power of false testimony. Proverbs 25:18 declares, "Like a club or sword or sharp arrow is a man who bears false witness against his neighbor." This proverb equates false testimony with physical violence, highlighting the severe impact that deceitful words can have on individuals and communities. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, the theme of false witnesses is further explored, particularly in the context of the trials of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew recounts how false witnesses were sought to testify against Jesus, ultimately leading to His crucifixion. Matthew 26:59-60 states, "Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking false testimony against Jesus in order to put Him to death. But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward." The Apostle Paul also warns against the dangers of deceitful speech in his epistles. In Ephesians 6:16 , Paul advises believers to take up "the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." While this passage primarily refers to spiritual warfare, it can also be understood as a call to guard against the harmful words and accusations of false witnesses. Moral and Spiritual Implications The metaphor of arrows in the context of false witnesses serves as a powerful reminder of the moral responsibility to uphold truth and justice. Bearing false witness not only harms the individual who is unjustly accused but also undermines the fabric of trust and integrity within the community. The Bible consistently calls believers to speak truthfully and to resist the temptation to use words as weapons against others. In summary, the "arrows of false witnesses" represent the destructive power of deceitful words and the moral imperative to uphold truth and justice in accordance with biblical teachings. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 25:18A man that bears false witness against his neighbor is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library To Proceed: Psalm LXIV. An Awful Contrast The Sixth Commandment Book iii. --Of the Harmony of the Fathers of the Old and New ... The Best Beloved Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. Brought up from the Horrible Pit Means to be Used with Sinners. (On the Passion, viii. : on Wednesday in Holy Week. ) Resources What does the Bible say about deliverance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of shigionoth in Habakkuk? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Arrows of Devices of the Wicked Arrows: (Broken), of Destruction of Power Arrows: (Falling from the Hand), of the Paralysing Power Arrows: Deadly and Destructive Weapons Arrows: Discharged with Great Force Arrows: Discharged: Against Enemies Arrows: Discharged: At a Mark for Amusement Arrows: Discharged: At the Beasts of the Earth Arrows: Discharged: from a Bow Arrows: Discharged: from Engines Arrows: Fleetness of, Alluded To Arrows: The Ancients Divined By Related Terms |
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