Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, beds were not only places of rest but also served as settings for expressions of deep emotional states, including grief. The act of taking to one's bed in times of sorrow is depicted in several scriptural accounts, illustrating the profound impact of grief on the human spirit.One notable instance is found in the account of King David. After the death of his son with Bathsheba, David's grief was profound. Although the specific act of taking to his bed is not explicitly mentioned in this context, his deep mourning is evident. In 2 Samuel 12:16, it is recorded, "David pleaded with God for the child; he fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground." This act of lying on the ground, akin to taking to one's bed, signifies a state of mourning and supplication. Another example is found in the account of Ahab, the king of Israel. In 1 Kings 21:4, after being denied Naboth's vineyard, Ahab's response was one of deep emotional turmoil: "So Ahab went into his house, sullen and angry because of what Naboth the Jezreelite had said to him. He lay on his bed sulking and refused to eat." Here, Ahab's retreat to his bed reflects his inner turmoil and grief over his thwarted desires. The Psalms also provide insight into the use of beds as places of lamentation. In Psalm 6:6, David expresses his anguish: "I am weary from groaning; all night I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears." This vivid imagery underscores the bed as a place where the psalmist pours out his sorrow before God, seeking comfort and relief from his distress. In the New Testament, the account of Jairus' daughter in Mark 5:38-40 illustrates the grief associated with death. When Jesus arrives at Jairus' house, He finds people weeping and wailing loudly. The bed, in this context, becomes a symbol of mourning, as the young girl lies lifeless upon it until Jesus raises her from the dead. These biblical accounts highlight the cultural and emotional significance of beds as places where individuals confronted their grief. Whether through fasting, weeping, or sulking, the act of taking to one's bed in times of sorrow is a recurring theme that underscores the depth of human emotion and the search for solace in the midst of suffering. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 21:4And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers. And he laid him down on his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 7:14 Library Oh, How He Loves! Preparing to Depart The Alarum Five Fears The Next Day, and the Next after That, were Passed by the Cardinal ... Death of Martha Yeardley, and John Yeardley's Journey to Norway. Priest and victim The Life of Anne Catherine Emmerich Meanwhile a Somewhat Embarrassing Interview had Taken Place ... A Great Religious Awakening. Resources How does the geologic timescale fit with the view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I become more Christlike? | GotQuestions.org What was in the shadow of Peter that healed people (Acts 5:15-16)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Beds of the Poor Covered With Upper Garment Beds of the Poor often Sold for Debt Beds used for Reclining on at Meals Beds used for Reclining on by Day Beds: (Made in Darkness) of Extreme Misery Beds: (Made in Sickness) of Divine Support and Comfort Beds: (Made on High) of Carnal Security Beds: (Too Short) Plans Which Afford No Rest or Peace Beds: A Small Pallet or Mattress Used As Beds: Couches or Divans Used As Beds: Covered With Tapestry and Linen Beds: Persons Sometimes Took To, in Grief Beds: Saints Meditate and Praise God While On Beds: Subject to Ceremonial Defilement Beds: The Slothful Too Fond of Beds: The Wicked Devise Mischief While On Related Terms |
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