Topical Bible: Children were Named: Numerous, Considered an Especial Blessing

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the naming of children and the desire for numerous offspring were deeply rooted in the cultural and religious fabric of ancient Israelite society. Children were seen as a divine blessing, a sign of God's favor, and a means of ensuring the continuation of family lineage and inheritance.

Biblical Context and Significance

The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of children and the joy they bring to a family. In Genesis 1:28, God commands Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply," establishing the divine mandate for procreation. This command underscores the belief that having many children was not only a personal blessing but also a fulfillment of God's will.

The patriarchs of Israel, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were promised numerous descendants as part of God's covenant. In Genesis 15:5, God tells Abraham, "Look at the sky and count the stars, if you are able. Then He declared, 'So shall your offspring be.'" This promise of numerous descendants was a central aspect of God's covenantal relationship with His people.

Cultural and Social Implications

In ancient Israelite society, children were considered a source of strength and security. Psalm 127:3-5 states, "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them." This passage highlights the view that children were not only a blessing but also a means of protection and support for the family.

The naming of children often reflected the parents' gratitude to God and their hopes for the child's future. Names were chosen with care, often signifying a particular attribute or divine intervention. For example, the name "Samuel," meaning "heard by God," was given by Hannah in response to her prayers for a child (1 Samuel 1:20).

Theological Reflections

The desire for numerous children was also tied to the theological understanding of God's promises and blessings. In Deuteronomy 28:4 , God promises Israel, "The fruit of your womb will be blessed, as well as the produce of your land and the offspring of your livestock." This assurance of fertility and abundance was seen as a direct result of obedience to God's commandments.

Moreover, the New Testament continues to affirm the value of children. Jesus Himself welcomed children and used them as examples of humility and faith. In Matthew 19:14 , Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on children as a blessing and the desire for numerous offspring reflects a worldview that values life, family, and the continuation of God's covenantal promises. This understanding is woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the integral role of children in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 115:14
The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 127:4,5
As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... in 340 (a, b). In the East numerous attempts were ... family in heaven and upon earth
is named; and in ... and upon earth, both visible and invisible were made: who is ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

An Account of the Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church ...
... The baptism of young children is to be retained in the church. ... I think it expedient
to give him the rules as they were then adopted ... Who are named one by one. ...
/.../chapter 3 an account of.htm

Appendix.
... that they are "numbered among the children of God, and ... results, besides what has
just been named, it assuredly ... that are to come) the words that were sent to ...
/.../various/the sermons and addresses at the seabury centenary/appendix.htm

Period ii. The Church from the Permanent Division of the Empire ...
... the sect rapidly increased, though soon numerous divisions appeared in ... has infected
us since we were children, and has ... various persons can be named who lived ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period ii the church from.htm

Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times
... the translator of the Platonizing Dionysius, though not named in his ... Thus he
says,""Children, I must tell you in love ... [26] The three friends were not content ...
/.../introductory notice respecting taulers life.htm