Topical Encyclopedia The lily is a flower frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing beauty, purity, and divine provision. Its presence in Scripture often serves as a metaphor for God's care and the splendor of His creation.Biblical References: 1. Song of Solomon 2:1-2 : "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley. Like a lily among the thorns is my darling among the maidens." In this poetic book, the lily is used to describe the beloved's beauty and purity, standing out among others as a symbol of love and admiration. 2. Hosea 14:5 : "I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily and take root like the cedars of Lebanon." Here, the lily represents the flourishing and renewal of Israel under God's blessing, highlighting the nation's potential for beauty and growth when aligned with divine will. 3. Matthew 6:28-29 : "And why do you worry about clothes? Consider how the lilies of the field grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these." Jesus uses the lilies as an illustration of God's provision and care, encouraging believers to trust in God's ability to meet their needs without anxiety. Symbolism: · Purity and Innocence: The lily's white petals are often associated with purity and innocence, making it a fitting symbol for the holiness and righteousness that believers are called to pursue. · Divine Provision: As seen in Jesus' teaching in Matthew, the lily serves as a reminder of God's provision. Just as He clothes the lilies in beauty, He will provide for His people. · Beauty and Splendor: The lily's beauty is frequently highlighted in Scripture, symbolizing the splendor of God's creation and the aesthetic value He places on His works. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the lily was a common motif in art and architecture, often associated with fertility and renewal. Its presence in biblical texts reflects its widespread recognition and the symbolic meanings attributed to it. Theological Insights: The lily's biblical appearances encourage believers to reflect on God's care and the beauty of His creation. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly concerns compared to the eternal provision and beauty found in a relationship with God. The lily's symbolism calls Christians to trust in God's providence and to seek the purity and righteousness that reflect His character. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 14:5I will be as the dew to Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 6:28 Library Chapter ii. The Sermon on the Mount. Argument: Christians Abstain from Things Connected with Idol ... The Dew and the Plants How the Desire to Exalt and Magnify God Separates us from Inferior ... Israel Returning A Provision Ground We Hear Much of the Human Error which Accepts what is Sham and ... Conflicts with Giant Mistake January the Eleventh Self-Made or God-Made Resources What is the lily of the valley (Song of Solomon 2:1)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Rose of Sharon? | GotQuestions.org Who is the Lady of Guadalupe? Were the apparitions of Mary at Guadalupe real? | GotQuestions.org Flowers: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Flowers: Cultivated in Gardens Flowers: Garlands of, Used in Worship of Idols Flowers: Representations of, on The: Golden Candlestick Flowers: Representations of, on The: Sea of Brass Flowers: Representations of, on The: Wood Work of the Temple Flowers: Shortness of Man's Life Flowers: The Lily of the Valley Related Terms |
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