Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the act of bowing one's head was a significant gesture, often symbolizing respect, submission, or reverence. This physical expression is seen throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the cultural and spiritual practices of the people in biblical narratives.Old Testament Instances 1. Abraham and the Hittites: In Genesis 23:7, Abraham bows down before the people of the land, the Hittites, as he negotiates for a burial site for his wife Sarah. "Then Abraham rose and bowed down before the people of the land, the Hittites." This act of bowing signifies respect and acknowledgment of the Hittites' authority and generosity. 2. Joseph's Brothers: In Genesis 42:6, Joseph's brothers bow down to him, fulfilling the dreams Joseph had as a youth. "Now Joseph was the ruler of the land; he was the one who sold grain to all its people. So when Joseph’s brothers arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground." This bowing is a recognition of Joseph's position and authority in Egypt. 3. Moses and Jethro: In Exodus 18:7, Moses shows respect to his father-in-law, Jethro, by bowing. "So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. They greeted each other and went into the tent." This gesture underscores the respect Moses has for Jethro, acknowledging his wisdom and status. New Testament Instances 1. The Magi and Jesus: In Matthew 2:11, the Magi bow down to the young Jesus, recognizing His divine kingship. "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." This act of bowing is an expression of worship and reverence for the newborn King. 2. The Disciples and Jesus: In John 13:5, while not a direct instance of bowing, Jesus' act of washing the disciples' feet is a profound gesture of humility and service, prompting respect and reverence from the disciples. "After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to dry them with the towel that was wrapped around Him." This act, though not a bow, evokes a similar response of respect and awe. Cultural and Spiritual Significance Bowing the head as a token of respect is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the biblical world. It is an outward expression of an inward attitude of humility, submission, and honor. In the context of worship, bowing signifies reverence and adoration towards God, acknowledging His supreme authority and holiness. In interpersonal relationships, bowing is a gesture of respect and acknowledgment of another's position or status. It is a physical manifestation of the biblical principle of honoring others, as seen in Romans 12:10, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." The act of bowing the head, therefore, serves as a powerful symbol of respect and reverence, both in human interactions and in the worship of God, reflecting the heart's posture of humility and honor. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 43:23And he said, Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your father, has given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money. And he brought Simeon out to them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Devout Customs and Usages Chapter xlvii Walking with God At Masaarah The Death of the Blessed virgin Mary at Ephesus A Little Sanctuary The Sermon on the Mount The Alarum Chapter xxiv The Withering Work of the Spirit Resources What does Genesis 3:15 mean that “he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus had nowhere to lay His head? | GotQuestions.org What does INRI stand for? What was written on the sign nailed to the cross above Jesus' head? | GotQuestions.org Head: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Head in Grief: Sprinkled With Dust Head in Grief: The Hands Placed On Head of Criminals often Cut off Head of Enemies Slain in War, often Cut off Head of the Chief City of a Kingdom Head of the Leper Always Uncovered Head of Women Generally Covered in Public Head: (Anointed) of Joy and Prosperity Head: (Covered) of Defence and Protection Head: (Lifted Up) of Exaltation Head: (Lifted Up) of Joy and Confidence Head: (Made Bald) of Heavy Judgments Head: All the Other Members Necessary To Head: Bowed Down in Worshipping God Head: Bowed Down: As a Token of Respect Head: Derision Expressed by Shaking Head: Liable to Internal Disease Head: Nazarites Forbidden to Shave Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Crown Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Face Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Forehead Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Hair Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Scalp Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Skull Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Temples Head: Priests Forbidden to Shave Head: Put for the Whole Person Head: Shaven when Vows Were Taken Head: The Body Supported and Supplied By Head: The Jews Censured for Swearing By Head: The Uppermost and Chief Member of the Body Head: when Hoary With Age to be Respected Related Terms |
    |