Topical Encyclopedia The metaphor of "the bow of the tongue of the wicked" is a vivid biblical image used to describe the destructive power of malicious speech. This imagery is primarily drawn from the Psalms and the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, where the tongue is often depicted as a weapon capable of inflicting harm.Biblical References: 1. Psalm 64:3 : "They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows." This verse illustrates the intentional and calculated nature of wicked speech. The tongue is likened to a sword, and words are compared to arrows, emphasizing their potential to wound and destroy. 2. Jeremiah 9:3 : "They bend their tongues like their bows; lies and not truth prevail in the land; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they do not know Me," declares the LORD. Here, the prophet Jeremiah laments the pervasive deceit among the people of Judah. The bending of the tongue like a bow suggests a readiness to launch falsehoods, highlighting the moral decay and estrangement from God. 3. Psalm 57:4 : "My soul is among the lions; I lie among ravenous beasts—men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords." This passage further underscores the peril posed by the wicked, whose words are as dangerous as physical weapons. Theological Implications: The imagery of the tongue as a bow underscores the biblical teaching on the power of words. In the conservative Christian tradition, this metaphor serves as a caution against the misuse of speech. The tongue, though small, can cause great harm, akin to the damage inflicted by weapons of war. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that emphasizes the importance of righteous speech and the moral responsibility of individuals to use their words to edify rather than to destroy. Moral and Ethical Considerations: The "bow of the tongue of the wicked" serves as a warning against gossip, slander, and deceit. The Bible consistently teaches that such speech is not only harmful to others but also offensive to God. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists "a lying tongue" and "a false witness who pours out lies" among the things the Lord detests. The ethical call is for believers to guard their tongues and to speak truthfully and lovingly, reflecting the character of Christ. Practical Application: In practical terms, this metaphor encourages self-examination and discipline in speech. Believers are urged to consider the impact of their words and to strive for communication that builds up rather than tears down. James 3:5-6 warns of the tongue's potential for destruction, likening it to a small fire that sets a great forest ablaze. Thus, Christians are called to be mindful of their speech, seeking to align their words with the truth and love of the Gospel. In summary, the "bow of the tongue of the wicked" is a powerful biblical metaphor that highlights the potential for harm inherent in malicious speech. It serves as a reminder of the moral responsibility to use words wisely and to reflect the righteousness of God in all forms of communication. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 11:2For, see, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow on the string, that they may privately shoot at the upright in heart. Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 9:3 Library The King on his Throne. Certain Fulfilment of Prophecy. Psalm 37 Light at Evening Time Among the Orderlies at the Castle was one David... Appendix. False Professors Solemnly Warned Because of Its Bearing Upon the Church. Two Things to be Observed in Gratuitous Justification. If You Wish Me to Keep Silence, Cease from Accusing Me. Lay Down ... Resources What does it mean that Jesus has the name above all names? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the Catholic Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.org What is the definition of idolatry? | GotQuestions.org Bow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bow: A Weapon used by the Elamites Bow: A Weapon: David Instructed the Israelites in the Use of, by Writing a War Song To Bow: A Weapon: Made of Brass (R. V.) The Bow of the Tongue of the Wicked The Bow of the Vanquished, Broken and Burned The Bow used Expertly by Benjamites The Bow used Expertly by Elamites The Bow used Expertly by Lydians The Bow used Expertly by Philistines The Bow used Expertly by Sons of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh The Bow: (When Broken) the Overthrow of Power The Bow: (When Deceitful) the Hypocrite The Bow: Called the Battle Bow The Bow: Drawn With Full Force The Bow: Given As a Token of Friendship The Bow: Held in the Left Hand The Bow: Often Furnished by the State The Bow: Sometimes Used in Hunting The Bow: The Jews Taught to Use The Bow: Those Who Used, Called: Archers The Bow: Those Who Used, Called: Bowmen Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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