Topical Bible: The Dragon: Its Wailing Alluded To

◄ The Dragon: Its Wailing Alluded To ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical literature, the dragon is often depicted as a symbol of chaos, evil, and opposition to God. The imagery of the dragon is rich and multifaceted, appearing in various forms throughout the Scriptures. One of the more intriguing aspects of the dragon's portrayal is the allusion to its wailing, which serves as a metaphor for its ultimate defeat and the lamentation over its downfall.

Biblical References

The concept of the dragon's wailing is not explicitly detailed in a single verse but is inferred through the broader narrative of Scripture, particularly in prophetic and apocalyptic literature. The dragon is often associated with desolation and destruction, and its wailing can be understood as a response to divine judgment.

In the book of Isaiah, the prophet speaks of a time when the forces of chaos and evil will be subdued. Isaiah 27:1 states, "In that day the LORD will take His sharp, great, and mighty sword, and bring judgment on Leviathan the fleeing serpent—Leviathan the coiling serpent—and He will slay the dragon of the sea." This passage, while not directly mentioning wailing, implies the dragon's defeat and the subsequent lamentation over its demise.

Similarly, in the book of Revelation, the dragon is a central figure representing Satan and his opposition to God's kingdom. Revelation 12:9 describes the dragon's expulsion from heaven: "And the great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him." The imagery of the dragon being cast down suggests a moment of great upheaval and sorrow for the forces aligned with it.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The wailing of the dragon can be interpreted as a symbolic expression of the anguish and despair that accompanies the defeat of evil. In biblical symbolism, wailing often represents mourning and lamentation over loss and destruction. The dragon's wailing, therefore, can be seen as the lament of a defeated adversary, acknowledging the supremacy of God's justice and righteousness.

The dragon's wailing also serves as a reminder of the ultimate victory of good over evil. Throughout Scripture, the defeat of the dragon is portrayed as a decisive moment in the cosmic struggle between God and the forces of darkness. This victory is not only a cause for celebration among the faithful but also a moment of reckoning for those who have opposed God's will.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the allusion to the dragon's wailing underscores the transient nature of evil and the certainty of divine justice. It serves as a powerful reminder that, despite the apparent strength and influence of evil in the world, its end is assured. The wailing of the dragon is a testament to the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and the establishment of His eternal reign.

In the broader context of Christian eschatology, the imagery of the dragon's wailing reinforces the hope and assurance that believers have in the promises of God. It is a vivid portrayal of the finality of evil's defeat and the restoration of creation to its intended glory.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Micah 1:8
Therefore I will wail and howl, I will go stripped and naked: I will make a wailing like the dragons, and mourning as the owls.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Introduction: Chapter 1
... This very wailing is described in Zechariah 12:10-12 ... occurrences of the word, with
its renderings [in ... Incense odours," prayers of saints; "Dragon," Satan; "Frogs ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the introduction chapter 1.htm

The Strait Gate;
... a-days do; but such as in its own nature ... too; Michael and his angels, and the dragon
and his ... damned souls; without is howling, weeping, wailing, and gnashing ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the strait gate.htm