In the context of the Bible, the term "veteran" as understood in modern times does not appear explicitly. However, the concept of seasoned warriors and experienced soldiers is prevalent throughout the biblical narrative. Veterans, in the biblical sense, can be seen as those who have served in military capacities, often displaying courage, leadership, and faithfulness.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament is replete with accounts of battles and military leaders who could be considered veterans. Figures such as Joshua, David, and Gideon exemplify the qualities of experienced warriors. Joshua, who served as Moses' assistant, led the Israelites into the Promised Land and was a seasoned military leader. The Bible records, "The LORD said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid or discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hand the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land'" (Joshua 8:1).

David, before becoming king, was a veteran of many battles. His experience as a shepherd defending his flock from predators translated into his military prowess. His encounter with Goliath is a testament to his faith and skill. "David said to the Philistine, 'You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied'" (1 Samuel 17:45).

Gideon, called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites, was transformed from a hesitant leader into a veteran warrior. His account illustrates the importance of faith and obedience in military endeavors. "The LORD said to Gideon, 'With the three hundred men who lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home'" (Judges 7:7).

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not focus on military exploits, it does acknowledge the presence of soldiers and veterans. The Roman centurion, a professional soldier, is noted for his faith in Jesus. "When Jesus heard this, He marveled and said to those following Him, 'Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith'" (Matthew 8:10). This centurion's understanding of authority and his faith in Jesus' power to heal his servant reflect the respect and discipline often associated with veterans.

The Apostle Paul uses military imagery to describe the Christian life, drawing parallels between soldiers and believers. In his letter to Timothy, Paul writes, "Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer" (2 Timothy 2:3-4). This metaphor highlights the dedication, discipline, and endurance expected of both soldiers and Christians.

Spiritual Warfare

The concept of spiritual warfare is a recurring theme in the New Testament, where believers are called to be vigilant and prepared like soldiers. Paul exhorts the Ephesians to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This passage underscores the need for spiritual readiness and resilience, qualities akin to those of a veteran soldier.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "veteran," the principles and characteristics associated with veterans are evident throughout Scripture. The narratives of military leaders and the use of military metaphors provide insight into the values of courage, faith, and perseverance that are esteemed in both physical and spiritual battles.1. (a.) Long exercised in anything, especially in military life and the duties of a soldier; long practiced or experienced; as, a veteran officer or soldier; veteran skill.

2. (n.) One who has been long exercised in any service or art, particularly in war; one who has had.

Herod's Veteran Soldiers Become Tumultuous. The Robberies of Judas ...
... CHAPTER 4. Herod's Veteran Soldiers Become Tumultuous. The Robberies Of Judas.
Simon And Athronoeus Take The Name Of King Upon Them. ...
/.../chapter 4 herods veteran soldiers.htm

Of Theophilus, Bishop of Alexandria, and what Happened at the ...
... i. 20. [897] Gibbon quotes the story of Augustus in Plin. Nat. Hist. xxxiii. 24.
"Is it true," said the emperor to a veteran at whose home he supped, "that the ...
/.../chapter xxii of theophilus bishop of.htm

Though a Widow May have Received no Commandment, yet She Has ...
... For the soldier, when his time is ended, lays aside his arms, and leaving the rank
which he held, is dismissed as a veteran to his own land, that he may obtain ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/chapter xiv though a widow.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... The veteran Ahmosi, son of Abina, who was serving in his last campaign, and his
cousin, Ahmosi Pannekhabit, distinguished themselves according to their wont. ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

Early History of Revision.
... improved editions, until in 1855 the sixth edition was reached, and issued with
a new and interesting preface by the then distinguished and veteran writer. ...
/.../address i early history of.htm

Change not Always Improvement.
... The now veteran (stain of the) Hydra's and of the Centaurs' blood upon the shafts
was gradually eradicated by the pumice-stone, familiar to the hair-pin! ...
/.../tertullian/on the pallium/chapter iv change not always improvement.htm

The Clergyman and the Prayer Book.
... coast-guardsman some years ago to a friend of mine, "but, sure and certain, 'tis
as bad as inspired!" "I find the Liturgy," said another veteran, Charles Simeon ...
/.../moule/to my younger brethren/chapter ix the clergyman and.htm

The Last Two Decades.
... John Stronach's return to England: FORTY CONTINUOUS YEARS IN HEATHENISM. "March
16, 1876. Today we said farewell to the veteran missionary, Rev. John Stronach. ...
/.../fagg/forty years in south china/xi the last two decades.htm

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... He was a tried veteran in decorative work, an expert in almost every kind of art,
and fit to be placed in the position of chief superintendent of so superb a ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/hiram the inspired artificer.htm

The Princesses of the Comneni
... The Empress Theodora, in her last days, had nominated Michael VI.,"Stratioticus,"
an aged and decrepit veteran, as her successor; but his elevation was ...
/.../brittain/women of early christianity/xiv the princesses of the.htm

Veteran (1 Occurrence)
... 1. (a.) Long exercised in anything, especially in military life and the duties of
a soldier; long practiced or experienced; as, a veteran officer or soldier ...
/v/veteran.htm - 6k

Vex (20 Occurrences)

/v/vex.htm - 14k

Vetches (1 Occurrence)

/v/vetches.htm - 6k

Greetings (48 Occurrences)
... Lord; (WEY). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran believer; and to
the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). Romans ...
/g/greetings.htm - 18k

Members (54 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV WEY ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran
believer; and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). ...
/m/members.htm - 21k

Believer (15 Occurrences)
... believer. (WEY). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran believer;
and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). ...
/b/believer.htm - 11k

Asahel (17 Occurrences)
... war. The position of general for a month, whatever else it may have involved,
was an honor held by a distinguished veteran. There ...
/a/asahel.htm - 16k

Adoniram (4 Occurrences)
... Nothing in the account is more indicative of Rehoboam's utter lack of good judgment
than his sending his veteran superintendent of the forced labor department ...
/a/adoniram.htm - 10k

Apella (1 Occurrence)
... Apella (1 Occurrence). Romans 16:10 Greetings to Apella, that veteran believer;
and to the members of the household of Aristobulus. (WEY). ...
/a/apella.htm - 6k

Pekah (11 Occurrences)
... Syria and Samaria. Serious resistance to the veteran troops of the East
could hardly be made, and city after city fell. A list of ...
/p/pekah.htm - 19k

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