The term "vexeth" is an archaic English word found in the King James Version of the Bible, derived from the verb "vex," which means to disturb, trouble, or afflict. In the context of Scripture, it often refers to causing distress or annoyance, particularly in a spiritual or moral sense. The Berean Standard Bible uses more contemporary language, but the concept remains significant in understanding biblical teachings on human behavior and divine expectations.

Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, "vexeth" is frequently used to describe the actions of individuals or nations that cause distress to others, often in opposition to God's commandments. For example, in Numbers 25:17-18 , the Israelites are instructed to "treat the Midianites as enemies and strike them down, for they have treated you as enemies when they deceived you in the matter of Peor and their sister Cozbi." Here, the vexation is linked to leading the Israelites into sin, highlighting the moral and spiritual implications of vexing God's people.

Another instance is found in Ezekiel 22:29 , where the prophet condemns the people of Israel: "The people of the land have practiced extortion and committed robbery. They have oppressed the poor and needy and have exploited the foreign resident without justice." The term "vexeth" in this context underscores the social injustice and moral corruption that provoke God's judgment.

New Testament Context

While the specific term "vexeth" is not commonly found in the New Testament, the concept is present in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 15:19 , Jesus speaks of the evil thoughts and actions that defile a person, including "murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, and slander." These actions can be seen as forms of vexation, as they disturb the peace and well-being of others and violate God's law.

The apostle Paul also addresses the issue in Galatians 5:19-21 , where he lists the "acts of the flesh" that are contrary to the Spirit, such as "hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy." These behaviors vex the community of believers and hinder the work of the Holy Spirit.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

From a biblical perspective, vexing others is not merely a social or interpersonal issue but a spiritual one. It reflects a heart that is not aligned with God's will and a life that does not bear the fruit of the Spirit. The Scriptures call believers to a higher standard, urging them to love their neighbors and live in peace with one another.

Proverbs 10:12 states, "Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all transgressions." This verse encapsulates the biblical antidote to vexation: love. By cultivating love and compassion, believers can overcome the tendency to vex others and instead promote harmony and righteousness.

Conclusion

The concept of vexation in the Bible serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's actions with God's commandments and the teachings of Christ. It challenges believers to examine their hearts and relationships, striving to live in a manner that honors God and reflects His love to the world.

Psalm CXLI.
... Thou askest the reason, and they assign one....He vexeth the members of Christ,
who cleanseth the earth with a furrow: he vexeth the members of Christ, who ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cxli.htm

And when Evening Came, Jesus Went Forth Outside of the City...
... a long time: but afterwards he said within himself, If of God I have no fear, and
before men I have no shame; [22] [2266] yet because this widow vexeth me, I ...
/.../hogg/the diatessaron of tatian/section xxxiii and when evening.htm

Of Seeking Divine Help, and the Confidence of Obtaining Grace
... Wait for Me; yea, wait; I will come and heal thee. It is temptation which
vexeth thee, and a vain fear which terrifieth thee. What ...
/.../kempis/imitation of christ/chapter xxx of seeking divine.htm

Meditations for one that is Like to Die.
... New passions and fashions grow daily; new fears and afflictions still arise: here
wrath lies in wait, there vain-glory vexeth; here pride lifts up, there ...
/.../bayly/the practice of piety/meditations for one that is.htm

First, for Thy Thoughts.
... thine enemy can do to thee. Neither canst thou more rejoice him than to
hear that it thoroughly vexeth thee. But if thou canst shew ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bayly/the practice of piety/first for thy thoughts.htm

The History of Saul
... his servants said to him: Thou oft art vexed with an evil spirit, it were good to
have one that could harp, to be with thee when the spirit vexeth thee, thou ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the history of saul.htm

Vexeth (1 Occurrence)
...Vexeth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 26:17 He that passeth by, 'and' vexeth himself with
strife belonging not to him, Is 'like' one that taketh a dog by the ears. ...
/v/vexeth.htm - 6k

Vexed (37 Occurrences)

/v/vexed.htm - 16k

Vexation (36 Occurrences)
... Version (British and American) has "vex" for "distress" (Deuteronomy 2:9, 19);
"they that vex" for "the adversaries of" (Isaiah 11:13); "vexeth himself" for ...
/v/vexation.htm - 18k

Vexing (2 Occurrences)

/v/vexing.htm - 7k

Vex (20 Occurrences)
... Version (British and American) has "vex" for "distress" (Deuteronomy 2:9, 19);
"they that vex" for "the adversaries of" (Isaiah 11:13); "vexeth himself" for ...
/v/vex.htm - 14k

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