Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Description:Wreaths are circular arrangements typically made from flowers, leaves, or twigs. In biblical times, they were often used as symbols of victory, honor, and celebration. The circular shape of a wreath can also symbolize eternity and unending life, reflecting the eternal nature of God and His promises. Biblical References: 1. Symbol of Victory and Honor: Wreaths are often associated with victory and honor in the Bible. In the Greco-Roman world, victors in athletic contests were awarded a crown or wreath made of laurel leaves. This imagery is used in the New Testament to describe the rewards for faithful believers. The Apostle Paul writes, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize" (1 Corinthians 9:24). Here, the "prize" can be understood as the victor's wreath, symbolizing the eternal reward for those who persevere in faith. 2. Symbol of Eternal Life: The circular nature of a wreath can symbolize eternity, reflecting the eternal life promised to believers. In 2 Timothy 4:8, Paul speaks of the "crown of righteousness" that awaits him, which can be seen as a metaphorical wreath representing eternal life: "From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing" . 3. Adornment and Celebration: Wreaths were also used as adornments during times of celebration and joy. In the Old Testament, wreaths are mentioned in the context of festive occasions. For example, in Isaiah 28:5, it is written, "On that day the LORD of Hosts will be a crown of glory, a diadem of beauty, to the remnant of His people" . This passage highlights the use of wreath-like imagery to convey beauty and celebration. 4. Symbol of Corruption and Vanity: While wreaths can symbolize honor and victory, they can also represent the fleeting nature of earthly glory. In 1 Peter 5:4, the "crown of glory" that does not fade away is contrasted with the temporary nature of earthly rewards: "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away" . This serves as a reminder of the eternal value of spiritual rewards over temporal achievements. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient cultures, wreaths were commonly used in various ceremonies and rituals. They were often worn by priests, kings, and victors in athletic competitions. The use of wreaths in biblical times reflects the broader cultural practices of the ancient Near East and the Greco-Roman world, where they symbolized honor, victory, and celebration. Theological Significance: Wreaths in the Bible carry deep theological significance, symbolizing the eternal rewards for believers who remain faithful to God. They serve as a reminder of the imperishable nature of the spiritual inheritance promised to those who follow Christ. The imagery of wreaths encourages believers to persevere in their faith, looking forward to the eternal crown of life that God has prepared for them. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Plural of Wreath.Strong's Hebrew 3914. loyah -- perhaps wreath... 3913, 3914. loyah. 3915 . perhaps wreath. Transliteration: loyah Phonetic Spelling: (lo-yaw') Short Definition: wreaths. Word Origin ... /hebrew/3914.htm - 6k Library The Altar of Incense The Holy Family in Bethlehem after the Departure of the Kings. 'Concerning the Crown' A Strain of the Judgment of the Lord. "Pan, Pan is Dead" The Dream of St. Ursula Book ii. --Of the Harmony of the Old and New Laws. The Excellencies of the Saints' Rest. The Adventures of Saint Patrick of Ireland. The Tournament at Constantinople. Thesaurus Wreaths (9 Occurrences)... (n.) Plural of Wreath. Multi-Version Concordance Wreaths (9 Occurrences). ... On their heads they had wreaths which looked like gold. (WEY). ... /w/wreaths.htm - 9k Chapiters (15 Occurrences) Lions (50 Occurrences) Pommels (2 Occurrences) Panels (10 Occurrences) Supports (25 Occurrences) Beneath (73 Occurrences) Wreathen (8 Occurrences) Wreck (1 Occurrence) Cherubim (63 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Lystra in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat Greek gods are mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is Advent? | GotQuestions.org Wreaths: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Wreaths (9 Occurrences)Acts 14:13 Revelation 4:10 Revelation 9:7 1 Kings 7:17 1 Kings 7:29 1 Kings 7:30 1 Kings 7:36 2 Chronicles 4:12 2 Chronicles 4:13 Subtopics Related Terms |