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Aaron mountainous. Christ, the Christian’s Great High Priest, now within the Veil. Name occurs about 350 times in the Scriptures. Heb. 9.
Abaddon A Hebrew word, which in the Greek is Apollyon, “destroyer.” He is angel of the bottomless pit, and king of the destroying locusts. It is symbolical of Satan, Rev. 9:1111And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon. (Revelation 9:11).
Abba This is held to be a Chaldaic form of “Ab,” father; but in the New Testament we find it joined with the word “father”; thus in Mark 14:3636And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt. (Mark 14:36) the Lord addressed God as “Abba, Father”; and in Romans 8:1515For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:15) the Christian is said to receive the Spirit of adoption, whereby he cries “Abba, Father.” So also in Galatians 4:66And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. (Galatians 4:6). It is not clear what the force of this expression is; but some suppose that it is Father, Father, in a double language appropriate to Jew and Gentile. It expresses confidence and the consciousness of relationship, and is not simply a term of respect.
Abel vapour, vanity. Christ as a martyr slain for righteousness sake, Psa. 69. Name occurs 12 Times in the Scriptures. Gen. 4.
Abib The Jewish year, like our own, was one of twelve months, 1 Chron. 27, only about half of which, however, are named in the Old Testament; they are generally spoken of as the first, second, third month, etc. Abib was the seventh month of the civil year; but, consequent, upon the people’s redemption from Egypt, it appropriately became the first month of the ecclesiastical year, Ex. 12:22This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you. (Exodus 12:2); Ex. 13:44This day came ye out in the month Abib. (Exodus 13:4). It was called “Nisan” after the captivity from Babylon, Neh. 2:11And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence. (Nehemiah 2:1). Abib corresponds to our month April.
Abigail the father’s joy. The Church cleaving to Christ in the day of His rejection, afterward married to the Lord. Name occurs about 15 times and only in the Old Testament. 1 Sam. 25.
Abijam or Abijah (signification doubtful). He reigned three years over Judah. This king trod closely in the steps of his father, but for David’s sake the lamp continued to burn at Jerusalem (2 Chron. 13).
Abilene A portion of Israel, of which Abila was the capital, Luke 3:11Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, (Luke 3:1). Lysanias was tetrarch. Though the boundary of the tetrarchy is not known, Abila is believed to be identified on the eastern slope of the Anti-Libanus, 33° 38' N. near the wild gorge of the Abana River.
Abimelech father of the King. The Gentiles in external relationship to God and His people on earth. Common designation of the Philistine Kings. Name occurs about 24 times and only in the Old Testament. Gen. 20.
Abiram father of exaltation. Abiram with others  —  princes of the congregation  —  allied with Korah  —  head of the ministering tribe  —  joined in open revolt against the authority of Moses and Aaron; figuring future union of Church and State in open rebellion to the royal and priestly rights of Christ. Name occurs about 10 times and in the Old Testament only. Num. 16.
Abner father of light. Abner an upright man, connected with the royal house of Saul, fighting against the Lord’s anointed to maintain the falling honour and dignity of his house  —  figures the morality of the day, fighting for and supporting the decaying fortunes of the world, which is, after all, in opposition to Christ. Name occurs about 60 times and only in the Old Testament. 2 Sam. 2; 3)
Abomination Symbol of  idolatry. Matt. 24:15; Rev. 17:44And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet color, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: (Revelation 17:4); Ezek. 6:1111Thus saith the Lord God; Smite with thine hand, and stamp with thy foot, and say, Alas for all the evil abominations of the house of Israel! for they shall fall by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence. (Ezekiel 6:11).  Abominations are a symbol of every species of idolatrous worship. 1 Kings 11:5-75For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. 6And Solomon did evil in the sight of the Lord, and went not fully after the Lord, as did David his father. 7Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon. (1 Kings 11:5‑7); Dan. 9:27; 12:1127And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate. (Daniel 9:27)
11And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days. (Daniel 12:11); Ezek. 8.
Abraham father of a great multitude. The first of the patriarchs, and the great ancestor of Israel. Gen. 17. He was called of God to leave his country and his father’s house, to go into Canaan, but we learn from the New Testament that he tarried in Mesopotamia until his father’s death, Acts 7:2-42And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, 3And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall show thee. 4Then came he out of the land of the Chaldeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. (Acts 7:2‑4). Besides the promise made to Abraham as to his natural seed, Gen. 15:55And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be. (Genesis 15:5); John 8:33,33They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? (John 8:33) God also made another promise to him respecting his seed Christ, Gal. 3:1616Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. (Galatians 3:16); Gen. 12:2-3; 22:18,2And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: 3And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. (Genesis 12:2‑3)
18And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice. (Genesis 22:18) through whom all who believe become “children of Abraham,” Gal. 3:77Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. (Galatians 3:7). Father of a spiritual race – believers – and of a natural race – Israel. Rom. 4. Root of the Olive Tree – general testimony on the earth, Rom. 11. Name occurs including “Abram” about 300 times in the Scriptures.
Abraham’s Bosom This is said to be a metaphorical expression in use among the Jews to signify the place of the blessed after death, Luke 16:2222And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; (Luke 16:22).
Absalom father of peace. The future Antichrist, i.e. “the bloody and deceitful man,” Psa. 5:66Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the Lord will abhor the bloody and deceitful man. (Psalm 5:6). Name occurs about 106 times and only in the Old Testament. 2 Sam. 15.
Adam earth or red. Christ, Lord of Creation, and otherwise Adam was the “figure of Him that was to come.” Gen. 2; Rom. 5:1414Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. (Romans 5:14); 1 Cor. 15; Eph. 5:31-3231For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. (Ephesians 5:31‑32). Name occurs about 30 times in the Scriptures. Referred to in the N. T. to bring out by contrast the character of the Lord Jesus in distinction from man by nature. “The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is out of heaven.” (The word ‘Lord’ is omitted by the Editors.) “The first Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam a quickening Spirit,” 1 Cor. 15:45,4745And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. (1 Corinthians 15:45)
47The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. (1 Corinthians 15:47). We must look for no other: the last has appeared. Adam and Christ also represent two headships: all under one die, and all under the other are made alive, 1 Cor. 15:2222For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:22).
Adar The sixth Jewish month, and twelfth of their ecclesiastical; only named in the post-captivity books. Adar corresponds partly to our months of February and March. Esther 3:77In the first month, that is, the month Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur, that is, the lot, before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, to the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar. (Esther 3:7).
Adonijah Jehovah is my master. Usurper of the royal rights of Christ; will find its counterpart more fully during the early part of Christ’s millennial reign. Name occurs about 24 times and only in the Old Testament. 1 Kings 1.
Adoption υίοθεσία, sonship. The blessed relationship to which Christians were predestinated by the Father, Eph. 1:55Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (Ephesians 1:5); which they could only receive through redemption, Gal. 4:5,5To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. (Galatians 4:5) and which contemplates association with Christ in the glorified state, Rom. 8:23,2923And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. (Romans 8:23)
29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. (Romans 8:29); the believer meanwhile receiving the spirit of adoption, whereby he cries, “Abba, Father,” Rom. 8:1515For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:15). This word occurs but five times in the New Testament, and refers to our new place of dignity before God as “sons,” Gal. 4:55To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. (Galatians 4:5). The generation of Jesus Christ as “Son of God” is inherent and eternal; believers receive this exalted position in time, and by adoption, because it is the sovereign gift of God. The word is also used of Israel’s special place of favour as the object of Jehovah’s choice amongst the nations. Rom. 9:44Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; (Romans 9:4); Deut. 7:6-76For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. 7The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: (Deuteronomy 7:6‑7). It is also applied to the full power of the work of Christ in the resurrection and glorification of our bodies of humiliation. Rom. 8:2323And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. (Romans 8:23); Phil. 3:2121Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. (Philippians 3:21).
Advisement  deliberation. 1 Chron. 12:19.
Advocacy “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:11My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: (1 John 2:1)). Advocacy is the Divine means to meet individual failure amongst Christians, and to restore communion and rest of soul when lost or interrupted. This gracious ministry by our risen Christ is founded upon His work of “propitiation,” completed once and forever, and upon the glory of His person, as the “righteous” One, ever abiding in the presence of God. Priesthood is with God and to preserve from falling; advocacy is with the Father and to restore when fallen. In the former I am regarded in my place as a saint, in the latter I am recognized as a child. In answer to the advocacy of Jesus Christ with the Father, the Holy Spirit uses the Word of God in dealing with the soiled conscience, convicting of sin, and thus leading the erring child to true and hearty confession; the fruit of this double work — Christ on high, and the Spirit here — being full and happy restoration of soul, and the re-enjoyment of fellowship with the Father, and with His Son, Jesus Christ. It is well to bear in mind that the position of “child” is a fixed and eternal one, but the sense and enjoyment of it may be lost for a time, and which it is the object of “advocacy” to restore.
Advocate παράκλητος. The Greek word is the same that in John’s Gospel is translated “comforter,” when referring to the Holy Spirit. The blessed Lord looks after the Christian’s interest, manages his affairs, above, as the Holy Spirit does for him down here. 1 John 2:11My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: (1 John 2:1).
Agar Same as Hagar, the bondwoman, who allegorically answers to Jerusalem, which was in bondage (under which the Galatians were putting themselves): whereas Sarah was a free woman, which corresponds to the Jerusalem above. Gal. 4:24-2524Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. 25For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. (Galatians 4:24‑25).
Agrippa {See Agrippa in “History of the Jews – BC 4 to AD 70”}
Ahab father’s brother. He reigned twenty-two years over Israel. This apostate monarch bore a cordial dislike to the faithful Elijah. He married Jezebel, a noted idolatress, and patron of Baal worship. This king exceeded in wickedness and idolatry all the kings before him; his house was to be totally destroyed. 1 Kings 22. Apostate civil power (Ahab) leagued with the idolatrous power (Jezebel) in the closing days of Christendom. Name occurs about 90 times and only in the Old Testament. 1 Kings 16.
Ahasuerus majesty of the prince. Supreme authority in the world and its connection with the Jewish people now and in the closing days. Name occurs about 30 times and only in the book of Esther. Esther 1.
Ahaz possessor. He reigned sixteen years over Judah. This was probably the most wicked and idolatrous of all Judah’s kings, and almost brought the kingdom to ruin. The more he was afflicted, the more he sinned. He was buried in Jerusalem, but not in the sepulchres of the kings. 2 Chron. 28.
Ahaziah [whom] Jehovah sustained. He reigned two years over Israel. A most wicked king. He “walked in the way of his father (Ahab), and in the way of his mother (the wicked Jezebel), and in the way of Jeroboam” (the noted idolater) (2 Kings 1). Slain by Jehu. 2 Chron. 22.
Ahithophel brother of foolishness. Satan’s latter-day plans and counsels against the Lord’s Anointed defeated. Name occurs about 20 times in the Old Testament only. 2 Sam. 15.
Aholah her own tent or temple. Samaria or the ten-tribed kingdom and her idolatrous worship. Name occurs 5 times, and only in the reference chapter. Ezek. 23.
Aholibah my tent or sanctuary in it. Jerusalem or the kingdom of Judah, in midst of which Jehovah had placed His “sanctuary,” exceeding even her sister Samaria in idolatry. Name occurs 6 times, and only in the reference chapter. Ezek. 23.
Alexander
1. Son of Simon (Mark 15:2121And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross. (Mark 15:21)).
2. One acting with the high priest (Acts 4:66And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. (Acts 4:6)).
3. At Ephesus (Acts 19:3333And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people. (Acts 19:33)).
4. The coppersmith, who made shipwreck of faith, and did Paul much evil, and withstood his words (1 Tim. 1:2020Of whom is Hymeneus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme. (1 Timothy 1:20); 2 Tim. 4:1414Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: (2 Timothy 4:14)).
Alexandria It was founded by Alexander the Great, head of the third great kingdom of Daniel, in B.C. 332, and was intended by him as the capital of Egypt. It was completed by the Ptolemies. It lies near the S.W. corner of the Mediterranean, and is still one of the principal cities of Egypt. Acts 18:24; 27:6; 28:1124And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. (Acts 18:24)
6And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein. (Acts 27:6)
11And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux. (Acts 28:11).
Allegory άλληγορέω, literally “other” and “to speak” (Gal. 4:2424Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. (Galatians 4:24)). The things had actually taken place, and Paul was allegorizing them to describe another subject. Thus an “allegory” has been defined as “a description of one thing under the image of another.”
Almond Tree is noted for the beauty of its flower, while its fruit was highly prized in Canaan, and generally in Eastern lands.
Altar The place of offering the sacrifices or incense (Luke 11:5151From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation. (Luke 11:51); 1 Cor. 10:1818Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? (1 Corinthians 10:18); Heb. 7:1313For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. (Hebrews 7:13)). The altar in the N.T. is applied: (a) to the Jewish altar (Matt. 23:18-20,3518And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. 19Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? 20Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. (Matthew 23:18‑20)
35That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. (Matthew 23:35)); (b) metaphorically to the Christian’s altar, Christ (Heb. 13:1010We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle. (Hebrews 13:10)); (c) altars in heaven, both the golden altar of incense (Rev. 8:3; 9:133And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. (Revelation 8:3)
13And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, (Revelation 9:13)), from whence judgment came, and the altar under which were the souls of the martyrs who cried for the avenging of their blood (Rev. 6:99And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: (Revelation 6:9)). Symbol of  approach to God (Matt. 5:2323Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; (Matthew 5:23); Heb. 13:1010We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle. (Hebrews 13:10); Psa. 43:44Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. (Psalm 43:4)).
Altar, Golden A symbol of Christ in the value of His person the ground and object of the saint’s worship. Ex. 30:1-101And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: of shittim wood shalt thou make it. 2A cubit shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two cubits shall be the height thereof: the horns thereof shall be of the same. 3And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, the top thereof, and the sides thereof round about, and the horns thereof; and thou shalt make unto it a crown of gold round about. 4And two golden rings shalt thou make to it under the crown of it, by the two corners thereof, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make it; and they shall be for places for the staves to bear it withal. 5And thou shalt make the staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold. 6And thou shalt put it before the vail that is by the ark of the testimony, before the mercy seat that is over the testimony, where I will meet with thee. 7And Aaron shall burn thereon sweet incense every morning: when he dresseth the lamps, he shall burn incense upon it. 8And when Aaron lighteth the lamps at even, he shall burn incense upon it, a perpetual incense before the Lord throughout your generations. 9Ye shall offer no strange incense thereon, nor burnt sacrifice, nor meat offering; neither shall ye pour drink offering thereon. 10And Aaron shall make an atonement upon the horns of it once in a year with the blood of the sin offering of atonements: once in the year shall he make atonement upon it throughout your generations: it is most holy unto the Lord. (Exodus 30:1‑10).
Amaziah [whom] Jah — a form of the Divine title “Jehovah” — has strengthened). He reigned twenty-nine years over Judah. This king was very unsteady in his conduct. For a time he walked well, but very soon forsook the Lord, and brought a violent death upon himself, and war and distress upon the kingdom. 2 Chron. 25.
Amen ἀμην. An affirmative response, implying the soul’s assent to the truth of what is uttered. The word is the same in both Hebrew and Greek. Used as a substantive, it signifies truth, as in Isaiah 65:1616That he who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten, and because they are hid from mine eyes. (Isaiah 65:16) ”the God of truth.” Used also in the Christian assembly (1 Cor. 14:1616Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? (1 Corinthians 14:16)).It is used by our Lord as an affirmation, “Verily, verily.” All the promises are “yea and Amen.” It signifies also assent or desire, “it is so,” “let it be.” How shall “the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks?” It is often found at the end of a benediction. In Revelation 3:1414And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; (Revelation 3:14) it occurs as a title of the Lord, as the One who fulfils and verifies all the promises. The word is added at the end of many of the Epistles without good authority. Deut. 27; Matt. 6:1313And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:13); 1 Cor. 14:1616Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? (1 Corinthians 14:16); 2 Cor. 1:2020For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. (2 Corinthians 1:20); Rev. 1:18; 3:14; 5:14,18I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. (Revelation 1:18)
14And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; (Revelation 3:14)
14And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. (Revelation 5:14) etc.
Amon artificer. He reigned two years over Judah. Amon trod closely in the wicked ways of his father, but not in the after repentance, and was slain in his own house. 2 Chron. 33.
Amphipolis A city of Macedonia, situate on the river Strymon, about three miles from the sea. Paul and Silas passed through it on their way from Philippi to Thessalonica. It has long been in ruins, but on its site is erected a village called Jeni-keni. Acts 17:11Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: (Acts 17:1).
Ananias
1. High priest, nominated by Herod, King of Chalcis, about A.D. 48. Paul appeared before him, and on Ananias ordering him to be smitten, he said, “God shall smite thee, thou whited wall.” He was deposed by Agrippa, and slain by assassins (Acts 23:2; 24:12And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. (Acts 23:2)
1And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. (Acts 24:1)).
2. The disciple who fell dead at the apostles’ feet when he lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:11But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, (Acts 5:1)). 3. The devout disciple at Damascus sent to restore sight to Paul after his conversion (Acts 9:10-17; 22:1210And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. 11And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. 13Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. 15But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 17And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. (Acts 9:10‑17)
12And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, (Acts 22:12)).
Andrew One of the apostles, and brother of Peter. He brought Peter to the Lord. Nothing further of importance is recorded of him. John 1:4040One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. (John 1:40).
Angel ἄγγελος. To tell or deliver a message, hence the term “angel” often denotes not so much a kind of creature as an office, namely, a messenger or representative, fulfilled by the Lord Himself, by men, or by spiritual beings (Rev. 1:20; 22:1620The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. (Revelation 1:20)
16I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. (Revelation 22:16); Isa. 63:99In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old. (Isaiah 63:9)). When Peter was delivered from prison, they said “It is his angel”; and our Lord said of the little children, “Their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” The addresses to the seven churches in the Revelation are written to the angel of each church, to the representative of each church, as though each assembly was embodied in a single representative. An angel appeared both to Mary and to Zacharias to announce the birth of the Lord and of John the Baptist. Angels ministered to the Lord after His temptation, and also in the garden of Gethsemane. They also appeared at the empty tomb to announce His resurrection. They are also sent forth to minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation (Heb. 1:1414Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? (Hebrews 1:14)). They have been and will still be used of God in pouring out judgments on the earth (see the Revelation). Two angels are referred to by name: Gabriel (Luke 1:19,2619And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to show thee these glad tidings. (Luke 1:19)
26And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, (Luke 1:26)); and Michael (Jude 99Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. (Jude 9); Rev. 12:77And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, (Revelation 12:7)). Doubtless the Lord is alluded to in Revelation 10 as a “mighty angel.” We also read of fallen angels, those who, not keeping their first estate, are reserved in chains, for the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and “his angels” (Matt. 25:4141Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: (Matthew 25:41); Jude 66And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. (Jude 6)).
Anise, ἄνηθον. Generally believed to be the “dill,” and is so translated in most versions. It is a small umbelliferous plant, grown for its aromatic fruits, and used for seasoning and for medicine. Matt. 23:2323Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. (Matthew 23:23).
Anoint
1. ἀλείφω, “to anoint with oil,” as on the head and feet (Matt. 6:1717But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; (Matthew 6:17); John 12:33Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment. (John 12:3)); and those about to be healed, Mark 6:1313And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. (Mark 6:13); James 5:1414Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: (James 5:14).
2. χρίω, ἐγχρίω, ἐπιχρίω, “to anoint,” (John 9:6,116When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, (John 9:6)
11He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight. (John 9:11); Rev. 3:1818I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. (Revelation 3:18)); A symbol of consecration, appointment, power conferred as by the Holy Spirit, and is applied to the Lord, Luke 4:1818The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, (Luke 4:18) (from Isa. 61:11The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; (Isaiah 61:1)); Heb. 1:99Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. (Hebrews 1:9); Acts 4:27; 10:3827For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, (Acts 4:27)
38How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (Acts 10:38); and to Christians, 2 Cor. 1:2121Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; (2 Corinthians 1:21); (see also 1 John 2:2727But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. (1 John 2:27)).
3. μυρίξω, to anoint with aromatics, is employed by the Lord in reference to His burial (Mark 14:88She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. (Mark 14:8)). {Sepulchers}
Anointing Symbol of  initiation. Anointing refers to the Holy Spirit, given to the believer as the power and life of the new man. In the meat offering, which was composed of “fine flour,” representing the perfect humanity of our Lord (Lev. 2). Oil (figure of the Holy Spirit) was mingled with the offering, and also poured upon it; the mingling of the fine flour and oil is the truth of Matthew 1:20,20But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 1:20) “for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost”; while the pouring of the oil upon the offering is as clearly the figure of Acts 10:38,38How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (Acts 10:38) “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power.” The power of devotedness and consecration to God (Lev. 8:3030And Moses took of the anointing oil, and of the blood which was upon the altar, and sprinkled it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon his sons' garments with him; and sanctified Aaron, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him. (Leviticus 8:30); Ex. 28:4141And thou shalt put them upon Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him; and shalt anoint them, and consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office. (Exodus 28:41)), of all true service (Acts 10:3131And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. (Acts 10:31)), and of spiritual understanding (2 Cor. 1:2121Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; (2 Corinthians 1:21); 1 John 2:2727But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. (1 John 2:27)) is the Holy Spirit.
Antichrist {Antichrist}
Antioch in Pisidia A Roman colony in Pisidia, in Asia Minor: Paul visited it with Barnabas (Acts 13:1414But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. (Acts 13:14)), but was expelled by the Jews (2 Tim. 3:1111Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Timothy 3:11)). This was also founded by Seleucus Nicator. The Romans made it the seat of a pro-consular government. Its site is supposed to correspond with Yalobatch.
Antioch in Syria This was founded about 300 B.C. by Seleucus Nicator, and was adorned and enriched by early emperors. It became the capital in Syria of the Greek kings, and was afterward the residence of the Roman governors. It was beautifully situated on the junction of the heights of Lebanon and of Taurus, where the river Orontes issues from the mountain about 36° 5' N. Lat. It was here that believers in the Lord Jesus were first called Christians, and from here that Paul started on his missionary journeys, and to this place he returned, Acts 11, 13, 14, 15, 18. Though in Syria, it was so far removed from Jerusalem that it proved a suitable place to form a center for action free from Judaism, though fellowship with the church at Jerusalem was maintained. A small town occupies its site named Antakia.
Antipatris A city built by Herod the Great, on the road from Jerusalem to Caesarea. To this place Paul was brought by night. Some identify it with a small village called Kefr-Saba, but others prefer Ras el-Ain, which better agrees with the description given by Josephus. Acts 23:3131Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris. (Acts 23:31).
Ape This is one of the few animals not metaphorically mentioned in Scripture. It was not a native of Canaan, but was introduced into the country every three years by Solomon, whose ships imported them from Southern India or the large island of Ceylon. What species of the monkey tribe is referred to we cannot tell. 2 Chron. 9:2121For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (2 Chronicles 9:21); 1 Kings 10:2222For the king had at sea a navy of Tharshish with the navy of Hiram: once in three years came the navy of Tharshish, bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (1 Kings 10:22).
Apollonia A city of Macedonia. Paul and Silas passed through it on their way from Philippi and Amphipolis to Thessalonica. Acts 17:11Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: (Acts 17:1).
Apollyon {See Abaddon}
Apostle ἀπόστολος. “a sent one.” Always translated “apostle,” except in John 13:16,16Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. (John 13:16) “he that is sent”; and in 2 Corinthians 8:2323Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. (2 Corinthians 8:23); Philippians 2:25,25Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. (Philippians 2:25) “messenger.” The term is primarily applied to the twelve chosen by the Lord to accompany Him during His ministry on earth. Their names were: Simon Peter; Andrew; James and John, sons of Zebedee; Philip; Bartholomew; Thomas; Matthew, called Levi; James, son of Alphaeus; Judas, called Lebbaeus and Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, called Zelotes; and Judas Iscariot (Matt. 10:22Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; (Matthew 10:2); Mark 3:1414And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, (Mark 3:14); Luke 6:1313And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles; (Luke 6:13)). When Judas had fallen, another had to be chosen to fill his place, one who had accompanied the Lord all the time that He had gone in and out among them: Matthias was chosen. Apostles are the first-named as set in the church (1 Cor. 12:2828And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. (1 Corinthians 12:28); Eph. 2:2020And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; (Ephesians 2:20)). Thus the number twelve was again complete: their names are written on the twelve foundations of the walls of the heavenly Jerusalem (Rev. 21:1414And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. (Revelation 21:14)). Paul was also an apostle, for he had seen “Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 9:11Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord? (1 Corinthians 9:1)). He was emphatically “the apostle of the Gentiles” (Rom. 11:1313For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: (Romans 11:13)), and also the apostle to whom was revealed the mystery of the church (Eph. 3:4-64Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; 6That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: (Ephesians 3:4‑6)). In 2 Corinthians 11:13,13For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:13) “false apostles” are named; and in Revelation 2:22I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: (Revelation 2:2) were some who said they were apostles, and were not such. {“See Offices and Gifts in the Church in Bible Subjects}
Apparel {See Garments}
Appeal This was the privilege of a Roman citizen to appeal from an inferior tribunal to the judgment of the emperor. Pliny mentions having sent some Christians to Rome, who also had appealed to Caesar. Acts 25:1111For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar. (Acts 25:11).
Appearing of Jesus
1. ἐπιφάνεια. In 1 Tim. 6:1414That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: (1 Timothy 6:14); 2 Tim. 4:1,81I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; (2 Timothy 4:1)
8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:8); Titus 2:1313Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; (Titus 2:13) translated “appearing”; and 2 Thess. 2:8, “brightness.”
2. ἀποκάλυψις. 1 Peter 1:77That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: (1 Peter 1:7) is the only place where it is translated “appearing”; in 1 Corinthians 1:77So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: (1 Corinthians 1:7) it is “coming”; but it is mostly “revelation,” as in Revelation 1:1,1The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: (Revelation 1:1) “The revelation of Jesus Christ,” which accounts for that book being often called “The Apocalypse.” “Appearing” is the revelation or manifestation of the Lord on His return to this earth. This should ever be distinguished from His coming to fetch the saints, which is the hope set before the Christian, and for which he should be always looking (see Luke 12:3636And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately. (Luke 12:36); John 14:2-32In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:2‑3); 1 Cor. 15:51-5751Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:51‑57); 1 Thess. 4:15-1815For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18Wherefore comfort one another with these words. (1 Thessalonians 4:15‑18)).
Appii Forum A station on the main road from Rome to the Bay of Naples, constructed by Appius Claudius. It was about 40 English miles from Rome. Acts 28:1515And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage. (Acts 28:15).
Apples of Gold in pictures of Silver. A symbol of fruit of Divine righteousness set in the beauty
Arabia In Galatians 4:2525For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. (Galatians 4:25) Mount Sinai is said to be in Arabia. This is a general name for the abode of the Arabs or Arabians, embracing the east of Lower Egypt, and the east of Israel and Syria, from the Red Sea to far north. Paul went into Arabia, and from thence to Damascus. Gal. 1:1717Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (Galatians 1:17).
Archangel, In Jude the archangel Michael, when contending about the body of Moses, did not bring a railing accusation against Satan, to teach us that we should not speak evil of dignities on earth. The coming of the Lord will be accompanied with archangel’s voice. The word itself implies that there are degrees in the angel world. 1 Thess. 4:1616For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: (1 Thessalonians 4:16); Jude 99Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. (Jude 9). {See Principality.}
Archelaus {See Archelaus in Bible Chronology article on the “History of the Jews”}
Areopagus, or Mars’ Hill The Greek is the same in both verses, ὁ” Αοειος Πάγος, the words being translated in verse 22. This was a high court for judicial and national purposes. It does not appear that Paul was before the council judicially, for to proclaim a new god was punishable with death; he was heard out of curiosity by the philosophers. Sixteen stone steps cut in the rock still lead to the spot. Acts 17:19,2219And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is? (Acts 17:19)
22Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. (Acts 17:22). {See Athens}
Ariel Lion of God. Figuratively the strong city of Jerusalem. Isa. 29.
Ark of the Covenant The ark in the tabernacle and the temple of the O.T. It is here mentioned as having contained “the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant” (Heb. 9:44Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; (Hebrews 9:4)). The ark was not in the temple in N.T. times. It was perhaps carried away to Babylon. Josephus says in his time, in the holy of holies “there was nothing at all” (“Wars,” 5:5, 5).
Ark
1. A symbol of Christ in His wondrous and adorable person as Man (the shittim wood), as God (the gold), Ex. 25:10-2210And they shall make an ark of shittim wood: two cubits and a half shall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof. 11And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, within and without shalt thou overlay it, and shalt make upon it a crown of gold round about. 12And thou shalt cast four rings of gold for it, and put them in the four corners thereof; and two rings shall be in the one side of it, and two rings in the other side of it. 13And thou shalt make staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold. 14And thou shalt put the staves into the rings by the sides of the ark, that the ark may be borne with them. 15The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it. 16And thou shalt put into the ark the testimony which I shall give thee. 17And thou shalt make a mercy seat of pure gold: two cubits and a half shall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof. 18And thou shalt make two cherubims of gold, of beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat. 19And make one cherub on the one end, and the other cherub on the other end: even of the mercy seat shall ye make the cherubims on the two ends thereof. 20And the cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubims be. 21And thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee. 22And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony, of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel. (Exodus 25:10‑22)
2. A symbol of the Seat of Divine strength. Psa. 132:88Arise, O Lord, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength. (Psalm 132:8).
3. A figure of Israel’s relationship with God. Rev. 11:1919And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail. (Revelation 11:19).
Armour The word in Rom. 13:1212The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. (Romans 13:12) and 2 Cor. 6:77By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, (2 Corinthians 6:7) is ὅπλον, which is “arms” rather than “armour.” For this dark night we need the arms of light; and the apostle could appeal to the Corinthians that among other things he had the arms of righteousness. In Luke 11:2222But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armor wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. (Luke 11:22) and Eph. 6:11-1711Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (Ephesians 6:11‑17) it is πανοπλία, the full armour, which among the Romans consisted of shield, sword, lance, helmet, greaves, and breastplate. Christ took all the armour from the strong one, Satan; and the Christian, amid the fiery darts of that same enemy in the heavenlies, needs the whole armour. Contrast the full armour needed for the situation in Ephesians with the simple “breastplate of faith and love,” and for a helmet “the hope of salvation” needed for the wilderness, in 1 Thess. 5:88But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. (1 Thessalonians 5:8).
Arts, curious {See Divination}
Asa physician. He reigned forty-one years over Judah. A pious king and zealous uprooter of idolatry; in his old age diseased in his feet. 2 Chron. 16.
Ash Tree This is not the modern tree of that name. What species is referred to is not known. It was used in the making of idols and various kinds of idolatrous images. Isa. 44:1414He heweth him down cedars, and taketh the cypress and the oak, which he strengtheneth for himself among the trees of the forest: he planteth an ash, and the rain doth nourish it. (Isaiah 44:14).
Ashes Ashes were cast on the head when mourning (Matt. 11:2121Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. (Matthew 11:21); Luke 10:1313Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. (Luke 10:13)). Paul also refers to the ashes of the red heifer sprinkling the unclean (Heb. 9:1313For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: (Hebrews 9:13); Num. 19:2-192This is the ordinance of the law which the Lord hath commanded, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring thee a red heifer without spot, wherein is no blemish, and upon which never came yoke: 3And ye shall give her unto Eleazar the priest, that he may bring her forth without the camp, and one shall slay her before his face: 4And Eleazar the priest shall take of her blood with his finger, and sprinkle of her blood directly before the tabernacle of the congregation seven times: 5And one shall burn the heifer in his sight; her skin, and her flesh, and her blood, with her dung, shall he burn: 6And the priest shall take cedar wood, and hyssop, and scarlet, and cast it into the midst of the burning of the heifer. 7Then the priest shall wash his clothes, and he shall bathe his flesh in water, and afterward he shall come into the camp, and the priest shall be unclean until the even. 8And he that burneth her shall wash his clothes in water, and bathe his flesh in water, and shall be unclean until the even. 9And a man that is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and lay them up without the camp in a clean place, and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of separation: it is a purification for sin. 10And he that gathereth the ashes of the heifer shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: and it shall be unto the children of Israel, and unto the stranger that sojourneth among them, for a statute for ever. 11He that toucheth the dead body of any man shall be unclean seven days. 12He shall purify himself with it on the third day, and on the seventh day he shall be clean: but if he purify not himself the third day, then the seventh day he shall not be clean. 13Whosoever toucheth the dead body of any man that is dead, and purifieth not himself, defileth the tabernacle of the Lord; and that soul shall be cut off from Israel: because the water of separation was not sprinkled upon him, he shall be unclean; his uncleanness is yet upon him. 14This is the law, when a man dieth in a tent: all that come into the tent, and all that is in the tent, shall be unclean seven days. 15And every open vessel, which hath no covering bound upon it, is unclean. 16And whosoever toucheth one that is slain with a sword in the open fields, or a dead body, or a bone of a man, or a grave, shall be unclean seven days. 17And for an unclean person they shall take of the ashes of the burnt heifer of purification for sin, and running water shall be put thereto in a vessel: 18And a clean person shall take hyssop, and dip it in the water, and sprinkle it upon the tent, and upon all the vessels, and upon the persons that were there, and upon him that touched a bone, or one slain, or one dead, or a grave: 19And the clean person shall sprinkle upon the unclean on the third day, and on the seventh day: and on the seventh day he shall purify himself, and wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and shall be clean at even. (Numbers 19:2‑19)); typical of the application of the sufferings of Christ by the Word to the heart and conscience, to cleanse the Christian in his walk. A symbol of deep humiliation, and thorough self-judgment. Job 42:66Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. (Job 42:6); Witness of the judgment of sin. Num. 19:9-109And a man that is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and lay them up without the camp in a clean place, and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of separation: it is a purification for sin. 10And he that gathereth the ashes of the heifer shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: and it shall be unto the children of Israel, and unto the stranger that sojourneth among them, for a statute for ever. (Numbers 19:9‑10).
Ass in Israel and adjacent countries, the ass was the favorite travelling animal, and was ridden by kings, nobles, and persons of distinction. Gen. 12:1616And he entreated Abram well for her sake: and he had sheep, and oxen, and he asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and she asses, and camels. (Genesis 12:16); Job 39:55Who hath sent out the wild ass free? or who hath loosed the bands of the wild ass? (Job 39:5). It betokened peace (Zech. 9:99Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. (Zechariah 9:9)), as the horse did war (Rev. 19:1111And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. (Revelation 19:11)). The wild ass is noted for its stubbornness, fleetness, love of freedom, etc. The ass of the East is a far superior animal to those in Europe, and is much used as a beast of burden. The animal has been honoured by bearing the Lord when He was presented in Jerusalem as Zion’s king (Matt. 21:2,2Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. (Matthew 21:2) etc.). A symbol of man in nature and ungovernable. Ex. 13:1313And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck: and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem. (Exodus 13:13); Job 11:1212For vain man would be wise, though man be born like a wild ass's colt. (Job 11:12).
Assembly
1. συναγωγή. The word mostly translated “synagogue” (James 2:22For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; (James 2:2)).
2. ἐκκλησία, referring to the people assembled in the theatre (Acts 19:32,39,4132Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together. (Acts 19:32)
39But if ye inquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly. (Acts 19:39)
41And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly. (Acts 19:41)). It is elsewhere always translated “church”, though its meaning is “assembly.”
3. πανήγυρις, “general assembly” (Heb. 12:2323To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, (Hebrews 12:23)). This should be joined to verse 22, and read, “to an innumerable company of angels, the general assembly,” (the word “and” separating the subjects); the “church of the firstborn” which follows is distinct.
Assos A seaport of Mysia, on the north shore of the Gulf of Adramyttium, in Asia Minor (Acts 20:13-1413And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot. 14And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene. (Acts 20:13‑14)). It may be seen on a map that Paul would be able to walk from Troas to Assos as quickly as a ship could sail the distance. It is now called Behram.
Athaliah [whom] the Lord afflicts. She reigned six years over Judah. A cruel woman, who murdered all the seed royal of Judah, save Joash, who was almost miraculously preserved. Athaliah was slain by her captains and officers. 2 Chron. 23.
Athenians The inhabitants of Athens. They were remarkable for their desire for something new. Demosthenes rebuked his countrymen for always asking, “What news?” which entirely agrees with the above scripture. Acts 17:2121(For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.) (Acts 17:21).
Atonement καταλλαγή. A careful reading of Leviticus 16 will supply a Divine and comprehensive answer to the oft-repeated question, “What is atonement?” It is the twofold aspect of the cross, or sacrificial work of Jesus; first, towards God, and then towards us. He “offered Himself without spot to God,” and besides, He “bare our sins in His own body on the tree.” These two parts of the atoning work of the Lord Jesus are fully developed and elaborated in the great atonement chapter of Leviticus (16), and, when combined, constitute a scriptural answer to the question, “What is atonement?” Romans 5:1111And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. (Romans 5:11) should have been translated “reconciliation,” as it is in 2 Corinthians 5:18-19,18And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:18‑19) and “reconciling” in Romans 11:1515For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? (Romans 11:15). Romans 5:1111And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. (Romans 5:11). The word “atonement” may be said not to occur in the New Testament. The doctrine is there, which in short is that the death of Christ is sacrificial: the Saviour dying instead of the sinner: life is given and accepted as a sacrifice for life forfeited. The sins of the believer are imputed to the Saviour; this is substitution, and the sinner is cleared of his guilt through faith in the atoning death of Christ.
Attalia A seaport of Pamphylia, in Asia Minor, whence Paul sailed on his return to Antioch. It is now called Adalia, and is described as standing on a high cliff above the sea, with no beach. Acts 14:2525And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: (Acts 14:25).
Authority {See Power}
Azariah or Uzziah help of the Lord. He reigned fifty-two years over Judah. For a considerable time this king earnestly sought the Lord and walked according to Divine counsel. Hence God prospered him in battle, and caused his name to be widely spread abroad. But when thus exalted his heart became filled with pride, and impiously usurping priestly functions, he was struck with leprosy, and continued a leper in a separate house assigned him till the day of his death. 2 Chron. 26.
Azotus Where Philip was found after accompanying the Eunuch. Acts 8:4040But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea. (Acts 8:40). It is about mid-way between Gaza and Joppa, about three miles from the sea. It is called Ashdod in the O.T. and now Esdud. It was destroyed by the Maccabees, but was restored by the Romans, and assigned to Salome.