B

Baali my Lord or husband. Jehovah in relationship to Israel as her husband and Lord. There is but one occurrence of this name in the Scriptures. Hos. 2:1616And it shall be at that day, saith the Lord, that thou shalt call me Ishi; and shalt call me no more Baali. (Hosea 2:16).
Baasha wickedness. He reigned twenty-four years over Israel. True to the meaning of his name, a most wicked king; the destroyer of the house of Jeroboam, and his own house threatened with a like total and utter destruction. 1 Kings 16.
Babylon
1. The ancient Babylon, whence the Israelites were carried captive. Matt. 1:11-12,1711And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: 12And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; (Matthew 1:11‑12)
17So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. (Matthew 1:17); Acts 7:4343Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon. (Acts 7:43).
2. A city referred to in 1 Peter 5:13,13The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. (1 Peter 5:13) where there was an assembly. Though the ancient Babylon had been destroyed, Josephus and Philo speak of it as being inhabited in their time, so that it is possible that this is the place alluded to.
3. Mystical Babylon. Rev. 14:8; 16:19; 17:5; 18:28And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. (Revelation 14:8)
19And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath. (Revelation 16:19)
5And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. (Revelation 17:5)
2And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. (Revelation 18:2). A symbol of the seat and source of the future ecclesiastical apostasy. Rev. 17:1818And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth. (Revelation 17:18).
Baca weeping, thus “the Valley of Baca” would be the Valley of Weeping. Psa. 84:66Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools. (Psalm 84:6).
Badger The skin of this animal was used as an outer covering in the tabernacle, and was peculiarly well adapted for the purpose, being exceedingly durable, impervious to the weather, and the fur being long and thick. Ex. 25:55And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood, (Exodus 25:5); Num. 4:88And they shall spread upon them a cloth of scarlet, and cover the same with a covering of badgers' skins, and shall put in the staves thereof. (Numbers 4:8). The skin of the badger is still a valuable commodity in the East. We see no reason for identifying this animal with the “seal,” as some do.
Balak empty. The future civil power leagued with the ecclesiastical (Balaam) power for the hurt of God’s people. Name occurs about 40 times in the Scriptures. Num. 22.
Balm A medicinal plant was a curative agent of high repute; its medicinal virtues, both as an external remedy for all kinds of wounds, and its internal efficacy in stomach and other complaints are well-known. Jer. 8:2222Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? (Jeremiah 8:22).
Baptism The following are alluded to in the N.T.
1. John’s baptism, the baptism of repentance (Matt. 3:77But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Matthew 3:7); Luke 3:3,3And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; (Luke 3:3) etc.).
2. Christian baptism (Rom. 6:33Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (Romans 6:3); Eph. 4:55One Lord, one faith, one baptism, (Ephesians 4:5); Col. 2:1212Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. (Colossians 2:12); 1 Peter 3:2121The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: (1 Peter 3:21)): “buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God” (Col. 2:1212Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. (Colossians 2:12)).
3. Baptized by the Holy Spirit into one body (1 Cor. 12:1313For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:13); Acts 1:5; 11:165For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. (Acts 1:5)
16Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. (Acts 11:16)).
4. The sufferings of the Lord (Mark 10:38-3938But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? 39And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized: (Mark 10:38‑39)).
5. Baptism of fire (Matt. 3:1111I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: (Matthew 3:11); Luke 3:1616John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: (Luke 3:16)) which is judgment.
6. The doctrine of baptisms (in the plural), (Heb. 6:22Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (Hebrews 6:2)) Jewish washings, which the Jewish believers were to leave.
Barabbas The notable robber, in prison for insurrection and murder, who was chosen by the rulers of Israel in preference to the Lord Jesus. Thought by some to be Satan’s mimicry of the true “Son of the Father,” which is what the name Barabbas signifies. Matt. 27:16-2616And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. 17Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ? 18For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. 19When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him. 20But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. 21The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas. 22Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified. 23And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified. 24When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. 25Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children. 26Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. (Matthew 27:16‑26).
Bar-Jesus {See Elymas}
Barnabas “Son of Consolation,” He was a Levite of Cyprus; his name was Joses, but he was called Barnabas by the disciples. He sold his land and laid the money at the apostles’ feet. He introduced Paul to the apostles at Jerusalem and related his conversion. When the apostles heard of the blessing at Antioch they sent Barnabas there, who greatly helped the converts. He fetched Paul from Tarsus to Antioch, and afterward went with him to Jerusalem to attend the conference of Acts 15. He also accompanied Paul in his first missionary journey; but desiring on another journey to take his relative, Mark (who before had left them), and Paul not consenting to it, he separated from him, and sailed with Mark to Cyprus. He was carried away by the dissimulation related in Galatians 2:1313And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. (Galatians 2:13). Acts 4:36; 9:27; 11:22-30; 12:25; 13; 14; 1536And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, (Acts 4:36)
27But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. (Acts 9:27)
22Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 25Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. 27And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judea: 30Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. (Acts 11:22‑30)
25And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark. (Acts 12:25); 1 Cor. 9:66Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working? (1 Corinthians 9:6); Gal. 2:1,9,131Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also. (Galatians 2:1)
9And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. (Galatians 2:9)
13And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. (Galatians 2:13); Col. 4:1010Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;) (Colossians 4:10).
Barsabas
1. Joseph, surnamed Justus, who was one of the two proposed for the apostleship in place of Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:2323And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. (Acts 1:23)).
2. Judas, sent with Silas from Jerusalem to Antioch to confirm the decision as to Gentile converts. They are styled “chief men among the brethren.” They were prophets who exhorted and confirmed the brethren at Antioch (Acts 15:22,27,3222Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren: (Acts 15:22)
27We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth. (Acts 15:27)
32And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them. (Acts 15:32)).
Basket
1. κόφινος, a light hand basket. Matt. 14:20; 16:920And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. (Matthew 14:20)
9Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? (Matthew 16:9); Mark 6:43; 8:1943And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. (Mark 6:43)
19When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve. (Mark 8:19); Luke 9:1717And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets. (Luke 9:17); John 6:1313Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten. (John 6:13).
2. σπυρίς. A larger basket used for corn, fish, etc. and in which Paul was let down by the wall. Matt. 15:37; 16:1037And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full. (Matthew 15:37)
10Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? (Matthew 16:10); Mark 8:8,208So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets. (Mark 8:8)
20And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven. (Mark 8:20); Acts 9:2525Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. (Acts 9:25).
3. σαργάνη, supposed to refer to its being made of wicker work. 2 Cor. 11:3333And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands. (2 Corinthians 11:33).
Bat This nocturnal little animal dreads the light. Swarms of them inhabit the caverns and dark recesses so common in Israel. It was an unclean animal under the law, and is the chosen symbol of darkness and desolation. Lev. 11:1919And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. (Leviticus 11:19); Isa. 2:2020In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; (Isaiah 2:20).
Bay Tree A tree native to Israel. It was a tree of rapid growth and of speedy decay, of thick foliage and wide-spread branches. Psa. 37:3535I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. (Psalm 37:35).
Beans are mixed with various kinds of food, and largely partaken of by the poor.
Beast A symbol of imperial power acting without reference to God. The four great empires are represented as wild beasts in Daniel 7. Used of the Cretans (Titus 1:1212One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. (Titus 1:12)) and of the head of the future Roman power and of Antichrist (Rev. 13:1,12-181And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. (Revelation 13:1)
12And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 14And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. 15And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 16And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 17And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. 18Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six. (Revelation 13:12‑18)). “Beasts of the earth” are distinguished from “cattle,” in Genesis 1:24,24And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. (Genesis 1:24) the former being wild animals, while the latter are domesticated.
1. θηρίον. In James 3:77For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: (James 3:7) used in distinction from birds and serpents; used of “wild beasts” (Mark 1:1313And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him. (Mark 1:13); Acts 10:12; 11:612Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (Acts 10:12)
6Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (Acts 11:6); Rev. 6:88And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. (Revelation 6:8)) and “venomous beast” (Acts 28:4-54And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live. 5And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm. (Acts 28:4‑5)).
2. ζῶον. Something “alive,” an animal. Used of beasts of sacrifice, (Heb. 13:1111For the bodies of those beasts, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned without the camp. (Hebrews 13:11)), also the “natural brute beasts,” (2 Peter 2:1212But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; (2 Peter 2:12); Jude 1010But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. (Jude 10)), and for the four living creatures (Rev. 4: 6-9; 5:6,8,11,14,6And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. (Revelation 5:6)
8And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odors, which are the prayers of saints. (Revelation 5:8)
11And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; (Revelation 5:11)
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.).
3. κτῆνος. Animals as “property” (Luke 10:3434And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. (Luke 10:34); Acts 23:2424And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor. (Acts 23:24); 1 Cor. 15:3939All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. (1 Corinthians 15:39); Rev. 18:1313And cinnamon, and odors, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. (Revelation 18:13)).
4. τετράπους. “four-footed” (Acts 10:12; 11:612Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (Acts 10:12)
6Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. (Acts 11:6); Rom. 1:2323And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (Romans 1:23)).
5. σφάγιον. a “slain beast” (Acts 7:4242Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness? (Acts 7:42)).
6. θηριομαχέω. “to fight with a θηρίον” (1 Cor. 15:3232If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. (1 Corinthians 15:32)). Paul’s fighting with beasts most probably refers to the adversaries who contended with him at Ephesus.
Bed
1. κράββατος. A common bed, like a thick-padded quilt, which could be easily rolled up and carried (Mark 2:4,9,11-12,4And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. (Mark 2:4)
9Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? (Mark 2:9)
11I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. 12And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion. (Mark 2:11‑12) etc.). It is also translated “couch” in Acts 5:1515Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. (Acts 5:15).
2. κλίνη. That on which persons “recline” (Matt. 9:22And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. (Matthew 9:2)). It might be placed on a raised frame, under which a candle, or rather a small flat lamp, could be placed, and frame and all be called “a bed” or a couch (Luke 5:19,2419And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus. (Luke 5:19)
24But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. (Luke 5:24); Mark 4:21,21And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? (Mark 4:21) etc.).
3. κοίτη. On which “to lie” (Luke 11:77And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. (Luke 11:7); Heb. 13:44Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. (Hebrews 13:4)). 4. στρώννυμι. “smoothing” the bed (Acts 9:3434And Peter said unto him, Eneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. (Acts 9:34)).
Bee(s) This most useful insect was and is still most numerous in the East. The dry and warm climate and varied flora of the country have made Israel famous for its honey “a land flowing with . . . honey.” From the numerous hives, both of wild and domesticated bees, the inhabitants from time immemorial have derived a considerable revenue from the sale of the rich honey so plentiful, being found in rocks and hollow trees. The immense swarms and fierce attacks upon man and beast are frequently alluded to in Scripture. A symbol of numerous enemies. Deut. 1:4444And the Amorites, which dwelt in that mountain, came out against you, and chased you, as bees do, and destroyed you in Seir, even unto Hormah. (Deuteronomy 1:44); Judg. 14:88And after a time he returned to take her, and he turned aside to see the carcase of the lion: and, behold, there was a swarm of bees and honey in the carcase of the lion. (Judges 14:8); Psa. 118:1212They compassed me about like bees; they are quenched as the fire of thorns: for in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. (Psalm 118:12). A symbol of the Assyrian in latter-day judgment upon Israel. Isa. 7:1818And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall hiss for the fly that is in the uttermost part of the rivers of Egypt, and for the bee that is in the land of Assyria. (Isaiah 7:18).
Beetle Lev. 11:2222Even these of them ye may eat; the locust after his kind, and the bald locust after his kind, and the beetle after his kind, and the grasshopper after his kind. (Leviticus 11:22) is the only place where the word “beetle” occurs, and judging from the description given, it must have been of the “locust” species, and hence allowed for food.
Beginning άρχή. Besides the ordinary meaning of this as the commencement of anything, it has special reference to:
1. Eternity. John 1:1-21In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2The same was in the beginning with God. (John 1:1‑2).
2. Satan has sinned, and been a murderer from the beginning (perhaps of his fall, or the record of Scripture). 1 John 3:88He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. (1 John 3:8); John 8:4444Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. (John 8:44).
3. Beginning of the creation. Mark 10:66But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. (Mark 10:6); Heb. 1:1010And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: (Hebrews 1:10); 2 Peter 3:44And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. (2 Peter 3:4).
4. Christ is called “the beginning of the creation of God,” the Head of the new creation. Rev. 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).
5. Beginning of Christianity. 1 John 1:1; 2:71That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (1 John 1:1)
7Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. (1 John 2:7).
6. αἰών. Literally, “throughout the ages,” eternity. Acts 15:1818Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. (Acts 15:18); Eph. 3:99And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (Ephesians 3:9).
Belial worthless. (Deut. 13:1313Certain men, the children of Belial, are gone out from among you, and have withdrawn the inhabitants of their city, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which ye have not known; (Deuteronomy 13:13)) Frequently used of wicked, worthless persons (Deut 13:13; 1 Kings 21:1010And set two men, sons of Belial, before him, to bear witness against him, saying, Thou didst blaspheme God and the king. And then carry him out, and stone him, that he may die. (1 Kings 21:10)); “wicked heart” (Deut. 15:99Beware that there be not a thought in thy wicked heart, saying, The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand; and thine eye be evil against thy poor brother, and thou givest him nought; and he cry unto the Lord against thee, and it be sin unto thee. (Deuteronomy 15:9)), “ungodly men” (2 Sam. 22:55When the waves of death compassed me, the floods of ungodly men made me afraid; (2 Samuel 22:5)), “evil disease” (Psa. 41:88An evil disease, say they, cleaveth fast unto him: and now that he lieth he shall rise up no more. (Psalm 41:8)), “wicked thing” (Psa. 101:33I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. (Psalm 101:3)), “naughty person” (Prov. 6:1212A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth. (Proverbs 6:12)), “wicked counsellor” (Nah. 1:1111There is one come out of thee, that imagineth evil against the Lord, a wicked counsellor. (Nahum 1:11)), etc. are translations of the word Belial. So in 2 Corinthians 6:1515And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? (2 Corinthians 6:15) it stands in contrast to Christ, and as such would well apply to Satan.
Belshazzar. prince whom Bel (god of Babylon) favours. This last of the Chaldean monarchs illustrates profanity at its height, visited by the sharp and sudden judgment of God; it is also typical of impiety of a like kind, and of judgment as suddenly executed in the closing days of Christendom’s apostasy. Name occurs about 8 times, and only in the prophet Daniel. Dan. 5.
Bernice or Berenice Daughter of Herod Agrippa I. wife of her uncle, Herod, King of Chalcis, and afterward wife of Polemon, king of Cilicia. With her brother, Agrippa II. she visited Festus at Caesarea and formed part of the court before which Paul’s case was heard. Eventually she became mistress of Vespasian, and afterward of Titus. Acts 25:1313And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus. (Acts 25:13).
Bethabara It was somewhere “beyond” or to the east of Jordan, but where is not known. The oldest MSS. read “Bethany.” Some suppose the two names refer to the same place. John 1:2828These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. (John 1:28).
Bethany signifies “house of dates.” It was where Lazarus and his sisters resided, and where the Lord found a sort of retreat. It was here that Lazarus was raised from the dead, and it was near this place that the Lord ascended into heaven, on the east slope of the mount of Olives, about two miles from Jerusalem. Matt. 21:17; 26:617And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there. (Matthew 21:17)
6Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, (Matthew 26:6); Mark 11:1,12; 14:31And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples, (Mark 11:1)
12And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry: (Mark 11:12)
3And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. (Mark 14:3); Luke 19:29; 24:5029And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, (Luke 19:29)
50And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. (Luke 24:50); John 11:1,18; 12:11Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (John 11:1)
18Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off: (John 11:18)
1Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead. (John 12:1). It is now a miserable hamlet called El Azariyeh, “the place of Lazarus.” {See Bethabara}
Bethesda Its meaning is probably “house of effusion, or mercy.” It had five porches, in which lay the sick and infirm, waiting for the agitation of the water by an angel. It was near the sheep gate or market. John 5:22Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. (John 5:2). {See Jerusalem in Bible Subjects}
Bethlehem It signifies “house of bread.” It was the birthplace of the Lord, and is called “the city of David” (Luke 2:1111For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11)), because David was born there. This must not be confounded with Zion, which is also called “the city of David” (2 Sam. 5:77Nevertheless David took the strong hold of Zion: the same is the city of David. (2 Samuel 5:7)). Matt. 2:1,6,8,161Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, (Matthew 2:1)
6And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. (Matthew 2:6)
8And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. (Matthew 2:8)
16Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. (Matthew 2:16); Luke 2:4,154And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) (Luke 2:4)
15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. (Luke 2:15); John 7:4242Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was? (John 7:42). Its modern name is Beit-lahm. It lies five miles south of Jerusalem, is a better town than some in Israel, and has about 2,000 inhabitants. It seems beautifully significant that the One who was emphatically the “bread of God” and the “bread of life” should have been born in “the House of Bread.”
Bethsaida It signifies “house of fish.” There can be little doubt that there were two places of this name: indeed this is implied by one being called Bethsaida “of Galilee,” to distinguish it from some other. This was on the west of the Lake of Tiberias near the north. In the “woes” pronounced by the Lord, it is associated with Capernaum and Chorazin — places also near the north end of the lake. Philip, Andrew, and Peter were of this city. 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); Mark 6:4545And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. (Mark 6:45); 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); John 1:44; 12:2144Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. (John 1:44)
21The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. (John 12:21). Its site cannot now be identified. The other Bethsaida was on the east of the lake, farther north, near the desert, where the five thousand were fed (Luke 9:1010And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. (Luke 9:10); see also Matt. 14:1313When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities. (Matthew 14:13); Mark 6:3232And they departed into a desert place by ship privately. (Mark 6:32)). Mark 8:2222And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him. (Mark 8:22) also refers to the same. This city was called “Julias” by Philip the Tetrarch, after the emperor’s daughter Julia. A mound of shapeless stones, called et-Tell, “the hill,” is supposed to mark its site.
Bier, σορός, Probably the same light frame referred to under Bed (Luke 7:1414And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. (Luke 7:14)). In the O.T. the Hebrew word mittah is translated “bier” and “bed.”
Bishop επἰσκοπος from “to look over,” an overseer. In Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:77For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; (Titus 1:7) we find that moral qualifications are insisted upon: “a bishop must be blameless,” though nothing is said of gift. In Acts 20:17-3517And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. 18And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, 19Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: 20And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, 21Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 22And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: 23Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. 24But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. 25And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. 26Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 28Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. 32And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. 33I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. 34Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. 35I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:17‑35) Paul sent for the elders of Ephesus, and to them he said, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed [or shepherd] the church of God”; for much evil was coming in. From this and from 1 Timothy 5:1717Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. (1 Timothy 5:17) we learn that some at least were gifted to administer the Word to the souls of the saints. The Lord Jesus is called the “Shepherd and Bishop” of souls. 1 Peter 2:2525For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. (1 Peter 2:25). {See Offices and Gifts in the Church in Bible Subjects}
Bithynia A mountainous district in the north of Asia Minor. It was a Roman province. Paul was not suffered to enter there; but it is one of the places mentioned by Peter in his epistle to the strangers of the dispersion. Acts 16:77After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. (Acts 16:7); 1 Peter 1:11Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, (1 Peter 1:1).
Bitter Herbs were eaten at the Passover Supper (Ex. 12). Repentance and self-judgment were to accompany the memorial of redemption. There are many native plants of a bitter kind, as wild lettuce, chicory, etc.
Blasphemy, The word “blasphemy” is really a Greek word, βλασφημία. It has in Scripture a much wider sense than that in which it is now used, and is not confined to speaking evil of God; it may refer to any evil speaking or reviling. It is used in this sense of God (Rev.13:6; 16:9,11,21, etc.); of the Lord Jesus (James 2:77Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? (James 2:7); 1 Peter 4:1414If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (1 Peter 4:14)); and of the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:2929But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation: (Mark 3:29)). Paul uses the same word as to himself, translated “being defamed” (1 Cor. 4:1313Being defamed, we entreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day. (1 Corinthians 4:13)), and “evil spoken of” (1 Cor. 10:3030For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? (1 Corinthians 10:30); see also 1 Tim. 6:11Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. (1 Timothy 6:1); Titus 2:55To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. (Titus 2:5); 3:2; Jude 88Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. (Jude 8)). There may be many sins against the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:5151Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. (Acts 7:51)), but it was blasphemy against Him — and that only — that the Lord declared could not be forgiven.
Blood. 1. A symbol of dreadful slaughter. Rev. 14:2020And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs. (Revelation 14:20). 2. A symbol of the pollutions of human nature. Ezek. 16:66And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live. (Ezekiel 16:6). 3. A symbol of life forfeited by sin, but claimed by a holy God. Lev. 17:10-14; 3:1710And whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, that eateth any manner of blood; I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood, and will cut him off from among his people. 11For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. 12Therefore I said unto the children of Israel, No soul of you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger that sojourneth among you eat blood. 13And whatsoever man there be of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, which hunteth and catcheth any beast or fowl that may be eaten; he shall even pour out the blood thereof, and cover it with dust. 14For it is the life of all flesh; the blood of it is for the life thereof: therefore I said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall eat the blood of no manner of flesh: for the life of all flesh is the blood thereof: whosoever eateth it shall be cut off. (Leviticus 17:10‑14)
17It shall be a perpetual statute for your generations throughout all your dwellings, that ye eat neither fat nor blood. (Leviticus 3:17). 4. A symbol of complete apostasy from God and truth. Rev. 16:33And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea. (Revelation 16:3).
Blue A symbol of heavenly character. The leading colour used in the construction of the coverings, curtains, and veil of the Tabernacle. Ex. 25-28.
Boar The wild boar, although only mentioned once, was and is yet found in large numbers in the woods of Israel, and is one of the most destructive animals amongst the crops, vineyards, and flocks. Psa. 80:1313The boar out of the wood doth waste it, and the wild beast of the field doth devour it. (Psalm 80:13). Amongst Jews and Moslems this animal is regarded as peculiarly unclean.
Bondman -woman -maid {See Servant}
Book of Life Symbol of  register of the elect or of profession. Phil. 4:33And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlaborers, whose names are in the book of life. (Philippians 4:3); Rev. 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12-15; 21:27; 22:195He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. (Revelation 3:5)
8And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Revelation 13:8)
8The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. (Revelation 17:8)
12And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:12‑15)
27And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life. (Revelation 21:27)
19And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. (Revelation 22:19).
Book
1. The books mentioned in the N.T. were rolls of parchment or skins prepared for writing on. Those for the synagogue had a roller fastened at each end, by which the reader could by holding a roller in each hand unroll the book as he read. In a usual way the rolls would be written on one side only, but the one mentioned in Revelation 5:11And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. (Revelation 5:1) was written on the back also, because of the fullness of the subject. This form of book explains the “seals” spoken of in this passage. A portion of the book had been rolled up, and a seal affixed; then another portion rolled up, and another seal, until there were seven seals applied; opening a seal would reveal only a section of the roll. Papyrus was also used for writing on (2 John 1212Having many things to write unto you, I would not write with paper and ink: but I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy may be full. (2 John 12)). It is supposed to be alluded to by “books” in 2 Timothy 4:13,13The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. (2 Timothy 4:13) because of the “parchments” being named separately.
2. A symbol of a record of open judgment. Rev. 10:22And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth, (Revelation 10:2).
3. A symbol of a register of Christian profession written in time. Rev. 3:55He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. (Revelation 3:5).
4. A symbol of a register of real believers written in eternity. Rev. 13:88And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. (Revelation 13:8).
Borrowed asked or demanded. The word “borrowed” means and does not at all imply a return, as in the case of the Egyptians (Ex. 12:3535And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: (Exodus 12:35)).
Bottles The putting of new wine into new bottles, because the elasticity of the new leather allowed fermentation of the wine, clearly shows that the bottles alluded to were made of skins. The skins of kids and goats were used, and the hair was left on the outside, and the inside was tanned. Such bottles are still used in the East. The lesson taught by the Lord was, that the new order of things introduced by Christ could not be put into the forms of the old order: there must be a new life given: a new creation. Bottles were also made of earthenware by the potter. Matt. 9:1717Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved. (Matthew 9:17); Mark 2:2222And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles. (Mark 2:22); Luke 5:37-3837And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. (Luke 5:37‑38).
Bottomless pit {See Deep}
Bow
1. Symbol of  distant warfare. Rev. 6:22And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. (Revelation 6:2); Psa. 37:14-1514The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation. 15Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken. (Psalm 37:14‑15). 
2. A symbol of deceit and falsehood. Jer. 9:33And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies: but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 9:3).
Box Tree was a rich and beautiful wood, and in ancient times was used for the inlaying of ivory in articles of value.
Bramble, Briers, Thorns, Thistle, Pricks, Nettles. There are about 20 Hebrew words denoting various prickly plants, emblematic of the curse, and which abound in Israel. The references in Scripture to these plants are numerous.
Brass (Copper).
1. A symbol of the Grecian Empire. Dan. 2:3939And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth. (Daniel 2:39).
2. A symbol of strength and endurance. Psa. 107:1616For he hath broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder. (Psalm 107:16); Zech. 6:11And I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came four chariots out from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass. (Zechariah 6:1); Mic. 4:1313Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion: for I will make thine horn iron, and I will make thy hoofs brass: and thou shalt beat in pieces many people: and I will consecrate their gain unto the Lord, and their substance unto the Lord of the whole earth. (Micah 4:13).
3. A symbol of Christ’s ability in bearing the responsibility of the sinner, as in the brazen altar. Ex. 27:1-71And thou shalt make an altar of shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar shall be foursquare: and the height thereof shall be three cubits. 2And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass. 3And thou shalt make his pans to receive his ashes, and his shovels, and his basons, and his fleshhooks, and his firepans: all the vessels thereof thou shalt make of brass. 4And thou shalt make for it a grate of network of brass; and upon the net shalt thou make four brazen rings in the four corners thereof. 5And thou shalt put it under the compass of the altar beneath, that the net may be even to the midst of the altar. 6And thou shalt make staves for the altar, staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with brass. 7And the staves shall be put into the rings, and the staves shall be upon the two sides of the altar, to bear it. (Exodus 27:1‑7).
4. A symbol of Christ’s ability in sustaining the responsibility of the saint, as in the brazen laver. Ex. 38:88And he made the laver of brass, and the foot of it of brass, of the lookingglasses of the women assembling, which assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. (Exodus 38:8).
5. A symbol of the firmness of Divine judgment. Rev. 1:1515And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. (Revelation 1:15).
Brass, What metal is actually referred to is doubtful. Brass is really a compound of metals, and it is known that in the early Egyptian era a sort of bronze was used which was a compound. Whether it is this or another compound, or simply copper, that is referred to in the N. T. is not known (Deut. 8:99A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any thing in it; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass. (Deuteronomy 8:9)). It is χαλκός and is referred to as money (Matt. 10:99Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, (Matthew 10:9)); as a sonorous substance (1 Cor. 13:11Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (1 Corinthians 13:1)); as a commodity of merchandise (Rev. 18:1212The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, (Revelation 18:12)); and (χάλκεος) as a metal of which idols were made (Rev. 9:2020And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: (Revelation 9:20)). In Revelation 1:15; 2:1815And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. (Revelation 1:15)
18And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; (Revelation 2:18) it is χαλκολίβανον, supposed to be “fine or glowing brass or copper.” The feet of the Lord are like this, because He is represented as acting in firmness of judgment and treading the winepress of God’s wrath.
Bread Often used in Scripture to denote food in general. Loaves in the East were made of wheaten flower or barley, leavened, and baked in flat cakes. As a rule they were made every day sufficient for the family, and if a visitor arrived fresh bread was made. {See Oven}
1. Symbol of  sustenance. Matt. 4:4; 2 Cor. 9:1010Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) (2 Corinthians 9:10). In allusion to the manna of the O.T. our Lord declared that He was the true bread, the bread of life, the bread of God, the bread that came down from heaven, the living bread: “He that eateth of this bread shall live for ever” (John 6:51,5851I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. (John 6:51)
58This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever. (John 6:58)).
2. A symbol of Jesus incarnate. John 6.
3. One loaf, A symbol of Christ for the communion of the Church — one being the expression of her unity. 1 Cor. 10:1717For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. (1 Corinthians 10:17).
4. Twelve loaves, A symbol of Christ for the communion of Israel — twelve being the expression of her unity. Lev. 24:5-95And thou shalt take fine flour, and bake twelve cakes thereof: two tenth deals shall be in one cake. 6And thou shalt set them in two rows, six on a row, upon the pure table before the Lord. 7And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon each row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, even an offering made by fire unto the Lord. 8Every sabbath he shall set it in order before the Lord continually, being taken from the children of Israel by an everlasting covenant. 9And it shall be Aaron's and his sons'; and they shall eat it in the holy place: for it is most holy unto him of the offerings of the Lord made by fire by a perpetual statute. (Leviticus 24:5‑9). 5. A symbol of refreshment. Gen. 14:1818And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. (Genesis 14:18).
Bride, Bridegroom, Besides the use of these names in a natural way (Rev. 18:2323And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. (Revelation 18:23)), they are also referred to Christ and the church. John the Baptist, referring to a simple fact, says, “He that hath the bride is the bridegroom,” which is true also of Christ; and adds, in reference to himself, “the friend of the bridegroom  ... rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice” (John 3:2929He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. (John 3:29)). The Lord refers to Himself as the bridegroom, and to His disciples as the “children of the bridechamber”: they were not yet in the position of the bride (Matt. 9:15,15And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast. (Matthew 9:15) etc.). In Matthew 25, Christ is still the Bridegroom, and His saints are the virgins who have gone forth to meet Him. The holy city, new Jerusalem, is seen prepared as a bride adorned for her husband: she is the Lamb’s wife. The bride is not seen walking in the city, she is the city symbolically (Rev. 21:2,92And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (Revelation 21:2)
9And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will show thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. (Revelation 21:9)). The Spirit and the bride respond to the Lord, and say, Come.
Building, Builders
1. The Jewish rulers were the builders who refused Christ as “the stone.” Matt. 21:4242Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? (Matthew 21:42); Acts 4:1111This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (Acts 4:11); 1 Pet. 2:77Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, (1 Peter 2:7).
2. The saints are God’s building. 1 Cor. 3:99For we are laborers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. (1 Corinthians 3:9). They are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone (see Eph. 2:20-2220And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:20‑22); 1 Peter 2:55Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:5); Col. 2:77Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. (Colossians 2:7)). 3. Man also builds. Paul was a master-builder, or architect, who laid the foundation; he cautioned others to take heed what they built thereon, or their work might be burnt up. 1 Cor. 3:10-1510According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. 11For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 14If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (1 Corinthians 3:10‑15). There is a continual building up of souls, which the saints are exhorted to do; this is often referred to as “edifying” (the Greek words are the same). 1 Cor. 14:5,12,265I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. (1 Corinthians 14:5)
12Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. (1 Corinthians 14:12)
26How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. (1 Corinthians 14:26); Eph. 4:12,16,29,12For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (Ephesians 4:12)
16From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Ephesians 4:16)
29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29) etc. When things have got to their worst, we are to be building up ourselves on our most holy faith. Jude 2020But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, (Jude 20).
Bulrush, Rushes, Flags, Reeds, etc. These various words signify the papyrus plant of Egypt, now extinct, and from which the earliest paper was derived. This plant is still found in certain marshy places in Israel.
Burial {See Sepulchres, Tombs and Burials in Bible Subjects}
Bushel {See Dry Measure in “Measures of Capacity” in Bible Subjects}