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. 2:16.
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.
Babe Symbol of a stunted, untaught Christian state. 1 Cor. 3:1; Heb. 5:12-14.
Babylon Symbol of corrupt worldliness. Rev. 14:8; 16:19; Dan. 4:30.
Babylon
1. The ancient Babylon, whence the Israelites were carried captive. Matt. 1:11-12,17; Acts 7:43.
2. A city referred to in 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; 18:2. A symbol of the seat and source of the future ecclesiastical apostasy. Rev. 17:18.
Baca weeping, thus “the Valley of Baca” would be the Valley of Weeping. Psa. 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. 25:5; Num. 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.
Badgers’ Skins A symbol of defence against the various forms of evil from without. Ezek. 16:10; Ex. 26:14.
Bakers’ Street In the East persons of the same occupation generally resided in the same street, hence Bakers’ Street. Jer. 37:21.
Balaam destruction of the people. The N.T. throws light upon the character of this soothsayer. He “loved the wages of unrighteousness,” and taught Balac how to seduce the children of Israel, which was really doing Satan’s work. He was slain by the Israelites in their war against Midian. Num. 22; Josh. 13:22; 2 Peter 2:15; Jude 11; Rev. 2:14. Symbol of ecclesiastical corruption turned to account by Satan for the hurt of God’s people. Name occurs about 60 times in the Scriptures.
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.
Balance A symbol of man Divinely measured. A time of famine. Dan. 5:27; Rev. 6:5-6.
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. 8:22.
Baptism The following are alluded to in the N.T.
1. John’s baptism, the baptism of repentance (Matt. 3:7; Luke 3:3, etc.).
2. Christian baptism (Rom. 6:3; Eph. 4:5; Col. 2:12; 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. 2:12).
3. Baptized by the Holy Spirit into one body (1 Cor. 12:13; Acts 1:5; 11:16).
4. The sufferings of the Lord (Mark 10:38-39).
5. Baptism of fire (Matt. 3:11; Luke 3:16) which is judgment.
6. The doctrine of baptisms (in the plural), (Heb. 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. 27:16-26.
Barbarian βάρβαρος. In the N.T. this refers to those who were not Greeks or Romans, or did not understand the Greek language. Acts 28:4; Rom. 1:14; 1 Cor. 14:11; Col. 3:11. Thus in Romans 1:14, Tyndale had “To the Grekes, and to them which are no Grekes”; Cranmer, “Vngrekes.” In Colossians 3:11 “Barbarian” is supposed to refer to those who did not speak Greek, and “Scythian” to those beyond the north eastern boundaries of the Roman empire.
Bar-Jona Peter referred to as “Simon, son of Jonas.” Matt. 16:17.
Barley, κριθή. In Israel, this is used as food for horses, and is mixed with wheat for bread by the poor; bread made all of barley is the commonest food. In Revelation 6:6 its value is one-third of wheat. When the Lord fed the 5,000 it was by multiplying the barley loaves. John 6:9-13.
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 2:13. Acts 4:36; 9:27; 11:22-30; 12:25; 13; 14; 15; 1 Cor. 9:6; Gal. 2:1,9,13; Col. 4:10.
Barsabas
1. Joseph, surnamed Justus, who was one of the two proposed for the apostleship in place of Judas Iscariot (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 15:22,27,32).
Bartholomew One of the twelve apostles. Matt. 10:3, etc. {See Nathanael}
Bartimaeus A blind beggar of Jericho, who on crying to Jesus as the Son of David was heard and received his sight. Mark 10:46-52.
Base ignoble. 1 Cor. 1:28.
Basket
1. κόφινος, a light hand basket. Matt. 14:20; 16:9; Mark 6:43; 8:19; Luke 9:17; 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; 16:10; Mark 8:8,20; Acts 9:25.
3. σαργάνη, supposed to refer to its being made of wicker work. 2 Cor. 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. 11:19; Isa. 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. 37:35.
Beans are mixed with various kinds of food, and largely partaken of by the poor.
Bear The fierceness, cruelty, and tenacity of grasp displayed by this animal are frequently referred to in the prophets. Anciently it was the dread and terror of the Palestinian shepherds. Now, however, the bear is only to be seen in the mountainous parts of the country. 2 Sam. 17:8; Dan. 7:5. A symbol of a powerful and destructive enemy. Persian Empire. Prov. 17:12; Dan. 7:5.
Beard A symbol of human energy displayed. 2 Sam. 10:5; Lev. 14:9; Jer. 48:37.
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 1:12) and of the head of the future Roman power and of Antichrist (Rev. 13:1,12-18). “Beasts of the earth” are distinguished from “cattle,” in Genesis 1:24, the former being wild animals, while the latter are domesticated.
1. θηρίον. In James 3:7 used in distinction from birds and serpents; used of “wild beasts” (Mark 1:13; Acts 10:12; 11:6; Rev. 6:8) and “venomous beast” (Acts 28:4-5).
2. ζῶον. Something “alive,” an animal. Used of beasts of sacrifice, (Heb. 13:11), also the “natural brute beasts,” (2 Peter 2:12; Jude 10), and for the four living creatures (Rev. 4: 6-9; 5:6,8,11,14, etc.).
3. κτῆνος. Animals as “property” (Luke 10:34; Acts 23:24; 1 Cor. 15:39; Rev. 18:13).
4. τετράπους. “four-footed” (Acts 10:12; 11:6; Rom. 1:23).
5. σφάγιον. a “slain beast” (Acts 7:42).
6. θηριομαχέω. “to fight with a θηρίον” (1 Cor. 15:32). Paul’s fighting with beasts most probably refers to the adversaries who contended with him at Ephesus.
Because that. Matt. 20:31.
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, etc.). It is also translated “couch” in Acts 5:15.
2. κλίνη. That on which persons “recline” (Matt. 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 5:19,24; Mark 4:21, etc.).
3. κοίτη. On which “to lie” (Luke 11:7; Heb. 13:4). 4. στρώννυμι. “smoothing” the bed (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. 1:44; Judg. 14:8; Psa. 118:12. A symbol of the Assyrian in latter-day judgment upon Israel. Isa. 7:18.
Beelzebub, or Beelzebul They are said by the scribes and Pharisees to be the prince of demons (Matt. 12:24,27; Luke 11:15-19). The meaning of the word is not known, but Jesus takes up the accusation as applying to Satan.
Beetle Lev. 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.
Beeves cattle. Signifies domestic animals. Lev. 22:19.
Beginning άρχή. Besides the ordinary meaning of this as the commencement of anything, it has special reference to:
1. Eternity. 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 3:8; John 8:44.
3. Beginning of the creation. Mark 10:6; Heb. 1:10; 2 Peter 3:4.
4. Christ is called “the beginning of the creation of God,” the Head of the new creation. Rev. 3:14.
5. Beginning of Christianity. 1 John 1:1; 2:7.
6. αἰών. Literally, “throughout the ages,” eternity. Acts 15:18; Eph. 3:9.
Behemoth A gigantic animal, generally understood as the huge Hippopotamus, frequenting the rivers of Africa, and anciently found in the Jordan. “He is the chief of the ways of God” in the animal creation. Job 40:15-24.
Belial worthless. (Deut. 13:13) Frequently used of wicked, worthless persons (Deut 13:13; 1 Kings 21:10); “wicked heart” (Deut. 15:9), “ungodly men” (2 Sam. 22:5), “evil disease” (Psa. 41:8), “wicked thing” (Psa. 101:3), “naughty person” (Prov. 6:12), “wicked counsellor” (Nah. 1:11), etc. are translations of the word Belial. So in 2 Corinthians 6:15 it stands in contrast to Christ, and as such would well apply to Satan.
Believers Those who believed the gospel. Acts 5:14; 1 Tim. 4:12. The believers were a class of persons: they believed the record God gave of His Son and of His work, in contrast to unbelievers or infidels (see 2 Cor. 6:15).
Bells A symbol of the declared testimony of the Holy Spirit to Christ’s acceptance and work within the veil. Ex. 28:33-34; 39:25-26.
Belly Symbol of inner man, the inward condition. John 7:38; Rom. 16:18; Psa. 44:25; Rev 10:9-10.
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.
Berea A city of Macedonia near Thessalonica, where the Jews were more noble, in that they searched the Scriptures to judge of Paul’s preaching. Its modern name is Verria. Acts 17:10-15; 20:4.
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 25:13.
Beryl βήρυλλος. Perhaps a variety of chalcedony, of a yellow colour, but there are various opinions concerning this stone. Rev. 21:20. The eighth foundation of the heavenly Jerusalem. It occurs in the LXX in Exodus 28:20; 36:20; 39:13; Ezekiel 28:13. {See Chalcedony}
Besom a broom. Isa. 14:23.
Bestead distressed or pressed. Isa. 8:21.
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 1:28.
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; 26:6; Mark 11:1,12; 14:3; Luke 19:29; 24:50; John 11:1,18; 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 5:2. {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 2:11), because David was born there. This must not be confounded with Zion, which is also called “the city of David” (2 Sam. 5:7). Matt. 2:1,6,8,16; Luke 2:4,15; 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.”
Bethphage It signifies “house of figs.” A village on the eastern declivity of the mount of Olives, not far from Bethany. Matt. 21:1; Mark 11:1; Luke 19:29. Its site is not now identified.
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. 11:21; Mark 6:45; Luke 10:13; John 1:44; 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 9:10; see also Matt. 14:13; Mark 6:32). 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.
Beulah Meaning married, and thus expressing the relationship which Immanuel’s land sustains to Jehovah. Isa. 62:4.
Bewray discover. Isa. 16:3; Prov. 27:16.
Bewray make manifest. Matt. 26:73.
Bier, σορός, Probably the same light frame referred to under Bed (Luke 7:14). In the O.T. the Hebrew word mittah is translated “bier” and “bed.”
Billows. A symbol of overwhelming sorrows of a judicial character. Psa. 42:7; Jonah 2:3.
Birds. A symbol of speedy agents for good or evil. A symbol of spiritual wickedness. Isa. 31:5; Rev. 18:2.
Bishop επἰσκοπος from “to look over,” an overseer. In Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:7 we find that moral qualifications are insisted upon: “a bishop must be blameless,” though nothing is said of gift. In Acts 20:17-35 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 5:17 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 2:25. {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 16:7; 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.
Bittern This solitary bird selects the ruins, wastes, and marshy pines, where it utters its peculiar cry during the silence of the night. It is connected with the truly awful desolations which befell Nineveh, Babylon, and Idumea. Isa. 14:23; Zeph. 2:14.
Black A symbol of mourning. A symbol of moral defilement. Jer. 4:28; Rev. 6:5; Song of Sol. 1:5-6.
Blackness Symbol of separation from the light. Heb. 12:18; Jude 13.
Blains ulcerous sores. One of the Egyptian plagues. Ex. 9:9-10.
Blaspheme In its theological signification this word denotes speaking against God or His Word, and is so used in the Holy Scriptures, as in 1 Kings 21:13; Matthew 12:31-32.
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 2:7; 1 Peter 4:14); and of the Holy Spirit (Mark 3:29). Paul uses the same word as to himself, translated “being defamed” (1 Cor. 4:13), and “evil spoken of” (1 Cor. 10:30; see also 1 Tim. 6:1; Titus 2:5; 3:2; Jude 8). There may be many sins against the Holy Spirit (Acts 7:51), but it was blasphemy against Him — and that only — that the Lord declared could not be forgiven.
Blind or Blindness A symbol of being without spiritual perception. John 9:39,41; 2 Cor. 4:4; Rev. 3:17.
Blood. 1. A symbol of dreadful slaughter. Rev. 14:20. 2. A symbol of the pollutions of human nature. Ezek. 16:6. 3. A symbol of life forfeited by sin, but claimed by a holy God. Lev. 17:10-14; 3:17. 4. A symbol of complete apostasy from God and truth. Rev. 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.
Boanerges Sons of Thunder. A name given by the Lord to James and John, perhaps to mark their future ardent zeal. Mark 3:17; Luke 9:54.
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. 80:13. Amongst Jews and Moslems this animal is regarded as peculiarly unclean.
Boaz in him is strength. One of the brazen pillars in Solomon’s Temple (1 Kings 7:21), alluded to in Rev. 3:12. Christ, in whom is treasured up the sure mercies of David, making good in a future day Israel’s blessing in relationship and inheritance. Name occurs about 24 times in the Scriptures. (Ruth 2)
Boiled bearing pods. Ex. 9:31.
Boils, Severe and inflammatory swellings on various parts of the body. Job 2:7. The “sore botch” of Deut. 28:27,35 is the same as Job 2:7 and Exodus 9:9.
Bolled so swollen as about to burst. Ex. 9:31.
Bonnet(s) 1. The priestly mitre. Ex. 28:40. 2. Female head-dresses of various kinds. Isa. 3:20.
Book of Life Symbol of register of the elect or of profession. Phil. 4:3; Rev. 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12-15; 21:27; 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 5:1 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 12). It is supposed to be alluded to by “books” in 2 Timothy 4:13, because of the “parchments” being named separately.
2. A symbol of a record of open judgment. Rev. 10:2.
3. A symbol of a register of Christian profession written in time. Rev. 3:5.
4. A symbol of a register of real believers written in eternity. Rev. 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. 12:35).
Bosom Symbol of a place of rest and deepest seat of affection. John 1:18; Isa. 40:11; Luke 16:23.
Boss large stud. Job 15:16.
Botch ulcers. Deut. 28:27.
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. 9:17; Mark 2:22; Luke 5:37-38.
Bottom valley. Zech. 1:8.
Bottomless pit {See Deep}
Bow the knee tender father. Marginal reading of Gen. 41:43.
Bow
1. Symbol of distant warfare. Rev. 6:2; Psa. 37:14-15.
2. A symbol of deceit and falsehood. Jer. 9:3.
Bowels Symbol of seat of compassion. Phil. 2:1; 1 John 3:17; Song of Sol. 5:4.
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.
Branch and Rush The “great and small.” Isa. 9:14; 19:15.
Brass (Copper).
1. A symbol of the Grecian Empire. Dan. 2:39.
2. A symbol of strength and endurance. Psa. 107:16; Zech. 6:1; Mic. 4:13.
3. A symbol of Christ’s ability in bearing the responsibility of the sinner, as in the brazen altar. Ex. 27:1-7.
4. A symbol of Christ’s ability in sustaining the responsibility of the saint, as in the brazen laver. Ex. 38:8.
5. A symbol of the firmness of Divine judgment. Rev. 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. 8:9). It is χαλκός and is referred to as money (Matt. 10:9); as a sonorous substance (1 Cor. 13:1); as a commodity of merchandise (Rev. 18:12); and (χάλκεος) as a metal of which idols were made (Rev. 9:20). In Revelation 1:15; 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.
Bravery finery. Characteristic of the maidens of Judah. Isa. 3:18.
Bray to pound. Prov. 27:22.
Breach(es) creeks, bays or harbors. Judg. 5:17.
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. 9:10. 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 6:51,58).
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. 10:17.
4. Twelve loaves, A symbol of Christ for the communion of Israel — twelve being the expression of her unity. Lev. 24:5-9. 5. A symbol of refreshment. Gen. 14:18.
Breaker The Messiah dealing with every hindrance and enemy opposed to the blessing and rest of His people. Mic. 2:13.
Breakings judgments. Job 41:25.
Breast(s) A symbol of the affections of Christ. Lev. 7:31-34. A symbol of fruitfulness. Gen. 49:25; Isa. 66:11.
Breastplate A symbol of a moral condition as a safeguard for the heart and conscience. Eph. 6:14; 1 Thess. 5:8. {See Armour}
Bride, Bridegroom, Besides the use of these names in a natural way (Rev. 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 3:29). 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, 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. 21:2,9). The Spirit and the bride respond to the Lord, and say, Come.
Bridle Symbol of curb to the flesh or moral restraint upon nature. James 1:26; 3:2; Psa. 32:9; Isa. 30:28.
Brigandine a coat of mail or light armour. Jer. 46:4; 51:3.
Brimstone Symbol of utter ruin, intense anguish and destruction. Rev. 14:10; Job 18:15; Isa. 30:33.
Broided plaited. 1 Tim. 2:9.
Bruit report or rumour. Jer. 10:22; Nah. 3:19.
Buckler A symbol of Divine protection. Psa. 18:2,30; Song of Sol. 4:4.
Building, Builders
1. The Jewish rulers were the builders who refused Christ as “the stone.” Matt. 21:42; Acts 4:11; 1 Pet. 2:7.
2. The saints are God’s building. 1 Cor. 3:9. They are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone (see Eph. 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:5; Col. 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. 3:10-15. 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. 14:5,12,26; Eph. 4:12,16,29, etc. When things have got to their worst, we are to be building up ourselves on our most holy faith. Jude 20.
Bull(s) This wild animal was allowed the Jews for food. It has been considered, from the reference in Isaiah that some species of antelope is meant, but it cannot be said with certainty what particular animal is referred to; “wild bull” and “wild ox” are the translations of the same Hebrew word. Isa. 51:20; Deut. 14:5. A symbol of cruel and powerful enemies. Psa. 22:12; Jer. 50:11.
Bullock. A symbol of Christ a sacrifice offered to God in the strength and vigour of perfect manhood. Lev. 1:1-5; 16:3.
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.
Bunch hump. Isa. 30:6.
Bushel {See Dry Measure in “Measures of Capacity” in Bible Subjects}
Business diligence. Rom. 12:11.
Buttocks hind-parts. Isaiah 20:4; 2 Sam. 10:4.
By and by at once. Matt. 13:21.
By translate in. 1 Cor. 4:4.