Topical Encyclopedia
The term "bended" is often associated with the act of bending, particularly in the context of bowing or kneeling, which is a significant gesture in biblical narratives and teachings. This act is symbolic of reverence, submission, and worship, and it appears in various forms throughout the Scriptures.
Biblical Context and Usage1.
Worship and Reverence: In the Bible, bending the knee is frequently associated with worship and reverence towards God. This physical act signifies humility and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. In
Philippians 2:10 , it is written, "that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth," illustrating the ultimate submission to Christ's authority.
2.
Prayer and Supplication: Bending the knee is also a posture of prayer and supplication. In
Ephesians 3:14 , the Apostle Paul writes, "For this reason I bow my knees before the Father," indicating a position of earnest prayer and intercession. This act of kneeling in prayer is a demonstration of earnestness and devotion.
3.
Submission and Obedience: The act of bending or bowing is a demonstration of submission and obedience, not only to God but also in human relationships as a sign of respect. In
Genesis 43:28 , Joseph's brothers bow before him, fulfilling the prophetic dreams Joseph had earlier. This act of bowing is a recognition of authority and fulfillment of God's plan.
4.
Cultural and Historical Significance: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, bowing was a common practice to show respect to superiors, including kings and dignitaries. This cultural context is reflected in biblical narratives, where bending the knee is a gesture of honor and respect.
5.
Prophetic Imagery: The imagery of bending or bowing is also used prophetically to describe the future acknowledgment of God's rule.
Isaiah 45:23 states, "By Myself I have sworn; truth has gone out from My mouth, a word that will not be revoked: Every knee will bow before Me, every tongue will confess allegiance." This prophecy underscores the universal recognition of God's authority.
Theological ImplicationsThe act of bending the knee in the Bible carries deep theological implications. It is a physical expression of an inward reality—acknowledging God's lordship and our dependence on Him. It reflects the believer's heart posture of humility, surrender, and worship. The consistent biblical theme of bowing before God serves as a reminder of His majesty and the appropriate response of His creation.
Practical ApplicationFor believers, the concept of "bended" knees can be applied in personal and corporate worship settings. It encourages a posture of humility and reverence in prayer and worship, recognizing God's authority and expressing submission to His will. This practice can serve as a tangible reminder of one's relationship with God and the call to live a life of obedience and devotion.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
(
imp. & p. p.) of Bend.
Library
O God of Love, onBended Knee,
... PENITENCE AND LOVE O God of love, onbended knee,. tr., John Brownlie 8,8,8,8. I.
O God of love, onbended knee,. We, guilty sinners, call on Thee;...
Thy Kingdom Come! onBended Knee
... THE CHRISTIAN YEAR Advent 56. Thy kingdom come! onbended knee. CM [217]St.... Frederick
L. Hosmer, 1891. Thy kingdom come! onbended knee. The passing ages pray;...
Scruples --Heavenly Favors --Journey to Barcelona
... He kept up his usual custom of praying onbended knees for seven hours a day,
and scourged himself three times a day and during the night....
Notes
... adultery.". 51 The practice of praying onbended knees is frequently referred
to in early Christian writers. Cf. Clem., 1 Ad. Cor. cc.....
Psalm LXIV.
... 6. "They havebended the bow, a bitter thing, in order that they may shoot in secret
One unspotted" (ver.4). The bow he calleth lyings in wait....
I Look Upon all the Four Gospels as Thoroughly Genuine...
... before God! If there were always reverentbended hearts whenbended knees
are uttering words before God to please men's ears! There...
Hymns from the Morningland
... Harvest Hymn. PENITENCE AND LOVE. Now with my weeping would I cleanse my soul. O
God of love, onbended knee,. O God, in mercy hear,. Come to the Christ in tears...
The Hymnal of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the USA
... Advent 55. Come, thou long-expected Jesus. Advent 56. Thy kingdom come! onbended
knee. Advent 57. Lo, He comes, with clouds descending. Advent 58....
First Latin Form.
... the cross? And he asked pardon withbended knee. Then the blessed Mary
gave him her benediction, and again kissed him. And when...
The Axe at the Root --A Testimony against Puseyite Idolatry
... There they stand both alike withbended heads, perhaps both repeating the same words,
but the Savior distinguishes: "there is," saith he, "a false worshipper...
Thesaurus
Bended (2 Occurrences)...Bended (2 Occurrences). Mark 15:19 Then they began to beat Him on the head with
a cane, to spit on Him, and to do Him homage on
bended knees. (WEY).
...Bend (29 Occurrences)
Ben-dekar (1 Occurrence)
Ben-dekar.Bended, Ben-dekar. Bendeker . Multi-Version Concordance Ben-dekar
(1 Occurrence).... (YLT).Bended, Ben-dekar. Bendeker . Reference Bible.
Cane (11 Occurrences)
... WEY). Mark 15:19 Then they began to beat Him on the head with a cane, to
spit on Him, and to do Him homage onbended knees. (WEY)....
Beat (85 Occurrences)
... (WEB NAS NIV). Mark 15:19 Then they began to beat Him on the head with a cane,
to spit on Him, and to do Him homage onbended knees. (WEY NAS)....
Beseech (85 Occurrences)
... you, which is your glory. (DBY). Ephesians 3:14 For this reason, onbended
knee I beseech the Father, (WEY). Ephesians 4:1 I therefore...
Resources
Is it appropriate for a woman to propose to a man? | GotQuestions.orgBended: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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