Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Usage:The term "fluttereth" is an archaic English word derived from the verb "flutter," which means to move with quick, light movements, often in a way that suggests nervousness or excitement. In the context of the Bible, "fluttereth" is used to describe the rapid, trembling motion of wings or the heart. This term is found in older translations of the Bible and is often associated with imagery of birds or the emotional state of individuals.
Biblical References:The word "fluttereth" appears in several passages throughout the Bible, often in poetic or prophetic contexts. It is used to convey a sense of agitation, fear, or divine presence. While the Berean Standard Bible may not use the exact term "fluttereth," the concept is present in various passages.
1.
Deuteronomy 32:11 : "As an eagle stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, He spreads His wings to catch them and carries them on His pinions." This verse uses the imagery of an eagle to describe God's protective and nurturing nature. The action of hovering is akin to "fluttereth," illustrating the care and vigilance of God over His people.
2.
Isaiah 31:5 : "Like birds hovering overhead, so will the LORD of Hosts protect Jerusalem; He will shield it and deliver it; He will pass over and preserve it." Here, the hovering of birds is symbolic of God's protective presence over Jerusalem, suggesting a constant and attentive guardianship.
3.
Jeremiah 4:13 : "Behold, he advances like the clouds, his chariots like a whirlwind, his horses swifter than eagles. Woe to us, for we are ruined!" The imagery of swift and powerful movement, akin to the fluttering of wings, conveys the impending judgment and the overwhelming power of God's approach.
Theological Significance:In biblical literature, the concept of "fluttereth" often symbolizes divine intervention, protection, and the dynamic presence of God. The rapid, fluttering motion can represent the immediacy and intensity of God's actions, whether in judgment or in care for His people. It also reflects the emotional responses of individuals in the presence of the divine, such as fear, awe, or reverence.
Symbolism in Nature:The use of bird imagery, particularly eagles, in conjunction with "fluttereth" underscores the majesty and strength of God's character. Eagles are known for their keen vision and powerful flight, making them apt symbols for God's omniscience and omnipotence. The fluttering of wings can also denote the Holy Spirit's movement, as seen in the New Testament's depiction of the Spirit descending like a dove.
Cultural and Historical Context:In ancient Near Eastern cultures, birds were often seen as messengers or symbols of the divine. The biblical use of "fluttereth" taps into this cultural understanding, using familiar natural phenomena to communicate spiritual truths. The imagery would have resonated with the original audience, who were keenly aware of the behaviors and characteristics of birds in their environment.
Conclusion:The term "fluttereth," though not commonly used in modern translations, carries rich imagery and theological depth. It serves as a reminder of God's active presence and the profound impact of His movements in the world and in the hearts of believers.
Library
The Eagle and Its Brood
... 'As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her
wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings.'"Deuteronomy 32:11....
The vineyard of the Lord
... As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her
wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: so the Lord alone did lead him...
Stirring the Eagle's Nest.
... "As an eagle stirreth up her nest, thatfluttereth over her young, he spread
abroad his wings, he took them, he bare them on his pinions."...
The Mustard Seed
... He is not an eagle thatfluttereth over her young and beareth them on her pinions,
but a hen who gathereth her chickens under her wings....
Who Speak Thus, do not yet Understand Thee, O Wisdom of God...
... not yet how the things be made, which by Thee, and in Thee are made: yet they strive
to comprehend things eternal, whilst their heartfluttereth between the...
January 3 Morning
... As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her
wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: so the Lord alone did lead him...
March 6 Morning
... to pitch your tents in, in fire by night, to shew you by what way ye should go,
and in a cloud by day."As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her...
August 23 Evening
... As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her
wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: so the Lord alone did lead him...
August 1 Evening
... Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep."As an eagle stirreth
up her nest,fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings...
July 26 Morning
... As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her
wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: so the Lord alone did lead him...
Thesaurus
Fluttereth (3 Occurrences)...Fluttereth (3 Occurrences).
... Isaiah 21:4 My heart
fluttereth, horror hath affrighted
me; the twilight that I desired hath been turned into trembling unto me.
...Longed (24 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT). Isaiah 21:4 My heartfluttereth, horror hath affrighted
me; the twilight that I desired hath been turned into trembling unto me....
Waketh (8 Occurrences)
... Deuteronomy 32:11 As an eagle waketh up its nest, Over its young onesfluttereth,
Spreadeth its wings -- taketh them, Beareth them on its pinions; -- (YLT)....
Fluttered (1 Occurrence)
Fluttering (3 Occurrences)
Pinions (5 Occurrences)
... Deuteronomy 32:11 As an eagle that stirreth up her nest, Thatfluttereth over her
young, He spread abroad his wings, he took them, He bare them on his pinions....
Bewildered (11 Occurrences)
... (See NAS NIV). Isaiah 21:4 My heartfluttereth, horror hath affrighted me; the twilight
that I desired hath been turned into trembling unto me. (See JPS)....
Stirreth (16 Occurrences)
... Deuteronomy 32:11 As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young,
spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: (KJV JPS ASV...
Spreadeth (37 Occurrences)
... Deuteronomy 32:11 As an eagle stirreth up her nest,fluttereth over her young,
spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: (KJV JPS DBY...
Overwhelmed (33 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV ASV DBY WBS NAS). Isaiah 21:4 My heartfluttereth, horror hath affrighted
me; the twilight that I desired hath been turned into trembling unto me....
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