Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Usage:The term "foemen" is an archaic word referring to enemies or adversaries, particularly in the context of warfare. In the biblical narrative, foemen are often depicted as those who oppose the people of God, whether they be individuals, nations, or spiritual entities.
Biblical Context:Throughout the Bible, the concept of foemen is prevalent, as the people of Israel frequently encountered adversaries. These enemies were not only physical but also spiritual, representing opposition to God's will and His chosen people.
Old Testament References:In the Old Testament, the Israelites faced numerous foemen as they journeyed to the Promised Land and established their nation. The Canaanites, Philistines, and Amalekites are among the notable adversaries. For instance, in the battle against the Amalekites, Moses instructed Joshua to choose men and fight, while he stood on the hill with the staff of God (
Exodus 17:9). The Lord's intervention was crucial in these battles, often ensuring victory for Israel despite overwhelming odds.
The Psalms frequently mention foemen, portraying them as those who seek the downfall of the righteous.
Psalm 27:2 states, "When the wicked came upon me to devour my flesh, my enemies and foes stumbled and fell." This verse highlights the belief that God protects His people from their adversaries.
New Testament References:In the New Testament, the concept of foemen shifts more towards spiritual adversaries. Jesus taught about loving one's enemies, emphasizing a spiritual battle rather than a physical one. In
Matthew 5:44 , Jesus instructs, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This teaching underscores the transformative power of love and prayer in overcoming enmity.
The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the spiritual nature of foemen in
Ephesians 6:12 , stating, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Here, the focus is on spiritual warfare, with believers called to don the full armor of God to stand firm against these spiritual adversaries.
Theological Implications:The presence of foemen in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the ongoing conflict between good and evil. It reflects the reality of opposition faced by God's people throughout history. The Bible consistently portrays God as the ultimate protector and deliverer, ensuring that His purposes prevail despite the presence of adversaries.
Practical Application:Believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and protection when facing their own foemen, whether they be external challenges or internal struggles. The biblical call to love and pray for one's enemies serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and the ultimate victory of good over evil.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
(
n.) Plural of Foeman.
Library
Wave, Wave Your Banners High,
... The day of strife is done,. On blood-red field thefoemen lie,. And victory is
won;... Ah, long the strife endured,. And hard thefoemen pressed,....
The Hymnwriter
... Zion's sons and daughters rally. Now upon her ancient wall! Have herfoemen gained
the valley,. Yet her ramparts did not fall. Were her outer walls forsaken....
The Death of Saint David.
... I will give the signal for the onset, which will lay thousands of ourfoemen low;
and see, for my ensign, I do wear upon my burgonet this leek, which will, if...
The Hope of Future Bliss
... So with the book of Psalms: had not David been sorely tried by enemies, had not
thefoemen shot their arrows at him, had they not attempted to malign and blast...
Ter Steegen's Golden Timepiece
... MIDNIGHT. On! the traitor's kiss to suffer. On Thy lips Divine". Yield Thyself to
foemen, stricken. By one word of Thine". Give me, Lord, to bear rejoicing....
The Knight's Leap: a Legend of Altenahr
... THE KNIGHT'S LEAP: A LEGEND OF ALTENAHR. So thefoemen have fired the gate,
men of mine; And the water is spent and gone? Then bring...
Herod
... Did the Baptist stride unsummoned into the court? Did his craftyfoemen
contrive his ruin by inciting the Tetrarch to consult him?...
In the Garden
... Now He is in a garden, but how different from theirs. Close by is a city filled
withfoemen, whose messengers are already on His track....
From the Apology Addressed to Marcus Aurelius Antoninus.
... the contrary, it shall turn out that this measure, and this new sort of command,
which it would be unbecoming to employ even against barbarianfoemen, do not...
A Hymn Concerning Her.
... wild beasts. "Agnes joyously laughs at the sword, herself stronger than
steel, Cecilia joyously laughs at thefoemen's sword. "Many...
Thesaurus
Foemen (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Plural of Foeman. Multi-Version Concordance
Foemen (1 Occurrence). Psalms 56:1 For the Chief Musician.
...Foe (23 Occurrences)
Foes (95 Occurrences)
Resources
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