Topical Encyclopedia
In the context of the Bible, the term "licks" is not frequently used, but it appears in a few instances that provide insight into its meaning and significance. The term generally refers to the act of licking, which can be understood both literally and metaphorically within the biblical narrative.
Literal Usage:1.
Dogs Licking Wounds: One of the most notable literal uses of "licks" in the Bible is found in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. In
Luke 16:21 , it is described how Lazarus, a poor man covered with sores, longed to eat what fell from the rich man's table, and "even the dogs came and licked his sores." This imagery highlights the extreme poverty and suffering of Lazarus, contrasting his earthly plight with the rich man's opulence. The act of dogs licking his sores can be seen as a symbol of his destitution, yet it also suggests a form of compassion from the animals, as licking can have a soothing effect on wounds.
2.
Animal Behavior: In the Old Testament, the act of licking is also mentioned in the context of animal behavior. In
1 Kings 21:19 , the Lord speaks to Elijah concerning King Ahab, saying, "In the place where the dogs licked up Naboth’s blood, there also the dogs will lick up your blood—yes, yours!" This prophecy underscores the severity of Ahab's sin and the divine judgment that would follow. The imagery of dogs licking blood serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of disobedience and injustice.
Metaphorical Usage:1.
Symbol of Humiliation: The act of licking can also be used metaphorically to denote humiliation or subjugation. In
Isaiah 49:23 , the prophet speaks of a future time when kings and queens will bow down to the people of Israel, and "they will bow down to you with their faces to the ground; they will lick the dust at your feet." This imagery conveys a reversal of fortunes, where those who once oppressed Israel will acknowledge their subservience and humility before God's chosen people.
2.
Expression of Devotion: While not explicitly stated as "licking," the concept can be extended to expressions of devotion and reverence. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the act of bowing low or prostrating oneself could be akin to the metaphorical "licking the dust," symbolizing deep respect and submission to a higher authority.
Theological Implications:The instances of "licks" in the Bible, whether literal or metaphorical, often carry deeper theological implications. They serve as reminders of God's justice, the reversal of human fortunes, and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all creation. The imagery of licking, particularly in the context of dogs, can also reflect themes of compassion, humility, and the natural order of life.
In summary, while the term "licks" is not prevalent in the biblical text, its occurrences provide rich imagery and symbolism that contribute to the broader narrative of God's interaction with humanity and the natural world.
Strong's Hebrew
3897. lachak -- to lick... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to lick NASB Word Usage lick (4), licked (1),
licks (1). lick up. A primitive root; to lick -- lick (up). 3896, 3897.
...Library
The Comforts Belonging to Mourners
... He is like a foolish patient who, having a pill prescribed him,licks the sugar
but throws away the pill. The libertine is all for joy and comfort....
the Nature of this Oversight
... Many a tailor goes in rags, that maketh costly clothes for others; and many a cook
scarcelylicks his fingers, when he hath dressed for others the most costly...
Cheer for Despondency
... The lamb's thoughts are in the fold, and all unconscious of the shambles; itlicks
the hand that smites it, not knowing of its coming speedy death....
What Men Find Beneath the Wings of God
... the grave; thirsty as the sands, on which you may pour Niagara, and it will drink
it all up and be ready for more; fierce as the fire thatlicks up everything...
Of Justice, Wisdom, and Folly.
... Or Caucasian ravines, where no guest finds a shelter,. Or the banks which Hydaspes,
the stream weird [1039] with fable,.Licks languid-flowing." [1040]....
The Lord Our Dwelling Place
... These puny mites of helpless impotence she strokes with love's light in her eyes;
shelicks the shapeless forms of her tormentors, and, as they plunge at her...
Concerning Felicity, whom the Romans, who Venerate Many Gods, for...
... be free from infelicity who worships Felicity as a goddess, and forsakes God, the
giver of felicity; just as he cannot be free from hunger wholicks a painted...
The Mysteries of the Brazen Serpent
... Oh, will ye be like the silly bullock that goeth easily to the slaughter,
or will ye be like the lamb thatlicks the butcher's knife!...
The Cross as a Social Principle
... his family, yet with the consciousness that he has had the salt of the earth for
his friends and that he has put in some mighty goodlicks for righteousness....
Paracelsus {13}
... to scorn their long prescriptions, used the simplest drugs, and declared Nature,
after all, to be the best physician"as a dog, he says,licks his wound well...
Thesaurus
Licks (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance
Licks (1 Occurrence). Numbers 22:4 Moab said
to the elders of Midian, "Now this multitude will lick up
...Lick (8 Occurrences)
... 1. (vt) To draw or pass the tongue over; as, a doglicks his master's hand. 2.
(vt) To lap; to take in with the tongue; as, a dog or catlicks milk....
Zippor (7 Occurrences)
... Numbers 22:4 Moab said to the elders of Midian, "Now this multitude will lick up
all that is around us, as the oxlicks up the grass of the field." Balak the...
Licking (1 Occurrence)
Lictors (2 Occurrences)
Balak (42 Occurrences)
... Numbers 22:4 Moab said to the elders of Midian, "Now this multitude will lick up
all that is around us, as the oxlicks up the grass of the field." Balak the...
Cankerworm (7 Occurrences)
... Easton's Bible Dictionary (Hebrews yelek), "the licking locust," whichlicks up
the grass of the field; probably the locust at a certain stage of its growth...
Horde (8 Occurrences)
... Numbers 22:4 Moab said to the elders of Midian, "Now this multitude will lick up
all that is around us, as the oxlicks up the grass of the field." Balak the...
Green (72 Occurrences)
... Numbers 22:4 And Moab said to the elders of Midian, Now will this company lick up
all that is round about us, as an oxlicks up the green herb of the field....
Midian (60 Occurrences)
... Numbers 22:4 Moab said to the elders of Midian, "Now this multitude will lick up
all that is around us, as the oxlicks up the grass of the field." Balak the...
Resources
Who was Elijah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
