Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Context:The term "tosses" in the biblical context often refers to the act of being thrown or moved about, typically by external forces such as wind or waves. It is used metaphorically to describe instability, uncertainty, or lack of faith. The imagery of being "tossed" is frequently employed in Scripture to illustrate the challenges and trials faced by individuals, as well as the spiritual and emotional turmoil that can result from a lack of steadfastness in faith.
Biblical References:1.
James 1:6 : "But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind."
In this passage, James emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith in prayer. The imagery of being "tossed by the wind" serves as a powerful metaphor for the instability and lack of direction that accompanies doubt. The believer is encouraged to maintain a firm and resolute faith to avoid being swayed by external circumstances.
2.
Ephesians 4:14 : "Then we will no longer be infants, tossed about by the waves and carried around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming."
Here, the Apostle Paul warns against spiritual immaturity and susceptibility to false teachings. The metaphor of being "tossed about by the waves" underscores the vulnerability of those who are not grounded in sound doctrine. Paul calls for spiritual maturity and discernment to withstand deceptive influences.
3.
Isaiah 54:11 : "O afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted, I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise, your foundations with sapphires."
Although the term "tossed" is not explicitly used in this verse, the imagery of a city "lashed by storms" conveys a similar sense of turmoil and distress. God's promise to restore and comfort the afflicted city reflects His faithfulness and the hope of redemption for those who endure trials.
Theological Implications:The concept of being "tossed" in the Bible often highlights the contrast between faith and doubt, stability and instability. It serves as a reminder of the importance of anchoring one's life in the truth of God's Word and the necessity of spiritual maturity. Believers are called to develop a deep and abiding faith that can withstand the challenges and uncertainties of life.
Practical Application:Christians are encouraged to cultivate a strong foundation in their faith through regular study of Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. By doing so, they can avoid being "tossed" by the various trials and false teachings that may arise. The imagery of being tossed serves as a call to remain steadfast and anchored in the truth, trusting in God's promises and His ability to provide stability and peace amidst life's storms.
Strong's Hebrew
3399. yarat -- to be precipitate, to precipitate... Word Origin a prim. root Definition to be precipitate, to precipitate NASB
Word Usage contrary (1),
tosses (1). be perverse, turn over.
...Library
Diamond and his Mother Sat Down Upon the Edge of the Rough Grass...
... and amain it grows. and the wind as it blows.tosses the swallows. over the hollows....
and tossed for ever. by the wind thattosses. the swallow that crosses....
There is a Definite Moment at which the Seed is Ripe...
... The wind knocks off andtosses away the dainty shutde-cocks of the scabious as they
ripen one by one, and the pods wait for the hot touch of the sun to split...
God who Protects from all Danger
... And his wonders in the great deep. When he speaks, the tempest rises, And
tosses the waves on high. Up to heaven, then down they go...
Good God! what Takes Place in Man, that He Should More Rejoice at...
... The stormtosses the sailors, threatens shipwreck; all wax pale at approaching death;
sky and sea are calmed, and they are exceeding joyed, as having been...
Already Thou Hast Told Me with a Strong Voice...
... changes of these last and lowest creatures; and who shall tell me (unless such a
one as through the emptiness of his own heart, wonders andtosses himself up...
That God and the Angels Rejoice More on the Return of one Sinner...
... The stormtosses the voyagers, threatens shipwreck, and every one waxes pale at
the approach of death; but sky and sea grow calm, and they rejoice much, as...
An Exhortation to the Sacrifice which we are to Make to God of Our...
... Yet, on the other side, do you not see, Theotimus, that Abrahamtosses and turns
in his soul, more than three days, the bitter thought and resolution of this...
The Net Broken
... ignoble passions and sensual desires. Hetosses his subjects' lives as trivial
gifts to any who ask for them. Haman's wife knew that...
part iii.
... the gentleman who used to skip his silver dollars on the fair bosom of the Connecticut
for the amusement of his friends, and he who freelytosses around the...
The Power of Prayer in Relation to Outward Circumstances.
... this agitated state, while the dread of pain and disappointment, the clinging to
some good thing which you are on the point of losing, stilltosses your heart...
Thesaurus
Tosses (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Tosses (3 Occurrences). 2 Kings 19:21 This is
the word that Yahweh has spoken concerning him: "The virgin
...Tossed (19 Occurrences)
Tumble (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (vi) To roll over, or to and fro; to throw
one's self about; as, a person on pain tumbles andtosses....
Tossest (1 Occurrence)
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