Understanding The Importance Of Sinews In The Bible

Introduction

The Bible is a rich source of knowledge and wisdom that has been guiding humanity for centuries. One of the unique features of the Bible is the use of metaphors and symbols to convey its message. One such symbol used extensively in the Bible is the sinew. In this article, we will explore the significance of sinews in the Bible and its relevance in our lives today.

What are Sinews?

Sinews are a form of connective tissue found in the body of animals, including humans. They connect muscles to bones and are responsible for transmitting the force generated by muscles to the bones, enabling movement. In the Bible, sinews are often used as a metaphor for strength and power.

The Significance of Sinews in the Bible

The word sinew appears several times in the Old Testament, and it is often associated with strength and power. For example, in Genesis 32:32, Jacob wrestles with an angel and dislocates his hip. The angel touched the socket of Jacob’s hip, and the sinew shrank, symbolizing the loss of strength. Similarly, in Ezekiel 37:6, God tells the prophet Ezekiel to prophesy to the dry bones, saying, “I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you and cover you with skin and put breath in you, and you shall live.” This passage symbolizes the restoration of strength and vitality to the dry bones.

The Spiritual Significance of Sinews

While sinews are physical structures, the Bible often uses them to represent spiritual concepts. In Psalm 51:8, David prays to God, saying, “Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.” This passage refers to the spiritual brokenness that David experienced after his sin with Bathsheba. Similarly, in Job 30:17, Job laments his suffering, saying, “My bones are pierced in me in the night season, and my sinews take no rest.” This passage symbolizes the spiritual pain and agony that Job experienced.

The Role of Sinews in Spiritual Growth

Just as sinews are essential for physical movement, spiritual sinews are vital for spiritual growth. In Ephesians 6:10-11, Paul encourages believers to “be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might” and to “put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” This passage emphasizes the need for spiritual strength and the importance of being equipped with the right tools to resist the attacks of the enemy.

The Symbolism of Sinews in the New Testament

In the New Testament, sinews are not mentioned as frequently as in the Old Testament. However, they are still used as a symbol of strength and power. In Luke 24:39, Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection and invites them to touch his hands and feet, saying, “Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” This passage emphasizes the physical reality of Jesus’ resurrection and the restoration of his sinews, symbolizing his power and strength.

The Importance of Sinews in Our Lives Today

As we have seen, sinews are not just physical structures but also have spiritual significance. In our daily lives, we need sinews to enable us to move and function physically. Similarly, we need spiritual sinews to enable us to grow and thrive spiritually. To develop spiritual sinews, we need to cultivate a strong relationship with God through prayer, reading the Bible, and fellowship with other believers. We also need to put on the whole armor of God, as Paul exhorts us in Ephesians 6:13, to be able to stand firm against the attacks of the enemy.

Conclusion

Sinews are a powerful symbol used in the Bible to represent strength and power, both physical and spiritual. Understanding the significance of sinews can help us to appreciate the importance of strength, both in our physical bodies and in our spiritual lives. Let us, therefore, seek to cultivate sinews that will enable us to move and function physically and spiritually, so that we can fulfill the purpose that God has for our lives.