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Appoint

Culture & Society

What is the meaning of Appoint in the Bible?

The verb 'appoint' signifies the act of designating, selecting, or placing an individual into a specific office, role, or position of authority. In biblical contexts, it frequently denotes God's sovereign choice to call and set apart specific persons for distinct purposes within His redemptive plan.

SIGNIFICANCE

Recognizing the concept of divine appointment helps readers understand that biblical figures were not merely historical actors but were intentionally selected by God to fulfill specific roles. This perspective illuminates the theme of divine sovereignty, showing how individual lives were orchestrated to advance broader theological and historical narratives within Scripture.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Appoint. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Appoint in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Appoint clarify?

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Appoint." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/appoint/
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