Delusion
TextsWhat is the meaning of Delusion in the Bible?
In biblical literature, delusion denotes a state of spiritual blindness or deception, often portrayed as a divine judgment. The Hebrew Bible, particularly in Isaiah, uses the term to describe mockery or blindness imposed upon the wicked. In the New Testament, 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 describes God sending a 'strong delusion' to those who reject the truth, leading them to believe falsehoods and face condemnation.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing delusion as a judicial act of God rather than merely a psychological condition helps readers grasp the severity of rejecting divine truth. This perspective illuminates the biblical theme of hardening, where persistent unbelief results in a loss of discernment, thereby underscoring the necessity of embracing truth to avoid spiritual deception.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Delusion in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Delusion clarify?
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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.