Dropsy
NatureWhat is the meaning of Dropsy in the Bible?
Dropsy, referred to in biblical contexts as 'swelling' (e.g., Luke 14:2), is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues or body cavities. In the New Testament, it is mentioned as a condition that could be healed by divine power.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding dropsy clarifies the physical reality behind biblical accounts of severe illness and divine healing, such as the restoration of the royal official's son or the healing of the woman bent double, illustrating the tangible impact of disease in the ancient world.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Dropsy were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Dropsy in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Dropsy clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Luke 14:2
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
"Dropsy." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/dropsy/