World, Cosmological
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of World, Cosmological in the Bible?
Ancient Hebrew thought lacked a distinct lexical equivalent for the modern concept of the universe, instead conceptualizing the world as an integrated system that included both the physical earth and the spiritual realm inhabited by divine beings.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this integrated cosmological view prevents the misinterpretation of biblical texts through the lens of modern scientific materialism, allowing readers to appreciate the ancient authors' holistic understanding of reality as presented in Scripture.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to World, Cosmological. 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 World, Cosmological in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does World, Cosmological clarify?
Related Topics
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
"World, Cosmological." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/world-cosmological/