Accursed
Culture & Societyâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The term accursed translates the Hebrew word cherem, denoting a state of being devoted to destruction or completely set apart. In the Old Testament, this concept required the total eradication of specific populations and objects linked to idolatry to prevent cultural contamination.
What is the meaning of Accursed in the Bible?
The term accursed translates the Hebrew word cherem, denoting a state of being devoted to destruction or completely set apart. In the Old Testament, this concept required the total eradication of specific populations and objects linked to idolatry to prevent cultural contamination.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the concept of cherem clarifies the ancient Israelite perspective on purity and separation, illustrating how strict adherence to divine law was maintained by eliminating perceived spiritual threats.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Accursed in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Accursed clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.