Stray(astray)
Summary
To wander from the right path, used both literally of animals going astray and figuratively of moral deviation from God's ways.
☩Straying Animals
The Mosaic law required the return of straying animals to their owners, even if the owner was an enemy. This obligation extended to donkeys, oxen, sheep, or any other animal found wandering. The finder was to restore it immediately or care for it until the owner could be found. Kish's straying donkeys led Saul to encounter Samuel and be anointed king.
☩Moral Straying
Scripture uses straying as a powerful metaphor for sin and spiritual wandering. Isaiah declares, 'All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way.' This wandering may stem from inherent evil, false teachers, or willful rebellion. The wicked go astray from birth, speaking lies. Yet Jesus came to seek and save the lost sheep who had strayed.