Net
Summary
Nets in Scripture were used for catching fish, birds, and wild animals, and are frequently employed as figures for entrapment and divine judgment.
☩Practical Uses
Nets were employed in various ways in ancient Israel. Fishing nets were used on the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus called fishermen like Peter and Andrew who were casting their nets into the sea. Hunters used nets to catch wild animals, including placing them in pits or setting them for birds. The temple also featured decorative network patterns, as seen in the checker work of the pillars.
☩Figurative Uses
Scripture frequently uses nets as symbols of entrapment. The wicked are described as secretly setting nets for the innocent, while God's judgments are portrayed as a net cast over the guilty. The psalmist speaks of enemies hiding nets in pits, and the prophets describe divine judgment as a net spread over rebellious nations.
Related Verses50 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Net," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).