Definition
The word “face” in the Bible signifies presence, identity, and relational dynamics. It often represents the countenance or appearance of a person and can imply favor, anger, or intimacy.
Various Translations
In the King James Version, “face” is often used where other translations might choose words like “presence” or “countenance.” For instance, in Exodus 33:14, the KJV reads “My presence shall go with thee,” where “presence” translates to “face” (פָּנִים) in Hebrew.
Etymology
In Hebrew, the word for face is פָּנִים (panim), which is always plural, suggesting the complexity of facets in a person’s character. In Greek, πρόσωπον (prosōpon) can mean both physical face and presence.
Grammatical Analysis of the English word
In English, “face” functions both as a noun and a verb, implying different meanings in different contexts. As a noun, it denotes the front part of the head; as a verb, it means to confront or deal with something.
Grammatical Analysis
In Hebrew, פָּנִים (panim) is unique for being plural, implying multiplicity. In Greek, πρόσωπον (prosōpon) is a neuter noun, often used metaphorically to represent a person or an identity.
Syntax
The syntactic use of “face” in the Bible varies. It can be the object of a preposition (e.g., “before your face”), indicating location or direction, or it can be used in idiomatic expressions (e.g., “to set one’s face against”).
Biblical Occurrences in the New Testament
Matthew 6:16: “appear not unto men to fast”
2 Corinthians 3:7: “the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses”
Revelation 20:11: “from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away”
Biblical Occurrences in the Old Testament
Genesis 1:2: “And the earth was without form, and void”
Exodus 33:14: “My presence shall go with thee”
Psalms 34:16: “The face of the LORD is against them that do evil”
Typology
In biblical typology, “face” often symbolizes God’s presence and favor, or conversely, His absence or anger.
Linguistic Variations
Different translations offer variations in the interpretation of “face,” reflecting cultural and linguistic differences. Some focus on the literal aspect, while others emphasize the metaphorical or relational aspect.
Intertextual Connections
“Face” connects with themes of divine presence, judgment, and relational dynamics throughout the Bible, linking narratives and teachings across both Testaments.
Commentary and Exegesis
Biblical scholars often focus on the relational aspect of “face” in their exegesis, highlighting how it represents one’s standing before God or others. The multifaceted nature of “face” in scripture invites diverse interpretations and applications.
Historical Context
In the historical context, the term “face” in the Bible reflects the profound cultural emphasis on honor, shame, and personal presence in the ancient Near East. Faces were not merely physical features but symbols of identity, character, and social standing.
Biblical Narrative Analysis
In biblical narratives, “face” often indicates intimacy or confrontation. For instance, in the story of Jacob wrestling with God (Genesis 32:30), seeing God “face to face” signifies a profound personal encounter. Similarly, in Exodus, Moses speaks to God “face to face” as a friend (Exodus 33:11), highlighting the unique closeness of their relationship.
Theological Significance
Theologically, “face” is significant for expressing God’s relational nature. The desire for God to “shine His face” upon His people (Numbers 6:25) symbolizes divine favor and blessing. In contrast, hiding His face (Deuteronomy 31:17) suggests judgment or disfavor.
Practical Implications
Practically, the references to God’s face encourage believers to seek a personal, intimate relationship with God. They also serve as reminders of the importance of living in a way that is pleasing to God, to always seek His favor.
Semantic Range
The semantic range of “face” in the Bible is broad, encompassing physical appearance, personal presence, emotional states (anger, favor), and direction or orientation (e.g., “set his face towards”).
Symbolic and Allegorical Interpretations
Symbolically, “face” can represent one’s true self or inner nature. In allegorical interpretations, especially in Christian thought, Christ is often seen as the “face” of God, revealing the divine nature to humanity (2 Corinthians 4:6).
References
Kittel, G., Friedrich, G., & Bromiley, G. W. (Eds.). (1985). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans.
Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1988). Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament based on Semantic Domains. New York: United Bible Societies.
Mounce, W. D. (2006). Mounce’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.
Strong, J. (1890). Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Nashville: Abingdon.
Vine, W. E., Unger, M. F., & White, W. (1996). Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words. Nashville: Thomas Nelson.