Definition
The term “quarrel” in the Bible often implies a verbal dispute or conflict. It’s more than a mere disagreement; it involves an emotional element of strife and contention.
Various Translations
In the King James Version, “quarrel” is used where other translations might choose words like “strife,” “dispute,” or “contention.” This reflects the evolving nuances of language over time.
Etymology
The Greek word έρις (eris) is the source for “quarrel” in the New Testament. This word signifies strife, contention, or rivalry.
Grammatical Analysis of the English word
In English, “quarrel” functions primarily as a verb and occasionally as a noun. Its usage indicates an action or state of conflict.
Grammatical Analysis of the Greek word
In Greek, έρις is a noun. It often appears in contexts suggesting conflict or competition.
Syntax
The syntax involving “quarrel” often places it as the focal point of a sentence, emphasizing the act of conflict.
Biblical Occurrences in the New Testament
Romans 13:13: “Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”
1 Corinthians 1:11: “For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.”
2 Corinthians 12:20: “For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults.”
Galatians 5:20: “Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies.”
Biblical Occurrences in the Old Testament
Proverbs 17:14: “The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.”
Isaiah 58:4: “Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.”
Typology
In the New Testament, quarreling is often used to typify worldly, fleshly behavior, in contrast to the spiritual, peaceful nature of the Christian life.
Linguistic Variations
The term can vary slightly in translation, but its core meaning of conflict remains constant.
Intertextual Connections
The concept of quarreling connects with themes of peace, unity, and Christian conduct.
Commentary and Exegesis
Biblical texts advise against quarreling, highlighting its disruptive nature and its opposition to Christian values of peace and harmony. The consistent message across both Testaments is that quarreling is a behavior to be avoided, as it leads to further division and strife.
Historical Context
In ancient times, quarrels often arose over resources, beliefs, and power. In the biblical context, these disputes were not just personal but often had wider social and religious implications.
Biblical Narrative Analysis
Quarrels in the Bible often signify deeper moral or spiritual conflicts. For instance, Paul’s admonitions against quarreling in the churches reflect not just concern for harmony but also for spiritual integrity and focus.
Theological Significance
Theologically, quarreling is seen as antithetical to the Christian ethos of love, unity, and peace. It’s often used as a marker of worldly, sinful behavior in contrast to the fruits of the Spirit.
Practical Implications
Practically, the Bible’s stance against quarreling urges believers to seek resolution and peace, emphasizing the importance of unity and communal well-being in the Christian life.
Semantic Range
The semantic range of “quarrel” in biblical texts encompasses strife, conflict, disagreement, and contention, all carrying a negative connotation.
Symbolic and Allegorical Interpretations
Symbolically, quarrels can represent the internal struggles of faith or the conflicts between the kingdom of God and worldly values.