The word “asswage” appears in the Bible, particularly in older translations like the King James Version, and carries deep spiritual significance for Christians seeking to understand God’s Word. This article provides a Bible-based interpretation of “asswage,” explaining its meaning, context, and practical applications in a clear, heartfelt way. Using Simplified English, we aim to connect with readers emotionally, encouraging spiritual growth through prayer, discernment, and obedience.
Asswage Biblical Meaning
The biblical meaning of asswage is to soothe, calm, or relieve distress, often reflecting God’s comfort or the easing of burdens through His mercy. Found in verses like Genesis 8:1 and Job 16:5–6, asswage points to God’s power to bring peace to troubled hearts or situations. Let’s unpack its significance with Scripture to provide clarity and spiritual insight.
Biblical Instances of Asswage
Genesis 8:1 and the Flood
In Genesis 8:1 (KJV), we read, “And God remembered Noah, and every living thing… and the waters asswaged.” Here, asswage describes the subsiding of floodwaters, showing God’s mercy in restoring peace to the earth. This act reflects His control over chaos.
Job 16:5–6 and Emotional Relief
In Job 16:5–6 (KJV), Job longs for words to “asswage” his grief, seeking comfort amid suffering. This highlights asswage as compassionate speech that soothes emotional pain. It shows human and divine roles in easing distress.
- Key takeaway: Asswage reflects God’s ability to bring relief to both physical and emotional turmoil.
- Spiritual insight: God calms life’s storms, offering hope to believers.
Hebrew Context of Asswage
Understanding Shakak in Genesis
In Genesis 8:1, the Hebrew word for “asswaged” is shakak, meaning to subside or diminish. This term suggests a gradual easing, like floodwaters receding under God’s command. Strong’s Concordance affirms this link to God’s restorative power.
Exploring Nuwach in Job
In Job 16:5, the Hebrew nuwach (to rest or comfort) implies soothing through words. This emphasizes emotional relief, as Job seeks compassionate speech. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary notes shakak in Genesis reflects God’s covenantal faithfulness, ensuring peace after judgment.
- Genesis 8:1: Shakak shows God’s control over creation.
- Job 16:5: Nuwach points to emotional healing through words.
God’s Character Revealed Through Asswage
A Comforter and Peacemaker
Asswage reveals God as a comforter. In Isaiah 40:1 (KJV), God says, “Comfort ye, comfort ye my people.” Though “asswage” isn’t used, the theme of soothing distress aligns with His heart. He sees our pain and acts to relieve it.
Mercy and Restoration
God’s mercy shines in asswaging chaos, as in Noah’s flood, or emotional pain, as Job desired. Psalm 23:1–3 promises He leads to “still waters,” reflecting His care. The New Bible Dictionary calls God’s comfort active, meeting our deepest needs.
“God’s comfort asswages our pain, turning chaos into peace through His faithful love.”
Experiencing God’s Asswaging Comfort
Practical Steps for Believers
Believers can find God’s comfort through faith. Here are ways to experience His peace:
- Pray with expectancy: Philippians 4:6–7 promises God’s peace through prayer. Bring your burdens to Him.
- Meditate on Scripture: Psalm 119:50 says, “Thy word hath quickened me.” God’s Word renews hope.
- Seek godly community: Job needed comforting friends. Join a church that uplifts.
- Trust God’s timing: The floodwaters took time to asswage. Trust His process (Romans 15:13).
Role of Persistent Prayer
The Zondervan Encyclopedia of the Bible emphasizes that persistent prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will, bringing His comfort. Prayer invites His asswaging peace into our lives.
Applying Asswage in Daily Life
Comforting Others
2 Corinthians 1:4 urges us to comfort others with God’s comfort. Share kind words or listen to someone in pain. This reflects God’s asswaging love.
Resting in God’s Promises
When life overwhelms, recall Genesis 8:1—God remembers you. Trust His promises, as Habakkuk 2:3 assures they will come. This builds faith.
Speaking Life
Job sought words to ease pain. Use speech to uplift, as Proverbs 15:1 teaches a “soft answer turneth away wrath.” Your words can asswage others’ hurt.
- Practice patience: Asswaging takes time. Wait on God faithfully.
- Live obediently: Share comfort to fulfill Matthew 5:16, letting your light shine.
Biblical Meanings of Asswage
| Context | Scripture | Meaning | Spiritual Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Relief | Genesis 8:1 | Calming of floodwaters | Trust God to calm life’s chaos |
| Emotional Comfort | Job 16:5–6 | Soothing grief through words | Seek and offer compassionate words |
| Divine Peace | Isaiah 40:1 | God’s call to comfort His people | Rest in God’s merciful comfort |
Why Asswage Matters for Spiritual Growth
Building Trust in God
Asswage points to God’s desire to restore us. Recognizing His power to soothe pain builds trust, as Hebrews 11:6 rewards faith. This strengthens our walk with Him.
Inspiring Obedience
Sharing God’s comfort obeys His call, growing our love and humility. It fulfills Matthew 5:16, letting our light shine. Asswage inspires action.
Fostering Hope
Knowing God asswages pain fuels perseverance. Romans 5:3–5 teaches trials produce hope through His Spirit. This hope anchors believers.
Asswage vs. Modern Comfort
Biblical vs. Worldly Comfort
Today, “comfort” often means physical ease, like a cozy home. Biblically, asswage is God’s active relief of heart or circumstances. John 16:33 promises lasting peace amid trials.
Prioritizing Spiritual Peace
Unlike fleeting modern comfort, God’s asswaging peace is eternal. This helps Christians seek spiritual relief over worldly ease, aligning with God’s will.
Asswage and Forgiveness
Easing Sin’s Pain
Asswage connects to forgiveness by easing sin’s pain. Forgiving others releases bitterness, bringing God’s peace (Colossians 3:13). This heals relationships.
Receiving God’s Mercy
Receiving forgiveness asswages guilt, as Psalm 32:1–2 celebrates the joy of being forgiven. God’s mercy soothes our hearts, restoring joy.
FAQ: Common Questions About Asswage Biblical Meaning
What does asswage mean in Genesis 8:1?
In Genesis 8:1, asswage means the floodwaters subsided, showing God’s mercy in calming chaos. It reflects His power to restore peace. Trust Him to calm your storms.
Is asswage only physical relief?
No, asswage includes emotional and spiritual relief, as in Job 16:5, where Job seeks soothing words. God comforts body and soul. Seek His peace through prayer.
How can I experience God’s asswaging comfort?
Pray, read Scripture, and connect with godly friends, as Philippians 4:6–7 promises peace. God’s comfort comes through faith and community. Start with prayer today.
Does asswage appear in modern translations?
Modern translations like the NIV use “subside” or “comfort” instead of asswage, but the meaning remains (Genesis 8:1). Check the KJV for the term. Compare for clarity.
Can I asswage others’ pain?
Yes, 2 Corinthians 1:4 calls us to comfort others with God’s comfort. Offer kind words or support. Your actions bring His peace to hurting hearts.
A Prayer for God’s Asswaging Comfort
Heavenly Father, You calm every storm and soothe every heart. I seek Your asswaging peace for my burdens. Fill me with Your comfort, guide me to share it, and help me trust You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
References
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Hendrickson Publishers, 2007.
- The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Volume 1. Zondervan, 2008.
- The New Bible Dictionary. InterVarsity Press, 1996.
- The Zondervan Encyclopedia of the Bible. Zondervan, 2009.
