What Does Exaltation Mean In The Bible?
Exaltation is an important concept throughout the Christian faith. In the Bible, the word exaltation is used to describe the elevation of an individual or object to a higher status or honor. This can be seen in the oft-cited biblical passage from Psalm 8: “Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His footstool; for He is holy.”
In this context, “exalt” means to honor and reverence someone or something because of its greatness and holiness. This is seen in many different parts of the Bible, such as when God is praised and celebrated by His people, or when Jesus is referred to as “Lord.” Exaltation is often used to refer to God’s greatness and glory and is typically used to refer to God’s uniqueness and authority.
In the same way, exaltation can be used to refer to honors and privileges that God grants to different individuals in the Bible. For example, in the time of King David, God promised to exalt him over other kings and rulers. This idea is also repeated in the New Testament, when Jesus is exalted as the King of kings and Lord of lords. In the end times, Jesus will be revealed in His glory and will be crowned King of kings, indicating that He is the only true and eternal king.
In addition to the honor and position bestowed on individuals throughout the Bible, exaltation also carries the connotation of being lifted up spiritually, emotionally and intellectually. In the Bible, this idea is seen in the often-quoted passage from Matthew 6: “Be exalted in your vision” and in the explicit command to the Israelites to “be still and know that I am God.” Exaltation is not just about giving respect and honor to someone or something, it is also about recognizing the divine power and authority given to that object or individual and recognizing one’s own place in the greater scheme of things.
The concept of exaltation is frequently mentioned in the Bible, but scholars and theologians use other words to refer to the same concept. For example, one may see the terms “adoration,” “praise,” “honor,” “veneration” or “reverence” used to describe similar concepts. Ultimately, though, these terms all refer to the idea of acknowledging and expressing admiration, awe and respect toward a being or an object of surpassing worth and excellence. In the end, exaltation is all about recognizing and honoring the greatness of God.
Examples of Exaltation
Examples of exaltation in the Bible are abundant. One notable example is the praise and veneration given to Jesus in the book of Revelation. This can be seen in the words of the prophet John, when he writes, “For you have been exalted above all else…and You shall be forever praised!” This is but one of many examples of how exaltation is used to recognize and honor God’s greatness and glory.
In the Old Testament, God’s people would often use public displays of exaltation to recognize the great power of their Lord. Here, the exaltation was not limited to words alone but demonstrated through acts such as public sacrifices and offerings, which were meant to honor God’s greatness and majesty. In addition, the Israelites were instructed to erect a special temple, or sanctuary, which served as a physical reminder of God’s glory and power.
In the New Testament, Jesus is often described as the perfect example of exaltation. In the book of Philippians, the apostle Paul admonishes believers to “have this same attitude of exaltation” that Jesus had. Here, Jesus’ example is used as an example for all to follow and imitate. Jesus, in the book of John, says that “whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” This phrase is a reminder of the importance of humility and reverence in the eyes of God.
The Benefits of Exaltation
The benefits of exaltation, both to the believer and to God, are manifold. On the one hand, exaltation serves to honor and glorify God and reminds the believer of His mighty power and authority. On the other hand, it can be used as an act of self-reflection and meditation, which can help to center the believer and to increase their awareness and reverence of their Creator.
In addition, exaltation can help to cultivate a sense of humility and reverence in the believer, which is important for a healthy spiritual life. This kind of humility and reverence can be seen in the words of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, when He entreats His followers to be “like children, who do not think of themselves more highly than they ought.” Here, He teaches us that we should not seek to be exalted or glorified in our own eyes, but rather that we should exalt and glorify God alone.
On a final note, it is important to recognize that exaltation does not only have to be used in the Christian context. In many other religions and spiritual traditions, exaltation is used in various forms. Whether it is used to exalt deities, honor saints, pay homage to grand spiritual ideas, or simply reflect on one’s own inner spiritual journey, exaltation can be an important tool for spiritual growth and self-discovery.
Uses In Everyday Life
In everyday life, exaltation can have a number of beneficial effects. On a personal level, exaltation serves to remind one of their true greatness and potential and can help to cultivate spiritual fortitude and humility. Further, exaltation can be used as a way to show gratitude for life’s blessings and challenges and can be a powerful tool for cultivating a sense of inner peace and contentment. Finally, exaltation can be used to bring joy, beauty and creativity into one’s life, creating moments of revelation and transformation.
On a communal level, exaltation can help bring people together as they recognize the beauty and power of the divine. This can be especially apparent in church communities and other faith-based organizations, where people coalesce in worship and exaltation of God. Further, exaltation can be seen in the beauty of nature and in everyday life, as people take time to contemplate beauty and the power of the divine.
Finally, exaltation can be seen in the works of art, music, poetry, and literature, which artistically evoke the power and glory of the divine. By viewing a great work of art or reading a beautiful poem, one can be reminded of his or her own inner greatness, potential and purpose. Among other things, exaltation is about recognizing and honoring the power, beauty and holiness of the divine, and finding joy and solace in that recognition.
Meaning of Exaltation
Overall, exaltation is an important concept throughout the Christian faith and serves as an important reminder of the greatness and holiness of God. It is a reminder of our duty as believers to recognize, honor and reverence the divine. Further, exaltation can be used as a reminder of one’s own greatness, power and potential, and serves as a powerful tool for emotional, spiritual and intellectual growth.
At the same time, exaltation is not exclusive to the Christian faith, and can be found in the teachings of other religious and spiritual traditions. Whether it is used in church, in nature, in artistic endeavors, or simply in contemplation, exaltation can serve as a reminder of the beauty, power and potential of the divine, and as an affirmation of one’s own Spirit.
