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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadMcClintock Biblical Encyclopedia: Lift
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(prop. ðָùָׂà , áἴñù ), besides having the general sense of raising, is used in several peculiar phrases in Scripture. To lift up the HANDS is, among the Orientals, a common part of the ceremony of taking an oath: "I have lift up mine hand unto the Lord," says Abraham (Gen_14:22); "I will bring you into the land concerning which I lift up my hand" (Exo_6:8), which I promised with an oath. To lift up one's hand against any one is to attack him, to fight him (2Sa_18:28; 1Ki_11:26). To lift up one's face in the presence of any one is to appear boldly in his presence (2Sa_2:22; Ezr_9:6. (See also Job_10:15; Job_11:15.) To lift up one's hands, eyes, soul, or heart unto the Lord are expressions describing the sentiments and emotion of one who prays earnestly or desires a thing with ardor.