The concept of Divine blessing in Christianity
Divine blessing in Christianity encompasses various dimensions of spiritual gifts and benefits from God, indicating grace and favor. It signifies God's support, especially during significant endeavors like the Temple's construction, and can be invoked for prosperity before meals. These blessings are perceived as gifts granted through faith, often facilitated by acts like prayer or the laying on of hands. Different Christian denominations interpret divine blessings through the lens of favor, kindness, and spiritual enrichment, highlighting their role in enhancing believers' wellbeing.
Synonyms: Spiritual grace, Sacred gift, Holy blessing, Grace, Benediction, Blessing, Consecration, Sanctification, Divine grace, Sacred boon, Spiritual gift, Benefaction, Boon, Heavenly gift
In Dutch: Goddelijke zegen; In Finnish: Jumalallinen siunaus; In Spanish: Bendición divina; In German: Göttlicher Segen; In Swedish: Gudomlig välsignelse; In Malay: Berkat Ilahi; In French: Bénédiction divine
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Divine blessing'
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) Loving prayers may fall upon the other in the rain of a divine blessing.[1] (2) This is the idea of someone acting as a conduit for help, bringing assistance to those in need, acting as a source of assistance.[2] (3) Spiritual gifts and benefits provided by God, signifying the grace and favor bestowed upon the faithful.[3] (4) The favorable circumstances or gifts bestowed by God that enhance one's life.[4] (5) God's promise of favor and good fortune, which Abram is destined to receive.[5]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) The Apostle affectionately invokes this on behalf of his brethren, concluding the more doctrinal part of the Epistle with a doxology to God.[6] (2) A promise of support from God, made in response to the Jews beginning work on the Temple.[7] (3) The favor and support from God, which rewarded Daniel's prudent and faithful choices.[8] (4) An invocation for God's favor or prosperity before partaking in a meal.[9]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) A blessing that is believed to be imparted by God, often conferred through acts such as the laying on of hands.[10]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) This is the influence of divine blessings, and worship is an act that perfects our own souls to receive it.[11] (2) The specific acts of goodness and kindness from God towards individuals, which include both spiritual and physical benefits.[12] (3) A favor from God, which can be sought in relation to achieving an evil purpose, reflecting contempt for divine holiness.[13] (4) The benefits and grace bestowed by God upon creation, warranting recognition and gratitude.[14]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This refers to the benefits or favors bestowed by God, suggesting spiritual or material gifts that enhance one's well-being or relationship with the divine.[15] (2) A special favor or approval from a divine being that is sought after and considered essential for wellbeing.[16] (3) God’s favor and protection bestowed upon individuals, granting them spiritual and temporal benefits.[17] (4) The favor or approval from a higher power, which one seeks to obtain through righteous actions.[18]
From: The Book of the Cave of Treasures
(1) A state of being favored, which indicates a special favor.[19]
From: The Book of the Bee
(1) This is what Ham received with his father, and it is part of the reason why Canaan was cursed, as stated in the narrative, which shows the events.[20]
From: The Little Flowers of St. Francis
(1) This refers to the grace that the novice received from God, which ensured he would not leave the Order, according to the text.[21]