The number 85 does not appear frequently in the Bible, but like many numbers in Scripture, it may carry symbolic or spiritual significance that is worth exploring. Numbers in the Bible often serve as vehicles for deeper meaning, representing divine truths, patterns, and messages that transcend their numerical value. Understanding the meaning of the number 85 can offer insights into God‘s character and His working in the world, both in the past and in the present.
In this article, we will delve into the meaning of the number 85 in the Bible, its potential symbolic significance, and how it applies to the lives of believers today. We will also discuss its relevance by breaking it down into its components and examining biblical numerology to uncover possible insights.
Biblical Context and Numerology: Breaking Down the Number 85
Before delving into the specific meaning of the number 85, it’s important to understand its components. The number 85 is made up of two significant biblical numbers: 8 and 5. Both of these numbers carry their own symbolic meanings and spiritual messages, which can shed light on the meaning of 85.
The Number 8: New Beginnings, Resurrection, and Transformation
The number 8 in biblical numerology is often associated with new beginnings, resurrection, and regeneration. It represents a fresh start or the start of a new cycle in God’s creation. The most well-known example of the significance of the number 8 is found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which occurred on the eighth day, signaling a new era of life (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:9).
In the Old Testament, circumcision was performed on the eighth day for male infants (Leviticus 12:3), marking the beginning of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The number 8, therefore, signifies new opportunities for transformation and spiritual renewal.
The Number 5: Grace, Favor, and Divine Provision
The number 5 is frequently associated with grace, divine favor, and God’s provision. In biblical terms, grace is unmerited favor from God, and the number 5 often symbolizes the generosity of God’s blessings. For example, the five books of Moses—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—represent God’s foundational instructions to His people.
The number 5 also appears in various contexts of God’s grace and provision, such as in the story of the five loaves and two fish, where Jesus miraculously multiplied food to feed the multitudes (Matthew 14:17-21). The number 5 in the Bible emphasizes God’s favor, His giving spirit, and His ability to provide for His people even in difficult circumstances.
What Does the Number 85 Mean in the Bible?
When combined, the numbers 8 and 5 create the number 85. By looking at the meanings of these individual components, we can gain insights into what the number 85 might symbolize in the Bible.
New Beginnings and God’s Grace
The combination of the number 8 and number 5 suggests that the number 85 could symbolize a new beginning under God’s grace. The number 8 signifies a fresh start, often associated with resurrection or transformation, while the number 5 emphasizes the divine grace and provision of God. Together, these numbers indicate that when God initiates a new season or a new phase in our lives, He does so through His grace, favor, and provision.
For believers, this combination encourages trust in God’s ability to provide what is needed for a fresh start. It assures us that no matter what new challenges we face, God’s grace will accompany us, giving us the strength and wisdom to walk through the new opportunities He provides.
Divine Provision and Spiritual Renewal
The number 85 may also point to divine provision and spiritual renewal. Just as the number 5 reflects God’s grace and His ability to provide for His people, the number 8 reflects the idea of spiritual renewal or regeneration. When combined, these numbers remind believers that God’s provision is not limited to physical needs but extends to spiritual needs as well. God provides for us in both our material and spiritual lives, ensuring that we are equipped for the journey ahead.
For example, when we face a new challenge or season, the number 85 reminds us that God’s grace will meet our needs, and He will provide the strength for us to grow spiritually as we move forward.
Biblical Context for Numbers 8 and 5
To further understand the significance of the number 85, let’s explore the biblical contexts in which the numbers 8 and 5 are used.
The Number 8: New Beginnings and Resurrection
As mentioned, the number 8 signifies new beginnings and resurrection in the Bible. Notable examples include:
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ: The resurrection occurred on the “eighth day,” the first day of a new week, symbolizing a new creation and eternal life for believers (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:9).
Circumcision: In the Old Testament, male children were circumcised on the eighth day as a sign of their inclusion in the covenant with God (Leviticus 12:3).
The Feast of Tabernacles: The seventh day of the Feast of Tabernacles was followed by an eighth day, marking a new start in the cycle of worship (Leviticus 23:39).
The number 8 reminds us that in God’s economy, every new beginning is imbued with the hope of transformation and regeneration.
The Number 5: Grace and Provision
The number 5 symbolizes grace and God’s provision. Examples include:
The Five Loaves and Two Fish: In the story of the miraculous feeding of the 5,000, Jesus used five loaves and two fish to provide for a multitude, illustrating God’s grace in provision (Matthew 14:17-21).
The Five Books of Moses: These books—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—are the foundation of God’s law and grace, guiding His people in how to live in covenant with Him.
The Five Wise Virgins: In the parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), five virgins were prepared with oil for their lamps, symbolizing preparedness through God’s grace.
The number 5 teaches us that God’s grace and provision are constant, and He supplies everything we need, both materially and spiritually.
Applications of the Number 85 in the Life of a Believer
So, how can the number 85 be applied to the life of a believer today? Here are some key applications:
1. Trusting in New Beginnings
When you encounter new seasons or transitions in life, the number 85 reminds you that these are moments for new beginnings—fresh opportunities that God is leading you into. Whether it’s a new job, a move, or a spiritual breakthrough, trust that God’s grace will meet you where you are and provide everything you need. Take comfort in knowing that God is with you as you embrace these new beginnings.
2. Embracing God’s Grace for Spiritual Growth
The number 85 emphasizes God’s grace in all aspects of life. If you’re experiencing spiritual dryness or a desire for renewal, trust that God’s grace is available to you. Just as God provided abundantly in the Bible, He continues to pour out grace upon His people, enabling them to grow spiritually and thrive in their relationship with Him. The number 85 is a call to rest in God’s provision and trust that He will equip you for the journey ahead.
3. Experiencing Transformation and Provision
The number 85 symbolizes both spiritual renewal and divine provision. If you’re facing challenges in life, whether personal, financial, or emotional, take heart in knowing that God’s grace will provide what you need. Whether you’re experiencing a time of transition or struggling in a specific area, trust that God will provide for you spiritually and materially, just as He did in biblical accounts.
Conclusion
While the number 85 is not frequently mentioned in the Bible, its components—the numbers 8 and 5—carry significant spiritual meaning. The number 85 can be understood as a reminder of the new beginnings that God brings about through His grace and provision. It encourages believers to embrace transformation, trust in God’s timing, and rest in His abundant provision as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of life.
In the life of a believer, the number 85 encourages faith, trust in God’s sovereignty, and hope in His grace. When we face new beginnings, divine provision, and spiritual renewal, we can rely on God’s perfect and abundant care to guide us. Just as the number 85 combines the symbolism of new beginnings and grace, so too does God combine His transformative power with His provision in every believer’s journey.
Related topics:
