The word ‘bereave’ is often associated with loss, grief, and sorrow. In the Bible, bereavement refers to the deep pain experienced when someone loses a loved one or something valuable. The concept appears throughout Scripture, often depicting the suffering that comes with death, separation, or divine judgment.
Understanding the biblical meaning of bereave helps believers navigate grief, loss, and God’s comforting presence. The Bible does not ignore human sorrow but offers hope, healing, and reassurance in times of mourning.
Definition of Bereave in the Bible
In Scripture, the term ‘bereave’ is used in various contexts:
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Loss of children or loved ones
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Separation caused by death or tragedy
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Divine judgment resulting in loss
The Hebrew word ‘shakol’ and the Greek word ‘steréo’ are often translated as ‘bereave’, meaning to suffer loss, to be deprived of something, or to mourn deeply.
Biblical Verses About Bereavement
The Bible contains multiple references to bereavement, showing both the reality of human suffering and the compassion of God.
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Genesis 42:36 – ‘And Jacob their father said unto them, Me have ye bereaved of my children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin away: all these things are against me.’
- Jacob felt deep bereavement after believing he had lost his sons.
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Job 1:21 – ‘The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.’
- Job experienced great bereavement but still trusted in God’s sovereignty.
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Lamentations 1:16 – ‘For these things I weep; mine eye, mine eye runneth down with water, because the comforter that should relieve my soul is far from me.’
- Jeremiah expressed deep mourning for Jerusalem’s suffering and loss.
The Causes of Bereavement in the Bible
1. Bereavement Through Death
The most common form of bereavement in the Bible is the loss of a loved one. Many biblical figures faced the pain of death, yet God provided comfort.
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John 11:35 – ‘Jesus wept.’
- Even Jesus felt sorrow when Lazarus died.
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2 Samuel 12:22-23 – King David mourned the death of his child but found peace in knowing he would see him again in heaven.
2. Bereavement as Divine Judgment
In some instances, bereavement in the Bible is linked to God’s judgment on sin.
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Ezekiel 5:17 – ‘So will I send upon you famine and evil beasts, and they shall bereave thee.’
- This verse describes how disobedience to God can lead to loss and sorrow.
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Exodus 12:29 – The death of the firstborn in Egypt was a form of divine judgment against Pharaoh’s hardened heart.
3. Bereavement Through Separation
The Bible also speaks of loss due to separation, whether it be exile, betrayal, or estrangement.
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Genesis 37:33-35 – Jacob mourned Joseph, believing he was lost forever.
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Luke 15:20-24 – The father of the Prodigal Son experienced grief but later rejoiced at his son’s return.
God’s Comfort in Times of Bereavement
Although bereavement brings pain and sorrow, the Bible reassures believers that God is close to the brokenhearted.
1. God Provides Comfort
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Psalm 34:18 – ‘The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.’
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Matthew 5:4 – ‘Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.’
God sees every tear and offers strength and healing to those who grieve.
2. God Restores Hope
Even in times of bereavement, believers can find hope in God’s promises.
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Isaiah 41:10 – ‘Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee.’
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Revelation 21:4 – ‘And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain.’
God restores joy and promises eternal peace in His presence.
How to Overcome Bereavement with Faith
1. Turn to God in Prayer
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Philippians 4:6-7 – ‘Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.’
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Prayer brings peace in the midst of grief.
2. Lean on the Support of Others
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Galatians 6:2 – ‘Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.’
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Surrounding yourself with fellow believers helps ease the weight of bereavement.
3. Focus on Eternal Life
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John 14:1-3 – Jesus promised that those who believe in Him will have eternal life.
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The hope of heaven gives comfort to those mourning a loved one.
4. Remember God’s Purpose
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Romans 8:28 – ‘And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.’
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Even in bereavement, God’s plan is always good.
Examples of Overcoming Bereavement in the Bible
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Job (Job 42:10-17) – After losing everything, Job remained faithful, and God restored him.
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Naomi and Ruth (Ruth 1-4) – Naomi lost her husband and sons, but God provided hope through Ruth.
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David (2 Samuel 12:20-23) – After losing his child, David found peace in trusting God.
The Bible acknowledges the pain of bereavement but also offers hope, healing, and comfort. Whether through death, separation, or judgment, loss is a reality of life, but God’s love remains constant.
By trusting in God, seeking His presence, and holding onto His promises, believers can navigate grief with faith and peace. Bereavement is painful, but God’s grace is greater, bringing restoration and eternal joy.