The term under consideration, when examined within biblical texts, is found to be the past tense of the verb “bid.” It signifies a command, order, or request. Instances in scripture illustrate its use in conveying divine directives, prophetic pronouncements, or instructions given by individuals in positions of authority. For example, a passage might describe a prophet issuing a command, stating, “He bade the people repent,” meaning he commanded them to do so.
Understanding the nuances of this word enhances comprehension of scriptural narratives and the dynamics of power, obedience, and divine will depicted therein. Recognizing the forcefulness implied by its use clarifies the gravity of the instructions given and the expected response. Historically, its presence in older translations underscores the formal and authoritative tone characteristic of those versions. Furthermore, its declension and usage reflect archaic English grammatical structures which provide insights into the evolution of the language itself and its relation to biblical translation.
