Amen in Biblical History

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Schaff's Bible Dictionary

Definitions in Biblical History
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What is Amen?
AMEN'
(literally, true, firm: metaphorically, faithful), used to denote assent or entire acquiescence, impressing the stamp of absolute truthfulness upon the statement. Deut 27:15. It was used as the solemn affirmative response to an oath. The word was often repeated. It is a matter of tradition that in the temple the "Amen" was not uttered by the people, but that instead, at the conclusion of the priest's prayers, they responded, "Blessed be the name of the glory of His kingdom for ever and ever." Of this a trace is supposed to remain in the concluding sentence of the Lord's Prayer. Comp. Rom 11:36. But in the synagogue and private houses it was customary for the people or members of the family who were present to say "Amen" to the prayers which were offered by the minister or master of the house, and the custom remained in the early Christian Church. Matt 6:13; 1 Cor 14:16. Doxologies and private prayers were appropriately closed with "Amen." It is sometimes translated verily, and was frequently used by our Saviour when he was about to utter some distinct, important, and solemn truth. Its repetition, "Verily, verily, I say unto you" (in John) strengthens the assertion. The promises of God are amen, because they are made sure and certain in Christ. 2 Cor 1:20. Amen is one of the titles of our blessed Saviour, Rev 3:14, as he is the faithful and true witness.

Bibliography Information
Schaff, Philip, Dr. "Biblical Definition for 'amen' in Schaffs Bible Dictionary".
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