The front of the head between the eyes. Often used figuratively in phrases denoting a stubborn or persevering attitude. The forehead is the place where symbols of remembrance or allegiance can be placed. Such symbols may particularly represent allegiance to God or Satan.
Literal use of the forehead
See also Leviticus 13:41–43; 2 Chronicles 26:19–20NUM 2 Chronicles 24:17; 1 Samuel 17:49; Jeremiah 48:45; Ezekiel 3:9
The forehead used figuratively to denote stubbornness
For I knew that you are stubborn; your neck is iron and your forehead is bronze.
The forehead as a place for symbols which prompt remembrance
Exodus 13:9 See also Exodus 13:16DEU Exodus 6:8, Deuteronomy 11:18
It shall be a sign for you on your hand and a reminder on your forehead that the Law of the LORD is to be on your lips. For with a mighty hand the LORD brought you out of Egypt.
The forehead as a place for symbols of dedication and allegiance
To God and his purposes
Exodus 28:36–38 See also Ezekiel 9:4; Revelation 7:3, Revelation 9:4, Revelation 14:1, Revelation 22:4 The receipt of this symbol of allegiance provides protection in judgment and a reminder of the Passover where God's marked people escaped judgment.
You are to make a plate of pure gold and engrave on it as on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD. Fasten to it a blue cord to mount it on the turban; it shall be on the front of the turban. And it will be worn on Aaron’s forehead, so that he may bear the iniquity of the holy things that the sons of Israel consecrate with regard to all their holy gifts. It shall always be on his forehead, so that they may be acceptable before the LORD.
To Satan and his ways
Revelation 13:16, Revelation 14:9, Revelation 17:5, Revelation 20:4
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.