Visitation

VISITATION viz-i-ta'-shun, vis-(pequddah; episkope):

In Biblical writings, the divine investigation or inspection of men's character and deeds with a view to apportioning to them their due lot, whether of reward or of chastisement; divine dispensation of mercy or of punishment.

(1) In a general sense:

"Visited after the visitation of all men" (Numbers 16:29), i.e. in natural death, the usual lot of men, as opposed to a calamitous death; "She shall have fruit in the visitation of souls" (The Wisdom of Solomon 3:13 the King James Version), i.e. in the time of divine judgment. So Sirach 18:20 and perhaps 1 Peter 2:12.

(2) In a good sense, of God's care, providence and mercy:

"Thy visitation (the Revised Version margin "care") hath preserved my spirit" (Job 10:12). So Luke 19:44, and, according to some, 1 Peter 2:12 (see above).

(3) Most frequently in an evil sense, of calamity or distress viewed as divine punishment:

"What will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation which shall come from far?" (Isaiah 10:3). So Jeremiah 8:12; 10:15; 11:23; 23:12; 46:21; 48:44; 50:27; 51:18; Hosea 9:7; Micah 7:4; The Wisdom of Solomon 14:11.

D. Miall Edwards

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Bibliography Information

Orr, James, M.A., D.D. General Editor. "Entry for 'VISITATION'".  "International Standard Bible Encyclopedia".  1915.