Bible Dictionary
Bridle
A bridle, bit, or halter is used to control and guide an animal. Scripture uses it figuratively for restraint, including God’s governing power over nations and the discipline that should control human conduct.
Definition
A bridle is a halter, bit, or rein used to govern and control a horse or other animal. Biblical usage includes several related terms for a muzzle, bit, halter, or bridle-rein.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses bridle imagery for restraint. God’s providential control over nations is described as a bridle and hook, and a bridle in the jaws of a people signifies prevention of their intended course. Human restraint under law and humanity is also compared with a bridle.
Historical Background
The supplied material distinguishes Hebrew terms for a muzzle or halter, a bit, and a bridle-rein. It also associates the bridle with the rider’s governance of a horse.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Three Hebrew words are thus rendered in the Authorized Version. (1.) Heb. mahsom’ signifies a muzzle or halter or bridle, by which the rider governs his horse (Ps. 39:1). (2.) Me’theg, rendered also “bit” in Ps. 32:9, which is its proper meaning. Found in 2 Kings 19:28, where the restraints of God’s providence are metaphorically styled his “bridle” and “hook.” God’s placing a “bridle in the jaws of the people” (Isa. 30:28; 37:29) signifies his preventing the Assyrians from carrying out their purpose against Jerusalem. (3.) Another word, re’sen, was employed to represent a halter or bridle-rein, as used Ps. 32:9; Isa. 30:28. In Job 30:11 the restraints of law and humanity are called a bridle.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>bri'-d'-l.</p><p>See BIT AND BRIDLE.</p>