backslider, drive, go back, turn (away, back)
Dictionary of Biblical Words:
This word is used exclusively with regard to Israel, except in Prov. 14:14, where it is general. This sin is common, alas, amongst Christians also, and is figuratively alluded to in other words (Rev. 2:4, &c.). A backslider is a child of God who has left Mm in heart (Prov. 14:14) or in ways, but does not, cease to be a child (Jer. 3:14; 31. 22). The name is often erroneously applied to those who have never been, and therefore are not, God’s children at all. The path of restoration is marked out in 1 John 1 and 2.
Concise Bible Dictionary:
There are four Hebrew words applied to backsliding.
1. sug, “to go back”: “the backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways,”‘ instead of God’s ways (Prov. 14:14).
2. sarar, to act like a refractory heifer, that will not draw regularly in the plow: to which Israel is compared (Hos. 4:16).
3. meshubah, “a turning away, apostasy.” (Jer. 2:19; Jer. 3:22, 6-12; Jer. 5:6; Jer. 8:5; Jer. 14:7; Hos. 11:7; Hos. 14:4).
4. shobeb, “rebellious, backsliding.” (Jer. 3:14, 22; Jer. 31:22; Jer. 49:4). The last three words are all used of backsliding Israel. We do not find the word “backslider”‘ in the New Testament but the same sin is there pointed out, for instance the drawing back which may lead to perdition as in Hebrews. 10:38-39. See APOSTASY.
Strong’s Dictionary of Hebrew Words:
Meaning:
a primitive root; properly, to flinch, i.e. (by implication) to go back, literally (to retreat) or figuratively (to apostatize)
KJV Usage:
backslider, drive, go back, turn (away, back)