consume

Definition:

The term "consume" literally means to use up something. It has several figurative meanings.

In the Bible, the word "consume" often refers to destroying things or people.
A fire is said to consume things, which means it destroys them by burning them up.
God is described as a "consuming fire," which is a description of his anger against sin. His anger results in terrible punishment for sinners who do not repent.
To consume food means to eat or drink something.
The phrase, "consume the land" could be translated as "destroy the land."

In the context of consuming the land or people, this term could be translated as "destroy."
When fire is referred to, "consume" could be translated as "burn up."
The burning bush that Moses saw "was not consumed" which could be translated as, "did not get burned up" or "did not burn up."
When referring to eating, "consume" could be translated as "eat" or "devour."
If someone's strength is "consumed," it means his strength is "used up" or "gone."
The expression, "God is a consuming fire" could be translated as, "God is like a fire that burns things up" or "God is angry against sin and will destroy sinners like a fire."

(See also: devour, wrath)