Bible Dictionaries
Countenance

Holman Bible Dictionary

The face as an indication of mood, emotion, or character (see Genesis 4:5-6; Deuteronomy 28:50; Job 9:27; Psalm 10:4; Proverbs 15:13; Ecclesiastes 7:3; Mark 10:22 ). To speak of God lifting up His countenance upon one is a way of speaking about being in God's presence (Psalm 21:6 ). Being in God's presence—having God's countenance lifted toward one—may bring peace (Numbers 6:25-26 ), blessing (Psalm 4:6; Psalm 90:15 ), or victory (Psalm 44:3 ). It may also bring destruction (Psalm 80:16 ) or judgment for sin (Psalm 90:8 ).