Although their initial origin is disputed, the word dungeon is likely derived from the Frankish term dungjo, referring to a vault, a concealed and hidden space. By the 14th century, the English developed underground prisons within their castles also known as oubliettes due to their typical shape and design. According to Genesis 41:14, prisoners went without bathing or shaving, stuck in a living hell hole on earth. In Joseph’s case, he was waiting on God for more than 2 years to set him free.
Today, these man made structures have been replaced by an invisible pit, deep inside the human soul. Formed by doubt, this dungeon is like a haunted house, creepy, dark and void of hope. When an individual appears to be reaching the top of this hole, disbelief and skepticism often hinder progress as the ruler of the air, Ephesians 2:2, maintains his grip, holding a saint in bondage for yet another day, Ephesians 6:12. While self conceit and doubt wrestle for control, a life filled with disappointment serves as dark clouds, blocking any rays of optimism, paralyzing a believer from fully escaping.
Like a patient receiving medical attention, nightmares, scars and seeds of doubt linger after your release. The human mind serves as a sponge, absorbing the trauma you have endured, playing tricks on you once freed from the devil’s talons. Thus, one needs a spiritual reboot, cleansing all the viruses you have been infected by through the word of God, Colossians 2:6-8. The Bible presents people with truth serum, replacing doubt with faith, Romans 10:17. While not fully healed until heaven, Psalm 119:105 introduces curious onlookers to the only full proof escape route from the dungeon of doubt.
by Jay Mankus