Bible Dictionary
VIOLENCE, VIOLENT
Violence means forceful or oppressive action, often involving harm or seizure. The difficult phrase about the kingdom of heaven being “taken by violence” has received several interpretations, and its precise meaning is uncertain.
Biblical Usage
The Bible uses violence chiefly for forceful or oppressive action. The saying about the kingdom of heaven being taken or pressing violently has been understood in several ways, including forceful advance, suppression, or the vigorous response of those seeking the kingdom.