Wt^^ z-^. *\* } & ^,^.'oi Srom f 5e feifiratg of (profeBBor n3?iffidtn ^enrg (Breen Q^equeaf^b 6)? ^im to f ^e feifitari? of (Princeton C^eofogtcaf ^eminarg 8S THE UNION BIBLE DICTIONARY. PREPAHED FOR THE AMERICAN SUNDAY-gCHOOL UNION, ABJB REVISED BT THE COMMITTEE OF PUBLICATION AMERICAN SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION, 146 CHESTNUT STBKET xscccxLir. Entbrsd according to Act of Congress, in the year 1837, by Paul Beck, Jr., Treasurer, in trust for the American Sunday- school Union, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Eastern District cf Pennsylvania. PREFACE. Some years since, we reprinted fram tiie British press an abridgment of Brown's Dictionary of the Bible. The original was materially improved by the editorial labours of the Rev. Dr. Alexander. He did not, how- ever, change the basis or general character of the work. He expunged a mass of superfluous and irrele- vant matter ; introduced such corrections and modifica- tions as the improved state of biblical science suggest- ed, and prepared many of the leading articles anew. These have been preserved as far as practicable in the Lew work. The extensive sale of the former dictionary shows conclusively the adaptedness of such a volume Xp the wants of the community. Under this conviction, the society has incurred very heavy expenses in providing an entirely new dictionary, CORRESPONDING IN PRINCIPLE, CHARACTER, AND USES TO OUR OTHER PUBLICATIONS, AND INTENDED SO TO CON- NECT THEBI TOGETHER, AS TO MAKE, OF THE WHOLE, A COMPLETE BIBLICAL CYCLOPJEDIA. Though the editor has been, of course, indebted to various sources for materials, and, in some instances, for copious extracts, the present volume may be re- garded as strictly an original work. The services of one of the most distinguished biblical scholars in the country have been employed in a gene- ral revision of it, and many of the most important arti- eles have also received a critical examination from 3 4 PREFACE. several olTiers, both clergymen and laymen, in whose competency and fidelity the utmost confidence may b« felt. The following general principles have been observed in the preparation of this work : — I. No word is introduced, as the subject of an article, which is not found in the canonical books of the com- mon translation of the Bible, and at least one passage is cited in which the word occurs. Of course such words as Africa, Apocrypha, Antelope, Apocalypse, Deluge, Dead Sea, &c. are excluded. Any other rule would be too indefinite for practical application. II. No word is introduced simply for the purpose of defining it, unless it has a peculiar scriptural use or signification, which would not be found in a common defining dictionary. III. Whatever could be regarded as sectarian by any ienomination of evangelical Christians is, of course, scrupulously excluded. IV. No word is admitted into the body of the diction- ary of which all that can be said is found in immediate connexion with the word itself.* For example, Ard (Gen. xlvi. 21) is mentioned as one of the sons of Ben- jamin ; and as the passage itself contains all that can be said of him, the word is omitted. V. The leading articles embrace, as far as practicable, the various topics that properly fall under it. For ex- ample : under the word Dwellings will be found the principal facts in relation to the structure of eastern • At the end of our Scripture Biographical Dictionary will be found a perfect catalogue of all the proper names which occur in the Scriptures, with the pronunciation of each, and a reference; to one or more passages in which it occurs. PREFACE. 5 houses, as the court, roof, windows, doors, parlours, chambers, &c., so that the article is in itself a concise history of the subject. The various topics are gene- rally distinguished, however, by putting the principal words in italics, thus enabling the reader to select them at pleasure. — So of the articles, Arms, Book, BumAL, Clothes, Feasts, Hebrews, Sacrifices, &c. VI. Though each article is complete in itself, and as full as it may be in a work of this size, we hope that most biblical inquirers are disposed to seek still farther information. This, we apprehend, is afforded in a good degree by other publications of the society, which are or may be within the reach of all. To the particular volimie from which such farther information may be obtained, reference is made in the proper place ; and the society's name is repeated in connexion with each refer- ence— 1st, Because there are sometimes several works extant with like titles, only one of which is published by us ; and, 2dly, Because each article, with all its refer- ences, being distinct and independent, should be as ex- plicit as any other. By this feature of the work, instead of burdening the student with folios of unprofitable learning, we open to him very copious fountains of biblical knowledge on the cheapest terms, in the simplest and most available form, and of a character supposed to be unexceptionable to every evangelical mind. VII. We have made all practicable use of the infor- mation furnished by modern travellers in the east, and especially by American missionaries, to whose journals frequent references will be found. In every case where the testimony of known and living witnesses could be brought, to give present existence and reality to distant times and places, we have not failed to introduce it. 1* 6 PREFACE. VIII. It is confidently believed that in no volume of the kind are there fewer errors in references. Great care was taken to have the copy accurate in this re- spect ; the proofs were read by the author, and at the same time by a very accurate and experienced proof- reader, and by both was every reference carefully ex- amined by the Bible ; and since the work was stereo- typed the whole has been read again, and every refer- nce re-examined and compared with the Bible. DICTIONARY HOLY BIBLE, AAR AARON, (Ex. vi. 20,) the first high priest of the Jews, was the son of Amram, of the tribe of Levi, and was born about the year 2430. He was three years older than his brother Mose^, and being a more ready speaker, he was appointed by the Lord to assist Mose.s in guiding and controlling the Israelites, in their journey from Egypt to Canaan. The relation which Aaron sustained was thus expressed by the Lord to Moses : — He shall be thy spokesman unto the people. He shall be to thee instead of a -mouth, and thou shall be to him instead of God. (Ex. iv. 16.) / have made thee a God to Pharaoh ; and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet. (Ex. vii. 1.) Aaron married Elisheba,the daughter of Amniiuadab, and had four sons, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. The two former were punished with death for a heinous sin, and the priesthood remained in the other two. (See Abihu.) As most of the important events in the life of Aaron are intimately connected with his brother's history, they will be reserved for that article. (See AAR Moses.) Those in which Aa- ron was only or principally concerned, are briefly the fol- lowing. At an early period after the departure of the children of Israel from Egypt, Aaron and his sons were set apart by God's direction, and with the most solemn ceremonies, to minister in the priest's office, which Aaron continued to fill until his death. (Heb. v. 4.) Before his consecration, and while Moses was in the mount, receiving the law from God, the people "became impa- tient, ana besought Aaron to make them idol gods. He thereupon conamanded them to break off the golden ear- rings of their wives and child- ren ; which being collected and brought to Aaron, he made out of them an idol in the shape of a calf, like one of the iuols of Egypt. Before this image the people danced and shouted, saying,— 7%ese be thy gods, 0 Israel, which brought thee up oiit of the land of Egypt. This act, and the aggravating circum stances connected with it, (Ex. xxxii. 25,) involved Aa ron in great guilt. His two sons, Nadab and Abihu, wero 7 AAR soon afterwards destroyed in a most sudden and fearful manner. At a later period, Aaron, with his sister Miriam, spoke reproachfully cuncern- ing Moses, and God was very angry with hira ; but upon the confession of his sin, he was pardoned. (See Miriam.) Korah and others were of- fended with Muses and Aaron, and charged them with taking upon themselves authority which belonged as much to others as to them. Moses expostulated with them, and especially with Korah ; but his remonstrance was all in vain, and the next day the rebel and his companions were suddenly destroyed. (See Korah.) Immediately after this fear- ful exhibition of the anger of God, and while we should suppose the terror of such judgments would still possess their minds, the people of Israel renewed their murmur- in^s against Moses and Aaron. (2^um. xvi. 41.) A dreadful plague having appeared sud- denly in the midst of them, which threatened the people with utter and immediate de- struction, Aaron, at the com- mand of Moses, took a censer with incense, and ran quickly into the midst of the congre- gation, and stood between the living and the dead, until he had made an atonement for ihem, and the plague was stayed. (Num. xvi. 44 — 50.) A signal attestation was granted to Aaron's official authority in the following manner. Twelve rods or branches of the almond tree were taken, one for the. head of each house, or tribe, of Is- rael ; and upon the rod of the tribe of Levi was written the name of Aaron. The rods were laid together ia a parti- cular place in the tabernacle ; and the next dav, wnen Mosea AAR went into the tabernacle, the rod which had Aaron's name upon it " was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloom- ed blossoms, and yielded almonds." This wonderful miracle was made known to the people by an exhilation of the rod ; but it was imme- diatijly taken back into the tabernacle, to be kept there fir ever,_for a token against the rebels, (or the children of rebellion.) (Num. xvii. 10.) \\Tien the supply of water was miraculously furnished in the desert of Zin, Aaron neglected to acknowledge the power of God, and for this was denied the privilege of entering into the promised land. In the fortieth year after he had left Egypt, he was commanded to go up with Moses his brother, and Elea- zar his son, into mount Hor, in sight of all the congrega- tion, that he mi^ht die there. (Num. XX. 28.) The place of Aaron's death is called Mo- sera, in Deut. x. 6 ; but the same spot is denoted in both passages. Burckhardt tells us that mount Hor stands upon the western side of a valley once called Mosera. Josephus and other historians place the sepulchre of Aaron on mount Hor, where it is still vene- rated by the Arabs. A modern traveller visited the place, and found the supposed tomb in the care of a crippled Arab, eighty years old. The mo- nument is about three feet high, and is protected by a small, white building, with a cupola. (See Hor.) The circumstances of Aa- ron's death are peculiarly interesting and impressive On his way to the mount his official robes were transferred to his son and successor in the priesthood, ahd he died in the top of the mount, b. c 1451, aged one hundred and 8 ABA twenty-three years. (Num. xxxiii.39.) When Moses and Eleazar came down, and the people saw that Aaron was dead, they mourned for him thirty days, even all the house qf Israel. (Num. xx. 29.) Aaron is called the saint of the Lord. (Ps. cvi. 16.) Some have supposed that he assist- ed Moses in writins parts of the Pentateuch, and thus they account f^r any supposed dif- ference of style, &c. His his- tory is given us in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Num- bers, and Deuteronomy. AARONITES. (1 Chron. xii. 27.) Levites of the family of Aaron: the priests who served the sanctuary. Elea- zar, Aaron's son, was their chief (Num. iv. 16.) AB. (See Month.) ABADDON. (Rev. ix. 11.) The Hebrew name for the an^el of the bottomless pit, and answering to the Greek name ApoUyon. They both signify the destroyer. ABANA. (2 Kings v, 12.) A river of Syria, near Damas- cus, supposed to be one of the branches of the Barradi, or Chrysorrhoas. It rises at the foot of mount Lebanon; di- vides into several small streams eastward of Damas- cus, watering the whole coun- try in the vicinity ; then they unite again, and the river continues its course till it empties into a small marshy lake, fifteen or twenty miles distant from the city. This and the river Pharpar supplied an abundance of wa- ter, and rendered the country around Damascus, though on the edge of a desert, one of the most beautiful and fertile spots in the world ; while the streams of Judea or Israel, with the exception of the Jor- dan, are nearly dry the greater part of the year, and, running m deep and rocky channels, ABE give but partial fertility to the land through which they flow. This may well account for the question of Naaman :— " Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israeli" ABARIM. (Deut. xxxii. 49.) A general name given to a mountainous ridge, running from north to so^th, east of Jordan, and before the north ern border of INI lab. Nebo was one of the conspicuous mountains in the cham, and Piseah was one of the highest of the summits of Nebo. The modern mount Dhana is sup- {)osed to be a part of Abarim. je-abarira, (Num. xxi. 11,) meaning "heaps of Abarim," is another name for the same chain. ABBA. (Rom. viii. 15.) The Hebrew word ab, from which abba is derived, signifies, in its root, acquiescence. The title, abba, was not allowed to be used by servants or slaves when addressing the head of the family,— a circumstance which gives much force to the term in the passasre cited. The full meaning of this term cannot be expressed in our language. It implies a high degree of love, confidence, and suDmission, as well as a most endeared and intimate con- nexion and fellowship. (Mark xiv. 36. Gal. iv. 6.) The word ab (meaning /r Shadrach,) anil Mishael, (or ftleshach.) Afitir Daniel's promotion to be ruler over the whole pro- vince of Babylon, his three companions were, at his re- quest, elevated to places of trust. Nebuchadnezzar the king saw fit to make a golden imaire ; and having dedicated it with great pomp, he com- manded Ihat, at a certain sig- nal, the people of all nations and languages should fall down and worship the image, and that those who refused should he cast into the midst of a burning furnace. In this act of idolatry, Shadrach, Me- shach, and Abednego would not unite, though commanded by the king himself. They replied that they were Dot anxious to answer the king in this matter, as the God whom they loved and served was able to deliver them, to what- ever extremity they might be reduced. The king was filled with fury, and commanded the fur- nace to be heated sevenfold hotter than was usual ; and the stroniiest men were em- ployed to bind them, and cast them into the flames. Strong men were ordinarily employ- ed (oT this purpose, to meet any resistance that might be attempted ; but some think that the phrase " most mighty .men," used here, means the chief oflicers of the army, who were selected to make the punishment more imposing and exemplary. With all their garments on, they were cast into the fur- nace, and so intense was the heat that the executioners were destroyed by it. The king was present to witness the execution of the sentence ; and, though the three men at first fell down boimd in the ABE midst of the flames, yet when he looked, expecting to see them destroyed, he beheld them U osed from their bonds ; walking unhurt in the midst of the fire, and a fourth person with them whose form was " like the Son of God." Thi* was the king's language, ancf whatever he miglit have in- tended l)y the term, " Son of God," the fturth person, to whom he refers, was probably an angel of God, sent for this purpose, as he was afterwards sent to shut the mouths of lions for the protection of hig servant Daniel; or it might have been the eternal and uncreated Son of God, appear- iag to protect and deliver his faithful servants in the time of their calamity. (Matt, xxviii. 20.) Upon the call of the king from the mouth of the furnace, these three servants of the most high God came f )rih, in the presence of the princes and rulers of the country; and so completely had they been protected by the mighty power in which they trusted, that not a hair was singed ; the colour of their coats was not changed, nor was there even the smell of fire upon them. The monarch, astonished at this evident interposition of the Almighty in their behalf, forthwith passed a decree, threatening to punish in the severest manner any one who should speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego ; because (said he) there is no other God that can deliver after this sort; and the men were restored to their places in the province. (Dan. lii.) ABEL (Gen. iv. 2) was the second son of Adam and Eve. He was occupied as a keeper or feeder of sheep ; and in process of time broueht of the firstlings, or first-fruits of his 10 ABE flock, an offering unto the Lord. It is supposed that be- eides a thank-offering, Abel brought a sin-offering, and thus evinced his penitent sense of sin, as well as his faith in a promised Saviour. This may be a reasonable conjecture, but has not scrip- tural authority. God was pleased, however, to accept his offering, and to give him evidence of it. (Heb. xi. 4.) Not so with Cain. Either his sacrifice, or the manner of presenting it, w-as offensive to God, and the offering was re- jected. (1 John iii. 12.) Cain was exceedingly angry, and, filled with envy, lie embraced an opportunity when they were in the field together, to take his brother's life. (.Gen. iv.) Our Saviour distinguishes Abel by the title righteous, rMatt. xxiii. 35.) He is also one of the faiiliful " elders" mentioned in the epistle to the Hebrews, (ch. xi.) and is justly called the first martyr. Blood of Abel. (Heb. xii. 24.) The blood of sprinkling, or the blood of Jesus Christ shed for the remission of sins, speaks better things than the blood of Abel, inasmuch as the latter speaks only of the malice and madness of tiie heart of man, and cried to God from the ground for ven- geance on the murderer's head ; while the blood of Christ, which flowed freely for the guilty and ruined sin- ner, speaks peace and pardon for every penitent and believ- ing soul, (l John i. 7.) ABEL— GREAT STONE OF, (1 Sam. vi. 18,) was in the field of Jo8huaofBelh-sheraesh,where the ark of tlie Lord rested when it was returned by the Philistines to Kirjath-jearim. ABEL-BETH-]\'L^CHAH, (2 Kings XV. 29,) a city in the uorihern district of the tribe ABE of Naphtali, lying south-east of Cesarea-Philippi. To this place Sheba, the son of Bichri, fled and posted himself, when pursued by Joab, general of the army of David. The citizens, however, who feared a siege if they harboured him, cut off his head, at the suggestion of a wo- man, and threw it over the wall to Joab. (2 Sam. xx 14-22.) The city was afterwards cap- tured. (1 Kings XV. 20. 2 Kings XV. 29.) Perhaps the phrase mother in Israel, (2 Sam. XX. 19,) if it was designed to apply to the place at all, may denote its size and im- portance. ABEL-MAIM (2 Chron. xvi. 4) is called Abel-Beth-maa- chah, (1 Kings xv. 20,) and ap- pears to have been the same place. (See Abel-beth-jkua- CHAH.) ABEL-MEHOLAH. (Judg. vii. 22. 1 Kings xix. 16.) A town in the plain of Jordan, about ten miles s^mth of Beth- shean, and between that and Shechem; distinguished as the birthplace of Elisha, ai.d as the refuge of the Midianites when pursued hy Gideon. ABEL-MIZKAIM (Gen. I. 11) means the mouriiiiig of the Egypliayis. It was pro- bably in the plains of Jericho, and is placed by ancient writers between the city of Jericho and the river Jordan. The threshing-floor of Atad was here, and the name Abel- mizraim was derived from the circumstance, that here Jo seph and his company halted seven days to mourn, as they were passing from Egypt to Canaan to bury Jacob. (Gen. 1. 10, 11.) The term " beyond Jordan,^'' which is used in describing the place, refers to the situation of the sacred writer at the time of writing. As he was on the east of th'e river, Abel-mizraim was ht,- yond or on the west side. 11 ABl ABEI^SHITTIM, or Shit- ; TIM. (Num. xxxiii. 49; xxv. 1.) A town, six or seven miles distant from liie east bank of the Jordan, opposite to Jeri- cho. It was the place of one ' of the last encampments of ' Israel, on that side of the ! river. Some have supposed j (and modern geographers con- | firm the opinion) that Shiitim ! was a village, and Abel-shittim | the plain or valley in which it was situated. It was at this place, almost at the end of their miraculous jour- neyings, that the people of i Israeffell into the snares of ' the daughters of Moab, and ' committed the grossest idola- ry, for which they were visit- ed with a desolating plague which destroyed 24,0u0people. Hence, perhaps, the name Abel, from the mourning that such mortality must have oc- casioned. The spies whom Joshua sent to Jericho went from Shittim. (Josh. ii. 1.) ABIA, COURSE OF. (Luke i. 5.) In 1 Chron. xxiv. we have an account of the divisions of the priests into twenty-four classes, courses, or orders, who ministered at the altar in rotation. The courses were distinguished by the name of the most prominent member of the family from which the course w as taken. The eighth of these courses fell to the family of Abia, or Abijah ; and to this course belonged Ze- chariah, the father of John the Baptist. ABIATHAR. (1 Sam. xxii. 20.) The tenth high priest of the Jews, and fourth in descent from Eli. Doeg, at the com- mand of king iSaul, fell upon the priests of the Lord at Nob, and slew them. Among the slain was Ahimelech. His son Abiathar escaped from the carnage, and taking with him some part of the priest's garments, fled to David at ABl Keilah, and told him what Saul had done. David re- ceived Abiathar, and protected him, and he aflerssards be- came high priest. Thus there were two high priests in Israel at the same time,— Abiathar in the party of David, and Zadok in the party of Saul, (2 Sam. viii. 17 ;) but in consequence of his supporting Adonijah in his pretensions to the throne of David, Solomon, upon be- coming king, thrust Abiathar outof the priesthood, (1 Kings ii. 27,) and conferred the office exclusively upon Zad A city of Macedonia, situ- ated at the head of the ^gean Sea, on a promontory between rhessalonica and Philippi. APOLLOS. (Acts xviii. -24.) He was born at Alexandria, in Egypt, of Jewish parents, and is described as an eloquent man, and mighty in the Scrip- tures. As one of John's dis- ciples, he had been instructed in the elements of the Chris- tian faith, and came to Ephe- sus to speak and teach the things of the Lord. He was there more particularly and fully taught the doctrines of the gospel by Aquila and Priscilla,who had themselves been favoured with the com- pany and instruction of Paul, at (5orinth and on a voyage from that city to Ephesus. He afterwards went into Achaia, where his labours were crown- ed with abundant success. At Gorintii, too, he was regarded as a powerful and successful preacher of the gospel. Paul nad alreadybeen instrumental in establishing a church there, to the care of which ApoUos succeeded. (1 Cor. iii. 6.) The members of it were divided into parties, some being par- ticularly partial to Paul, others to ApoUos. and others still to Cephas. The rebuke of the APO apostle (1 Cor. i. 12,) is direct- ed against these partialities, in all which the power and grace of God seemed to be overlooked or disregarded. It has been remarked as an ex- emplary trait of character of these two eminent apostles, that the contention of their respective friends and admir- ers had no effect on their love and respect for each other. They both refrained from vi- siting the church while it was distracted with such preju- dices and partialities, tnougb a worldly ambition might have selected it as the field and the season of self-aggrandize- ment. APOLLYON. (See Abad- don.) APOSTLE. l.(Matt. X.2.) This term was given, origin- ally, to the twelve chief disci- ples of our Lord. Their names were, Simon Peter; Andrew ; James and John, (sons of Ze- bedee ;) Philip ; Bartholo- mew; Thomas; Matthe-w; James and Lebbeus, who is also called Judas or Jude, (sons of Alpheus ;) Simon, the Canaanite ; and Judas Isca- RtoT. Christ's charge to them is recorded in Matt. x. S— 42, and is worthy to be diligently studied. The circumstances of their history, as far as they are known, will be found un- der their respective names. After the ascension of the Redeemer, we find the names of eleven of the apostles re- peated, as among those who were engaged in prayer and supplication at Jerusalem, for the descent of the Spirit; and Matthias is also named, he having been appointed to the apostleship in the place of Judas Iscariot. The office and commission of apostles were remarkable in the following particulars : — (1.) They were all required to have been eye and ear wit- 56 APP nesses of what, they testified. (John XV. 27. Acts i. 21, 22, and xxii. 14, 15. 1 Cor. ix. 1, and XV. 8. 1 John i. 3.) (2.) They were all called or chosen by our Saviour himself. (Luks vi. 13. Gal. i. 1.) Even Mat- thias is not an exception to this remark, as the determi- nation of the lot was of God. (Acts i. 24—26.) (3.) They were inspired. (John xvi. 13.) (4.) They had the power of miracles. (Mark xvi. 20. Acts ii. 43. Heb. ii. 4.) 2. The term apostle is ap- plied to our Saviour, (Heb. iii. I,) and with singular pro- Rriety, as in the character of lessiah he is emphatically the sent of God. APPAREL. (See Clothes.) APPEAL. (Acts XXV. 11.) By the Roman law every accused citizen had a right to carry his cause before the emperor at Rome, by appeal from the judgment of the magistrate. APPII-FORUM. (Acts xxviii. 15.) The place where Paul met several of his brethren from Rome, when he was on his way to that city as a pri- soner. It was about fifty miles from Rome. The place is now called Piperno and is on the Naples road, i le name is de- rived from the circumstance that it is on the Appian way ; a road leading from Rome to Capua, which was made by Appius Claudius ; and that it contained a forum or market- place, to which pedlars and petty merchants resorted in great numbers. APPLES, APPLE TREE. Sol. Song ii. 3. Joel i. 12.) It is generally agreed that these lerms refer to the citron tree, and iigfruit. The proper apple tree is very rare in the east, and its fruit is destitute both of beauty and fragrance, and in both these respects ill ac- cords with the allusions to it AR in the sacred writings. (Se« Biblical ANTiauiTiES, vol. i. p. :38.) Apples op gold in pictdres OP SILVER (Prov. XXV. 11) is a figurative expression, com- parmg delicious fruit in silver baskets, or salvers curiously wrought like basket work, and perhaps representing ani- mals or landscapes, to sea- sonable advice wisely and courteously administered. Apple op the eye. (Prov. vii.2. Zech. ii. 8.) In these passages reference is had to the keen sensibility of the ball oi the eye. The same figure is used (Deut. xxxii. 10, and Ps. xvii. 8) to denote the^ most complete protection and security. And in Lam. li. 18 the phrase "apple of thine eye" is figuratively used for tears. AQUILA. (Acts xviii. 2.) A Jew born at Pontus, in Asia Minor. Being driven from Rome by a decree of the go- vernment requiring all Jews to leave that city, he and his wife Priscilla came to Co- rinth, and were dwelling there at the time of Paul's first visit to that city. (Acts xviii. 1.) They were of like occupation, (tent makers,) and Paul was received and hospitably en- tertained at Aquila's house ; and they also accompanied him from Corinth to Ephesus. On some occasion they ren- dered Paul very important service, and a very warm friendship existed between them. (Rom. xvi. 3—5. See Apollos.) AR, (Num. xxi. 28,) or RAB- BAH-MOAB, the chief towa of Moab, was situated twenty or twenty-five miles south of the river Arnon. It is called Rabbah or Great, as the chief town of the Ammonites was called Rabbah-Ammon, and by the Greeks it was called 57 ARA Areopolis. Its present name is El-Rabbi, and modem tra- vellers have discovered two copious fountains near the rums of the ancient city. (Num. xxi. 15.) ARABIA, (1 Kings x. 15,) called by the natives the peninsula of the Arabs, lies in Western Asia, south and southwest of Judea. It is fif- teen hundred miles from north to south, and twelve hundred from east to west, or about four times the extent of the kingdom of France. It is bounded north by Syria, east by the river Euphrates and the Persian gulf, south by the Indian ocean, and west by the Red .Sea, Palestine, and part of Syria. It is described in three divisions, the name of each being indicative of the face of the soil, and its gene- ral character :— 1. Arabia Desert a (or the desert) is a wide waste of burning sand, with here and there a palm tree, and a spring of brackish water. This was the country of the Ishmaelites, and is inhabited by the modern Bedouins. 2. Arabia Petrea (or ROCKY) comprehends what was formerly the land of Midian. The Edomites and the Amalekites also dwelt here, and a very powerful and independent tribe of Ishmael- ites. It was a land of shep- herds, and the scene of some of the most interesting events in the history of man. Horeb and Sinai were within its bounds. 3. Arabia Felix (or hap- py) was an exceedingly fruit- ful land. The inhabitants, who claim their descent from Shem, were unlike the shep- herds and robbers who occu- pied the other districts. They had permanent abodes, sup- ported themselves by agricul- ARA ture and commerce, and, once possessed a high degree of wealth and refinement. It is supposed that many of the articles mentioned in Ex. XXX. 23, 24, particularly the balm, were imported from Arabia; and even at this day, caravans of merchants, the descendants of the Cushites, Ishmaelites and Midianites, are found traversing the same deserts, conveying the same articles and in the same manner, as in the days of Moses. It has been said, that if any people in the world afford, in their history, an instance of high antiquity, and great sim- plicity of manners, the Arabs surely do. Coming among them, one can hardly help fancying himself suddenly carried back to the ages im- mediately succeeding the flood. Of all nations, the Arabs have spread farthest over the globe, and in all their wanderings have pre- served their language, man- ners, and peculiar customs, more perfectly than any other nation. They have various traditions respecting scripture person- ages and events ; and for a full and lucid view of their po- litical and geographical rela- tions, see Geography of thh Bible, pp. 46—60, and Bedoo- iN Arabs, both by Am. S. S. Union. ARAD. (Judg. i. 16.) A city in the southern border of Judea, whose king opposed the pas- sage of the" children of Israel, and even took someof them pri- soners, for which they were ac- cursed and their cilydestroyed. ARAM. (See Syria.) When this word is coupled with soma other, as Aram-Maachah, it means the " Syrians of Maa- chah," and so of other similar cases. 58 ARA ARARAT. (Gen. vili. 4.) A district of country lying near the centre of the kingdom of Armenia. It contained seve- ral cities, which were the residence of the successive kings and governors of Arme- nia, and hence the word Ara- rat is often applied to the whole kingdom. The word translated the land of Anne- nia, (2 Kings xix. 37. Isa. xxxvii. 38,) 18, in the original, Ararat. In the north-east part of Armenia is a range of mountains, on the summit of which the ark rested. It is called Agridah by the Turks. There are two peaks about seven miles apart, the highest of which is 15,0(X) feet (and a late French traveller says 16,000 feet) above the level of the sea, and is perpetually covered with snow. A modern traveller says of it, that when viewed from the plain below, one would think that the high- est mountains of the world had been piled upon each other, to form this one sublime immensity of earth, and rocks, and snow ; this awful monu- ment of the antediluvian world ; this stupendous link in the history of man before and since the flood. Once the population of the whole wide world was embraced in one small family, and that family inhabited this spot. All the animal tribes were assembled here,— birds, beasts, reptiles, and insects. But one lan- guage was then spoken. Here, loOj^the bow of the covenant was set ; and here was erect- ed the first altar, after the dreadful catastrophe of the destruction of the world. The immediate vicinity of the mountain is inhabited by Koords, a savage tribe of Mo- hammedans. And since the last war between Russia and Persia, the Russian bounda- ries have been so extended as ARA to embrace Ararat ; and nov^ Russia, Persia, and Turkey meet at that mountain. (See Mai3, pp. 60, 61.) There has been much con- troversy as to the fact whether the ark rested on this moon- tain, chiefly in consequence of the phraseology of Gen. xi. 2, which has been supposed to denote that the place where the ark rested was east of ihe plain of Shinar, whereas the Ararat of Armenia is west of it. But this diflicully is alto- gether imaginary, for we are not told the direction of the route which Noah and his family took, as if it had been said, they "journeyed from east to west,'''' and came to a plain, &c. The phrase, from the east, signifies in the ori- ginal, before, in respect both to time and place ; sj that the expression only means that in their first general migration from Ararat, they came to a plain, &c. This view of the case is confirmed by Jewish historians, and the prophet Jeremiah (Jer. li. 27) speaks of Ararat as one of the coun- tries of the north, from which an invading force should come upon Babylon ; and this cor- rectly describes the situation of Ararat, in Armenia : it is almost due north of Babylon. (See Evening Recreations, by the American Sunday- school Union, part i. pp. 17— 23.) ARAUNAH, or ORNAN, (2 Sam. xxiv. 16,) was a Jebusite, who lived at Jerusalem, and owned a threshing-place or floor, where the temple was afterwards built. In conse- quence of the sin of David, the king, a pestilence was sent through the nation, which was sweeping off its inhabitants at the rate of 70,000 in a day. An angel was seen hovering over the threshing-floor of Araunah, with his arm lifted ARC up for the destruction of Jeru- salem. David was humbled, and confessed his sin, and God, by one of the prophets, directed him to go to that spot and build an altar there unto the Lord. He obeyed, and when he came to the spot and made known his business, Araunah refused to receive any thing for it, but offered it to him, together with oxen for sacrifices, and the timber of the threshing instruments for fuel. David refused to receive them as a gift, as he would not offer to the Lord that which had cost him nothing. He therefore bought the oxen for fifty shekels of silver, (2 Sam. XXIV. 24,) or S22 50, and the whole place for six hundred shekels of gold, (1 Chron. xxi. 25,) or $4524, and offered his sacrifices, which were accept- ed, and the plague stayed. AREA. (See Hebron.) ARCHANGEL. (I Thess. iv. 16) The prince or chief of angels. Michael is called the archangel, (Jude 9,) and it is generaUy believed that a cre- ated, though highly exalted, being is denoted by the term, and not Him whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting. (Micah v. 2.) ARCHELAUS. (Matt. ii. 22.) A son of Herod the Great. On the decease of his father, the same year that our Saviour was born, Archelaus succeed- ed to the government of Judea, and reigned there when Jo- seph and Mary, with the in- fant Jesus, were returning from Egypt, whither they had gone to escape the fury of He- rod. Archelaus, however, was much like his father in the malignity of his temper, and they were therefore still afraid to return. ARCHER. (Gen. xxi. 20.) One who is skilled in the use of the bow and arrows, as ARE Ishmael and Esau were. (See Armour.) ARCHI. (Josh. xvi. 2.) A town on the southern border of Ephraim, between Bethel and Beth-horon the nether It is celebrated as the birth- place of Hushai,David'sfriend. (See HusHAi.) ARCTURUS. (Jobxxxviii. 32.) The name of a star, or more probably a constellation, in the northern heavens. Some have supposed that Jupiter and the satellites were in- tended in the allusion of the poet. AREOPAGITE, AREOPA- GUS. (Acts xvii. 19. 34.) The title of the judges of the su- preme tribunal of Athens. The name is derived from Areopagus, {the hill of Mars,) whicri signifies either the court itself, or the hill or spot on which it was held. It was a rocky elevation almost in the centre of the city. The tri- bunal that assembled here had particular cognizance of all blasphemies against the hea- then gods ; and therefore Paul, who so pointedly condemn- ed the idolatries of the city, while he urged them to seek and serve Jehovah as the only living and true God, was esteemed " a setter forth of strange gods," and was brought before the Areopagus for trial. He there exhibited the sin and folly of idol wor- ship with such power that Dionysius, one ofthe judges, and Damaris, and several other persons, believed his testimony. The place supposed to have been Mars' hill is now covered with the rubbish of spacious buildings ; they are probably the ruins of the palace of Di- onysius, and the house of the archbishop, both of which were built after the establish- ment of the Christian religion in Athens. ARK It is said thai the sessions #f the Areopagus were held «»nly in the night, that the j minds of the judges might not be distracted or biassed by j extraneous objects. 1 ARETAS. (2 Cor. xi. 32.) The king of Syria, at the time the governor of Damascus at- tempted to apprehend Paul. (Actsix. 24,25.) ARGOB. (Deut. iii. 4.) A district of Bashan, the king- dom of Og, belonging to the half tribe of Manasseh. It lay east of Jordan, near the sea of Galilee, and contained sixty fortified cities. The go- vernor of this place is sup- g)sed to be intended in 2 in^s XV. 25. ARIEL (Ezra viii. 16) was the name of one of Ezra's chief men. The original word means " the lion of God," and Jerusalem being the chief city of Judah, whose emblem was a lion, (Gen. xlix. 9,) the word Ariel is applied to that city. (Isa. xxix. 1.) ARIMATHEA. (See Rama.) ARISTARCHUS (Acts xix. 29) was a Macedonian, and one of those who accompanied Paul to Ephesus, and shared his labours there. He was nearly killed in the tumult which Demetrius excited in that city, and it is said that he was finally beheaded at Rome. Paul alludes to hira both as his fellow labourer and fellow Drisoner. (Col. iv. 10. Philem. ARK. (Gen. vi. 14.) The vessel constructed by Noah, »t God's command, for the preservation of himself and family, and a stock of the va- rious animals, &c., when the sarth was devastated by the flood. It was four hundred and fifty feet long, seventy-five in breadth, and forty-five in height ; and was designed, not to sail, but only to float, when ARK borne up by the waters. It had lower, second, and third stories, besides what, in com- mon vessels, is called the hold. A door was placed in the side, and it had also a window made of some trans- lucent substance for the ad- mission of light. (See Teach- er's Assistant, to vol. iii. Union Questions, by the Ame- rican Sunday-school Union, pp. 40, 41.) The ark was constructed of gopher wood, and covered witn bitumen or pitch, to ex elude water, as tar is now used for the like purpose. The bitumen now found in the east, as we are told by travellers, is so like the Stockholm pitch, that they can be distinguished from each other only by the pecu- liar smell and superior hard- ness of the bitumen. It is doubtful where the ark was built, and also how much time was employed upon it. On the latter point the weight of opinion is, that it was from one hundred to one hundred and twenty years ; the former period being inferred from comparing Gen. v. 32, and vii, 6 ; and the latter from com- paring Gen. vi. 3, with 1 Pet. Iii. 20. The form of the ark is sup- posed to have been an oblong square, with a flat bottom and sloping roof; and the parti- cular construction of it has been the subject of much cu- rious, not to say useless, speculation. To show the va- riance of opinions, it may lie enough to say, that in the single point of the number of apartments, the computation has varied from seventy-two to four hundred. Some of the results of modern investiga- tions have, however, been highly valuable. The caviller i has sometimes started difficul- I ties respecting the capacity of ARK the ark to contain what the sacred history informs us was put into it; and it has also been asked where Noah could have acquired skill sufficient to construct such a vessel for such a purpose. On this point, however, the degree of skill is in itself conclusive evidence of its origin; for after the most accurate computations by tliose best versed in ship- building, and supposing the dimensions given in the sa- cred history to be geometri- cally exact, it is found that the vessel, in all its known parts and proportions, is in perfect accordance with the received principles of naval architecture. And on the sub- ject of capacity, the point has been satisfactorily establish- ed, that upon the smallest es- timate of the cubit measure, the ark was fully adequate to ARK the purpose for which it was prepared; and that besides all the room occupied by the pers'^ns and things which the sacred history informs us were preserved in it, there was space for many species of animals which probably existed thc»n, and were pre served in the ark, but which have now become extinct. There can b^, no doubt, there fore, that the ark was built on strictly scientific principles, and was proportioned with mathematical precision to its contents. Ark of the covenant. (Ex. XXV. 10.) A small chest, constructed in a particular form and manner, and for a specific purpose, by the ex- press command of Jehovah. It was three feet and nine inches in length, and two feet three inches in width and 64 ARK neight. It was made of shiltim wood, and covered with plates of gold. A bojder or crown of gold encircled it near the top, and it was surmounted by the mercy-seat, which was of solid gold, and answered the purpose of a cover or lid to the ark. On each end of the mercy-seat was placed a gold- en ima^e representing che- rubim lacing inwards, and bending down over the ark. Two rings of gold were at- tached to the body of the ark on each side, through which passed the staves or poles that were used in carrymg it from place to place. These were made of the same wood with the ark, and were over- laid in the same manner. This ark contained, 1. A gold- en pot, in which the three quarts of manna were pre- served. (Ex. xvi. 33.) 2. Aa- ron's rod, which miraculously budded and blossomed and yielded fruit all at once, (Num. xvii. 10;) and, 3. The tables of the testimony, or the tables of the ten command- ments, written with the finger of God, and constituting the testimony or evidence of the covenant between God and the people. (Deut. xxxi. 26.) Hence it is sometimes called the ark of the testimony, and sometimes the ark of the co- venant. (Ex. xxxiv. 29, and xl. 20. Heb. ix. 3, 4.) The ap- parent contradiction between Heb. ix. 3, 4, and 1 Kings viii. 9, may be reconciled either by supposing (what is not im- probable) that the contents of the ark were different at the different periods referred to, or that the phrase, " where- in" in Hebrews, refers not to the ark, but to the remote an- tecedent, viz. " the taberna- cle which is called the holiest of all." On the mercy-seat which wrmounted the ark rested the 6* ARK awful and mysterious symbol of the divine presence. (Lev. xvi. 2. Num. vii. 89.) For a very full and interesting de- scription of the ark of the co- venant, and its contents, Sec. and also of the cherubim and Shechinah, or the manifesta- tion of God's presence, see Biblical Antiq,cities, by the American Sunday-school Union, vol. ii. chap. ii. pp. 50 After the children of Israel had passed the Jordan, whose waters divided at the approach of the ark, (Josh. iii. 14—17,) the tabernacle was set up at Gilgal, and this sacred vessel remained in it for a season. It was then removed to Shiloh, where it was stationary be- tween three and four hundred years, (Jer. vii. 12 — 15;) and being then taken out and borne before the army, it fell into the hands of the Philis- tines, at the defeat of the Is- raelites near Aphek. (1 Sam. iv.) The Philistines took it to Ashdod, and placed it by the side of their idol god Dagon. (1 Sam. V.) But being taught in a very surprising manner that their profane use of the ark was highly displeasing to God, they returned it tjy di- vine direction, and with signal tokens of divine oversight, to the people of Israel, by whom it was lodged at Kirjath-jea- rim. (1 Sam. vi. and vii.) When David had fixed his residence at Jerusalem, the ark was removed thither with sacred ceremonies,, and kept until the temple was prepared to receive it. (1 Kings viii. 1-1 1. 1 Chron. xv. 25-28;) on which occasion it is sup posed the one hundred and thirty-second psalm was writ- ten. The second temple did not contain the ark : whether it was seized among the spoils when the city was sacked, or 65 67 ARM whether it was secreted and afterwards destroyed, does not appear. The Jews think it will be restored when their Messiah appears ; but the pro- phet,(Jer. lii. 16,) if they would believe liis tesiiinony, would end this and many similar de- lusions. Wherever the Jews dwelt or wandered, they always wor- shipped towards the place where the ark of the covenant rested. (Dan. vi. 10.) ARKITE. (Gen. x. 17.) The Arkites were a branch of the family of Canaan whichsettled in Phenicia and Syria. The ruins of the ciiv which they are supposed to have inhabit- ed are now to be seen at Arka, twenty-five miles north of Tri- poli, and directly opposite the northern extremity of Leba- non. ARM. (1 Sam. ii. 31.) Meta- phorically used for strength, rwer, or protection, (Ex. vi. Isa. lii. 10;) in which last passage allusion is made to the custom of making the arm bare by throwing it out of the loose garment or fold, when engaged in close combat, so that its strength and action might be free and unembar- ARMAGEDDON. (Rev. xvi. 16.) The mountain of Meged- don, or Megiddo, a city at the foot of mount Carmel, and noted for scenes of carnage. (2 Kings xxiii. 29, 30. Judg. v. 19.; ARMENIA. (2 Kings xix. 37.) An inland country at the eastern extremity of Asia Mi- nor, four hundred and thirty miles from east to west, and about three hundred from north to south. It has the Mediterranean on the south- west, tlie Black Sea on the northwest, and the Caspian Sea on the east, and its west- ern boundary is about six hundred miles east of Con- ARM stantinople. The Euphrates, the Tigris, and other rivers rise within the boundaries of Armenia. (See Map, pp. 66, 67.) It is divided into fifteen provinces, of which the cen- tral one is called Ararat. In this province was the mountain on which the ark rested, and here was the usual residence of the imperial court : hence this province is intended by the term Armenia in the Scriptures, and not the whole kingdom. Two of our American missionaries (Messrs. Smith and Dwighl) have recently explored this interesting country, and their observations are published in two volumes, entitled Re- searches in Armenia. ARMIES, or HOSTS. (1 Sam xvii. 10.) The armies of the Israelites embraced the whole male adult population of the country, (Num. i. 2, 3 ; xxvi. 2,) and when occasion required, the entire body was readily mustered. (Judg. xx. 1-11. ISam. xi. 7, 8.) This accoimts for the prodigious numbers which were often as- sembled. (2Chron. xiii. 3; xiv. 9. See art. War.) The sol- diers received no wage-s, and each man arrned and support- ed himself. Hence their cam- paigns were short, and gene- rally terminated by a single battle. Horses were not used, it is supposed, until Solomon's time. The manner of declar- ing war, and the character and occupation of exempts, are minutely stated. (Deut. xx. 1— 14 ; xxiv. 5.) And for a very interesting sketch of the whole military system of the Jews, see Biblical ANTiauiTiES, by the American Sunday-school Union, vol. i. chap. viii. § 6. ARMORY. (Sol. Song iv. 4.) The place in which armour was deposited in times of peace. (Jer. I. 25.) ARMOUR. (1 Sam. xvii. 54.) ARM Weapons or instruments of defence. These were in ge- neral the shield, or buckler, the target, the coat of mail, the greaves, and the helmet. 1. The shield or buckler, (1 Kings X. 17. Ezek. xxvi. 8,) wag probably one of the earli- est pieces of armour, for allu- sion is often made to it by the earliest writers. (Gen. xv. LPs. V. 12; xviii. 2; xlvii.9.) It wag of various sizes, and usually made of light wood, and covered with several folds ARM or thicknesses of stout hide, which were preserved and polished by frequent applica- tions of oil, (Isa. xxi. 5,) and often painted with circles of various colours or figures. (Nah. ii. 3.) Sometimes osiers, or reeds woven like basket- work, were used to stretch the hide upon, and s >metimesthe shield was made either entire- ly of brass or gold, or covered with thick plates of those me- tals. (1 Kings xiv. 26, 27.) The shield was held by the left arm. The hand passed through under two straps cr thomrs placed thus, X, and grasped, with the fingers, an- other small strap near the edge of the shield, as repre- sented in the annexed cut, so that it v.as held with great firmness. A single handle of wood or leather in the centre, as represented in the first two cuts, was used in later times. The outer surface was made more or less rounding from the centre to the edge, and being polished smooth, made the aiTows or darts glance oflf or rebound with increased force ; and the edses were armed with plates of iron, not only to strengthen them, but to preserve the perishable part from the dampness while lying upon the ground. la ARM limes of engagement, the shields were eiilier held above the head, or ihey were placed together edge to edge, and thus formed a continuous bar- rier. Another form of the ancient shield is seen in the following cut. ARM 2. The target (1 Sam. xvii. 6) was a larger sort of shield, the relative weight of which may be inferred from 1 Kings X. 16, 17. It is usually men- tioned by the sacred writers in connexion with heavy arms, while the shield is spoken of with the sword, dart, and other light arms. It probably resembled the great shield of the Romans, which in some cases was four feet high, and two and a half feet broad, and so curved as to fit the body of the soldier. 3. The coat of mail, (1 Sam. xvii. 5,) or habergeon, (Neh. Iv. 16. Job xli. 26,) or breast- plate, (Rev. ix. 9,) covered the body upon and below the breast and back. It consisted of two parts, and was fasten- ed togetner at the sides. We are told that Goliath's coat of mail weighed five thousand shekels of brass, or nearly one hundred and sixty pounds. It was probably formed of layers of brass, one upon the other, like the scales of a fish. Sometimes the coat of mail was made of wicker-work, covered with a brass plate. As it was the principal and most complete part of the armour, it is a most appropri- ate emblem of defence and safety. }-het wh^m God specially deputed f.>r that purpose, Asa set about the reformation of every abuse in his kingdom, and appointed s solemn festi- val of thanksgiv ne to God, at which all the'people were as- sembled, and entered into a firnial covenant with God. Baasha, king of Israel, find- ins his subjects too much dis- posed to go into Judah and dwell there, commenced for- tifying Ramah, a place near the frontiers of both king- doms, with a view to cut off the passage of emigrants t"* Jerusalem^ and other parts of Judah. Asa, though he had so long enjoyed the" favour aiul protection of God, was now A.SA tempted to forsake hiir.. In- Btead of trusting in his al- mighty arm for deliverance, aa he had done in years past, he sent to Benhadad the king of Syria, and prevailed on him, even in violation of a treaty which existed between Benhadad and Baasha, to come to the help of Judah, against Israel. The Syrian kmg, won by the presents which Asa had sent him, im- mediately attacked and de- stroyed several important ci- ties of Israel. Baasha, finding his kingdom thus invaded, abandoned the fortification of Ramah, that he might protect the provinces of the interior from desolation. Asa seized the opportunity to demolish Raman, and take away the stone and timber which were collected there, and use them in the building of his own cities. In the mean time, a prophet was sent to remind him of his sin and folly in forsaking the Lord his God and trusting to an arm of flesh, and to warn him of the punishment which would come upon him for all these things. But the heart of Asa was already so alien- ated from God, that he was enraged by the faithful mes- sage, and caused the bearer of it to be thrown into prison. He was afterwards visited with a most distressing dis- ease of the feet, but even this did not lead him to renew his tru t in God. He died a. m. 3090, in the forty-first year of his reign; and his burial was attended with great pomp. ASAHEL. (2 Sam. ii. 18, 19.) A brother of Joab. (See Ab- NBR.) ASAPH (1 Chron. xxv. 1, 2) wag a celebrated musician, and one of the chief leaders of the temple choir. Several of the psalms of David are entitled, a psalm of or for ASH Asaph. (Psalms Ixxiii. to Ixxxiii.) That these were not written by Asaph is evident from the fact that allusion is made in some of them to events which took place after his death. ASCENSION. (SeeCHRiST.) ASH. (Isa. xliv. 14.) A well known forest tree, of rapid growth, the wood of which was wrought into the images of idolatry. ASHAN. (Josh. XV. -K.) A city of Judah, situated about twenty miles south-west of Jerusalem, and probably the Chorashan mentioned 1 Sam. XXX. 30. ASHDOD. (Josh. xv. 47.) One of the five capital cities of the Philistines, called by the Greeks, and known in the New Testament, as Azotus. (Acts viii.40.) It was situated on the Mediterranean, be- tween Askelon and Ekron, fifteen or twenty miles north of Gaza. Here wa.s the temple of Dagon, in which the Philis- tines placed the ark. The city was more than once cap- tured. (2 Chron. xxvi. 6. Isa. XX. 1.) A late traveller states that Ashdod is to be seen from an elevated spot near Joppa; and that it abounds with fine old olive trees, and with fruits and vegetables of every kind. Messrs. King and Fisk, American missionaries, were there in 1823. ASHDOTH-PISGAH. (Deut. iii. 17.) A city of the tribe of Reuben, which is elsewhere called the springs of Pisgah. (Deut. iv. 49.) ASHER. (Gen. xxx. i3.) The son of Jacob, by Zilpah. He was one of the twelve patri- archs. The portion of the holy land assigned to his tribe was bounded by Phenicia on the west; mount Lebanon on the north ; mount Carmel and the tribe of Issachar on th« south, and the tribes of Zebu 74 ASH Ion and Naphtali on the east. | His descendants are called Asherites. (Judg. 1. 32.) ASHES. (Gen. xviii. 27.) To cover the head with ashes, or to sit in ashes, betokens self- ; abhorrence, humiliation, ex- ' treme grief, or penitence. (2 Sam. xlii. 19. Esth. iv. 3. Job ii. 8. Jer. vi. 26. Lam. iii. 16. | Jonah iii. 6. Matt. xi. 21.) There was a sort of lye made of the ashes of the heifer, ' sacrificed on the great day of expiation, which was used for ceremonial purification. (Num. xix. 17, 13. See Heifer.) ASHKENAZ. (Gsn. x. 3.) A grandson of Japhet, and the probable ancestor of those who inhabited a country of the same name, (Jer. li. 27,) lying along the eastern and south- eastern shore of the Black Sea. The precise district is unknown. (See Minni.) ASHTAROTH. 1. A place (Josh. ix. 10) called Astaroth, (Deut. i. 4,) and Ashteroth Kar- naim, (Gen. xiv. 5,) the word karnaim meaning two-hor7ied, and having reference to a heathen goddess, who was re- presented with a crescent, or two-horned moon. It was one of the chief cities of Bashan, and is supposed to be the same with the modern Mezaraib, on the route of the pilgrims from Damascus to Mecca. 2. An idol; represented in thij above cut, (Judg. ii. 13,) ASI called also Ashtoretli, the god- dess of the Sidonians. It was much worshipped in Syria and Phenicia. Solomon in- troduced the worship of it. (1 Kings xi. 33.) The Pheni- cians called it Aslarte. The four hundred priests of Jeze- bel, mentioned 1 Kings xviii. 19, are supposed to have been employed in the service of this idol ; and we are told that under this name three hun- dred priests were constantly employed in its service at Hierapolis, in Syria, many ages after Jezebel's time. This idol was also called the " queen of heaven," and the worship was said to be paid to the " host of heaven." It is usually mentioned in connex- ion with Baal. ASHTORETH. (See pre- ceding article.) ASIA. (Acts ii. 9.) Asia was not known to the ancients as one of the four erand divisions of the earth, ^he name was originally applied to a small district of Lydia, including perhaps Ionia and jEolis. The term was gradually enlarged in its application, until it em- braced the whole of Asia Mi- nor, and finally denoted a large portion of the eastern divTsion of the earth. The Asia of the Bible is a peninsula, on the western or south-western side of the con- tinent of Asia, which stretch- es into the Mediterranean or Great Sea, extending east as far as the Euphrates, west to the islands of the sea, (see Islands,) north to what is now called the Black Sea, and south to the Mediterra- nean or Great Sea. It includes the provinces of Bilhynia, Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Cilicia, Pamphylia, Pisidia, Lycaonia, Phrygia, Mysia, Troas, Lydia, Lysia, and Ca ria. In the sense in which it i*i 75 ASP used, in Acts ii. 9; 'vi. 9; xix. 10. 22. 26, 27. 2 Tim. i. 15. IPet. i. 1, it was tlie Roman proconsular Asia, and com- prehends but a portion of Asia Minor, viz. Plirygia, Mysia, Caria, and Lydia. Within this territory the seven churches of Asia were situated. (Rev. i. 4. 11.) In Acts xxvii. 2, the term Asia may represent Asia Minor, but even then it may refer only to the western coasts. In every other case it is so distinguished from other portions of Asia Minor, or so immediately connected with Ephesus, as to lead to the be- lief that the Asia of which Ephesus was the capital (or proconsular Asia) is intended. ASKELON. (2 Sam. i. 20.) One of the " fenced cities" of the Philistines. It was situ- ated on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean, twelve miles south of Gaza. After the death of Joshua, it fell into the hands of the tribe of Judah. (Judg. i. 18.) At a short distance to the north is a small village called Scalona, evi- dently a corruption of the an- cient name. ASP. (Deut. xxxii. 33.) A small but very poisonous ser- pent. (Rom. iii. 13.) Their venom is cruel, because it is so subtle and deadly, and re- quires an immediate excision of the wounded part. For an infant child to play upon the hole of such a venomous rep- tile would seem to be most presumptuous ; and hence the force and beauty of the figure used by the prophet, (Isa. xi. 8,) to represent the security and peace of the Messiah's reign. In Ps. Iviii. 4, 5, and Eccl. X. ll,and Jer. viii. 17, al- lusion is made to that singular phenomenon, the charming of serpents by musical souu'ls ; and the wicked are compared to the deaf adder, (or asp,) that stoppeth her ear, and will not ASh be charmed. Whether the rep- tile is really deaf, or whether it obstructs its hearing, aa it may easily do by laying one ear upon the ground and co- vering the other with dust or with its tail, is not important. It is enough that for some cause the effort to attract and turn it, is vain. All these phrases import that musical sounds may beguile and dis- arm some serpents, but not others ; or that the arts of the charmer may be effectual sometimes, but not always. The Arabians tell us that there are three classes of serpents, and in the first class they place those whose poison is so fatal as to cause death in three hours, and who are not subject to the power of the charmer; such, they say, are the basilisk and all kinds of asps. It is sufBcient for the full force of the scriptural al- lusions, that there are ser- fients on whom the power of the charmer is often exerted in vain ; serpents whose stroke cannot be parried, and whose poison is death, ASS. (Gen. xxii. 3.) This animal is among the most common mentioned in Scrip- ture, and constituted a consi- derable part of the wealth of ancient times. (Gen. xii. 16, and XXX. 43. Job i. 3 ; xlii. 12.) They were sometimes so nu- merous as to require a spe- cial keeper. (Gen. xxxvi. 24. 1 Chron. xxvii. 30.) The ass and the ox were the principal animals of burden and draft. (Ex. xxiii. 12.) The domestic ass is indeed a most ser- viceable animal, and in some respects preferable to the horse. He subsists on very coarse food, and submits to the meanest drudgery. His skin s remarkaljly thick, and is used at this day for parch- ment, drum heads, memoran- dum books, &c. Their usual 76 ASS ASS ^S^B^r^Tfn colour is red or dark brown, but sometimes they are of a silver white, and these last were usually appropriated to persons of dignity. (Judg. v. 10.) So in Gen. xlix. 11, the allusion to the ass and the vine imports dignity and fruit- fulness, and the continuance and increase of both in the tribe of Judah. There was a breed of asses far superior to those that were used in labour, and which are supposed to be referred to in most of the pas- sages above cited. The female, or she-ass, was particularly valuable for the saddle, and for hor milk, which was extensively used for food and for medicinal purposes. Tne ass was used in agri- cultural labour, especially in earing (ploughing) the ground, and treading it to prepare it for the seed. (Isa. xxx. 24, and xxxii. 20.) The prohibi- tion (Deut. xxii. 10) might have besn founded in part on the inequality of strength between 7* the ox and the ass, and the cruelty of putting upon them the same burden ; but was in- tended chiefly to mark the separation of the Jews from surrounding nations, among whom such an union of differ- ent beasts was not uncommon. So serviceable and indeed es- sential to man was this animal in ancient times, that to drive away the ass of the fatherless is reckoned among the most atrocious acts of oppression and cruelty, (Job xxiv. 3,) as depriving an orphan family of their only cow would be regarded at the present dajr. The attachment of this ani- mal to its owner is among its remarkable characteristics. In this respect it closely re- sembles the dog. Hence the severity of the prophet's re- buke. (Isa. i. 3.) The fact stated in 2 Kings vi. 25, is designed to show that such was the extremity of the famine, that the people were not only willing to give an ex- orbitant price for a small and 77 ASS most undesirable portion of meat which they were not ac- customed to eat, but, breaking through all the restraints of relieion and superstition, the famished citizens seized with avidity this unsavoury and forbidden food. The ass, when dead, was thrown into the open field, and that part of his flesh which was not consumed )iy beasis nd birds, was suffered to putrefy and decay. Nothing could be more disgraceful than to expose a human body in the like manner. (Jer. xxii. 19, and xxxvi. 30.) Much vain discussion has arisen respecting the passage. Num. xxii. 28. It would be as easy for the Creator of both man and berst to take the power of speech from the former and give it to the latter, as it was at first to give it to the former and withhold it from the latter. The apos- tle (2 Pet. ii. 16) seems to have received the history like a little child, in the plain and obvious meaning of the lan- guage. (See Balaam.) A variety ot opinions have been entertained respecting our Saviour's entrance into Je- rusalem, (Matt. xxi. 1—11,) whether it was under circum- stances of great meanness and poverty, or with honour and royai parade. The prophecy in Zech. ix. 9, was fulfilled, and this is all that it con- cerns us to know. The Arabia n a ss has a 1 ight, quick step. In Persia, Syria, and Egypt, ladies are accus- tomed to ride on asses, and they are particularly valuable in mountainous countries, be- ing more sure-footed than horses. Their ordinary gait Is four miles an hour. The ass in his wild or natu- ral state is an elegant animal. It is often alluded to in the sacred wiitings. (Jobxi. 12; ASS xxiv. 5, and xxxix. 5—8.) They usually roamed in herds through barren and desolate districts. (Isa. xxxii. 14. Hos. viii.9.) One was recently taken in a pitfall in Astrachan, and added to the Surry Zoological collection in England. It is described as having a deer- like appearance, standing high on the legs, very active, of a silvery colour, with a dark brown streak along the back. (See Youth's Friend, by the American Sunday- school Union, vols. ii. and iii. ASSEMBLIES, masters of. (Eccl. xii. 11.) This phrase by itself is perfectly intelligible, and is supposed to refer to the leading men or master-spirits of the assemblies of the wise and curious, which were often held in eastern countries, and where sages and philosophers uttered their weighty sayings. The preacher endeavoured to clothe the infinitely wise and perfect doctrines which he taught in proper langruage. They were the words oftruth, and were designed to prove quickening to the sluggish soul as goads are to the dull ox. (Acts ii. 37.) They were re- ceived from the one great Shep- herd or Teacher, and came with great power as the say- ings of the most wise and elo- qu'ent of their learned assem- blies ; and they would take hold of the hearts and con- sciences of men, holding them to the obedience of the truth, as nails driven through a sound board firmly bind and fasten it where we will. ASSHUR. (Gen. x. 22.) The second son of Shem. He pro- bably gave name to the coun- try of Assyria. (Hos. xiv. 3. Mic. V. G.) There is some doubt whether tiie reading of Gen. X. 11, should not be thus : " Out of that land he (that is, Nimrod, spoken of in ver. 9) went forth into Asshur. or As- 78 ■ ASS Syria, and builded Nineveh." At any rate, the weight of au- thority favours the position, that Nineveh was founded by Nimrod. ASSOS. (Acts XX. 13.) A maritime town of Tmas, in the north of Mysia, and oppo- site the island of Lesbos, now called Beiram. ASSYRIA. (2 Kings x v. 19.) A most powerful empire of Asia, the history of which, both in its glory and in its overthrow, is most significantly told by the prophet. (Ezek. xxxi.) It was founded probably by Nim- rod, one hundred and twenty years after the deluge. (See AssHUR.) In the most compre- hensive use of the term, it in- cluded all the countries and nations from the Mediterra- nean Sea on the west, to the river Indus on the east. It is important to observe that by the term Assyrians, in the sacred writings, is meant the people of Assyria proper, or the empire of which NinevSh was the chief city ; by the Babylonians, or Chaldeans, is meant the people of the coun- try of which Babylon was the capital ; and by the Syrians, the people of the country of which Zobah first, and after- wards Damascus, was the capital, and whose south and south-eastern boundary was the land of Canaan. The early history of Assyria is involved in obscurity. We know from the sacred history that it was a powerful nation. (Num. xxiv. 22.) And its ca- pital was one of the most re- nowned of the eastern world. (See Nineveh.) It fell into tlie hands of the Medes ; the monarchy was divided be- tween them and the Babylo- nians, and the very name of Assyria was thenceforth for- gotten. (See Geography of THE Bible, p. 24, and Eve- KiNG Kecreations, part i. pp. ATII 50—70, both by the American S. Union.) ASSURANCE. 1. Op thk understanding, (Col. ii. 2) is a full knowledge of divine things f lunded on the declara- tion of the Scriptures. 2. An assurance of faith (Heb. X. 22) is a firm belief in Christ, as God has revealed him to us in the Scriptures, and an exclusive dependence on him for salvation. 3. Assurance of hope. (Heb. vi. 11) is a firm expect- ation that God will grant us the complete enjoyment of what he has promised. ASTAROTH. (See Ashta- ROTH.) ASTROLOGERS. (Dan. ii. 27.) A class of men who jjre- tendedto foretell future events by observing the motions of the heavenly bodies. ASUPPIM, HOUSE OF. (1 Chron. xxvi. 15.) Some one of the apartments of the temple where the stores were kept. AT AD. (SeeABEi.-MizRAiM.) ATHALIAH. (2Kings xi. 1.) The mother of Ahaziah. Ahab, king of Israel, was her father. Omri, king of Samaria, was her grandfather, and she mar- ried Joram or Jehoram, king of Judah. The sacred biogra- pher gives her a most odious and revolting character. She advised her own son in his wickedness, and after Jehu had slain him, (see Ahaziah,) she resolved to destroy the children of her husband by his former wives, and then take the throne of Judah. But Jehosheba, a half sister of Ahaziah, secured Joash, one of the chiyren and heirs, and secreted him and his nurse for six years. In the seventh year, every thing being pre- pared for the purpose, Joash, the young prince, was brought out and placed on the throne. Attracted by the crowd of people who had assembled to 79 ATO >K'itness the ceremony, and unsuspicious of the cause, Alhaliah hastened to the tem- ple. When the populace had assembled, and when she saw the young king on the throne, and heard the shouts of the people, aad found that all her ambitious designs were likely to be defeated, she rent her clothes and cried out, " Tl-ea- son. Treason," hoping proba- bly to rally a party in favour of her interests. But she was too late. The priest com- manded her to be removed from the temple, and she was taken without the walls of the city, and nut to death. ATHENS. (Acta xvii. 15.) The capital of Allica in Greece, situated on the Saro- nicGulf, forty-six miles east of Corinth, three hundred south- west of Constantinople, and five miles from the coast. It was distinguished not only for poli- tical importance and military power, but for the eloquence, literature, and refinement of its inhabitants. Paul visited it about A.D. 52, and found the people sunk in idolatry and idleness. He preached ihere, and took occasion to reprove their superstitions, for which he was summoned before the Areopagus. (See Areopagus. See Life of Paul, by the Ame- rican Sunday-school Union, chapters viii. ix. and x.) ATOXEMENT. (Lev. iv. 20. Rom. v. 11.) This word, in its popular use, has a variety of significations, such as re- conciliation, satisfaction or re- paration, and expiation. The word occurs often in the Old Testament, but only once in the New ; though the subject itself is presented, and illus- trated, and magnified in every variety of form, a.sd by all the force of expression, both in the gospels and in the epis- tles.^ (Rom. ill.— viii. and Heb. vii. — X. inclusive.) The word ATO ransom (Job xxxiii. 24) might be rendered atonement, and is so rendered in the margin. (See also Num. xvi. 46, and 2 Sam. xxi. 3.) The great atonement made for sin by the sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, constitutes the grand substan- tial principle of the Christian faith. The efficacy of it is such, that the sinner^ though under the wrath of God and the condemnation of his just law, by faith in the atoning blood of Christ is broushtinto favour with God, is delivered from condemnation, and made an heir of eternal life and glory. The Hebrew word rendered atonement signifies coverijig, (Ps. xxxii. l.fand the Greek version of this Hebrew word is translated propitiation in our Bible ; and may denote either that our offences are covered, or that we are shield- ed and protected from the curse, Christ being made a curse for us. Generally, wher- ever the term occurs, a state of controversy, irreconcilia- tion, or estrangement is im- plied; and in relation to the party ofifended, it imports something done to propitiate. (Gen. xxxii. 20. Ezek. xvi. 63.) The idea of making an atone- ment is expressed by a word which signifies to make pro- pitiation^ and the apostles, in referring to the death of Christ, use those very terms which, in the Septuagint version of the Old Testament, are ap- plied to legal sacrifices and Uieir effect : thus representing the death of Christ, not only as a real and proper sacrifice, but as the truth and substance of all the Levitical types and shadows— the true, efficacious, and only atonement for sin, (1 John ii. 2, and iv. 10 ;) show ing that Christ is not only the being or agent by whom the propitiation nimself the p AVE is made, but was propitiatory sacri- fice. After all the vain philosophy and ingenious speculations of men to destroy or modify this doctrine, which on the one hand reduces sinful man to the most humbling extremity, and on the other proposes to him a perfect and glorious sal- vation ; the atonement made for him, by the self-sacrifice of Christ, remains, and will «for ever remain, the essential principle of the gospel. It will for ever illustrate the dreadful sinfulness of sin, the infinite gurity, justice, and mercy of ■od, and the love of Christ which passeth knowledge. No teacher of divine truth to sin- ful men can build a consistent or safe system of instruction on any other foundation than this. (Malt. i. 21, and xxvi. 28. Mark x. 45. John i. 29, and X. 10—18.) He who rejects the atonement, and tramples un- der foot the blood of the Son of God, can point out no way in which a sinner can escape the damnation of hell. ATTALIA, (Acts xiv. 25,) known now as Sutalia or Se- talie, a city of Pamphylia on the Mediterranean, and was visited by Paul and Barnabas, on their tour through Asia Minor. AUGUSTUS. (Luke ii. 1.) The nephew and successor of Julius (Jesar, and emperor of Rome, at the time of our Sa- viour's birth. He reigned f."»r- ty-one years, and was succeed- ed by Tiberius Cesar. (Luke iii. 1. See Ce.sar.) AVEN. 1. (Amos i. 5.) A plain in Syria, called also the Valley of Lebanon, because lying between the two ranges of the mountarns of Lebanon. (Josh. xi. 17.) The site oi'itis supposed to have been where Baal-beck now is, thiny miles north of Tamascus. AZA 2. (Hos.x. 8.) Bethel, which is sometimes called Bethaven, or house of inirjuity, is here called Aven, or iniquity itself, to denote the extreme depra- vity which prevailed there. 3. (Ezek. XXX. 17. See On.) AVENGE, AVENGER. (Luke xviii. S. 1 Thess. iv. G.) Vengeance is an act of justice; revenge is an act of passion. Hence injuries are revenged : crimes are avenged. The act of avenging, though attended with the infliction of pain, is oftentimes an act of humanity, and always supposed to be an act of justice, (jod is avenged of his enemies, when he vin- dicates his own law, and go- vernment, and character, and punishes their transgressions. An avenger is the "agent or instrument by whom the avengement is visited on the offending party. Avenger of blood was a title given to one who pursued a murderer or manslayer, by virtue of the ancient Jewish law, to avenge the blood of one who had bjen murdered or slain. (See Cities ofRefuge.) AVLM. (Josh, xviii. 23.) Supposed by some to be the same with the Hivites or Avites, who dwelt near Gaza, and who were supplanted by the Philistines. AVOUCH. (Deut. xxvi. 17, 18.) To avouch, in this con- nexion, imports a srdemn and deliberate choice of God as a leader and portion, and an avowed determination to obey him; and on the part of God a 8 demn covenant to succour and exalt the Israelites as his people. AZARIAH. (2 Kings xiv. 21.) There are at least sixteen per- sons of this name mentioned in the Old Testament. The most distinguished of them was Azariah', (called also Uz- ziah,) the son and successor of Amaziah, on the throne of 81 AZA Judah. He was in many re- spects an excellent king ; but being elated by his prosperity, he aspired to execute the of- fice of a priest, and to offer incense in the temple. In this he was resisted by the priests, and while enraged by their interference, the leprosy broke out upon his forehead, and remained upon him till the day of his death ; so that AZO he was obliged to spend the latter part of his life in soli- tude. (2Chron. xxvi. 21.) AZEKAH. (Josh. XV. 35.) A place in the tribe of Judah, about twelve miles east of Bethlehem, and twenty south of Jerusalem. The army of the Philistinesencamped near this place at the time Goliath tell before David. AZOTUS. (SeeAsHDOD.) BAA BAAL, or BEL. (1 Kings xviii. 21. Isa. xlvi. 1.) The name by which several nations of the east worship- ped the sun ; and which was also applied to other objects of idolatrous worship. An- cient writers tell us that the Phenicians supposed the sun to be the only lord of hea- ven, styling him Beel-Samen. which means lord of heaven. As he was worshipped under different forms in different places, he was designated by adding the place— as Baal- Beriih, Baal-Gad, Baal-Peor, meaning Baal of Berith or the Shechemites— Baal of Gad— and Baal of Peor or the Moab- itcs; and these diferent names were all included under the ^neral name Baalim. (IKings xviii. 18.) Baal, Bel, or Belus was worshipped by the Carthagi- nians, Babylonians, Assyri- ans, and others; and some have supposed he was the same with Moloch, to whom the Ammonites made their cruel and bloody sacrifices. Human victims were offered to Baal, as we learn from Jer. xix. 5. Elevated places were selected for his worship, and his priests and prophets were very numerous. Sometimes the tops of the houses were devoted to this purpose. (2 BAA Kings xxiii. 12. Jer. xxxii. 29.) Baalim and Ashtaroth were the general names of all the gods and goddesses of Syria, Palestine, and the neighbour- ing countries. The worship of Baal is supposed to have been general throughout the British islands, and to this day there are various super- stitious observances in Ire- land, Scotland and Wales, which very closely resemble the ancient worship of Baal. A town in Perthshire, on the borders of the Scotch high- lands, is called T^lliebeltane, that is, the eminence or rising ground of the fire of Baal. An enclosure of eight upright staves is made where it ia supposed the fire was kindled, and a well in the vicinity is held in great veneration: af- ter drinking from it, the peo- ple pass around the temple "nine times, in a procession. In Ireland, Beltein is one of the festival days, and the fires are made early on the tops of the hills, and all the cattle are made to pass through them. This, it is supposed, secures them from contagion and dis- ease for that year. The cut represents an an- cient figure of Baal and Mo- loch, standing in the portico of a temple, in the centre of 1 which is a pine tree. Both BAA BAA Ihesc idols were worshipped in a variety of forms, accord- ing to the various tastes and superstitions of their devo- tees. House op Baal (1 Kings xvi. 32) is the same with the temple (or place of worship) of Baal. We have a most interest- ing account of the manner m which the worshippers of Baal were confounded and punished by Elijah at mount Carmel, in 1 Kings xviii. (See also Life op Elijah, by the A. S. Union, chap, vii.) Baalah. (See Kirjath.) Baal-gad, Baal-hermon. (Josh. xi. 17; xii. 7, and Judg. iii. 3.) A city in the valley of Lebanon, supposed to have been under mount Hermon, and most probably the same es Baal-hermon (1 Chron. v. 23.) A comparison of the pas- sages in wnich this place is named, would incline us to the opinion that it was situ- ated somewhere in the north- ern limit of Joshua's conquest; all the country from it to Ha- math, including Anti-Leba- non, remaining unconquered. If this opinion is correct, the modern Balbec cannot be the ruins of Baal-gad, as it has been called, for that is in Coele-Syria, north of Damas- cus, and much farther north than the Israelites under Jo- shua pushed their victories. Baal-meon. (Num. xxxii. 38. Ezek. xxv. 9.) A city of the tribe of Reuben, called also Beth-meon, (Jer. xlviii. 23,) and Beth-baal-meon. (Josh, xiii. 17.) Baal-peor. (Ps. cvi. 28.) It is said under the article BAA Baal thai Baal-peor was the name of the image of Baal, which was worshipped at Peor ; but there is some rea- son to suppose that it was also the name of some other idol god ; and from the connexion of the passage in Psalms just cited, It has been conjectured that it might have been the same with the heathen god Pluto, to whom sacrifices were offered to appease the manes of the dead. Baal-perazim. (2 Sam. v. 20.) A place in the valley of Rephaim, a few miles south- west of Jerusalem, where Da- vid conquered the Philistines. The name in the original is significant of this victory, and hence the allusion in Isa. xxviii. 21. Baal-zebub. (See Beelze- bub.) Baal-zephon. (Ex. xiv. 2. 9. Num. xxxiii. 7.) A sta- tion of the Israelites at the northern extremity of the Red Sea, corresponding to Suez, where there was pro- bably a temple for the wor- ship of Baal. Bruce supposes it to be the name of a light- house or signal station, at the north entrance of the bay, as the Hebrew word zephon means noTth. BAANAH. (2 Sam. iv. 2.) One of the sons of Rimmon, and an officer in the army of Ishbosheth, Saul's son. In company with his brother Rechab, he entered the house of Ishbosheth at noonday, and stabbed him as he was lying upon the bed. Taking the head fif their victim with them, they fled to David, at Hebron, .supposing that he would re- ward them liberally for the head of such an enemy ; but so far from it, he was indig- nant at their cruel and cow- ardly conduct, and forthwith caused them to be slain, their BAB hands and feet to be cut off, and their bodies to be publicly suspended over the pool at Hebron. BAASHA (1 Kings xv. 16) was the son of Ahijah, and commander-in-cliief of a por- tion of the army of Israel. When Nadab, king of Israel, was besieging Gibbethon, a city of the Philistines, Baasha formed a conspiracy against him and murdered him, and immediately usurped the throne, which he held for twenty-four years. To secure himself against any disturb- ance from the family of Jero- boam, (the rightful heirs of the throne,) he caused them all to be put to death. By this ciuel act he undesignedly fulfilled the prophecy respecting Jero- boam's posterity. (1 Kings xiv. 10.) Baasha followed in the wicked ways of Jeroboam, and was visited with the most fearful judgments of God. The warning he received of the consequences of his con- duct (1 Kings xvi. 1—5) did not induce him to forsake his evil course. His reign was filled with war and trea- chery, and his family and re- latives were cutoff, according to the prediction. (1 Kings xvi. 9,11. See Asa.) BABEL, TOWER OF, (Gen. xi. 4-9,) was built in the plain of Shinar, by the descendants of Noah, probably from three hundred to five hundred years after the flood, to serve as a na- tional rallying point, and thus to secure their union and corv- centrate their feelings and in^ terests, and to prevent their dispersion. Their design was, tiiat the whole world should be one vast kingdom, and that Babel should be its capital or chief city. The height and extent of the edifice, according to th« original design, must bav« 84 BAB BAB been prodigious. Chronolo- gisls suppose ihey were em- ployed three years in collect- ing the materials, and twenty- two years upon the building ; and an ancient tradition tells us that the bricks (or blocks, as they may better be called) of which it was constructed, were twenty feet long, fifteen broad, and seven thick. Their vaiu and presumptu- ous design was frustrated by the miraculous interposition of God, who confounded their unguage, so that it was im- possible for them to under- stand each other's speech. This event cbliged them to separate into distinct compa- nies or tribes, and to settle in diflferent districts of the earth. The sacred history informs us that in the construction of the tower they used slime for mortar. The word slime is supposed to denote a kind •f bituminous mortar, (in dis- tinction from clay mortar,) which was capable of resisu ing the effect of moisture. This material still abounds on the river Euphrates, as we are informed by modern tra- vellers. In the supposed ruins of Babylon are found bitumen mortar, and clay. The sun- dried brick were larger than the kiln-burnt, and re^sembled a thick, clumsy clod of earth, with chopped straw scattered through to bind it. Much doubt prevails as to the precise location of this tower. Capt. Mignan visited a mound on the eastern bank of the river Euphrates, about four miles and a half from modern Hilleh, in the pasha- lik of Bagdad, 32^" 25' N. lat. 44° E. long, from Greenwich. It is called by the natives El MttjeUibah, " the overturn- ed." He describes the ruin aa of a vast oblong shape, com- posed of hard cement, and of BAB kiln-burnt and sun-dried brick or tile, which measured thir- teen inches square by three inches thick. Bitumen, vitri- fied and petrified brick, shells, and glass, were strewed around. Capt. M. thinks that this must be the ruin of the ancient tower, and Major Ren- nel, the distinguished geogra- pher, is of the same opinion. Another traveller who visit- ed the ruins in 1779 says— " It apijears almost like a mass ui earth, being erected of bricks dried by the sun, amazingly thick, and betwixt every three or fiiur feet there is a layer of reeds. Its height is at least one hundred and sixty feet ; but we found no remains either of a door or stairs." It has been tliought by very learned men that the tower in the temple of Belus, in Baby- lon, is the same with the tower of Babel. If this opinion is correct, we have the testimo- ny of Herodotus as to its di- mensions. He tells us that it was a square tower, built in the form of a pyramid, each side of which measured at its base a furlong, making the whole structure half a mile in circumference ; and its height, according to an- other historian, was six hun- dred anil sixty feet; exceed- ing by sixty feel the highest of the Egyptian pyramids. Around the outside of the building there was a winding passage' from the bottom to the top, and so broad as to permit carriages to pass each other. It contained many spaci"us apartments, which became part of the temple of Belus, after it was converle'l to pur- poses of idolatry. The tem- f)le of Belus was greatly en- arsed liy Nebuchadnezzar, andf its ruins are now called Birs Nimrood. This is the most stu- ndous aud surprising mass BAB of all the remains of Baby- lon. It is found in a desert about six miles south-west of Hilleh, and is called by the Jews, Nebuchadnezzar's pri- son. The evidence that there once existed on this spot a magnificent pile of buildings, of the richest, most expen- sive and durable materials ; and that it was destroyed long since by violence, is perfectly conclusive. (See Babylon. See also Evening Recrea- tions, by A. S. Union, vol. ii. pp. 50—62.) Babel is one of the cities mentioned in Gen. x. 10. as the beginning of the kingaom of Nimrod ; probably mean- ing one of the cities founded by him, or one of the chief cities of his kingdom. BABYLON. (Ps. cxxxvii.l.) The chief city or mother of Chaldea. (Jer. 1. 12.) It is also called Sheshach. (Jer. li. 41.> It was one of the earliest and most celebrated cities rf anti- quity, and in the reign of Ne- buchadnezzar acquired such strength and glory as to be- come the seat of universal empire and the wonder of the world. (See Chaldea.) The city stood on the river Euphrates, by which it was divided into two parts, eastern and western ; and these were connected by a bridge of won- derful construction. The wall was at least f irty-five miles in circumference; and would of course include eight cities as large as London and its ap- pendages. It was laid out m si.x hundred and twenty-five squares, formed by the inter- section of twenty-five streets at right angles. The walls, which were of brick, were at least seventy -five feet high and thirty-two broad. A trench surrounded the city, the sides of which were lined with brick and water-proof cement. The towers, palaces, and 86 BAB hanging gardens with which it was adorned and magnified, and the pride and luxury of iis inhabitants, are described in the Life of Daniel, by the Am. S. S. Unijn, chap. vii. and ix. As the river was liable every year to overfljw its banks, canals were made to carry otf the water ; and along the sides of the main channef immense banks were constructed as a still farther protection. To facilitate the consti-uclion of these works, the waters of the Euphrates were turned tem- forarily into a basin about >rty miles square and thirty- five feet deep, which was dug for the purpose. This magnificent city was the subject of some of the most remarliable prophecies. Among them are Isa. xiii. 1— 22 ; xiv. 22--:M; xxi. 9; xlvii. I- 7. Jer. xxv. 11,12; 1.24.46;li. 11. 36. 39. 57. The fulfilment of these prophecies has been in many points literal. The city was invested by the victorious armies of Cyrus, b. c. 540, and after a blockade of two years was at last carried by strata- gem. On the night of a ^reat festival, the waters of the river were turned off, and the channel through the city be- came a highway for the enemy. By this channel the army of Cyrus passed in, under' the walls, at midnight; and their approach was not suspected until tlie differe nt detachments met at the palace gate ; and all who were not slain sub- mitted to the conqueror. (See Belshazzar.) This was the end of the glory of Babylon. From that lime its grandeur decayed. About twenty years after the victory of Cyrus, the city at- lempled to throw olT the yoke, cut it was again entirely sub- dued. Forty years afterwards Xerxes plundered the city of much of its remaining wealth, BAG and laid the temple of Belus in ruins. Then it suffered a steady decline until aDout the endof the fourth century. We are credibly informed that its walls were used by the Per- sian princes as an enclosure for wild beasts, preserved for the chase. And now, so utterly is the city destroyed, that the precise spot on which it stood is a matter of conjecture. (See Eli.sama, ch. ii. v. vi. Life of Daxiel, ch. xiii. xiv. Evening Recreations, vol. ii. pp. 63—7-1, all published by the Am. S. S. Union. Babylon the Great. (Rev. xvii. 5.) As Babylon of old was the chief of all idolatrous cities, she is taken as a fit emblem of the enormous guilt and extensive influence of idolatrous and papal Rome, each in its turn being the mo- ther of harlots and o?the abo- minations of the earth ; the farmer corrupting the heathen world with her fornications, and the latter the Christian. It should be observed that the term Babylon is used to denote, (1.) Only the city. (Isa. xiii. 19; xxi. 9; xlviii.20.) (2.) The inhabitants of the city in distinction from the Chal- deans or inhabitants of the province. (Ezek. xxiii. 15. 17.) (3.) The province of Babylon and the Babylonian empire. (2Kin£:s xxi v. 1 ; xxv. 27. Ps cxxxvii. I. (4.) After the em- pire came under the dominion of Persia, the Persian kings are called kings of Babylon. (Ezra V. 13. Neh. xiii. 6.) BABYLONLiNS. (See As- syria.) BACA. (Ps. Ixxxiv. 6.) This is probably the general name of any dreary or desolate way ; and of course the allusion in the cited passage is to Ihe joy of the worshippers on their way up to Jerusalem, which shall make the wilderness ap- S7 BAK pear to rejoice and blossom, and fill a thirsty land with Bprinss of water. BADGERS' SKINS. (Ex. XXV. 5.) The animal which we know as the badger was unknown in Arabia, nor would its skin be suitable for the purposes mentioned in the sa- cred writings. The prevailing opinion is, that skins of a deep blue colour are meant, without designating the animal from which they were taken. BAHURIM. (2Sam. iii.l6; xvi.5; xvii. 18.) A place in the tribe of Benjamin, east of Jerusalem, which has many interesting connexions with the life of David, to which the passages cited refer. (See Ahimaaz.) BAGS. (2Kingsxii. 10. Luke xii. 33.) These were made of various sizes, each to contain a precise amount of money. We read that the workmen on the temple were paid in bags, which were probably de- livered to them sealed. At this day in eastern nations money passes in bags from hand to hand under the seal of a banker or other public officer, and without counting, as it is paid by one to another. If the seal is genuine and un- broken, the exact value of each bag is known at sight. BAKE. (Gen. xix. 3.) The business of baking in early times was principally, if not exclusively, the work of wo- men. (Lev. xxvi. 26. 1 Sam. viii. 13. 2 Sam. xiii. 8. Jer.vii. 18.) In Rome, as Pliny tells us, there was no such thing as a public baker for five hun- dred and eighty years. It seems probable from Jer. xxxvii. 21, and Hosea vii. 4 — 7, that jmblic bakers were known in those days, and in- habited a particular section of the city of Jerusalem. Cakes were thin bread, not unlike modern sea-biscuit, BAL baked upon the hearth, and sometimes covered with hot embers or ashes. Other me- thods were employed. (Lev. ii. 4, 5. 7.) Parclied corn is familiar to most children in America, and this simplest way of preparing grain for food is common in the rudest state of society. Perhaps, however, the parching was only preparatory to bruising or grinding. Ancient histori- ans say that the people of for- mer days, being without mills, parched their grain. This is the parched corn mentioned as part of ilie present to David, (2 Sam. xvii. 28,) and was also the food which Boaz gave to Ruth. (Ruth ii. 14. See Bread. Oven.) BALAAM (Num. xxii. 5) was tlie son of Beor or Bosor, and a native of Pethor, a vil- lage of Mesopotamia. Whe- ther he was a prophet di- vinely inspired, or only a pretender, does not appear; that he was an unrighteous man is not conclusive evi- dence that he was not a pro- phet of God employed for a particular purpose. (I Sam. x. 10. 1 Kings xiii. 18-20. Matt, vii. 22. John xi. 51.) The history of Balaam is given us in Num. xxii. xxiii. xxiv. and xxxi. He lived whea the children of Israel were journeying from Ejrypt to the promised land. Their num- bers were very large, and the kings of the country through which they passed, and who did not know of their miracu- lous supply of food, were fear- ful that a famine would be occasioned by their depreda- tions, or that they would at- tempt to conquer all before them. Amon^ these was Ba- lak, king of Moab. He knew that he could not contend with such a formida- ble host, and supposing that the God of the Israelites was EAL like the gods of the heathen, ready to bless and to curse according to the caprice or interest of their votaries, he sent for Balaam, who had the reputation of a famous diviner or idol priest, to come and curse the armies of Israel. God signified to Balaam that the Israelites were blessed, and should not be cursed. This was done in such a way as to deter Balaam from going. Balak sent again and offered a large reward, and because Balaam was not again posi- tively forbidden by God to eo, he accepted the tempting offer, and returned with the messen- gers to Moab. (2 Pet. ii. 15.) On his way, however, he was informed, by a most extraordi- nary and significant miracle, that his course was wicked and perverse, and he was ef- fectually re strained from doing what Balak had sent for him to do. So far from it, he was led to pronounce a prophetic blessing on the Israelites, in language which for eloquence and force is not surpassed in the whole scope of Hebrew poetry. Balaam, finding himself thus restrained froin cursing Isra- el, suggested to Balak a much more" certain method of de- stroying them. This was by tempting them to mingle in the sinful pursuits and Indul- gences of the Moabites. (Rev. li. 14.) This stratagem was successful. The Israelites were so far ensnared as to cause the destruction of twen- ty-four thousand of their men. (Num. XXV. 1—9.) Balaam himself fell shortly after in an engagement which took place between the Israel- ites and the Midianites. The miracle by which the dumb ass was enabled to speak with a man's voice has been the freriuent subject of cavil and ridicule with unthinking BAL I men ; but when we consider that the power of God alone j gave to any of his creatures the I faculty of speech, and might ' as easily have given it to the brute as to the human race, we need not wonder that he should in a single case, and for a specific purpose, confer that power on a dumb animal. Certainly we must admit that the miracle was most signifi- cant and appropriate to the occasion, for as (jod was about to restrain the tongue of Ba- laam, and make him say what it was not in his heart to say of Israel, it was well to show him how entirely the power of thought and speech was within divine control. And indeed, as Bishop Newton has well observed, the ass being merely passive, the restraint of Balaam's tongue was a greater miracle than the freedom of the tongue of the ass. (See Ass.) BALADAN. (See Hezeki- AH.) BALAK (Num.xxii.2) was a king of the Moabites. The chief incidents of his history, so far as we have them, are found imder the article Ba- laam. BALANCES. (Lev. xix. 36.) In the early periods of the world, gold and silver were paid by weight ; so that per- sons employed in traffic of BAL any kind, carried with them a pair of scales or balances, and different weights, (gene- rally stones of different sizes,) in a pouch or bag. Fraudu- lent men would carry two sorts of weights, the lighter to sell with and the other to buy with. This explains the allu- sion, Mic. vi. 11. The fore- going cut of a balance is copied from one of the most ancient of Egyptian monuments, and is probably the same with those used by the Israelites. BALDNESS, (Isa. iii. 24,) jvhen voluntary, was a token of mourning and great dis- tress. (Ezek. vii. 18.) A chief reason why involuntary bald- ness was regarded as disgrace- ful, was, that it gave occasion to the suspicion of leprosy, a disease which usually destroy- ed the hair. Hence baldness is declared by the law not to be conclusive evidence of un- cleanness. (Lev. xiii. 40.) And hence too the expression used towards Elisha by some child- ren in Bethel, " Go up, thou bald-head," indicated great contempt for him as a prophet of the Lord, and was signally punished. (2 Kings ii. 23.) BALM. (Gen. xxxvii.25.) A resinous substance obtained from the balsam tree. It is a native of Abyssinia, but flou- rishes upon or near the moun- tains of Gilead, and is hence called the balm of Gilead. It was once an important article of merchandise among the eastern nations, (Ezek. xxvii. 17,) and was celebrated for its healing properties. No- thing can exceed the elo- quence and tenderness of the language employed by the pro- phet Jeremiah to express his grief and disappointment that the chosen people of God {the daughter of Zion) should re- main spiritually wounded and diseased, when ther°, was a healing balm of unfading vir- BAN tue, and a physician of divine skill to administer it; and both within their reach. (Jer. viii. 22; xlvi. 11, and li. 8.) BAMAH. (Ezek. xx. 29.) The general name of any high place. BAND. (Acts xxi. 31.) A band of Roman soldiers con- sisted of the tenth part of a legion ; of course, it varied according to the size of the legion, from four hundred to seven hundred soldiers. The word is often used figuratively by the sacred writers ; as in Hos. xi. 4, where it denotes persuasive arguments or in- fluences; and'in Ps. Ixxiii. 4, where it signifies apprehen- sion and terror at the pros- pect of death. BANNERS, (J«a. xiii. 2,) or STANDARD, (Ka. xlix. 22,) or ENSIGN, (Isa. v. 26,) are pro- bably used indiscriminately by the sacred writers. A stand- ard pertained to each of the four grand divisions of the army of Israel, (Num. i. 52,) distin- guished from each other by colours, and perhaps by some embroidered figure. Another standard for subdivisions was probably nothing more than a common spear rfchly burnish- ed or ornamented. The Egyp- tian princes used a standard like this, surmounted with a ball of gold. There was an- other standard in use among the Jews, which is called a beacon. (Isa. xxx. 17.) It wai stationary; erected on loftj mountains, and used as a rat lyins token. (Comp. Isa. xviii 3;lxii. 10-12. Jer. iv. 5, 6. 21 1 vi. 1. 17 ; li. 12. 27. It was customary to give a defeated party a banner, as a token of protection ; and it was regarded as the surest pledge of fidelity. (Ps. xx. 5 ; Ix. 4. Sol. Song ii. 4.) Some writers have supposed that the ancient Jewish ensign waa a BAP long pole, on the top of which was a grate not unlike a chaf- ing dish, made of iron bars and supplied with fire, the size, height, and shape of which denoted the party or company to whom it belonged. This seems rather to describe the night-torches of Eastern encampments. The shape, &c. of the Roman standards are seen under the article Abominable. God's lifting or setting up a banner is a most expressive figure, and imports his pecu- liar presence, protection, and aid in leading and directing his people in the execution of his righteous will, and giving them comfort and peace in his service. (Sol. Song ii. 4.) BANQUET. (See Feast.) BAPTISM. (Matt.iii.7.) An ordinance or religious rite, which was in use before our Saviour's ministry commenc- ed, (see John's Baptism ;) but which he recognised and made obligatory upon his disciples as a~Christian ordinance. In the due administration of this rite, the washing of water be- comes the sign or emblem of inward purification from sin and uncleanness, while the subject of the rite is intro- duced into a peculiar relation to Christ and his church. Baptized for the dead. (1 Cor. XV. 29.) Various inter- pretations have been put upon this phrase. The most simple and natural explanation is perhaps the most liliely to be correct. We shall therefore in- terpret this by other passages of similar import. Paul, who wrote this epistle, speaks, in his letter to the Romans, of some who are buried with Christ in baptism unto death ; wherein also they are risen with him unto newness of life. (Rom. vi. 4.) And again in his letter to the Colossians he speaks of those who were bu- BAP ried with Christ in T)aptism, and were risen with him througli the faith of the ope- ration of God, who hath raised him from the dead. (Col. ii. 12.) From these expressions we may infer that tlie apostle regarded baptism as the sym boi of a present resurrection from tlie death of trespasses and sins, to a life of holiness ; and also as a symbol of a par- ticipation in the future and final resurrection. But, if there is no such thing as a resurrection from the dead, then the ordinance, in this view, is vain and useless. The substance of the argu- ment is, that if the dead rise not, the ordinance of baptism could have no authority, be- cause Christ, in whose name it was administered, could not have risen, and it could be of no use, because upon the sup- position that the cfead rise not, those to whom it was adminis- tered would never live beyond the present life. This inter- pretation is confirmed by an examination of verses 30 and 32 of the context. Baptize with fire. (Malt, iii. 11.) This expression has been thought to denote the mi- raculous effusion of the Holy Spirit, of which we have an account in Acts ii. 3, 4. On that occasion the descent of the Holy Ghost was not only attended with miraculous gifts, but with the visible em- blem of fire; thus literally fulfilling the prophecy of John above cited. Others think that an allusion was intend- ed, on the one hand, to the various divine internal opera- tions and influences which should attend the dispensation of the gospel by Jesus Christ ; and on the other, to the fiery visitations which should come upon those who embraced the gospel and upon those who rejected it; upon the former 91 BAR for their purification, and up- on the latter for their destruc- tion. BARABBAS. (Matt, xxvii. 16.) A noted criminal at Je- rusalem, who was in confine- ment for sedition and murder when Christ was condemned. It was the custoni of the Ro- mans to release some one pri- soner at the lime of the Jewish passover. The Jews were permitted to name any one whose release they might par- ticularly desire. The policy of this provision was obviously to conciliate the favour of the Jews towards the Roman go- vernment. Pilate seems to have been anxious to avail himself of the Roman custom for the de- liverance of Christ, but the Jews chose rather to show favour to a robber and a mur- derer, and to put their long promised Messiah to a violent and ignominious death. The custom is said to have prevailed among the Vene- tians as lately as the close of the eighteenth century, to release a prisoner at the an- nual commemoration of our Saviour's resurrection. BARACHIAS. (Matt, xxiii. 35.) There is some uncertain- ty as to the individual to whom reference is made in this verse. It might have been the Zecharias of whose death we have an account in 2 Chron. xxiv. 20, 21 ; fur though he is there called the son of Jehoiada, it was common among the Jews for the same individual to have two names. It is probable, however, that the prophet Zechariah, who is expressly called the son of Barachiah, (Zech. i. 1,) was assassinated, and that the fact was known by tradition. The Jews evidently understood the allusion, or they would have denied the charge. BAR BARAK (Judg. iv. 6) was the son of Abinoam, and was dis- tinguished for his share in the conquest of Sisera and the de- liverance of Israel from long and severe oppression. A history of the transaction, and a copy of their sublime tri- umphal song, are given in Judg. iv. and v. (See Debo- rah.) BARBARIAN. (1 Cor. xiv. 11.) This term is used to de- note a stranger or foreigner, who does not speak the lan- guage of the country in which he sojourns; of course in its scriptural use it does not im- port any rudeness, or savage- ness of nature or manners. (Acts xxviii. 2. 4, and Rom. i. BARJESUS (Acts xni. 6) was a sorcerer who resided with Sergius Paulus, at Pa- phos, on the isle of Cyprus, when Paul and Barnabas were there. Sergius Paulus was an officer of high rank under the Roman government, and was anxious to receive religious infltruction from the two mis- sionaries. But Barjesus, see- ing that his occupation and influence would cease wher- ever the light of the gospel should come, opposed himself to Paul and Barnabas, and tried to dissuade Paulus from givins heed to their preach- mg. Paul gave him a most se- vere reproof, immediately af- ter which the wicked man was struck with blin.dness, as a rebuke from God. (See Ser- gius Paulus.) BAR-JONA. (See Peter.) BARLEY. (Ex. ix. 31.) A well known species of grain used for bread, (Judg. vii. 13. John vi. 9. 13,) and also as food for horses and dromeda- ries. (1 Klnss iv. 28.) BARNABAS. (Acts iv. 36.) A Levite of the island rf Cy- prus, and an early convert *a BAR the Christian faith. His ori- giaal name was loses, but as he had remarkable powers of speaking or exhortmg the people, and of administering consolation to tlie afflicted, he was surnamed Barnabas, a Syriac term, signifying the son of consolation and ex- hortation. Barnabas was one of those who gave up all his worldly substance, and all his strength and mfluence to the support and spread of the gospel. He was a faithful and devoted missionary, a distinguished preacher, the frequent com- panion of Paul, (Acts ix. xiii. xiv. XV.) and a large sharer in the labours and sufferings which attended the early pro- pasation of Christianity. BARSABAS. (Acts i. 2-3. and XV. 22.) He was one of the candidates for the vacancy in the apostleship, occasioned by the apostasy of Judas ; and was also appointed to accom- fiany Paul and Barnabas from erusalem to Antioch, on an important embassy. He is called one of "thechief among the brethren." BARTHOLOMEW (Matt. X. 3) is supposed to be the same person who is elsewhere called Nathanael. This opi- nion is formed in part upon the fact that Bartholomew is not mentioned in John's list of the names of the disciples; nor is Nathanael mentioned by the other evangelists. Be- sides this, Philip and Natha- nael are associated together by John, and in the parallel fiassages of the other evange- ists Philip and Bartholomew are associated. These circum- stances, though not conclu- sive evidence, make it proba- ble that they were one and the same person. BARTIMEUS. (Mark x. 43.) A son of Timeus, who was instantly cured of blindness BAR by our Saviour in the vicinity of Jericho. BARUCH, (Jer. xxxvi. 4,) the secretary of the prophet Jeremiah, was of a distinguish ed Jewish family. (Comp. Neh. xi. 5, and Jer. xxxvi. 4.) His personal friendship for Jere- miah was strong and constant. When God commanded the prophet to commit to writing the prophecies that he had uttered, he employed Baruch in this service, wlio w, ite the words as Jeremiah u.ctated them. Baruch was afterwards required to read these jjrophe- cies to the Jewish princes or chiefs, who w^ere assembled in the temple. The princes were surprised and offended, and forthwith communicated to the king the substance of what Baruch had read, having before taken the writing from Barucli and de- posited it in one of the offices of the temple. Jehoiakim, the king, order- ed the offensive writing to be read in his presence, and he became so much exasperated, that before the reading of it was half finished, he seized the paper and cut it in pieces and threw it into the fire ; at the same time orders were given to arrest both the prophet and his secretary, but they had concealed themselves. The prophecies were again dictated by Jeremiah and written out by Baruch, and afterwards Baruch was em- ployed to carry to Babylon a long letter from Jeremiah, pre- dieting the judgments which should come upon that mighty city. After he returned from that mission Jerusalem was b^' sieged, and Jeremiah and Ba- ruch both thrown into prison. After the city surrendered they were released, and per- mitted to accompany each other wherever they chose to 9"3 BAS eo. There is some reason to believe that Baruch survived the prophet a few years, but when and where he died is unknown. (See Jeremiah. Also Life of Jeremiah, l.y the Am. S. S. Union, chap, vii.) BARZTLLAl (2 Sam. xix. 31) was a Gileadite, and a fast friend of David when he was in exile on account of Absa- Jom's revolt. The rebellion had been sup- pressed, and David was on his way back to Jerusalem. Bar- zillai accompanied the king across the Jordan, and was about to return to his own land, but David, in gratitude for the old man's kindness, invited him to go up to Jeru- salem, and spend the residue of his da^s at the court. This Barzillai declined on account of his great age and infirmi- ties, but his son went up with the king in his stead The dialogue on this occasion is one of the most touching pas- sages to be found on the page of'hi story. David, in his final charge to Solomon, enjoined it upon him to show kindness to Barzil- lai's family, and even to make thern members of the royal household. (1 Kincrs ii. 7.) BASHAN. (Num. xxi. 33.) A hilly district lying east of the Joruan, and between the mountains of Hermon on the north, and those of Gilead on the south. The more modern name is Batanea. The an- cient name of the whole pro- vince was probably derived from the hill of Bashan, a high mountain which was si- tuated near its centre. (Ps. Ixviii. 15.) This district was formerly remarkable for its stately oaks, (Isa. ii. 13,) rich fjasturage, (Mic. vii. 14,) and fine cattle. (Ps. xxii. 12.) In the time of Moses it was governed by a monarch named Og, who allied himself to Si- BAT hon, the king of the Amoritea. to make war on Israel, ana was defeated and o\erthrowu at Edrei. (Num. xxi. 33-35.) Modern travellers describe the coumryas abounding with magnificent scenery, resem- bling that of many parts of Europe. Its hills are still clothed with forests ; its deep valleys arc traversed by re- freshingstreams ; its meadows are verdant and fertile, and its pasluresoffer an abundance to the herds and flocks that wander through them, and give life and animation to the scene. BASON. (SeeLAVER.) BAT. (Lev. xi. 19.) An un- clean beast, whose resting places are caves, old ruins, and filthy and desolate places. Hence tlie allusion, Isa. ii. 20, It has no resemblance to a bird except that it can fly, and the organs it uses for this pur- pose are altogether ditferent from those of"a bird. (For a minute description and cut, see Natural History of the Bible, and Youth's Friend, vol. vi. both by the Am. S. S. Union.) BATH. (See Measures.) BATH-SHEBA (2 Sam. xi. 3) was the wife of Uriah, an officer in David's army. Her beauty proved a snare to Da- vid, for he not only committed adultery with her, but he treacherously procured the death of her injured hus- band. BATTEPJNGRAM. (Ezek. iv. 2, and xxi. 22.) This was a long beam of strong wood, usually oak. One end was shaped like a ram's head, and when driven repeatedly and with great force against the wall of a city or fortification either pierced it or battered it down. (See War. See also note at the close of Destruction OF Jerusalem, by the Am. S. S. Union.) 91 BEA BATTLE-AXE. (See Ar- ; HOUR.) I BATTLEMENT. (Deut. ' rxii. 8.) A wall, parapet, or | other siruclure around the iiat , roofs of eastern, houses, de- Bigned as a partition from an adjyiuing building, or to pre- vent persons froni falling off. It is sometimes used in a more extensive sense to denote the fortificationsof a city. (Jer. v. 10.) A traveller says that at Aleppo, where the housps join each other, the battlements are so 1'jw that he could walli over I he tops of a dozen houses without interruption. BAY TREE. (Ps.xxxvii.So.) Periiaps the cedar ; perhaps any native tree tliat is sutfer- ed to grow wild, or without iranspl anting; but more pro- bably the laurel, from which triumphal crowns were made for the victors and heroes of ancient days. It was of the family of evergreens, and was well used as an emblem of the undecaying strength and un- changing prosperity which seems sometimes to be the portion of the wicked in this transient world. The laurel of our southern States would well illustrate the idea of the psalmist. BDELLIUM. (Gen. ii. 12.) Supp.ised by the Jews to be the pearl or some other pre- cious stone. There is a gum produced in the East Indies which has the same name, and is thought by many to be the aaicle 'referred to in the ciied passage. It resembles myrrh in colour, and is of a bitter lasie. (Num. xi. 7.) BEACON. (Isa. xxx. 17.) A mark or signal, erected in flome conspicuous place for di- rection, or for security against daiigpr. Thusthe Jews, when reduced in number and dis- tressed in circumstances by reason of God's severe judg- uaenta upon them, were a bea- BEA con to all other people and nations to avoid the like sin. (See Banners.) BEANS. (Ezek. iv. 9.) A well known garden vegetable, which was "anciently often mixed with other vegetable substances in making bread. BEAR. (Prov.xvii.r2.) The brown bear, now confined to the milder climates of Eu- rope, is probably the species of this animal which is men- li'i.'ied in the Bible. The at- tachment of the female to her young is proverbial, for no- thing enrages her so much as to see her whelps hurt or taken from her. Hence the allusion, 2 Sam. xvii. 8. Hos. xiii. 8, and also the passage first above cited. (See Wuth's Friend, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. ii.) BEARD. (Lev. xiii. 29.) Among the Jews much atten- tion was paid to the beard. To show any contempt to- wards it by plucking it or touching it, except from re- spect or courtesy, was es- teemed a gross insult, while to kiss it, respectfully and affectionately, was resarded as a signal mark of friend- ship. Tearing out the beard; cutting it entirely off, or neg- lecting to trim and dress it, were all expressions of deep mournine. (Ezra ix. 3. Isa. XV. 2. Jer. xli. 5, and xlviii. 37.) The Arabians at this day cherish great respect for the beard. They solemnly swear by it; and their meet sig- nificant and comprehensive phrase to express their good wishes for a friend is, " May God preserve your blessed bearr' " A Turk was asked why he did not cut off his bPanl as Eurofieans do. " Cui off my beard !" he replied with deep emotion, '* God forbid !" And we are told of an Arab who was wounded in 95 BEA the jaw, and chose to hazard his life rather than to have his beard cut off, that the surgeon might examine the wound. Hence the keenness of the insult offered to David's ambassadors. (2 Sam. x. 4, 5.) And hence too, the force of that passage where the pro- phet is made to stand in the place of Jerusalem, and to re- present, in his own person, the severe judgments that were to Da inflicted on her. (£zek. v. 1-5.) The Egyptians were accus- tomed to leave a small tuft of beard on the extremity of the chin. The Jewish law (Lev. xix. 27) forbad an imitation of tliis heathen fashion. BEAST. (Gen. ii. 19.) This word is generally used to dis- tinguish all animals from man, as in Ps. xxxvi. 6. Sometimes quadrupeds only are denoted by it, as Lev. xi. 2 ; and in Gen. i. 24,25, it is supposed to refer to creatures that roam at large. Beasts were created on the sixth day, and were named by Adam. There is no doubt that every; species of animal now existing upon the earth had its origin on that day. The apostle describes some of his opposers as wild beasts, so furious and brutal was their treatment of him. (1 Cor. XV. 32.) A similar use is made of the word in Ps. xxii. 12. 16. Eccl. ill. 18. Isa. xi. 6-8. and in 2 Pet. ii. 12; and Jude 10, to denote a class of wicked men. Under the ancient dispen- ealion the beasts were some- times made to participate ex- ternally in the observance of religious ceremonies, (Jonah iii. 7. 8,) and suffered, with men, the judgment of God. (Ex. ix. 6, and xlll. 15. Ps. cxxxv. 8. Jer. vil. 20, and xxi. 6. Ezek. xxxii. 13: xxxviii. BED 20. Hos. iv. 3. See Cleah and Unclean.) BEATEN WORK. (Ex.xxv. ] 8.) Not cast, but wrou£ht. BEATEN OIL. (See Olive.) BED. (Gen. xlvii. 31.) The floors of the better sort of eastern houses were of tile or plaster, and were covered with mats or carpets ; and as shoes were not worn on them, and the feet were washed, and no filthy habits of modern times prevailed, their floors seldom required sweeping or scrubbing. (Matt. xii. 44. Luke xv7 8.) Thick, coarsa mattresses were thrown down at night to sleep upon. The poorer people used skins for the same purpose. Such beds were easily moved, (Matt. ix. 6 j) and on two or three sides of the room was a bench, generally a foot high and three feet broad, covered with a stuffed cushion. This bench or couch, was used both for ly- ing and silling upon; butatone end of the room it was more elevated, and this was the usual place ot sleeping. (^ Kings i. 4 ; xx. 2. Ps. cxxxii. 3. Amos iii. 12.) It was some- times unattached to the build- ing and moveable, like a settee or sofa, and was made of wood, ivory, (Amos vi. 4,) or other materials. (Deut. ill. 11.) This knowledge of the construction of eastern beds relieves of difiiculty such passages as Ex. vili. 3. 2 Sam. iv. 5 — 1, Ps. vi. 6. Mark iv. 21. Probably some part of the day-clolhlng served for bed- clothes. (Ex. xxii. 26, 27. Deut. xxiv. 12, 13.) That bedsteads were known to the Jews Is not improbable, inasmuch as they were in use in Egypt, as we learn from figures on their monuments, of which the following is a cut. 96 BEE BEE BEE. CDeut. i. 44.) The ho- ney-bee is probably the only species alluded to in the Bible. They must have been very numerous in Canaan, as ho- ney was a common article of food (1 Kings xiv. 3. Ps. Ixxxi. 16. Sol. Song v. 1. Isa. vii. 15) and commerce. (Ezek. xxvii. 17.) The disposition of bees to take vengeance on any one who disturbs their hive is al- luded to in Ps. cxviii. 12. The figurative expressions in Isa. vii. 18, compared with Zech. X. 8, may allude either to a practice of calling bees from their hives by a hissing sound, or to the known habit, in one species of the insect, of going forth to labour at the short buzzing sound which a queen-bee makes with her wings, while she is perched on the top of her cell. Wild bees often laid up their honey in hollow trees or the clefts of rocks. (Ps. Ixxxi. 16.) There was a kind of wild honey deposited by other in- fects on the leaves of trees so abundantly as often to fall in rirops upon the ground. This is the substance mentioned in I Sam. xiv. 25. 27, and per- haps the same is intended in Malt, iii, 4. (See Youth's Friend, by the American S. S. Union, vol. iv. BEELZEBUB, or BAAL- ZEBUB, (Matt. x. 25,) was an idol god of the Ekronites, and was probably worshipped as the patron deity of medicine. (2 Kings i. 3.) The word sig- nifies'"the god of flies." There is reasm to believe that whatever his peculiar at- tributes were, he wa.s one of the chief gods of the heathens, and hence the prince or chief of devils is called Beelzebub, (Matt. xii. ai. Luke xi. 15,) a term which would be easily understood by the Jews, who were taught to regard all idols as devils. (Deut. xxxii. 17. 2 Chron. xi. 15. Ps. cvi. 37. 1 Cor. x. 20.) BEER. (Judg. ix. 21.) A place between Jerusalem and Shechem, to which Jotham fled from Abimelech his brother. Beer-elim, or Beer. (Num. xxi. 16. Isa. XV. 8.) A statitm of the Israelites in Moab, where God caused water to spring up out of the sand fur their refreshment. BEER-LAHAI-ROI. (Gen. xvi. 14.) A place in the south- ern border of Canaan, near the desert of Shur, which receiv- ed its name in corsequence of the appearance of an angei to Hagar, when she was in exile. "The name of the place signifies " the tcell of him that livelh and seeth me." 97 BEG BEEROTH. (Josh. ix. 17. 2 Sam. iv. 2, 3.) A city of Ben- jamin, situated at the foot of the hill on which Gibeon was built, a few miles north-east of Jerusalem. A place of the same name was als ) a station of the Isra- elites, (Deut X. 6,) and is call- ed Bene-jaakan. (Num. xxxiii. 31.) BEER-SHEBA. (Gen. xxi. 31.) This was at first the name of a well near which Abraham lon^ resided, (Gen. xxi. 33,) and Isaac after him. (Gen. xxvi. 32, 33.) It after- wards became a town of con- siderable note. It was situated about twenty miles south of Hebron, at the southern ex- tremity of the land of Canaan, as Dan was at the northern extremity. Hence the expres- sion (Judg. XX. 1) frmi Dan to Beer-sheba, denoted the whole length of the land, as also did the expression //-o7?z Beer-sheba to mount Ephraim (2 Chron. xix. 4) represent the whole length of the kingdom of Judah. The town was with- in the territory of Judah, and fell finally into Simeon's hands. (Josh. xv. 28, and xix. 2.) At Beer-sheba resided the sons of Samuel, (1 Sam. viii. 2;) and in later times the place was given to idolatry. (Amos V. 5 ; viii. 14.) BEETLE. (Lev. xi. 22.) An animal entirely different from the insect known to us by that name. From the connexion it \9 supposed to have been of the locust family. BEEVES, (Lev. xxii. 19,) as used in the Bible, is synony- mous with the term cattle, in its modern use. As they di- vide the hoof and also chew the cud, they were reckoned among clean animals. BEGGAR, BEGGING. (1 Sam. ii. 8. Mark x. 46.) The poor among the Hebrews were nmch favoured. They were BEL allowed to glean in the fields and to gatlier whatever the land produced in the year in which it was not tillecl. (Lev. xix. 10; XXV. 5, 6. Deut. xxiv. 19.) They were also invited to feasts. (Deut. xii. 12; xiv. 29, and xxvi. 12.) The Israelite could not be an absolute pau- per. His land was inaliena- ble, except for a certain term, when it reverted to him or hia posterity. And if this re- source was insufficient, ha could pledge the services of himself and family for a valu- able sum. Those who were indigent through bodily infirm, ities, were usually taken care of by their kindred. A beggar was sometimes seen however, and was regarded and abhor red as a vagabond. (Ps. cix. 10.) In later times they were accustomed to have a fixed place at the corners of the streets, (Mark x. 46,) or at the gates of the temple, (Acts iii. 2,) or of private houses. (Luke xvi. 20.) BEHEMOTH. (Job xl. 15.) The same word which is here translated behemoth, is else- where translated beast, (Job XXXV. 11. Ps. Ixxiii. 22,) or cat- tle. (Ps. 1. 10.) The animal described as the behemoth in the passage first above cited, was of prodigious size and stren^h, and corresponds bet- ter with the hippopotamus, or river horse of Egypt, than with any other animal now known. For a particular de- scription and cut of this ani- mal, see Natural History OP THE Bible, p. 39, and Youth's Friend, vols. i. and iii., all by the Am. S. S. Union, BEKAH. (See Measures.) BEL. (See Baal.) BELIAL. (Dei't xiii. 13.) This word, in the original, signifies worthlessness, and \a applied by the sacred writers to such lewd, profligate, and vile persons as seem to regard 98 BEL neither God nor man. (Jr.dg. Xix. 22, and 1 Sam. ii. 12.) Hence ihe question of the apostle (-2 Cor. vi. 15) to the citizens of Corinth, which was remarkable for its lewdness and profligacy, has great force: " Wnat concord hath Christ with Belial," the prince of li- centiousness and corruption 7 Milion represents Belial as one of the fallen spirits : Eeliat came last, than whom a spirit more lewd Fell not from heaven, or more gross to love Vice for itself. BELIEVE. (See Faith.) BELL. (Zech. xiv. 20.) Bella were attached to the bottom of the high-priesi's robe, that he might be heard when he went into or came out of the holy place. (Ex. xxviii.33. 35.) Many of the eastern kings and nobles wear bells in the same manner at this day, not only for ornament, but to give notice of their approach. Bells were hung upon the bridles or around the necks of war- horses: hence a horse not trained to war was called, by the Greeks, a horse who had never heard the sound of bells. We are told that bells were used on the horses at the funeral of Alexander the Great. The Arabian ladies In the royal presence have lit- tle gold bells fastened to their legs,necks,and elbows, which, when they dance, make an agreeable sound. A custom efthis kind probably prevail- ed in the time of Isaiah, to which he alludes. (Isa. iii. 18.) BELSHA2ZAR (Dan. v. 1) was the son or grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, (Dan. v. 18,) and the last king of Babylon. During the siege of the city of Babylon he gave a sumptu- ous entertainment to his cour- tiers, and impiously made use of the temple furniture (of which Nebuchadnezzar had BEN plundered the temple at Jeru. salem) as drinking vessels. In the midst of the festivities, however,a miraculous appear- ance was seen upon the wall of the banqueting room, which filled the king and his guests with amazement and horror ; and when explained by Da- niel, it was found to be a warning to the king of his own death, and of the over- throw and destruction of his kingdom, v/hich took place in the course of the succeeding night. (See the particulars of this event, and a cut repre- senting the impious feast,in the Life of Daniel, by the Am. S. S. Union, chap, xiv.) BELTESHAZZAK. (Dan. i. 7.) The name given to the prophet Daniel at the court of Nebuchadnezzar. BENAUH (2 Sam. xxiii. 20) was the son of Jehoiada, and distinguished for his enter- prise and bravery on several occasions. (2 Sam. xxiii. 20— 23.) He was an adherent of Solomon against the preten- sions of Adonijah, (1 Kings i. 36,) and after putting Joab to death succeeded to the com- mand of the army. (1 Kings ii. 29-35.) BENHADAD. 1. (1 Kings xv. 18.) Kin^ of Syria, in the time of Asa king of Judah, with whom he formed an alliance against Baasha king of Israel. (See Asa, Baasha.) Perhaps he was the same with Hadad the Edomite, who rebelled against Solomon. (1 Kings xi. 25.) 2. (1 Kings XX. 1.) King of Syria, and a son of the prece- ding. He was a proud, boast- ing, and licentious man, and seemed to be hardened against all rebukes. (1 Kings xx. 10 —12. 16. See Ahab.) He declared war against Jeho- ram kin^ of Israel, but the prophet Elisha disclosed Ben- nadad's plans so accurately, BEN !hat Jehoram was able to de- feat Them. (2 Kings vi. 8—33. See Elisha.) In the siege of Samaria, which took place some years afterwards, that city was re- duced to the greatest extremi- ty. The Syrian army, under Benhadad, was lying around the walls, when, in the course of the night, they were led to conceive that tliey heard the noise of an immense army in motion. Supposing that the city had been succoured by supplies of men and pro- visions from abroad, and ter- rified with the fancied tumult of their approach, the Syrians just at daybreak tied fur their lives, leaving their camp, with all their horses, asses, provi- sions, utensils, &c. just as ihey were, and their garments and vessels scattered all alon^ the road by which they had fled. The citizens of Samaria were thus unexpectedly re- lieved, and supplied with an abundance of food. The next year Benhadad, being sick, sent Hazael to in- quire of the prophet Elisha whether he would recover; and he received for answer, that the king might certainly recover and Vet would surely die. Hazael also was informed by the prophet, that he would be elevated to the throne of Syria, and would he guilty of enormous wickedness. The very next day Hazael, with his own hand, murdered Ben- hadad, and became king of Syria. (2 Kings viii. 15. See Hazael.) 3. (2Kingsxiii. 8.) Another person of the same name, and son of Hazael. He suffered several defeats from the hand of Jehoash, king of Israel, and was compelled to relin- quish all the land of Israel which his father Hazael had obtained in conquest. (2 Kings Xiii. 25.) B£R BENJAMIN (Gen. zxxv 18) was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. His mother died immediately after hia birth, which took place near Bethlehem, when the family were on their journey from Padan-aram to Canaan. With her dying breath she called him Benoni, (the son of my sorrow,) but his father gave him the name of Benjamin, (jthe smi of my right hand.) The tribe of Benjamin had their portion of the promised land adjoining Judah, and when ten of the tribes revolt- ed, Benjamin continued stea- dy in its attachment to Judah, and formed a part of thai kingdom. (1 Kings xii. 17. 23.) The prophetic history of the tribe is told in Gen. xlix. 27, and Deut. xxxiii. 12. Paul was a descendant of this tribe. (Phil. iii. 5. See Jacob and his Sons, by the Am. S. S. Union, pp. 87—98.) BEREA, (Acts xvii. 10,) now Veria. A city of Macedonia, about twenty miles west of Thessalonica, near mount Pindus. The Bereans were honourably distinguished for their diligence in searching the Scriptures, under the preaching of Paul. For thia and other causes it was a place of much interest in the days of the apostles. (Acts xvii. 10. 15, and xx. 4.) It now contains about 20,000 in- habitants, (chiefly Turks and Greeks,) and produces rice, fruit, and marble, and has manufactures of cotton. BERITH. cComp. Judg. viii. 33, and ix. 46. See Baal.) BERNICE, (Acts xxv. 13. 23,) or BERENICE, as the name is sometimes spelled, was the daughter of Agrippa, surnamed the Great, and sis- ter to the younger Agrippa, king of the Jews. She was a woman of licentious charac- ter, and was present, in great BET pomp, at the hearing of Paul Before Festus at Cesarea. BERODACH - BALADAN, called also Merodach-Bala- dan. (Isa. xxxix. 1. See Heze- KIAH.) BERYL. (Ex. xxviii. 20.) A precious stone, found chiefly in Brazil and Ceylon, the pre- vailing colour of which is green. (Sol. Song v. 14. Ezek. 1. 16, and x. 9. Rev. xxi. 20.) BESOM. (Isa. xiv. 23.) An instrument used for sweeping. BESOR, or BEZOR, (1 Sam XXX. 9, 10. 21,) signifying cold, was the name of a brook over which David passed in pur- suit of the Amalekites who had pillaged and burnt Zik- lag. It falls into the Mediter- ranean below Gaza. The sup- posed channel of it was cross- ed in 1823 by Messrs.Fiske and King, American missionaries, about five miles below Gaza. BETHABARA. (John i. 28.) The name of a town on the east bank of Jordan, where there was a ford across the river; whence the name,(/ioMsc of passage.) At this place John baptized ; and here, too, it is supposed the Israelites crossed the Jordan, under the conduct of Joshua. It lay about thirty miles north-east of Jeru- salem, and is probably the same with Beth-barah. (Judg. vii. 24.) BETHANY. (I\Iark xi. 1.) A village on the south-east side of the mount of Olives, about two miles from Jerusa- lem It was the residence of Lazarus and his sisters. (John X). 1.) Christ often resorted thither, especially during the last few days of his ministry, and it was the scene of some of the most interesting events of his life. (Matt. xxi. 17; xxvi. 6. Markxi. 11,12; xiv, 3. John xi. 1— 4G,and xii. i— 3.) Betha- ny was visited in 1823 by Messrs. Fiske and Kins, Ame- rican missionaries, anS is de- 9* BET scribed as a small Mussul- man village, on the declivity of a hill, and all around un- even and rocky. Travellers are shown the pretended place of Lazarus' grave, and the ruins of the house where he and his sisters lived. (See Omar, p. 143, and Selumiel, pp. 160. 168, both by the Am. S. S. Union.) BETHARBEL. (Hos. x. 14.) This is supposed to denote no particular place, but, accord- mg to the original significa- tion of the word, to import such fruitful countries as had been conquered and spoiled by some well known chieftain. BETHAVHEN. (Josh. vii. 2.) A place belonging to the tribe of Benjamin, and lying east of Bethel. (1 Sam. xiii. 5. See Bethel.) The wtLDERNESS OF Beth- AVEN (Josh, xviii. 12) formed part of the northern boundary of the tribe of Benjamin. BETH-BAAL-MEON. (See Baal-meon.) BETHBARAH. (See Beth- abaraO BETHEL. (Gen. xxviii. 19.) "When Jacob was journeying towards Mesopotamia to avoid the fury of his brother Esau, he lodged at a place near the ci'y of'Luz, and was favoured with a remarkable vision ol the Almighty. For this cause he namecl tne place and the adjoining city, Bethel, (house of God.) It was situated east of a line running from Shechem to Jerusalem, and at about an equal distance from each. Bethel was the residence of one of the Canaanite kings, and the Ephraimites, to whom it was assigned in the division of the land, were unable to gain possession of it until they w'-ere aided by the trea- chery of one of the inhabit- ants. (Judg. i. 22-26.) The tabernacle was station- ed a long time in this place, 101 BET and Jeroboam placed one of his golden calves here, (1 Kings xii. 28. 33,) from which circumstance, probably, Amos was induced to call it Betli- aven, {the house of idolatry.) And hence also the phrase " coming to Bethel" was pro- verbially expressive of idola- trous worship in general. (Amos iv. 4, and v. 5. Hos. x. 5.8.) Part of the prophecy ol Amos was directed specially against this city, (iii. 14,) and was fulfilled in the time of Josiah, (2 Kings xxiii. 15 ;) and the prophet himself was di- rected to flee from the place. At that time Bethel was proba- bly the residence cf the king of Israel. (Amos vii. 10 — 13.) BETHER, (Sol.Songii. 17,) or mountains of perfume, as n is found in an ancient trans- lation. It is not certain that this name is applied to .any particular place. It may per- haps denote those tracts of uneven country which were the favourite resort of the hart and roe. (Sol. Song iv. 6. 8, and viii. 14.) BETHESDA, (John v. 2,) (house of viercy.) The He- brew name of a pool or reser- voir of water in the city of Jerusalem. There were two pools of this kind, one of which was called the Upper Pool and the other the Pool of Siloam. (Comp. 2Kings xviii. 17. Neh. iii. 15. John ix. 7.) The pool of Bethesda had re- markable medicinal proper- ties, which made it a common resort for invalids, for whose accommodation porches or small aparimems were pro- vided. The opinion has been expressed that these proper- ties were natural, or tliat they were communicated by something thrown into the water. Tt is to be observed however, (1.) That their heal- ing vinue extended to what- ever dideaee a man might BET have, however vaiious and even opposite their character. (2.) Only the one who first stepped in was cured. (3.) If the agency by which the heal- ing influence was imparted was natural, and within the power of man, there seems to be no good reason why il should not have been con- stantly employed. The better opinion seems to be, that the healing virtue was miracu- lous; that the angel was a messenger from Go'd ; and that the troubling of the waters was an unusual motion to give notice to the invalids of the arrival of the favoured mo- ment. (See Selumiel, by the Am. S. S. Union, pp. 104. 111.) Travellers tell us of a place now seen in Jerusalem, which is supposed to have been once the pool of Bethesda. It is one hundred and twenty feet long, forty broad, and eight deep; and at one end there are evidently the remains of three or more arches which may be the ruins of the porch- es. (For a beautiful sketch of Bethesda, as eiven by Roscn- mueller, and a description of its appearance, see Views op Palestine, by the Am. S. S. Union, p. 5.) BETH-HORON. (Josh. x. 10.) Two villages lying on the border of Ephraim and Benjamin, about twelve miles north-west of Jerusalem, were calledUpper and Nether Beth- horon. It is plain that one of them was on an eminence, and the other in a valley. (Comp. Josh. X. 10 and 11.) Betli-horon was fortified by Solomon. (1 Kings ix. 17.) Mo- dern travellers have found an Arab village twelve miles from Jerusalem, on the way from Jaffa, (Joppa,) which it is sup. posed might have been the site of Upper Beth-horon. BETH-JESHIMOTH.(Jo8h. xiii. 20.) A city of the tribe 102 BET of Reuben on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea. It was for- merly in possession of the Mo- abites, and after remaining in ihe tribe of Reuben until the Assyrian captivity, it fell back into the hands of the Moab- ites. (Ezek. xxv. 9.) BETHLEHE-M, (Gen. xxxv. 19,) called also Bethlehem Epliratah, (Mic. v. 2,) was so inconsiderable a place as to be omitted in the general lists of the cities of JuHah. (Josh. XV. Neh. xi.) It was the birili- rlace of David, (Luke ii. 4. L,) and was still more sacred and celebrated as the birth- place of the Redeemer. (Matt, li. 1. Luke ii. 4—6.) It is situated upon an emi- nence overlooking Tekoah, nine milos south; and is about six miles south-west from Jerusalem. The place has been often visited by mo- dern travellers. Mr. Fisk, an American missionary, was there in 1823, and speaks of its appearance as like a pile of rocks, with here and there a patch of verdure ; and Mr. Whiting, another American missionary, was there in 1S34. Four or five miles from Je- rusalem is the (so called) tomb of Rachel, and alwut two miles beyond that, is Bethlehem. (Gen. xlviii. 7.) At this tomb Mr. W. turned off, taking the road to Hebron, that he might visit the pools of Sjlomon, which lie in a narrow, sloping valley, three miles south-west of Bethlehem. The village of Bethlehem in 1734 was supposed to contain six hundred men capable of bearing arms ; but the ravages of war and oppression have re- duced it to a very miserable state. WhenMr. Whiting was there, it had just suffered se- verely from some tyrannical measures of the government; and he passed over the ruins of houses and fields that had just then been demolished, BET and parks of olive and fig- trees which had been cut down by order of the pasha, to pu- nish their proprietors for an al- leged rebellion and tiight. (See Life of David, ch. i., Omar, p. 1(3, and Selumiel, p. 160, all hy the Am. S. S. Union.) BETH-MAACHAH. (2 Sam. XX. 14, 15.) Same with Abel- beih-maachah. BETH-MEON. (See Baal- Meon.) BE IH-NIMRAH. (See Nim- RIM.) BETH-PEOR. (Deut. iv. 4G.) A city of Moab, famous for the worship of Baal. (See Baal.) " The vaLley over against" Beth-peor, in the land of Mo- ab, is distinguished as tiie place where Moses repeated the law to the people of Israel. It was also his burial-place, and was not far from mount Nebo. BETHPHAGE. (Matt. xxi. 1.) A small village on the south-east of mouut'Olivet, ad- joining Bethany on the west. (Comp. Luke xix.2S— 40, with Matt. xxi. 1—11. See Selu- miel, by the Am. S. S. Union, p. 160.) BETH-REHOB. (See Re- hob.) BETHSAIDA. (Matt. xi.21.) There were at least two towns of this name in Judea. One was situated on the east bank of the river Jordan, near the place where it falls into the sea of Tiberias. Near this vil- lage was the desert or wilder- ne'ss of Bethsaitla. (Matt. xiv. 15—21. Luke ix. 10.) The other town was called Bethsaida of Galilee, and was situated on the west of Jordan, near the sea of Tiberias. This was the birthplace of Andrew, Peter, and Philip. (Mark xiv. 70. John i. 44.) BETH-SHAN. (ISam.xxxi. 10.) Same with Bsth-shean. BETH-SHEAN. (Josh. xvii. 11.) A town on the west of Jor- dan, twenty-live miles south U)3 BET of the sea of Tiberias, and for a long lime known by the name of "Scylhopolis. ll was situated on the borders of Galilee and Samaria, upon the edge of the great plain of Jordan. It is now a ruin call- ed Bysan, containing seventy or eighty houses, the inhabit- ants of which are, to the last degree, poor and miserable, owing to the depredaii-^ns they constantly sutfer from the Bedouins. In the time of Saul it was probably a posses- sion of the Philistines, as they exposed his body on its walls after his defeat in the battle of Gilboa. (1 Sam. xxxi. 10.) It was afterwards attached to Judah. (1 Kings iv. 12.) BETH-SHEaiESH. (Josh. XV. 10.) At least three different S laces are mentioned in the lible under this name. 1. One of them belonging to the tribe of Naphtali. (Josh. xix. 38. Judg. i. 33.) 2. Another w^as in Egypt, (Jer. xliii. 13,) supposed to be the Keliopolis of the Greeks, and is called On. (Gen. xli. 45, 50.) It is about five miles from the modern Cairo. 3. And the third was a city of Judah, (2 Kings xiv. 11,) situated on the borders of Dan, thirty miles south-west of Jerusalem, and sometimes called Irshemesh. This last place was distinguished by the circumstance iTiat the ark was sent thither by the Phi- listines, and a vast number of men, who looked into it from ' vain curiosity, were swept off by a pestilence. (1 Sam. vi, 12—20.) It was also remark- able for the battle that was fought there between Israel and Judah, in which the lat- ter were defeated, and the king taken prisoner. (2 Kings xiv. 11-1.3.) BETROTH. (Deut. xxviii. 30.) A man and woman were betrothed or espoused, each to BEZ the other, when they were en gaged to be married. It is giv mg one's troth (i. e. faith or promise) to marry at a future time. Among the Jews this rela- tion was usually determined by the parents or brothers, without consulting the parties until they came to be betrothed. The engagement took place very early ; though it was not consummated, by actual mar- riage, until the spouse was at least twelve years of age. The betrothing was per- formed a twelvemonth or more before the marriage ; either in writing or by a piece of silver given to the espoused before witnesses. During this interval, however, from the lime of espousals to the mar- riage, the woman was consi- dered as the lawful wife of the man to whom she was be- trothed; nor could the en- gagement be ended by the man without a bill of divorce ; nor could she be unfaithful without bein^ considered an adulteress. (For a full account of the whole ceremony of marriage, and of the spiritual relation which the term de- notes, see Biblical ANXiam- TiES, vol. i. chap. vi. § 1, and Omar, p. 146, both by the Am. S. S. Union. See also article Marriage.) BEULAH. (Isa. Ixii. 4.) A word signifying married^ which the prophet applies to the Jewish church, to import the intimacy of its relation to God. BEZALEEL. (Ex. xxxi. 2.) A famous artificer, who re- ceived wisdom and instruction directly from God, to qualify him for the work of building the tabernacle and preparing its various furniture, BEZEK. (Judg^ i. 4.) A city in the tribe of Judah, where the Canaanites suffered a se- vere slaughter, and their king 104 BIN was taken prisoner. (See Adoni-bezek.) It was at Be- zek thai Saul mustered his army before the attack on .la- besh-gilead. Ancient geographers speak of two towns by the name of Bezek, situated near each other, about seventeen miles from Sichem, on the way to Beih-shan. BIER. (Luke vii. 14.) The bed orframeonwhichthedead body is conveyed to the grave. Probably they were made (as coffins are in modern times) more or less expensive in shape and ornament, accord- ing to the circumstances and rank of the deceased. (2 Chron. xvi. 14. See Burial.) BILDAD. (Job ii. 11.) One of Job's three friends who visit- ed him in his affliction, and whose arguments, in justifica- tion of God's dealings, occupy chap. viii. xviii. and xxv. of the book of Job. (See Job.) The name Shuhite is proba- bly derived from Shuan, son of Abraham and Keturah, whose descendant he is sup- posed to have been. BILHAH. (Gen. xxix. 29.) The handmaid of Rachel, and the mother of Dan and Naph- tali. (Gen. xxxv. 25.) BILL. (Luke xvi. 6, 7.) Any written paper containing a Btatemenioi particulars claim- ed or promised ; as a bill of services, bill of expenses, bill of fare, &c. Bill (or writing) of divorcement, (Deut. xxiv. 1—4. Matt. v. 31,) was a writ- ing given by the husband to the wifcj in virtue of wliich, by the Jewish law, the marriage relation was dissolved. BIND. (Matt. xvi. 19) Bind and loose, as used in this and parallel passages, are syno- nymous with command 'and forbid. The expression, to bind the lato upon one^s hand, &c. is figurative, and implies 9Q intimate acquaintance with BIR it, and a constant regarito its precepts. The Jews construed It literally, and hence the cus- tom of wearing phylacteries. (See Phylacteries.) Rolls or volumes of writing were tied up. Hence the expression, Isa. viii. 16. BIRDS. (Lev. xiv. 4.) Birds, as well as beasts, were di- vide.! into clean and unclean, but not by external marks, as in the case of quadrupeds. Those which were forbidden are named, and were probably well known by those names to the Jews, though not now known to us by those names. In general, the ravenous kinds feeding on flesh were forbid- den. There was a humane law in the Jewish code which forbade the taking a mother-bird, though her young might be taken. The common mode of taking birds was with a snare. (Ps. cxxiv. 7. Prov. vii. 23. Amos iii. 5.) A speck- led bird (Jer. xii. 9) proba- bly means any strange bird, which, as is well known, other birds are accustomed to attack and pursue. BIRTHRIGHT. (Gen. xxv. 31.) The first-born son among the Jews enjoyed special pri- vileges above his brethren, and those privileges were hence called his birthrisrht, or his right by birth. Among these privileges were, conse- cration to the Lord, (Ex. xxii. 29 ;) great dignity, (Gen. xlix. 3;) a double portion of his father's estate, (Deut. xxi.l7;) and (in the royal families) succession to the kinadom. (2 Chron. xxi. 3.) The eldest son seems to have been re- garded,! n the father's absence, as in some respects his re- presentative. The paternc;i Jlessing was also in a peculiar sense the right of the first-born, though the right itself and all ihe 105 BIT Dlessings of it might be for- ] feited or transferred, as in the case of Jacob and Esau. (Gen. , XXV. 33.) Reuben and Joseph. (1 Chron. v. 1.) But whoever t enjoyed it was regarded as in- | vested with great dignity and , superiority. Hence the phrase is used figuratively to denote the chief or highest, or lowest, (Job xviii. 13. Isa. xiv. 30,) and to confer such a rank on one is to constitute him the first-born. (Ps. Ixxxix. 27. Col. i. 15.) Hence the peculiar force and appropriateness of the titles given to the Divine Re- deemer. (Rom. viii. 29. Col. i. 18. Heb. i. 2. 4. 6; xii. 2-3. See Biblical Anticiuities, by the Am. S. S. Union, vol. i. chap. vi. § ii.) BISHOP. (1 Tim. in. 2.) The word in its original means overseer, as Joseph was in Potiphar's house, (Gen. xxxix. 4,) or as the three thousand six hundred men were in So- lomon's temple, (2 Chron. ii. IS,) or as Uzri was of the Le- vites. (Neh. xi. 22.) In the New Testament, however, the term is used to denote an of- ficer or officers of the church, but their precise rank or juris- diction is a matter of contro- versy. Paul describes the qualifications for the office particularly in his letter to Timothy. (1 Tim. iii. 2-7.) Christ is figuratively called the shepherd and bishop of souls. (1 "P5t. ii. 25.) BISHOPRIC. (Acts i. 20.) The jurisdiction, charge, or office of a bishop. BITS. (See Harness.) BITTER, (Jer. ii. 19,) and BITTERNESS, (Prov.xi v. 10,) are words used figuratively to denote the severity of sorrow or suffering. BITTER HERBS. (Ex. xii. 8.) The JeWb V7ere command- ed to eat the passover with a salad of bitter herbs; and their modera historians sup- BLA pose that hoarhound, wild let- tuce, tansy, &c. were used, as they still are by the Jews in some countries. The use of them on that occasion was intended to call to their re- membrance the severe and cruel bondage from which God delivered them when they were brought out of Egypt. BITHRON. (2Sam. ii. 29.) This is not probably the name of any particular place, but a general terra denoting a range of hills and vales. BITHYNIA. (Acts xvi. 7.) A province of Asia Minor. It is bounded on the east by Paph- lagonia, north by the Black Sea, and south by Phrygia and Galatia. It is directly oppo- site to Constantinople. The gospel was introduced into this province at an early pe- riod. (Comp. Acts ii. 9, and IPet. i. 1.) There is a re- markable testimony in eccle- siastical history, to the purity and firmness of the Christians of Bithynia, at the close of the first and the beginning of the second century. BITTERN. asa.xxxiv. 11.) Some bird of solitary habits, that frequents ruins and other desolate places. The bird, known in modern days by this name, inhabits fens and marshes, and has a deep hoarse cry, which is often heard, in the twili°;ht, from its lonely haunts. The lan- guage of prophecy (Isa. xiv. 23, and xxxiv. 11. Zeph. ii. 14) imports the utmost soli- tude and desolation. BLACK, BLACKNESS, (Job XXX. 30. Joel ii. 6,) are words used figuratively, to denote shame, terror, perplexity, des- pair, mourning, &c. We often find them employedat thiflday, in eastern wrhlngs, to express shame and confusion. BLAINS. (Ex. ix. 9.) Burn- ing pustules or ulcers, which 106 BLA broke out upon the Egyptians and all their beasts, and con- stituted the sixth plague. The ashes from the furnaces (brick-kilns, perhaps) were taken by Moses, a handful at a time, and scattered to the winds; and wherever it fell, on man or beast, it caused this dreadful disease to ap- pear. Perhaps reftrence is made to this plague in Deut. xxviii. 27. BLASPHEMY. (Col. iii. 8.) The word in its original use ienotes all manner of detrac- tion or calumny, such as is expressed by the terms rail, revile, speak evil,&c. ; but in the restricted sense of the Scriptures, and of common use, it denotes reproachful, irreverent, or insulting lan- guage concerning God or any of nis names or attributes. (Lev. xxiv. 10—16.) Whoever thinks of the character of God as infinitely holy, just, and good, will not be surpris- ed that this offence is regard- ed as very heinous, and Is so fearfully punished. There is no reason to suppose that the sin of profane swearing, so common at this day, is less odious and oflFensive to God than it was in the time of Moses. Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, (Matt. xii. 32,) such as the Pharisees were guilty of when they ascribed the miracle of curing the blind and dumb man (who was also possessed with a de- vil) to the agency of Beelzebub or Satan, is declared to be un- pardonable. Many persons are appre- hensive that they have fallen into this sin, and hence give themselves up to despair ; but it is probable, that however dangerous and fatal may be our offences against the Holy Spirit in rejecting his gra- cious influences and refusing BLE to yield to his persuasions. (Heb. vi. 4—8, and x. 26—31,; the fear is sometimes ground- less. How near the ridicule and contempt of religion and its ordinances, the sporting with the work of the Holy Spirit on men's hearts, and the unbelief in and opposition to the S*ripture, which is all given by this divine Agent, may approach to the fearful extremity of guilt which the unpardonable sin must in- volve, the judgment of the great day will reveal. BLEMISH. (Ex. xii. 5.) Whatever renders a person or thing imperfect. The priests under the Jewish law were required to be free from personal blemishes, and the defects which were accounted blemishes are particvdarly de- scribed. (Lev. xxi. 18 — ^20, and xxii. 20—24.) So also of ani- mals. (Deut. XV. 21.) The word is figuratively used, (2 Pet. ii. 13, and (.^ots) Jude 12.) bless; BLESSED, BLESS- ING. (Gen. xii. 2; xxii. 17, 18.) These words are of fre- quent occurrence in the sa- cred writings, and their par- ticular force may generally be determined by the con- nexion. Men are said to bless God when they ascribe to him the praise and glory which are due to him. (Ps. cxlv.) God blesses men in bestowing up- on them continually mercies, spiritual and temporal. (Job xlii. 12. Ps. xlv. 2.) And men are said to bless their fellow creatures when, as in ancient times, in the spirit of prophe- cy they predicted blessings to come upon them This was the kind of blessmg which the patriarchs pronounced. (Gen. xlix.) So Mosss blessed Israel. (Deut. xxxiii.) The form of blessing pre- scribed by the Jewish ritual (Num. vi. 23—27) is admirably ' 107 BLO simple and sublime. It was oronounced standing, with a loud voice, and with the hands raised towards heaven. (Luke xxiv. 50.) National blessings and cursings were sometimes pronounced. (Deut. xxvii. and xxviii. Isa. xix. 25.) The cup of blessing, (1 Cor. X. 16,) and cup of sal- vation, (Ps. cxvi. 13,) are ex- pressions derived, as we sup- {)Ose, from a custom preva- enl among the Jews at their feasts. The master of the feast took a cup of wine in his hand, and solemnly blessed God for it, and for all the meicies which were then acknowledg- ed. It was then passed to all the guests, eacn of whom drank of it in his turn. The aptness and force of the fig- ures employed in the above passages are thus made obvi- ous. Blessing, valley of. (See Valley.) BLOOD (Ex. xxix. 12) is the fluid of life in the animal bodv. Its use was expressly- prohibited to Noah when eve- ry thing else was freely given him. (Gen. ix. 4.) By the Jewish law also, it was ex- pressly and solemnly forbid- den. (Lev. xvii. 10, &;c.) The reason of this interdic- tion is,pr.>bably,because blood was sacredly appropriated. (Lev. xvii. 11.) The Jewish ritual abounds with the use of blood, (Heb. ix. 22,) and the manner of employing it is stated with minuteness in Heb. ix. and x., where also ii.s use and effects are shown in striking contrast with the blood shed upon the cress. (See also Acts xx. 2S. Rom. v. 9. Eph. i. 7. Col. i. 14. Heb. vii. 27. IJohni. 7.) The prohibition of eating blood or animals that are strangled, has been always rigidly observed by the Jews. BOA In the Cnristian church, the custom of refraining from things strangled, and from blood, contin"ued for a long time. In the council of the apostles held at Jerusalem, (Acts XV.) it was declared that converts from paganism should not be subject to the legal ceremonies, but that they should refrain from idol- atry, from fornication, from eating blood, and from such animals as were strangled, and their blood thereby re- tained in their bodies; which decree was observed for many ages by the church. Tt is ooserved that the no- tion, that the blood of the vic- tims was peculiarly sacred to the gods, is impressed on all ancient pagan mythology. (See Christ.) Avenger of blood. (See Avenge.) BLUE. (See Colours.) BOANERGES. (Mark iii. 17.) The name given by Christ to James and John. Some have supposed that this name indi- cated the power which those apostles should exert- in the introduction of the gospel dis- pensation. It seems trifling to suppose that it refers to the mode or tone of their preach- ing. BOAR. (Tg. Ixxx. 13.) This is the original stock of the common hog ; and, in a wild slate, is a very furious and formidable animal. Modern travellers tell us that they are found in ereat numbers on the banks ot the Jordan, and among the reeds of the sea of Tiberias. The allusion of the psalmist, in the above pas sage, may be to the coming forth of the animal from the shady marsh or woods ; or it may be to his well known ha- bit of turning up the earth in search of roots for food, and in this way destroying rulii- vated ground. (For a panicu- 108 BOO lar description and cut, see Natural History of the Bible, by the Am. S. S. Union. art. Boar.) BOAZ, or BOOZ, (Ruth ii. 1,) was a descendant of Judah ; and througli him is traced the regular succession of Jewisli kings. (Matt. i. 5.) Boaz was a man of wealth, and of great respectability ; and, from his conduct towards his poor kins- woman, Ruth, we suppose him to have been a man of strict integrity, and of an estimable character. (See Affectionate Daughter-in-law, or Life of Ruth, by the Am. S. S. Union, ch. iii. iv. and v.) BOLLED. (Ex. ii. 31.) The expression, jlax teas boiled, means that it was podded, or nearly in a state to be gailier- ed, and of course the loss of it was much more severe than it would have been at an ear- lier stase of its growth. -BOND, BONDAGE, BOND- MAN,B0NDW01VIAN,B0ND- MAID. (See Servant.) BONNETS. (See Clothes, Mitre.) BOOK. (Ex. xvii. 14.) What we call books were unknown to the ancient Jews, at least in their present convenient form. Letters were engraved on stone, brick, metal, (as lead and copper,) or wood, and also on cloth and skins, and at a later period on parch- ment. (2 Tim. iv. 13.) Tablets of lead and brass or copper, of great antiquity, have been dis- covered in modern times. The earliest mode of pre- serving inscriptions was by engraving on a rock. Such inscriptions often occur to the eastern traveller. The vxriting table mentioned Luke i. 63, was probably a tablet covered with wax, or otherwise prepared to be writ- ten upon. (Deut. xxvii. 2. 3.) Such tablets were used in Eng- land as lately as the year 13^. 10 BOO Leaves and the bark of trees were also used, and were often prepared with much skilL The people of Ceylon write with a bodkin on broad and thick leaves, cut into narrow slips ; and these leaves, being tened together,make books, which they call Ollas. The missionaries often prepared tracts in this form, before pa* per and printing were intro- duced upon the island. In Sumatra, and among the Indi- ans of North America, bark ia still use»l for making letters and pictures. Leather, and linen or cotton cloth, were also used. These were prepared in the form of long rolls, twelve or fourteen inches wide, and fastened at each end to slicks, (like the rollers to which maps are at- tached,) and which were roll- ed together till they met mid- way. Sometimes these leaves were connected in the form of modern books, and opened in the same way. In this case the sheets were fastened to rods, and these rods passed through rings, and thus form- ed the back of the book. The writing was generally in capital letters, and without punctuation or divisi»n of words; and when used, the reader unrolled the iVIS. as far as the place which he wished to find, and kept be- fore him just so much as he would read, thus : BOO The pages resembled the following in their general ap- pearance, though they were INTHEBEGI NNINGWAST HEWORDAN DTHEWORD WASWJTHG ODANDTHE WORDWASG ODTHESAME WASINTHEB EGINNINGW ITHGODALL THINGSWER These columns could be di- vided from one another, and used separately, as we may cut the columns of a newspa- per which is printed on one side only, and arrange the ex- traas as we like. Sometimes the reading was what is called furrow-wise. The first line was from right to left, and the second from left to right, and so on, alternately, like plough- ing a field. The roll or book BOO of course wider and longer than these, and were read from right to left : EMADEBYHI INHIMWASLI MANDWITHO FEANDTHELI UTHIMWASN FEWASTHELI OTANYTHIN GHTOFMENA GMADETHA NDTHELIGHT TWASMADE SHINETHIND John i. 1—5. of curses, which Ezekiel saw, was thirty feet long and twen- ty wide. The writing was usually on one side, but not always. (Ezek. ii. 10.) When the roll was done with, it was carefully deposit- ed in a case. The following cut shows the end of the roll in its place ; and also the inkstand or bottle, with the cover thrown off, and the reed pen or style : Another form of the scroll, ] secured, as above described and also a collection of sheets with rings and rods, are r© in the shape of a modern book, | presented as follows : BOO A very good idea may be formed of an ancient roll by supposing a common newspa- per to have rods or rollers at Ihe right and left sides. The reader talces hold of the rods, and unrolls the sheet until he comes to the desired column. Thus in Luke iv. 17, the phrase " opened the book," would properly read " unroll- ed the scroll," and in ver. 20, for " closed the book," read " rolled up the volume," or "scroll." This shows the force of the figure, (Isa. xxxiv. 4,) where the heavens are re- presented as rolled together, as suddenly as the opposite ends of an unrolled scroll fly to meet each other, when the hand of the reader is with- drawn from it. A kind of paper was made from the stalk of an Egyptian vegetable called papyrus, or !mper reed, which is still bund in various parts of In- dia. (See Bulrush.) The stalk was slit, with a needle, into plates or layers as broad and thin as possible. Some of them were ten or fifteen inches broad. These strips were laid, side by side, upon a flat horizontal surface, and then immersed in the water of the Nile ; which not only served as a kind of sizing, but llso caused the edges of the itrips to adhere together as if jlued. The sheets, thus form- ed, were dried in the sun, and ihen covered with a fine wash, which made them smooth and flexible. They were finally beaten with hammers, and polished. Twenty or more of these sheets were sometimes connected in one roll. The pen or style* was made of some hard substance, per- haps not unlike the instru- • Hence the word style, siguityin? one's manner of writing — easy sh/le, ^igant style, kc. BOO ments used by glaziers to cut glass. (Jer. xv'n. 1.) Upon ta- blets of wax an instrument was used, one end of which was painted, to mark the let- ters, and the other broad and flat, to make erasures. Pens or styles of copper are now used by the Ceylonese. On soft substances, like linen or papyrus, the marks were pamted with a fine hair pen- cil, as is practised among the Chinese to this day. Most of the eastern nations now use the reed-pen, which is split with an instrument used as we use the penknife. (Jer. xxxvi. 2-3.) The pith is removed, and the bark or rind, being split like a quill, retains and properly slieds the ink. It is not hard or stitf enough to be used long without mend- ing. We have half a dozen of them from India now on our table. (See Pen.) Ink was prepared from a variety of substances. (See Ink.) And those who were skilful in writing wore an inkhorn fastened to the gir- dle, (Ezek. ix. 2,) which is the present mode among the Per- sians and the Moors of Bar- bary. (See Inkhorn.) As tables were unknown, the paper, or other substance written upon, was laid upon the knees, or held firmly with the left hand. A sealed book was a roll fastened together by a band or string, aiid a seal affixed to the knot. (Isa. xxix. 11.) Book of the generation (Gen. V. 1. Malt. i. 1) signifies the genealogical history or records of atamily or nation. Book of the living, (Ps. Ixix. 28,) and the kindred phrase, book of life, (Rev. xxi. 27,) are supposed to allude to the genealogical lists or re- gisters'kept by the Jews, from which the names of the dead were {.rased. (Isa. iv. 3.) Tho 111 BOS aptness and force of the figu- rative use of the terms is suf- ficiently obvious. Book of judgment. (Dan. vii. 10.) The allusion here is probably either to the prac- tice of opening books of ac- count to settle with servants or labourers, or to the custom of the Persian kings to have a book in which a daily record is made of special services performed by any of their subjects, and of the rewards which were given to the indi- viduals. (Esth. vi. 1—3.) Book of the wars op the Lord, (Num. xxi. 14,) Book OP Jasher or the righteous, (Josh. X. 13, and 2 Sam. i. 18,) and Book op the Chroni- cles (or annals) of the kings of Judah and Israel, (1 Kings xiv. 19. 29,) are the names of ancient writings known to the Jews, but not preserved in the sacred canon. The remark of the wise man, (Eccl. xii. 12,) on the subject of making books, is supposed to amount to this :— " That the propensity of some men to collect and amass books for libraries is insatia- ble ; that it is a business to which there is no end ; the designation of one leading to that of another, and that again of another, and soon intermin' ably ; and that the much study connected with this endless labour and ' weariness of the flesh' may render its votary a fit subject of the admonition, that ' the conclusion of the whole matter,' or the great end of life, ' is to fear God and keep his commandments.' " (See Writing.) BOOTH. (See Garden.) BOKDER. (See Clothes.) BORROW. (Ex. xii. 35.) The meaning of the word here translated borrow is ask, and does not imply any promise to return. BOSOM. (John xiii. 23.) EOT The dress of the Jews was such as allowed them to carrj within a fold in the bosom of the robe what could not be car- ried in the hand. Hence the expressions Isa. xl. 11, and Luke vi. 38. It was also used to denote a place of rest and security. Hence the term Abraham's bosom is figura- tively spoken of as the abode of Lazarus. (Luke xvi. 23.) No name awakened such as- sociations in the mind of a Jew as that of Abraham. (Luke xiii. 28. John viii. 33. 39. 57. Acts xiii. 26.) The use of this term (John i. 18) imports also the peculiar, mysterious, and perfect unity of the Father and Son. BOSSES. (Job XV. 26.) The prominent or projecting parts of the buckler, and of course the thickest and strongest. BOTTLE. (Gen. xxi. 14.) Ancient bottles were made of the skins of animals, which were properly dressed for the purpose. The openings of the skin were closed, except at the neck, through which the liquor was to be received and discharged, and which was fastened by a string like a bag. The following is copied from BOW a fragment of the Antiquities of Herculaneum, and repre- sents a young woman pouring wine from a bottle into a cup. Tiiey were of course of dif- ferent sizes, as the skins of kids, goats, or oxen might be used. "Bruce describes par- ticularly a bottle which he saw in Arabia, made in this manner, of an ox-skin, which would hold sixty gallons, and two of which were a load for a camel. Our missionaries in eastern countries frequently speak of the goat-skins and leathern bottles in which they carry wa- ter in their journeys. Where the travelling is rough,and the vessels likelylo strike against each other, they are made of the safest materials that can he found. The skins or bottles used for new wine we:e of the freshest and most flei')'ble kind, in order that they might the better endure the process of fermentation. (Matt. ix. 17.) The effect of smoke on a skin-bottle would be to black- en and shrivel it. (Ps.cxix.83.) BOW. (See Armour.) Bow. A posture. (Gen. xxxvii. 10.) To bow down one's self is expressive of great reverence and humility. (Gen. xxiv. 26. 48. 1 Kings i. 53, and ii. 19.) It was a com- mon mode of salutation in the east to kneel upon one knee, and bow the head until it touched the ground. (See Prayer.) It is still the custom in many eastern nations for subjects to kneel before the throne of the king, and bow their heads slowly, till they touch the earth. Sir William Jones, in his history of Nadir Shah, says, thai as Nadir approach- ed, the people bowed their heads with stiame, and touch- ed the earth with the forehead of humiliation. BOWELS. (1 Kings iii. 26.) 10* BRA This term is used by the sa- cred writers evidently in a figurative sense, for affections or emotions of the heart. (Col. iii. 12. IJohniii. 17.) BOX TREE. (Isa. xli. 19.) An evergreen, whoss perfect proportions, beauty of foliage, and utility might illustrate the prosperity and grace which God would bestow on Zion. (Isa. Ix. 13.) BOZRAH, (Gen. xxxvi. 33,) called by the Greeks and Ro- mans Bostra, was situated about twenty-four miles south- east of Edrei. It is often men- tioned in the Scriptures as the chief city of Edom. (Isa. xxxiv. 6, and'lxiii. 1. Jer. xl viii. 24, and xlix. 13. 22. Amos i. 12.) It is called by Jeremiah a city of the Moabiles, and it was probably taken from Am- mon by the Edomites, and again from the Edomites by the Moabites. As it was situ- ated upon the confines of seve- ral countries who were often at war with each other, these changes were likely to hap- pen. It is now the largest city in that district, and nas been celebrated as a strong- hold of the Nestor ians. The prophecies respecting this place, some of which are cited above, are among the most wonderful and sublime on record. BRACELET. (Gen. xxiv, 30.) An ornament (chain or clasp) worn on the arm. Among eastern princesses it is a badge of royalty, and was probably regarded as such in the time of David. (2 Sam. i. 10.) The royal bracelet was of much richer materials, and was worn above the elbow ; the common bracelet was worn on the wrist. (Ezek. xvi. 11.) BRANCH. (Ps. civ. 12.) This word is often figuratively used by the sacred writers, (Ps. Ixxx. 15. John xv. 5, 6,, 113 ERE and is also one of the titles of the Messiah. (Isa. xi. 1, comp. with Isa. liii. 2. Zech. iii. 8, and vi. 12.) The family of Jesse is represented under the figure of the stock of a tree, firmly rooted; and the coming of Christ from the seed of David is represented as the shooting forth of a branch, which is here called, by way of distinction and eminence, ' THE BRANCH;' for it may well be said that Christ, even in his com- mon nature, far surpassed all the house of David, in the dignity, power, and glory both of his person and ofiice. BRASS. (Gen. iv. 22.) The composition which we call brass was invented as late as the thirteenth century. That which is called trass in the sacred writings was probably what we call copper. It was used for a variety of purposes about the temple, and also for fetters, (Judg. xvi. 21. 2 Kings XXV. 7,') arnTour, (1 Sam. xvii. 5,6,) and musical instruments. (1 Chron. XV. 19. 1 Cor.xiii. 1.) The words brass, brazen, kc. occurring under the words Armour, Altar, Book, &c. are used in conformity with the common English transla- tion of the Bible, and not with technical accuracy. BRAZEN SEA. (See La- yer.) BRAZEN SERPENT. (See Serpent.) BREAD. (Gen. xiv. 18.) The bread of the Jews was gene- rally made of wheat. Barley and other grains were some- times used. (Judg. vii. 13.) The materials were prepared as in modern days. (See Mill, Sieve.) The process of knead- ing it was performed in kneac- in'g-trou2iis, (Gen. xviii. 6. Ex. xii. S4. 'Jer. vii. 18,) or wooden bowls, such as the Arabians use at this day for a like purpose. ll has been supposed by BRE some that the kneading waB done upon a circular piece of leather, such as is now used in Persia, and which would be more properly called a knead- ing-bag, as it draws up like a knapsack, in the manner represented in the above cut. Either of the utensils would be easily transported. Very simple leaven was used in th dough. The loayes were shaped like a plate, and when leavened, were ordinarily of the thickness of one's little fin?er. (See Table.) The unleavened bread was very thin, and was broken, not cut. (Lam. iv. 4. Matt, xiv. 19; XV. 36; xxvl. 26.) It has been said that the thick- ness or thinness of the loaves was regulated by the time they were to be kept; that which was to be kept longest being made thick,that it might retain its moisture. This is contrary to modern philoso- phy on this subject, as we see m the manufacture of ship- bread. (For the manner of baking, see Ovens, Cake.) The term bread is often used for food or provisions in gene- ral. Bread corn (Isa. xxviii. 28) is used for wheat, barley, or any other grain from which bread was made. The figurative expressions, bread ofisorrows,(Pa.cxx\u.2,) and bread of tears, (Ps. Ixxx. BRE 6,) nriay denote that the suffer- ing of sorrow and the shed- ding of tears had become as much a part of the portion of every day as one's daily bread. So the bread of wick- edness,(^rov. iv.l7,) and bread of deceit, (Prov. xx. 17.) de- note not only a living or estate obtained by fraud and Bin, but that to do wickedly is as much the portion of a wicked man's life as to eat his daily bread. Shew-bread (Ex. xxv. 30) was unleavened bread pre- pared anew every Sabbath, and presented hot on the golden table, in twelve loaves of a square or oblong shape, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. Salt and incense were presented at the same time. It is supposed that the loaves were placed either in two piles or m two rows, with six loaves in each, and it was called shew-bread, or bread of the face, or the bread of setting before, be- cause it stood continually be- fore the Lord. The old loaves were re- moved every Sabbath, (Lev. xxiv. 8,) and as a general rule, were to be eaten by the priests alone, and by them only in the court of the sanc- tuary. (1 Sam. xxi. 1—6. Blatt. xii. 3, &c.) The figure below represents the commonly received im- pression respecting the shape BRI and appearance of the taTjla of shew-bread. The dotted lines represent the front row of loaves ; the residue being concealed by these. BREAKFAST. (See Meals.) BREASTPLATE. 1. (Ex. xxviii. 15.) A part of the offi- cial dress of the Jewish high- priest, the general appearance of which is supposed to be given in the cut upon the ad- joining page. It was a piece of embroidered work, about ten inches square, and made double with a front and lining, so as to answer for a pouch or bag. It was adorned with twelve precious stones, as represented in the cut on the following page. The two upper corners were fastened to the ephod, from which it was not to be loosed, (Ex. xxviii. 28,) and the two lower cornejs to the girdle. The rings, chains, and other fastenings were of gold or rich lace. It was called the memorial, (Ex. xxviii. 12. 29,) inasmuch as it reminded the priest of his representative character in relation to the twelve tribes; and it is also called the breastplate of iudg- ment, (Ex. xxviii. 15,) perhaps because it was worn by him who was, instrumentally. the fountain of justice and judg- ment to the Jewish church. Others think it is because the Urim and Thummim were annexed to it. (See Urim and Thummim.) 2. (Eph. vi. 14.) The breast- plate was also that article of ancient armour which pro- tected the breast. (See Ar- mour.) Its figurative use in the passage above cited, and also in Isa. lix. 17, is suffi- ciently obvious. BRICK (Gen. xi. 3) was a building material among the Jews ; but the size of their bricks was much larger than ours. Bricks found among the 115 BRl BRI uins of Babylon are a foot Bquare, and resemble tile ra- ther than brick. They were usually hardened by the heat of the sun, although kilns were not unknown. (2 Sam. xii. 31. Jer. xliii. 9. Nah. iii 14.) it is said that the mate- 116 BRO ♦•ials of brick and mode of manufacturing them have lately been discovered in gome ancient monument, by an Italian traveller. BRIDE, BRIDEGROOM, BRIDGE-CHAMBER. (See Marriage.) BRIDLE. (See Harness.) BRIGANDINE. (Jer. xlvi. 4.) Supposed to be the same with the haberseon and coat of mail. (See Armour.) BRIMSTONE. (Fs. xi. 6.) A well known mineral sub- stance, exceedingly inflamma- ble, and when burning emits a suffocating smell. We are told that the cities of the plain were destroyed by a rain (or Blorra) of fire and brimstone. There is nothing incredible in this, even if we suppose natural agencies only were employed in it. The soil in that and in many other parts of the earth is such, that a violent eruption might fill the air with inflamed substances, falling down in streams of liquid fire upon those devoted cities. The word is often figuratively used. (Job xviii. 15. Isa. xxxiv. 9.) Whether the word is used literally or not, in the passages which de- scribe the future sufferings of the wicked, we may be sure that it expresses all which the human mind can conceive of excruciating torment. BROTHER, BRETHREN. (Gen. iv. 2, and xlii. 13.) A term which properly denotes the nearest consanguinity, that iS; male children of the same parents, as in the texts above cited; but sometimes Sersons of more remote kin- red, or of the same nation, (Gen. xiii. 8. Esth. x. 3. Acts vii. 25. 37. and xiii. 26,^) or even those who are closely united in aflection. (2 Sam. i. 26.) In the New Testament the term is more frequently applied to the spiritual relationship BUR which the true followers of Christ sustain to him and to each other. (Matt. xii. Sa Rom. xiv. 10. 2Thes3. ii. 13.) BUCKLER. (See Armour.) BUILDINGS. (See Dwell- ings.) BUL. (See Month.) BULLS OF Bashan. (Ps. xxii. 12.) Bulls in the rich pastures of Bashan, being well fed, were strong ana ferocious; hence they are chosen as symbols of cruel and persecuting enemies. (See Bashan.) BULRUSH, asa. xviii. 2.) A species of reed, which is lound on the marshes of the Nile. It grows to the height of twelve or fifteen feet. The stalks were pliable, and capa- ble of being interwoven very closely, as is evident from its being used in the construction of arks. (Ex. ii. 3. 5.) It was from this vegetable that the papyrus was derived, which was used for writing. (See Book.) It was made of the inside bark, which was cut into strips, and the edges ce- mented together and dried in the sun. The fact, that the pa- pyrus was used for food wlien prepared in one way, and for writing when prepared in an- other way, exj3lams the pas- sages in which the eating of books, &c. is mentioned. (Jer. XV. 16. Ezek. iii. 1. 3. Rev. x. 8—10. For the appearance of the bulrush, see a beautifiil engraving, illustrating that article, in Natural History OF the Bible, also Youth's Friend, vol. v., both by the Am. S. S. Union.) BULWARK. (See War.) BURDEN. (Hab. i. 1.) This word, when used in connex- ion with some city or nation, (as the burden of 3Ioab, the burden cf Nineveh, &c.) ex- 1' presses tlie disastrous or ca- lamitous import of the pro- phecy. 117 BUR The " burden of the desert wer and ma- jesty. The high-priest pre- tended to be greally grieved at what he considered the blasphemy of our Saviour's pretensions, and forthwith ap- 122 CAI ^sealed to his enraged enemies to say if this was not enough. They answered at once that he deserved to die, and then, in tlie very presence of Caia- phas, and without any re- straint from him, they fell up- on their guiltless victim with insults and injuries. As Caiaphas had no power to inflict the punishment of death, Christ was taken from him to Filale, the Roman go- vernor, (John xviii. "28,) that his execution might be duly ordered. (See Annas.) CAIN. (Gen. iv. 1.) The first- born of Adam and Eve, and, of course, the first-born of the human race. He was also the first murderer, and the victim of his malice was his own bro- ther. (See Abel.) He was in- stigated to this violence by envy; his brother's offering having been accepted by God, while his own was refused. On this account he became dejected and angry, and the Lord inquired of him why he indulged these sinful feelings. If he would do well, as Abel had done, he would be equally accepted; and if not, the sin must be upon his own head. Certainly he had no cause of anger towards Abel, who was still ready to acknowledge nim as his elder brother, and to yield to him all the privi- leges of birthright. The ex- postulation was of no avail. They were together in the field, and Cain took his life. When the inquiry was put to him, where his brother Abel was, C!ain evaded the ques- tion, saying, "Am I my bro- ther's keeper ?" But the Lord, BS if to express the greatness of his crime, (Gen. iii. 13,) re- plied, " What hast thou DONE 1 The voice of thy bro- ther''s blood crieth unto me from the ground,'^ where it was Bhed, or where the body was buried : and the dreadful sea- CAK tence was immediately passed upon him which doomed him to fruitless toil, and to the life of a fugitive and vagabond. Thus was he banished from society, (Jtheface of the earths and from the favour of God. The miserable man seemed conscious for a moment of the enormity of his guilt. He ex- claimed, " My punishment ia greater than I can bear^'' or (as it may be rendered) my iniquity is greater than that it may be forgiven ; and he was afraid that when it was known what an abandoned outlaw he was, he would be killed by any one that should find him. To prevent this, God not only threatened an extraordinary punishment upon any one who should kill him, but, as we suppose, he distinguished him from all other men by some visible mark or token, so that whoever met hlra should know, at once, who he was. Several commentators maintain that this mark or token was designed to assure Cain himself of his personal safety, and not to point him out to others. The unhappy man left his home, and took up his abode in the land of Nod, a country east of Eden, where his family increased, and where he found- ed a city. (See Nod.) CAKE. (1 Kings xvii. 13; xix. 6.) The cake was made of common dough, with or without leaven. Sometimes it was kneaded with oil, and sometimes only rubbed over or anointed with it, (Ex. xxix. 2,) and baked in flat pieces of the thickness of a plate upon the hot sand or bricks. (Gen. xviii. 6.) Other utensils were used. (Lev. ii. 1. 4, 5. 7.) " The cake not turrit ed" (Has. vii. 8) is a figurative expression, illustrating the mixture of truth and idolatry, (Jews and Gentiles among tu« CAL Ephraimites,) by dough baked on one side only, and there- fore neither dou^h nor bread Among the Bedouins the dough is flattened into thin cakes, and baked immediate- ly, eitlier on the coals or in a shallow earthen vessel, like a frying-pan, or perhaps only a flat iron plate laid upon a few stones, and a fire kindled un- derneath. (Lev. ii. 5.) In Persia convex iron plates are often used, but in either way the bread was so very thin that it was quickly baked. The Arabs around mount Car- mel bake such cakes on the outside of a strong earthen or stone pitcher, which is heated by coals inside. (See Oven.) CALAMUS, (Sol. Song iv. 14. Ezek. xxvii. 19,) or SWEET CALAMUS,(Ex.xxx. 23,) or SWEET CANE, (Isa. xliii. 24. Jer. vi. 20,) were all probably the same plants. It was produced in Arabia and India, and, of an inferior f[uality, in Egypt and Syria, t was one of the ingredients of the sacred ointment, and an article of Syrian com- merce. It grows about two feet in heighi, is very fragrant, and resembles common cane. CALEB (Num. xiii. 6) was the son of Jephunneh, of the tribe of Judah. When the Is- raelites, on their passage from Egypt to Canaan, had arrived at the wilderness of Paran, Moses was instructed by Je- hovah to send twelve men, one from each of the tribes, as explorers, to visit the promised land, and ascertain its situa- tion and fertility; the number and character, as well as the manners and customs of the population, and bring them a report. Caleb and Joshua were among the twelve ; and after making the tour, which occupied forty days, they re- turned to the Israelites, bring- ing with them, as they were CAL directed to do, some of the richest products of the soil, which were both the evidence and sample of its fertility. They all agreed that tiie land was exceedingly fruitful, but ten of the exploring party re- presented the inhabitants as very numerous and gigantic in stature. Caleb saw the dis- couraging effect of this repre- sentation on the people, and proposed to them to go up at once and take possession of the land, assuring them of their ability to do it. He was confident that God would be faithful to his promise, how- ever numerous and formidable misrht be their opposers. The ten persisted in their discouraging representations ; until the people, filled with fears and discontents, were resolved to abandon the at- tempt, and they and their adherents were upon the point of revolting from Moses and Aaron, and putting them- selves under a new leader, to return to bondage in Egypt. At this crisis, Caleb and Joshua, grieved at the folly and madness of the people, repeated the assurance that the land was an exceeding good land, and in beauty and fertility all which had been promised ; that if they would follow God's directions, and go forward fearlessly in his strength, they would easily subdue the inhabitants, and obtain complete possession of their territory. So excited were the people, however, by the representations of the ten others of the party, that they proposed to stone Joshua and Caleb. This conduct was so displeasing to God, that he caused every Israelite who was over twenty years of age, except Caleb and Joshua, to die in the wilderness, and be- fore they came to the promised land. Forty-five years after- CAL wards, when the conquest was completed and the land apportioned among the tribes, Caleb, being then eighty-five years of age, applied to Joshua for his share, reminding him of the promise of God, by which he and Joshua were ex- cepted from the general curse of the people. He testified to the faithfulness and kindness of God in preserving his life and health in a remarkable degree until that time, and proposed to take, as his share of the land, Kirjath-arba, the stronghold of the giants, and the centre of their fortifica- tions. His request was grant- ed, and he accordindy at- tacked and subdued Kirjath- arba, and thence proceeded to Kirjath-sepher, another stronghold, afterwards called Debir. Here he proposed to give his daughter Achsah in marriage to" the man who should capture the city. His nephew, Olhniel, undertook the enterprise and succeeded, and received the promised reward. Caleb's possessions were called by his name. (Num. xiii. and xiv. Josh. xiv. and XV. 1 Sam. xxx. 14.) There are two other persons of the same name mentioned. (1 Chron. ii. 18. 50.) CALF. (Gen. xviii. 7.) A fatted calf was regarded by the Jews as the choicest ani- mal food. (I Sam. xxviii. 24. Amosvi.4. Luke XV. 2.3.) The allusion in Jer. xxxiv. 18, is to an ancient custom of ratifying a contract or covenant, in the observance of which an ani- mal was slain and divided, and the parties passed be- tween the parts, signifying their Willingness to be so di- vided themselves, if they fail- ed to perform their covenant. (Gen. XV, 9, 10. 17.) Calf, molten (Ex. xxxii. 4,) was an idol god prepared by Aaron, in compliance with 11* CAL the request of the children of Israel, who had become impa- tient of the absence of Moses, and desired some visible im- age or representation of the Deity. (See Aaron.) It was probably made of wood, and thickly overlaid with gold. The golden calves of Jero- boam (1 Kings xii. 28) were objects of worship set up by that king in the land of Israel, to prevent the ten tribes from resorting to Jerusalem to wor- ship, and so more eflfectuallyto separate them from the house of David. One of the idols was in Dan and the other in Bethel, the two extremes of his kingdom. It is supposed this wicked king had become acquainted withlhe forms and objects of idolatrous worship while he dwelt in Egypt. (1 Kings xi. 40.) His sin is al- most always mentioned when- ever his name is used. (See Jeroboam.) Calves of otm lips (Hos. xiv. 2) is a figurative expres- sion, signifying the fruits of our lips, or our offerings of praise to God. Calves were used in sacrifices, and the in- junction of the prophet re- quires us to render praises and thanksgivings to God as the oflfering of our lips, in- stead of the animal sacrifice. (Heb. xiii. 15.) CALNEH. (Gen. x. 10. Amos vi. 2.) One of the cities of Babylonia, built by Nimrod, and supposed to be the same with Calno, (Isa. x. 9,) Can- neh, (Ezek. xxvii. 23,) and the Ctesiphon of more modern times. It was situated on the east bank of the Tigris, oppo- site to Babylon, and was a place of commercial import- ance, CALVARY (Luke xxlii. 33. called Golgotha, John xix. 17) was the name given to a slight elevation north of the 125 CAM ancient cityof Jerusalem, per- haps half a mile distant from the temple. The spot is with- in the walls of the modern city. It was called Golgotha, or the place qf a skull, either from its shape, or from the cir- cumstance that it was the usual place of executing crimi- nals. To the mind of the Christian the associations of the place are peculiarly inte- restmg and sacred, ior it was here that the blood of Jesus was shed ; that blood which cleanseth from all sin. (See Selumiel, chap, xi., and Map OP jERrsALEM, both by the Am. S. S. Union.) CAMEL. (Matt, xxiii. 24.) A well-known and highly use- ful animal in eastern coun- tries, and, by the law of Moses, unclean. (Lev. x?. 4. Deut. xiv. 7.) He is usually six nr seven feet in height, and is exceedingly docile and pa- tient of labour. His feet are constructed with a tough elas- tic sole, which prevents them ' from sinking in the sand. He has upon the back one, and sometimes two, humps or pro- tuberances, which yield to pressure, and firm a sort of saddle, on which his burden is laid. (Isa. xxx. 6.) Within his lDody is a cavity, divided into little apartments or cells, that fill when the animal drinks, which usually occu- pies him a quarter of an hour, and this supply serves him for twenty or thirty days, while he traverses the desert. His food is coarse, as leaves, twigs, thistles, &c. &c. These qualities all combine to adapt the animal to the countries he inhabits.and to the services re quired of him. He is perhaps more surefooted than the ass, more easily supported, and capable of an incomparably greater burden. Hence the people of the east call the camel the land^hip. He can CAM carry a burden of six or eight hundred pounds, at the rate of thirty miles a day; and on short journeys, ten to twelve hundred pounds; and there is one species of the camel that will travel one hundred miles a day. Chains and other trap- pings, useful or ornamental, were sometimes fastened to the camel's neck. (Judg. viii, 21. 26.) The flesh and milk are used f^r food, and the hair, which is short and softer than that of the ox kind, is useful for garments. (Matt. iii. 4 See Camel's Hair.) The ordinary life of the ca- mel is from thirty to fifty years. Camels were formerly among the chief possessions of the wealthy, ((jen. xii. 16; xxx. 43 ; xxxvii. 25. Judg. vi. 5, and vii. 12. 1 Sam. xxx. 17. 1 Kings X. 2. 1 Chron. v. 21. 2 Chron. xiv. l.p. Job i. 3, and xlii. 12. Isa. xxx. 6.) The expression in Matt, xix. 24, is figurative, denoting something "beyond human power. The same form of ex- pression is used among the Malays and by the rabbms in respect to the elephant. Ano- ther fieurative expression oc- curs (Matt, xxiii. 24) in which the inconsistency of the scribes and Pharisees (who attended to the most unim- portant ceremonies of their religion, while they were un- just, unmerctful. and faith- less) is compared to one who should very carefully strain out (not at) a gnat or oth;r small insect from the liquor he was about to drink, and yet leave in the vessel, to be swallowed, an animal as large as a camel. (See Drink.) Travellers sometimes throw over the camel, upon the top of his burden, a pair of pan- niersHn which they ride, one on either side. A covered box, like a carriage body, is some- times hung upon the animal 126 CAM CAM In the same manner, and in these females may ride and be sheltered from the heal. (Gen. xxiv. 64.) It is easy to see how Rachel might have concealed her father's idols. (Gen. xxxi. 31.) The camel is said to choose ruinous and desolate places for his habi- tations, and hence the force of the prophetic language re- specting Kabbah, (Ezek. xxv. 5 ;) though the prophecy would be abundantly verified if the place should merely become a stopping place for caravans. The cm represents a large bound hamper or pannier, like a roofed cradle, with back, head, and sides like an easy chair. Folds of carpeting or other thick stuff are spread upon the back of the animal, for the hamper to rest upon, and the conveniences of tra- velling are carried in the bas- ket, or apartment underneath the traveller. (See Drome- dart. See also Youth's Frienb, vol. ii., and Natural History of the Beble, article Camel, both by the Am. S. S. Union.) I Camel's Hair (Matt. iii. 4) was made into cloth. (2 Kings i. 8. Zech. xiii. 4.) Sometimes the fabric was wroueht of the finest and softest part of the hair, and was then a very rich and luxurious article of dress. A coarser kind wa« used for the covering of tents, and for the upper garments of shepherds anJ camel- drivers. Travellers tell us that modern dervises wear cloth of this kind, and also leathern girdles. "We know that John the Baptist's rai- ment was of this kind, for it is put in opposition to soft raiment. (Matt. xi. 8. Luke vii. -25.) CA31ELE0N. (See Chame- leon.) CAJMP. (Ex. xvi. 13.) This term is frequently used in re- ference to the movements of the children of Israel, and many passages of the Leviti- cal law relate to things that are to be done within oV with- out the camp. The firm of encamping is particularly prescribed in rfum. ii. The tabernacle, which was the abode of the glorious Leader of the peo- ple, occupied the centre, and nearest to this were the tents of the Levites,who were intrusted with the principal care of it. (Num. lii.) The whole body of the people, em- bracing upwards of 600,000 fighting men, besides women and children, were formed in four divisions, three tribes constituting a division, so that the tabernacle was enclosed 127 CAM CAN £V. in a hollow square. Each of these divisions had a standard, as well as each tribe, and each of the large family associa- tions of which the tribes were composed. Each tribe had its captain or commander as- siened by God's direction. The view of such a mass of people maintaining the most perfect order and subordina- tion, might well excite the admiration of the beholder. (Num. xxiv. 2—5.) CAMPHIRE. (Sol. Song'i. 14, and iv. 13.) A plant of great beauty and fragrance. U grows in Egypt and other countries of the east^ and is called alhenna. This cut is from a drawing taken by a French traveller in Egypt. The flowers are clustered like the lilac, and the leaves, when dried and pulverized, make an orange dye, with which the female.s slain their hands and feet. What we call camphor is an entirely different sub- stance. (SeeYouTH'sFniEND, vol. v., by the Am. S. S. Union.) CANA OF Galilee. (John ii. 1.) A small village about fifteen miles north-west of Ti- berias, and six miles north- east of Nazareth. It is now CAN called KeferKenna; is under the government of a Turkish officer, and contains perhaps three hundred inhabitants, chiefly Catholics. It was in this place ihawour Saviour per- formed the miracle of chang- ing water into wine, and the natives pretend to show the house where it was done, and even one of the stone water- pots. Large stone pots are lound there, holding from twenty to thirty eallons. They are not regarded as re- lics, for the ancient use of them seems to be unknown to the present inhabitants. It was here also that the nobleman applied to Christ to heal his son, who was sick in Capernaum, and at the point of death; and by his divine will, without a word or action, and even at a distance of thirty miles from the sick- bed, the disease was checked and the child recovered. Nathaniel was a native of this place. (For a descrip- tion of the village in modern times, illustrated from a draw- ing taken on the spot, see Youth's Friend, for 1833, p. 185, by the Am. S.S.Union.) Another town of the same name (Kanah) belonged to the tribe of Asher, and seems to have been near Sidon. (Josh. xix. as.) CANAAN. (Gen.ix.25.) Son of Ham and grandson of Noah. Ham having been guilty of criminal conduct towards his father, a prophetic curye was pronounced by Noah on so much of Ham's posterity as should descend from and through Canaan. The curse ■was mflicted upon the Ca- naaniles, when their land was subdued, and its inhabitants (the Hivites, Jebusites, &o.) were cut oflF or subjected to heavy tribute by the Israel- ites, the descendants of Shem; and afterwards, when the CAN scattered remnants of their tribes were conquered and exterminated at Tyre, Thebes, Carthage, &c., by the Greeka and Romans, who were de- scended from Japheth. Canaan, LAND OF. (Gen.xii. 5.) The country inhabited by the posterity of Canaan, (see preceding article,) who were hence called Canaanites, and which was given, by God, to the children of Israel, the posterity of Abraham, as their possession. (Ex. vi. 4. Lev. XXV. 38.) The original boun- daries are supposed to have been mount Lebanon on the north, the wilderness of Ara- bia (Shur, Paran, and Zin) on the south, and the river Jor- dan on the east. On the west, their possessions extended at some points to the margin of the Mediterranean. Their boundaries on this side were partially restricted by the Philistines, who held the low lands and strong cities along the shore. (Gen. x. 19.) Be- sides the possessions of the Israelites, the land of Canaan embraced Phenicia on the north, and Philistia on the south-west. (Zeph. ii. 5.) The country was entered by the Israelites on the east side, at a point of the Jordan op- posite Jericho. The tribes of Gad and Reuben and half the tribe of Manasseh had select- ed possessions for themselves on the east of Jordan, from the conquests which had been made on their march. The natives of the country were, for the most part, subdued after a succession of severe strussles, (Num. xxxiii. 51— 56,)irnd their territory was divided among the tribes and families of the Israelites ac- cording to their numbers. This apportionment was made by what would be called, in modern phrase, a board of commissioners, consisting of 129 3 4 3 5 — ^■•- '»« 33 0, P 6? T Jlljj ZEBULO N 32 < it''- ..— '" • '", I'm '^ ' 1 N 31 0 '■^ ■< L E K I T E S \ 3 4 3 5 _ 130 3 6 3 7 n ■"> -.«^— -v^>^Q Wl 1 H 1 < / 33 S5 i C^Tiberius r I 4r ^-/r o 32 '!'' > ^ «» mlmmr ^mm ** 0 aB^ i«» 31 ..'-"" 3 6 3 7 ^_J {31 CAN Eleazar the high-pi-iesl, Jo- shua, and the twelve chiefs of the tribes ; and this was done in such a way that each tribe occupied a distinct sec- tion, and each family a dis- tinct lot, so that every neigh- bourhood was made up of family relations. The accompanying map shows the supposed position, extent, and aivislons of the land of promise, so far as they can be ascertained from the sacred history. The length from north to south was less than one hundred and eighty miles, and the width did not exceed seventy-five miles. The expulsion of the Ca- naanites is an act perfectly defensible, and consistent with the strictest principles of jus- tice. The measure of their iniquities was full. (Lev. xviii. H &c.) The kind of judg- ment visited upon theiii was much more strikingly illus- trative of the power and pre- sence of God, than a pesti- lence or earthquake ; and the extermination of all their au- thority and influence was ne- cessary to prevent the Israel- CAN ites from being seduced into their abominable practicp,s. The possessions of the Isra- elites were extended by con- quest far beyond the limits above named, and in the time of David and Solomon they stretched to the Euphrates and Orontes on the one hand, and to the remotest confines of Edom and Moab on the other, and embraced upwards of 26,000 square miles. (1 Kings iv. 21. 2 Chron. viii.) The population varied in a like proportion. The number of the Israelites who crossed the Jordan is estimated at 2,000,000, while from an enrol- ment made for David's army, it is presumed by some thai the population must have ex- ceeded 5,000,000. (See Seltj- MiEL, pp. 120, 121, by the Am. S. S. Union. See also article City.) The following table pre- sents at one view the proprie- tors of the country before and after the Jewish conquest, and the general divisions or pro- vinces into which it was di- vided in the time of our Sa- viour. Jtndent Canaanitish Division. Sidonians, - - - Unknown, • • • Perizzites, - - . Hivites, - • • Same, Jebusites, • . . - Amorites, Hittites, • Philistines, • • Moabites, - - • Ammonites, Gilead, Kingdom of Bashan, Israelitiah Division. Roman Division. Tribe of Asher. (In Lebanon.) "i Naphtali. (North-west of the lake of >■ Upper Galilee. Genessaret.) ) Zebulon. (VPest of Genessaret) I Issachar. (Valley of Esdraelon and > Lower Galile& mount Tabor.) J Half tribe of Manasseh. (Dor and^ Cesarea.) Ephraim. (Shechem and Samaria.^ Benjamin. (Jericho and Jerusalem.) Judah. (Hebron and Judea proper.) (.j^jig. Dr andl ria.) y " ;m.) < Dan, f C Simeon. (South-west of Judah, Dan l and Joppa.) Reuben. (Gilead and Heshbon.) *] Ammonites. (Gilead.) Lr-i<.i,l C Half tribe of Manasseh. (Golan Ba- f^^'eao. I shan.) J Although the extent and boundaries of these divisions cannot be accurately defined, the bearings of the chief towns and "cities from each other, and from Jerusalem, the capital of the country, are satisfactorily ascertained. As to Jerusalem itself, there is no more doubt of its ancient 132 CAN location than there is of Rome or Carthage ; and there is not an important place in the whole land which is not so connected both with profane and sacred history, as to fur- nish an unbroken chain of reference to it. The writings and traditions of the Jews, before the birth of Christ, and the writings and traditions both of his friends and ene- mies after that event, would have a general reference to places of particular interest in the history of the nation and in that of individuals. And even the efforts of pa- fans to desecrate tlie most allowed spots, have served only to perpetuate the remem- brance of them. And besides all this, the land of promise is still a part of our earth. The hills still stand round about Jerusalem, as they stood in the days of David and of Solomon. The dew falls in Hermon ; the ce- dars grow in Lebanon, and Kishon, " that ancient river," (Judg. V. 21,) still draws its stream from Tabor, as in the times of old. "The sea of Gali- lee still presents the same natural accompaninfients ; the fig tree springs up by the way- side; the sycamore spreads its branches, and the vines and olives still climb the sides of the mountains. The deso- lation which covered the cities of the plain is not less strik- ing at the present hour, than when Moses, with an inspired pen, recorded the judgment of God. The swellings of Jordan are not less regular in their rise than when the He- brews first approached its banlis ; and he who goes down from Jerusalem to Jericho, still i iicurs the greatest hazard of falling among thieves. There is, m fact, in the scene- ry and manners of this an- cient land a perpetuity that 12 CAN accords well with the ever lasting import of its historical records, and which enables ug to identify, with the utmost readiness, the local imagery of every great transaction." As to "the fertility of the country, the evidence is coiv elusive. Its character in this respect, as given by Moses, (Deut. viii. 7 — 9,) is fully supl ported by profane writers, as well as by the present charac- ter of the soil, although the miserable condition of the in- habitants and the desolation of war have prevented any proper cultivation in later ages. At the time the children of Israel took possession of Ca- naan, it was governed by petty kings, of various cities or pro- vinces. Then Joshua became ruler under the express au- thority and direction of Jeho- vah. After Joshua, for a few years, the government was ad- ministered by elders. Then came the judges for about three hundred and twenty years ; and then the kings for upwards of five hundred years, or until the conquest of the country by the Babylonians. The vast resources of the land of Canaan, and the power of its kings, maybe estimated, in some measure, not only from the consideration with which it was regarded by Egypt, Tyre, and Assyria, but by tne strength and population of the kingdoms into which the ori. ginal country, as it was unde David, was subsequently di vided. In the reign of Solo- mon, Damascus revolted and shook otf the Jewish yoke. At his death, b. c. 971, ten of the tribes renounced their alle- giance to the throne of Judah, and formed the kingdom of Is- rael, having Samaria for its capital ; while Judah and Ben- jamin remained together, with Jerusalem for a capital. 133 CAN In the year b. c. 721, the former kingdom, having exist- ed two hundred and fifty years, under nineteen wicked kings, was conquered by the Assy- rians under Shalmaneser, and carried into captivity. The latter existed about one hun- dred and thirty years longer, and was then subdued and laid waste by Nebuchadnezzar, and the temple at Jerusalem destroyed, b. c. 588. (2 Kings sxv. 2Chr. xxxvi. Jer. xxxix. and lii.) The land of Canaan remain- ed under subjection to the Chaldeans, Medes, and Per- sians, until B. c. 32.3, when it fell into the hands of the kings of Syria, where it remained until B. c. 65, when it became a provinceof the Roman empire. At the time of the coming of Christ, Canaan was divided into five provinces; Judea, Sa- maria, Galilee, Perea, and Idu- mea. The province of Judea consisted of the tribes of Ju- dah, Benjamin, Dan, and Si- meon. The rest of the Holy Land, according to the Roman division, consisted of Samaria, Galilee, Perea, Decapolis, Gaulonitis, Galaaditis, Bata- nea, and Auraniiis. Samaria contained in it the tribes of Ephraim, Issachar, and the half tribe of Manasseh. Gali- lee, the tribes of Zebulon, Asher, and Naphtali. Perea on the other side of Jordan, consisted of the tribes of Gad and Reuben. Decapolis was part of the half tribe of Ma- nasseh. Gaulonitis was north of it. Galaaditis was a hilly country, extending from mount Lebanon through the half tribe of Manasseh, "and the tribes of Gad and Reuben. Further north, in the half tribe of Ma- nasseh, was Batanea, and more northward still, was Au- ranitisjor Iiiirea. Beyond this, bordering on the territory of Damascus, was Trachonitis. CAN On the death of Herod, Ar- chelaus, his eldest son, suc- ceeded to the government of Judea, (Malt. ii. 22,) Samaria, and Idumea, with the title of letrarch ; Galilee being as- signed to Herod Antipas, and Iiurea, (Luke iii. 1,) and the adjacent countries beyond Jor- dan, to the third brother. Phi lip. But in less than ten years, the dominions of Archelaus became annexed, on his dis- grace, to the Roman province of Syria, and Judea was thenceforth governed by Ro- man procurators. Jerusalem, after its final destruction by Titus, A. D. 71, remained deso- late and almost uninhabited, till the emperor Hadrian colo- nised it, and erected temples to Jupiter and "Venus on its site. The empress Helena, in the fourth century, set the ex- ample of repairing as a pil- grim to the Holy Land, to visit the scenes consecrated by the gospel narrative ; and the country became enriched by the crowds of devotees who flocked there. In the be- ginning of the seventh cen- tury, it was overrun by the Saracens, who held it till Je- rusalem was taken by the Cru- saders in the twelfth. Then for about eighty years, the Holy Land drank continually of Clrrisiian and Saracen blood. In 1187, Judea was con- quered by Saladin ; on the de- cline of AVhose kingdom it passed through various revolu- tions, and, at length, in 1317, was finally swallowed up in the Turkish empire. " Trodden down 67 all in turn, Pagan, and Frank, and Tartar,— So runs tlie dread anathema,— titxldea down Beneath the oppressor; darkness shroud- ing Ihee From evtr) blessed influence of Heaten: Tt.us hast ihou lain for ages, iron-bouna A» with a curse. Thus ajt thou i" to lie, Tet not for ever." 134 CAN In the modern distribution [ of the territory, we find the I pashalic of Acre, or Akka, in- cludes the ancient territory of Asher, Zebulon, Issachar, half j Manasseh, and Naphtali. The { pashalic of Gaza, now united with that of Acre, embraces Dan, Simeon, Judah, Benja- min, and Ephraim; and tlie Eashalic of Damascus hasReu- en. Gad, and the other half of Manasseh. The population of this interesting country now consists chiefly of Turks, Sy- rians, Arabs, Jews, and Greeks. (See Hebrews. See also Eve- ning Recreation.^, vol. ii.pp. 74—106; vol. iii. pp. 116—144; and Biblical ANXiamTiES, vol. i. ch. ix. § 1 — 4, both by Am. S. S. Union, for a full and perspicuous history of the Isra- elitish land and government.) The general outlines of the surface ©f the country may be thus laid down. The Jordan, or river of Dan, which rises under the lofty peaks of mount Lebanon, and flows in a direc- tion almost constantly south- ward, with the lake of Tibe- rias, through which it passes, and the Dead Sea, which it fonns by its discharge, divides Palestine from north to south. In the western division, be- tween the Mediterranean and the lake of Tiberias, lie the two Galilees. The plain of Esdraelon, which occupies the greater part of this tract, being two days' journey, or nearly fifty miles, in length, and twenty in breadth, is describ- ed by travellers as one vast meacfow, covered with the richest pasture. This plain is enclosed on all sides by the mountains, and not a house or a tree is to be discovered in it. It is completely commanded by Accho, so that the possessor of that port is the lord of one of the richest territories in the Holy Land. To the south of Galilee lies the district of ao- CAN cient Samaria: it is mountain ous, but well cultivated, and forms at present the most flourishing part of the Holy Land. Judea Proper comprises the territory extending from the Dead Sea to the Afediter- ranean, and is composed of a range of limestone hills, rising by stages from the level of the coast, and becom.ing more rugged and rocky as you ap- proach Jerusalem from Joppa. Between Joppa and Gaza westward of the mountains of Judea, lies the tract distia guished as the plain of the Mediterranean Sea, the an- cient territory of the Philis- tines, including the five cities of Gaza, Askelon, Ashdod, Gath, and Ekron. (Josh. xiii. 3, and 1 Sam. vi. 17.) This district still bears the name of Phalasiin, and forms a sepa- rate pashalic; it may be dis- tinguished as Palestine Pro- per. The land of Canaan was called the land of Israel, (1 Sam. xiii. 19,) because it was occupied by the descendants of Jacob or Israel. The holy land, (Zech. ii. 12,) because God's presence was continu- ally manifested there, as the leader and governor of his chosen people ; and especially may it be rega:ded as such, since the sufferings and death of Christ have consecrated it. The land of promise, (Heb. xi. 9,) because it was promised to Abraham and his jposterity as their possession. The land cf Judah, (Jer. xxxix. 10,) be- cause Judah was the leading tribe; the larid of the He- brews, (Gen. xl. 15,) or the de- scendants of Eber, an ances- tor of Abraham. The modern name of Palestine, or the land of the Philistines, was origi- nally applied to the regioa lying along the coast of the Mediterranean, south-west of the land of promise ; but in its 135 CAN present usage denotes the whole country !jounded by the Jordan on the east, the Medi- lerranean on the west, Arabia on the south, and Lebanon on the north. (See Sykia.) CANAANITES. (See pre- ceding article.) a^^DACE. (See Philip.) CANDLE (Job xviii. 6) is often used figuratively by the sacred writers, to denote light generally. (See Lamp.) CANDLESTICK, golden, (Ex. XXV. 31,) was a splendid article of the tabernacle furni- CAN ture, made of fine gold, and computed to have been worth, at the modern value of gold, three millions of dollars. It consisted of a shaft or stem supposed to have been five feet high, with six branches. The branches came out from the shaft at three points, two at each point, as in the fol- lowing cut, and the width of the whole candlestick, across the top, was about three feet and a half. It was richly adorned, with raised work, re- presenting flowers, and also ^ CAP knops or knobs, and little \)owis resembling half an al- ,nonil shell. At the extremity of each branch there was a Bocket for the candle, and also at the top of the main shaft, making seven in all. (Rev. i. 12, 13. 20.) Tongs to remove the snuff, and dislies to receive it, as well as oil vessels, were articles of furniture belonging to the candlestick, and were all made of gold. The lights were trimmed and supplied daily with the purest olive oil. They were lighted at night and extinguished in the morn- ing ; though some suppose that a part of them, at least, were kept burning through the day. The candlestick was so situ- ated as to throw the light on the altar of incense and on the table of shew-bread, occupy- ing the same apartment, and from which the natural light was excluded. (See Biblical Antiquities, vol. ii. ch.ii., and Destruction of Jerusalem, ch. xiii., both by Am. S. S. Union.) CANE. (See Calamus.) CANKER-WORM, (Joel i. 4,) elsewhere called the cater- pillar, (Jer. li. 27,) was one of the army of destroying in- sects by which the land of Judea was laid waste. The particular species of insect intended by the prophet is un- certain, though the prevailing opinion is, that it was of the locust tribe. Its voraciousness and multitude are sufficiently indicated by the connexion in which it is mentioned. (Nah. iii. 15, 16.) CANNEH. (See Calneh.) CAPERNAUM. (Matt. iv. 13.) A city on the western shore of the sea of Tiberias, where our Saviour often re- sided, and where some of his most wonderful works were done, and where also he de- livered some of his most point- 12* CAP ed discourses. (See Mark i. 21. 37, and ii. 1—28. John vi. 25— 70, and comp. with Isa. ix. 1, 2.) Notwitlislanding it was thus highly favoured wiih the pre- sence and instructions of the Lord of glory, it was the sub- ject of the most fearful denun- ciations. (Matt. xi. 20—24.) The prediction of its downfall was long ago fulfilled ; and though it was once a city of renown, and the metropolis of all Galilee, the site it occu- pied is now uncertain. When Mr. Fisk, an American mis- sionary, travelled in Syria in 1823, he found twenty or thirty uninhabited Arab huts, occu- pying what are supposed to be the fuins of the once exalted city of Capernaum. CAPHTOR, CAPHTORIM. (See Crete.) CAPFADOCU. (IPet. i. 1.) One of the three interior pro- vinces of Asia Minor. (See ]\Iap to article Paul.) It was bounded east by Armenia, north by Pontus, west by Ly- caonia, and south by Cilicia. Christianity was probably in- troduced into this proyince at an early period, (Acts ii. 9,) and the existence of Christian churches there is easily traced up to a period as late as the tenth century. CAPTAIN. (Deut.i.15.) An officer in the Jewish army whose rank or power was de- signated by the number of men under his command, as captain of fifty, or captain of a thousand ; and the commander or chief of the whole army was called the captain of the host. The divisions of the army were regulated in some measure by the division of families, as the heads of fami- lies were usually officers. (2Chron. xxv. 5.) Captains of hundreds, or larger companies, were i)robably what would be called in modern phrase, staff 137 CAP officers, and formed the coun- cils of war. (I Chron. xiii. i.) Captain of the temple. (Acts iv. i.) Either the com- mander of the Roman garrison stationed near the temple, or the chief of the priests and Levites who kept guard around and within the temple. CAPTIVE (Gen. xiv. 14) usually denotes one taken in war. Among eastern nations such persons were treated with great cruelty, and were sub- jects of merchandise. (Joel iii. 3.) The Romans sometimes compelled a captive to be joined face to face with a dead Dody, and to bear it about until the horrible effluvia destroyed the life of the living. (Rom. vii. 24.) CAPTIVITY. (Num. xxi. 29.) A term usually employed to denote an important era in the history of the Jewish peo- ple. To punish their rebellions and idolatries, God suiTered them to come into frequent bondage to surrounding na- tions. Severalof their captivi- ties took place at an early pe- riod of their history, of which a particular account is given in the first ten chapters of Judges. Soon after the close of Solo- mon's glorious reign, the king- dom was divided. Ten of the tribes separated themselves, and took the name of the kingdom of Israel, leaving the tribes of Judah and Benjamin to constitute the kingdom of Judah. Each of these two kingdoms suffered a distinct captivity. That of Israel is called the Assyrian, and that of Judah the Babylonish cap- tivity. In the year of the world 32&4, Tiglath-pileser, the king of Assyria, made war upon Is- rael, and carried a large nurn- oer of their people (chiefly CAP those of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh) into cap- tivity, (2 Kings XV. 29. i Chron. v. 26,) and the residue remained under their own king, but paid tribute to the Assyrian government. After the lapse of twenty years this tribute was refused, and there- fore Shalmaneser, son of Tig- lalh-pileser, besieged and (af- ter three years) captured and destroyed Samaria, the capital of the kingdom, and the great mass of the people were trans- ported to provinces beyond the Euphrates, and some doubt is entertained whether they ever returned. (2 Kings xvii. 5, 6, and xviii. 10, 11. Hos. i. 6.) Jewish historians say they ne- ver did return. The following among other passages are em- ployed to support an opposite opinion: Ezra ii. 59; vi. 16, and viii. S5. Isa. xi. 12, 13, and xxvii. 12. 13. Jer. iii. 18; xvi. 15; XXXI. 7—20, and xlix. 2. Ezek. xxxvii. 16. Hos. i. 10, 11. Amos ix. 14. Obad. 19-21. Mic, ii.l2. Zech.ix. 13,andx.6. 10. (See Hebrews.) The first captivity of Judah took place under king Jehoia- kim, in the year of the world 3398, when Daniel and his companions were among the captives. The second was in the seventh year of Jehoia- kim, about 3404 ; the third, in the reign of Jehoiachin, a. m. 3406. The fourth, or seventy years' captivity, was under Zedekiah's reign, in the year of the world 3416. (For a par- ticular account of these events, see 2 Kings xxiv. 2 Chron. xxxvi. Jer. xxv. xxvi. xxix. xxxii. xxxiv. Iii. Ezek. xii. Dan. i. 1, 2.) The sufferings in which these captivities in- volveil them are affectingly described in Ps. cxxxvii. 1---6, and J€r. iv. 19-31. In 3157 the Jews were al- lowed to return, (Ezra i. I i" 138 CAR but it was not until 3486, or seventy years from the period of their fourth captivity, that liiey were permitted to rebuild the temple (See Elisama, by Am. S. S. Union, pp. 25—28.) Children op the captivi- ty. (Ezra iv. 1.) A common figure of speech denoting those who were in captivity, or per- haps sometimes literally their posterity. Turn again, (Ps. cxxvi. 1,) turn away, (Jer. xxix. 14,) turn back, (Zeph. iii. 20,) or bring again (Ezek. xvi. 53) the captivity, are figurative Jhrases, all referring to the evvish nation in bondage, and their return to Canaan. A si- milar expression is used in re- lation to individuals, as in Job xlii. 10; The Lord turned the captivity of Job, that is, he re- leased him from the unusual suflTerings and perplexities to which fie had been in bond- age, and caused him to rejoice again in the favour of God. He led captivity captive, (Eph. iv. 8,) or he led those as his captives who had made cap- tives of others, is a figurative allusion to the victory which our blessed Redeemer achiev- ed over sin and death, by whom our ruined race are brousht into bondase. (Rom. viii.21. Gal. iv. 24. Heb. ii. 15. 2 Pet. ii. 19.) CARBUNCLE. (Ezek. xxviii. 13.) A precious stone. Its colour is a deep red mingled with scarlet, and when held up in the rays of the sun, it loses its deep tinge, and re- sembles burning charcoal. It is not certain, however, that the carbuncle of the Scriptures is the same species of fossil to which we give that name. CARCHEMISH. (2 Chron. XXXV. 20.) h. town on the east- ern banks of the Euphrates, where the Chebar or Khaboor falls into it. It is now known %a Kirkisia, It was taken from CAR the Assyrians by the king ot Egypt, (2 Kings xxiii. 29,) who left it in charge of a garrison- Nebuchadnezzar, king of Ba- bylon, afterwards took it from the Esyptians with great slaughter, in fulfilment of the remarkable prophecy of Jere- miah. (Jer. xlvi. 1—12.) C A R ]M E L, MOUNT. (Isa. xxxiii. 9 ) One of the most remarkable points on the sliores of the Mediterranean. It is the highest peak of a range of mountains (of the sam'e name) rising in the plain of Esdraelon, and running five or six miles in a north-west course till it terminates in a promontory on the coast, south of the bay of Acre. It is from fifteen hundred to two thou- sand feet atove the level of tlie sea. (Amos ix. 3.) Its shape resembles a flattened cone, and is the finest and most beautiful mountain in Palestine. Its soil was once fertile and highly cultivated. (Isa. xxxiii. 9; xxxv. 2. Jer. 1. 19.) Its name signifies a fruitful field, or a country of vineyards and gardens. "Mo- dern travellers tell us that the oaks, wild vines, olive trees, and fragrant flowers still indi- cate its former productiveness, though it has sufficiently dete- riorated to fulfil the prediction of the prophet. (Amos i. 2.) The graceful form and verdant beauty of its summit are al luded to, Sol. Song vii. 5. The base of the mountain was washed by " that ancient river the river Kishon," (Judg. v. 21,) and the plain of Sharon spread out towards the south. We are told that while Leba- non raised to heaven a sum- mit of naked and barren rocks, covered the greater part of the year witHf snow, the top of Carmel, how naked and sterile soever its present ap- pearance, was clothed with 139 CAS f)erennial verdure ; so that the ofty genius of Isaiah, guided by the spirit of inspiraiion, could not find a ffiore appro- priate figure to represent the flourishing state of the Re- deemer's kingdom, than " the excellency of Carmel and Sharon." The summit of Car- mel is remarkable for its pure and enlivening atmosphere. This promontory is a plnce of deep interest in the annals of the Jews, (1 Kings xviii. 19. 42. 2 Kings ii. 25, and iv. 25,) and was once the resort of crowds of Christian devo- tees, and the residence of an order of monks called Carmel- ites, who had a convent there, which was pillaged and de- stroyed by the Arabs after the retreat of the French army, in 1799, who used it as an hospital for their sick and wounded during the siege of Acre. There are many traditions and superstitions which tra- vellers have preserved, about the caves and grottos which abound in this mountain; but they will not be in place here. Carmel, TOWN OF. (Josh. xv. 55.) A city and hill, five miles west of the Dead Sea, and be- tween the wilderness of Ziph and the wilderness o<' Maon. It was the residence of Nabal. (1 Sam. XXV. 2, and xxvii. 3.) A limestone mountain, call- ed El Carmel, is described by travellers as the same with the ancient city and hill. CARRIAGES. (Aclsxxi. 15.) The load or burden of man or beast ; baggage (Isa. x. 28) or mat, on which any thing is carried. (lSam.xvii.20. treiich, OT place of the carriages. Isa. xlvi. 1.) " They took up their carriages," i. e. they packed up their things, and commenc- ed their journey. (Actsxxi. 15.) CART. (See Wagon.) CART-ROPE. (Isa. v. 18.) This is a strong figtirative CAT expression, the most nattral meaning of which is shown by two Jewish sayings— "Wo to them that begin to sin a little, and they go on and increase until their'' sins are as a carl- rope;" and, "The evil imagi- nation is at first like a spider's thread, but at last it is like to cart-ropes." There may be a remote allusion also to the cords with which the sacrifices were bound. CASEMENT. (See Win DOW.) CASSIA. (Ex. XXX. 24.) The bark of a tree of the same spe- cies with cinnamon and sassa- fras, and one of the ingredi- ents of the holy anointing oil. It was an article of Tyrian trade, (Ezek. xxvii. 19,) and remarkable for its fragrance. (Ps. xlv. 8.) CAST OUT, (John ix. 22, and 34, comp.,) or excommuni- cate, was to cut oflF from the privilegesof theJewish church. CASTOR and POLLUX, (Acts xxviii. 11,) in heathen mythology, were the names of twin sons of Jupiter, who were supposed to preside over the destinies of sailors. Hence an image representing them was often seen on the prow of ancient ships, like the figure- heads of modern days. The word sign is supposed by some not to signify the name of the ship, but only the protecting image of the deity under whose auspices she sailed. We are inclined to believe that the sign was the only designa- tion the ship had, and that this mode of expression by the apostle, signified to the mer- chants of Alexandria and Mal- ta what particular vessel was intended. This particularity of detail in the sacred narra- tive is highly corroborative of its truth. CATERPILLAR. (1 Kings viii. 37.) A tribe of insects of 140 CAU vast number and destructive voracity. Hence they were often employed as the asents in the execution of God's judgments, (Ps. lxxviii.46, and cv. 34,) and figuratively repre- sent a great multitude. (Isa. xxxiii.4. Jer.li. 14.27.) They were regarded as among the most desolating visitations of God's hand. CATTLE. (Gen. i. 25.) In the common scriptural use of this term it embraces the tame quadrupeds employed by man- kind, as oxen, horses, sheep, camels, goats, &c. (Gen. xiii. 2. Ex. xii. 29, and xxxiv. 19. Num. XX. 19; xxxii. 16. and Fs. 1. 10, and Job i. 3, where the word translated substance would be more pro- perly rendered cattfe.') The allusion in Job xxxvi. 33, is explained by the well- known (act that certain ani- mals of this class are peculi- arly sensitive to the change of air which precedes ram. CAUL. (Isa. iii. 18.) The at- tire of the head, made of net- work and ornamented. InHos. xiii. 8, / will rend the caul (f their heart, the word caul denotes the membranous ves- sel which contains the heart. The figure represents a raging beast of prey seizing his vic- tim, and tearing out its vitals. CAUSEWAY. (IChron. xxvi. 16.) A raised way or path. (2 Chron. ix. 4.) In most of the passages Avhere it oc- curs, it signifies any public way or high road, and indeed is so translated in Judg. xx. 31, 32. 1 Sam. vi. 12. Prov. xvi. 2. The same word is rendered %Days in Ps. Ixxxiv. 5, and here signifies the ways to Zion, by wnich the devout Jews as- cended to worship in the tem- ple, and the remembrance of which was continually present in the hearts of those who loved them, and who loved also CED the holy place and service to which they led. CAVE. (Gen. xix.30.) Caves were very common in Judeei, and were made use of as tem- porary dwelling places, (Gen. xix. 30;) as places of conceal- ftient, (Josh. x. 16. Judg. vi. 2. 1 Sam. xiii. 6; xxii.^1, 2, and xxiv. 3. 2 Sam. xxiii. 13. 1 Kings xviii. 4 ; xix. 9. Heb. xi. 38';) and as burial places. (Gen. xxiii. 17. 19, and xlix. 29. John xi. 38.) CEDAR. (2 Sam. vii. 2.) One of the most valuable and ma- jestic trees of eastern forests. It gi'ows to the height of se- venty or eighty feet. The branches are'lhick and long, spreading out almost horizon- tally from the trunk, which is sometimes thirty or forty feet in circumference. (Ezek.xxxi 3. 6. 8.) Maundrell measured one wliich was thirty-six feet and six inches in the girth, and one hundred and eleven feet in the spread of its boughs. The wood is of a red colour and bitter taste, which is offen- sive to insects, and hence il is very durable, having been known to last (as historians assert) upwards of two thou- sand years. It was used for the most noble and costly edi- fices. This timber served not only for beams for the frame, and boards for covering build- ings, but was also wrought into the walls. (1 Kings vi. 36, and vii. 12.) The nibuntains of Lebanon were famous for the growth of the cedar, but travel- lers tell us that the words of prophecy are verified, for now a child may write them. (Isa. X. 19. bee Lebanon.) (For a very full description and cut of this tree, with the explanation of its figurative use in the sacred writings, see article Cedar, in Bible Natural History, by Am. S. S. U-nion.) 141 CEN CEDRON. (See Kidron.) CEIL. (See Cielins.) CELLARS. (1 Chron. xxvii. 27.) Of cellars, such as are common among us, nothing was known in the east, if we except the chambers which are used in Persia for the stor- ing of earthen jars or other vessels of wine. Among the Hebrews and Greeks these jars were buried up to the neck in the ground. The word wine-cellars, in the passage cited, probably denotes the patches of ground used to bury wine. (See Wine.) CENCHREA. (Acts xviii. 18.) A seaport on the eastern side of the «thmus of Corinth, and nine miles distant from that city. It was the seal of a Christian church. (Rom. xvi. L4.) CENSER. (Lev. x. 1.) A ves- sel used in the temple service, for the purpose of carrying the fire in which the incense was burned. It was made of pure fold. (1 Kings vii. 50. Heb. ix. .) The censer was held in one hand, and contained the fire taken from the perpetual supply on the altar of burnt- ofiering. The incense was carriea in the other hand ; and as the high-priest, once a year, entered the holy of holies, he strewed the pulverized incense CES upon the fire, and the cioud of smoko ascended up in a dark volume, and filled the apartment with its fragranca It is called a spoon, (Num. vii. 14.) and vial, (tiev. v. 8.) The foregoing cut representi the probable form of the ves- sel, or the charger and censei combined. CENTURION. (Matt, viii,, 5.) The title of an ofiicer oi the Roman army, who had command of one hundred sol diers. CEPHAS. (John i. 42.) A Syriac surname given to Peter which in the Greek is render ed Pefros, and inLalinPc/rws, both signifying a rock. (See CEREMONIES, (Num. ix. 3,) or ORL>lNANCES,(Heb. ix. ],) denote the external rites of religion, or the forms and cir- cumstances by which it is ren- dered solemn and magnificent, particularly under the Mosaic dispensation. (JESAR (AUGUSTUS.) (Luke ii. 1.) Nephew and suc- cessor of Julius Cesar, emperor of Rome. The name Augustus, signifying august or noble, was a complimentary title, de- creed to him by the Roman senate, whence is derived the name of the month August. Cesar was the regal title of the emperors, and hence Tibe- rius is called Cesar, (Matt, xxii. 21,) and Nero is called Cesar. (Acts xxv. II.) The title Augustus was a personal distinction ; but after the death of the individual to whom it was given, it was regarded and used eis a part of the royal title. CESAR (CLAUDIUS.) (Acts xi. 28.) An ernperor oi Rome,vvhosucceededC;aiu8Ca- ligula, A. D. 41. Four different famines are mentioned by pro- fane historians as having taKen place during his reign ; one oJf 142 CES which was very severe in Ju- dea, extended into adjoining countries, and coiitinued near- ly three years. Such a famine was predicted by a prophet named Agabus, wlio came from Jerusalem to Antioch, alout the year a. d. 35 or 45 -, and the expression, throughout all the world, evidently intends its general prevalence in other parts of the world besides Ju- dea. (See Agabus.) In the ninth year of his reign, Claudius, by a decree, banished the Jews (probably including the Christian con- verts) from Rome. (Acts xviii. 2. See Tiberius Cesar.) CESAREA. (Acts xxiii. 33.) A considerable town on the coast of the Mediterranean, between Joppa and Tyre, about sixty-two miles from Jerusa- lem. It is sometimes called Cesarea of Palestine, to dis- tinguish it from Cesarea-Phi- lippi, (see next article,) and is supposed by some to be the Hazor of the Old Testament. (Josh. xi. 1.) Herod the Great contributed chiefly to the mas- nificence of the city by ijuilil- ing some of the most splendid of its edifices, and constructing a fine harbour for it. He call- ed it Cesarea, in honour of the emperor Cesar Ausrustus. After the destruction of Jerusalem, when Judea became a Roman province, Cesarea was the chief city of Palestine, (Acts xxiv. 27, and xxv. 1. 13,) and wasofien visited l)y Paul, (Acts ix. 30; xvii\22; xxi. 8;) and it was here that he made his elo(iuent defence before Felix, Festus, and As:rippa, (Acts xxiii. xxv. and xxvi. ;) and here he sutTered two years' imprisonment. Philip the evangelist re. BJded here, (Acts xxi. 8;) and al.sn Cornelius, who, with his family, were the first-fruits from among the Gentiles, un- CHA der the preaching of Peter (Acts X.) A traveller, who passed the ruins of Cesarea in 1801, says, " Perhaps there has not been in the history of the world an example of any city, that in so short a space rose to so extraor- dinary a height of splendour, or that exhibits a more awful contrast to its former magnifi- cence, by the present desolate appearance of its ruins. Not a single inhaljitant remains. Its theatres, once resounding with the shouts of multitudes, echo no other sound than the nightly cries of animals roaming for their prey." Napoleon encamped here after raising the siege of Acre, and speaks'of the ^>roken frag- ments of marble and granite columns which surrounded him. CESAREA-PHILIPPI (Matt, xvi. 13, and Mark viii. 27) was a town in the northern part of Judea. in the vicinity of mount Hermon. Some have supposed it is the same with Laish or Leshem, and also the Dan of the Old Testament. (Josh. xix. 47. Judg. xviii. 29. See Dan.) Philip the tetrarch. son of Herod, contributed lamely to its prosperity, and pave It the name of Cesarea, in honour of Tiberius Cesar. It is called Cesarea-Philippi, or Cesarea of Philip, to distin- guish it from a town of the same name on the coast. (See preceding article.) It now contains "about two hundred iiouses,and is inhabited chiefly by Turks. CHAIN. (See Feet.) CHALCEDONY. (Rev. xxi. 19.) A precious stone found in Europe and in several dis- tricts of the United States. The common cornelian is one . of its varieties. C H A L D E A. (Jer. 1. 10.) 1 CHALDEANS. (Job i. I7.S 143 CHA The country of which Baby- lon was the capital, and which was hence called Babylonia, is a level region of Asia, wa- tered by the Euphrates and Tigris, between which rivers it was situated. These rivers, when swollen by the waters from the mountains of Arme- nia, overflowed their banks, and fertilized the whole coun- try. Hence the strong, figura- tive language in Isa. xxi. 1. Jer. i. 13. In the year b. c. 630, he Chaldeans, a wandering race, not unlike the modern Arabs, (Job i. 17,) descended from Taurus and Caucasus, subdued western Asia, destroy- ed Jerusalem, (b. c. 588— a. m. 3416,) conquered Tyre and Phenicia, and founded an em- pire, which extended to the shores of the Mediterranean, and which from them was called Chaldea. Babel or Babylon (whence the name Babylonia) was the capital of this mighty empire. It had long been distinguished for its commerce and science. Learning was confined to the priests, who were employed in the services of their religion, in medicine, magic, astrology, &c. Their pretended kno'w- ledge was kept secret from tlie people, and hence, under this name, they became a dis- tinct class of magicians and conjurers, called Chaldeans. (Dan. iv. 7.) In a. d. 536, this vast coun- try was united with Persia ; and in a, d. 640, they both fell under the dominion of Mo- hammed, and finally, a. d. 1639, into the hands of the Turks, who still hold them. The two names, Chaldea and Babylonia, appear to have been often applied to the same country. (Jer. xxiv. 5; xxv. 12 ; 1. 8. Ezek xii. 13.) The eriginal name of at least a section of Chaldea, was Shi- CHA nar. (Gen. x. 10. Dan. i. 1, 2. See Babylon, Syria, Shinae. S-^e also Evening Recrea- tions, vol. ii. pp. 69, 70, by Am. S. S. Union.) CHALK-STONES, asa. xxvii. 9.) A soft mineral sub- stance, resembling what we call limestone. To make the stones of the Jewish altars like chalk-stones is to crumble and destroy them. CHAMBER. (Gen. xliii. 30.) Usually the private apart- ments of a house are called chambers. (2 Sam. xviii. 33. Ps. xix. 5. Dan. vi. 10.) Par- ticular rooms of this class in eastern houses were desig- nated by significant terms. Guest-chamber. (Markxiv. 14.) This we may suppose to have been a spacious unoc- cupied room, usually in the upper part of the house, and furnished suitably for the re- ception and entertainment of guests and social meetings. The proverbial hospitality of the Jews would make such provision necessary, and espe- cially at Jerusalem, in festival seasons, when every house in the city was the stranger's home. (Mark xiv. 15. Luke xxii. 12. Acts i. 13.) Inner chamber. (2 Kings ix. 2.) A chamber within an- other chamber. Little chamber. (2 Kings \ iv. 10.) An apartment built upon and projecting from the walls of the main house, and communicating by a private door with the house, and by a private stairway to the street. Upper chamber, or loft, (Acts ix. 37,) is supposed to have occupied the front part of the building, over the gate or outer entrance, and to have been used to lodge strangers. (Comp. 1 Kinffs xvii. 19 and 23, with 2 Kings iv. 10. See Dwellings, paragraph Uppeb ROOM.) 144 CHA CHAMBERING. CR»m. xiii. 13.) Low intrigue for licenlious purposes. CHAMBERLAIN. (2 Kings .'f.xiii. 11.) An officer who has charge of the royal chambers, or the king's lodgings, ward- rcGes, &c. In eastern courts. CHA eunuchs were commonly cm« ployed for this service. (Esth. 1. lO. 12. 15.) The sixth officer of the British crown is the lord high chamberlain. The title in Rom. xvi. 23, pro- bably denotes the siewara or treaisurer of the city. CHAIMELEON. (Lev. xi. 30.) A species of the lizard, of very singular construction and appearance. Its tail is as long as its whole body, and be- ing wound around the branches ol trees, assists the animal in climbing or suspending itself It feeds on insects, and to catch them it is provided with a tongue nearly as long as its body, which it darts out and then draws back again, con- tracting it into a small com- pass. This organ is covered with a glutinous substance, by which flies and other insects are arrested and drawn in for the animal's food. Its colour is changeable, but not to the ex- tent nor from the causes which are vulgarly supposed. It is by no means ceruin that the cha- meleon known to us was the animal which was reckoned unclean by the Leviiical law. CHAMOIS. (Deul. xiv. 5.) 13 The animal intended in this passage was probably of the family of antelopes ; and as the chamois of modern natu- ral history is found in the high- lands of Switzerland, Germa- ny, and Greece, at the height and in the same climate with the mountains of Judea, it is not unlikely that the same animal which we know as the chamois was regarded as un- clean by the Jewish law. (See Natural History of the Bible, pp. 77, 78, by Am. S. S. Union, for a particiflar de- scription and cut.) CHANCE (1 Sam. vi. 9) might be better rendered oc- currence, anJ is so rendered in several ancient versions. In Eccl. ix. 1 — 11, the sacred writer is illustrating the weak- ness and blindness ol man, andshowing that all the events and occurrences of his life are appointed by infinite wisdom «145 CMA and power. In the passage first above cited the word im- plies simply this,— that if the cattle, without any guidance of man, should leave their calves and their pastures, and the roads which they were ac- customed to go in, and should draw the arli towards Belhshe- mesh, (the nearest point of the land of Israel,) then the Philis- tines might infer from this supernatural occurrence, that God's hand had afflicted them as a punishment for detaining the ark ; but if nothing like this should appear, they might suppose that tneir singular af- fliction was the result of natu- ral though unknown causes. What men speak of as hap- pening by chance, are those occurrences which take place without any apparent cause, as in Luke x. 31 ; " R so hap- pened that a priest," &c. i. e. he had no design to pass by the wounded man, &c.; though they are not the less actually the result of divine appoint- ment. The word, in its athe- istical use, is as unphilosophi- cal as it is impious. CHANCELLOR. (Ezra iv. 8. 17.) A distinguished officer of the Jewish court, of whose particular functions we have now no knowledge. CHANGEABLE SUITS OF APPAREL. (See Clothes.) CHANGES OF RAIMENT. (See Clothes.) CHANGERS OF MONEY,or MONEY-CHANGERS. (Matt. xxi.l2.John ii.l4.) When Judea became a province of Rome, the Jews were required to pay taxes in Roman currency, and at the same time the annual tribute for the service of the sanctuary was the half she- kel of Jewish currency. To ex- change these, one for the other, was the business of the mo- ney-chansers, like the busi- ness of niodern brokers. To CHA obtain custom, they stationed themselves in the courts of the temple, the place of gene- ral resort for strangers from every part of Judea, and their oppressive and fraudulent practices probably justified the allusion of our Saviour to a den of thieves. Perhaps, they were also accustomed to pay and receive interest on loans, and this practice is re- cognised in Matt. xxv. .6. 27, CHANT. (See Viol.) CHAPEL, (Amos vii. 13.) or SANCTUARY. A place of worship. Bethel is called the king's chapel by one of the idol priests, because there the kings of Israel paid idolatrous woi-ship to the golden calves. (See Bethel.) CHAPITERS, (Ex. xxxvi. 38,) or CAPITALS,(as they are called in modern architecture,) are the upper or ornamental part of a column. CHAPMEN (2Chron. ix. \4) are called, in the correspond- ing passage, (I Kings x. 15,) spice-merchants. The classes might be distinguislied £is the merchants and grocers of mo- dern days. The revenue to the king was probably in the form of duties on their imports. CHARAN. (See Haran.) CHARGER. (Num. vii. 13, Ezra i. 9. Matt. xiv. 8. 11.) A shallow bowl or basin, used for receiving the blood at the preparation of the sacrifices. (See Censer.) CHARIOT. (Gen, xli, 43, and xlvi. 29. 2 Kings x. 15. Acts viii. 28.) Until within three or four hundred years nothing was known of the con- venience and even luxury of modern vehicles of pleasure. The chariots of the early ages were probably little superior in style or convenience to mo- dern carts or wagons. The following is given as a repre- sentation uf the vehicle in 146 CHA CHA which the Ethiopian was rid- I present day, which is formed ins when accosted by Philip. like a large wicker basket, Travellers describe a clum- eight feet long; supported by sy carriage used in Asia at the ] four solid wheels, convex ou each side, and shaped not un- like the above. These car- riages were niade of wood, and were often burnt in war. (Ps. xlvi. 9. Sol. Song iii. 9. Nah. li. 13.) Another form is given us, as on the following page. Where chariots 'are men- tioned as of iron, (Josh. xvii. 18.) it is probable that the iron instruments with which they were often heavily armed gave ihem such a desienaiion. The word chariot is used for the horses by which it is drawn, (2 Sam. viii. 4; x. 18,) and again for the riders of horses aiid other animals. (Isa. xxi. 7.9.) Captains of chariots, (Ex. XV. 4,) or, literally, mounted three standers. This expres- sion, in an English transla- tion, might be supposed lode- note the officer or officers who had charge of the chariot forces; but the literal mean- 147 CHA CHA in?, abovR given, makes the passa ge obscure. Tiie cut, from an Egyptian tomb, nearly or quite as ancient as the period to which the above-cited pas- sages relate, furnishes a key to this otherwise difficult ex- pression. It represents three ipen standing upon a chariot, two of whom are prepared for action, and the third manages the horses. They were pro- bably selected for their valour, and perhaps formed by them- selves a distinct division of the army, and each had its distinct officer. (Ex. xiv. 7.) Chariot of the cheru- BIM3 (1 Chron. xxviii. 18) means the frame work on which the cherubims rested, and one pattern of which might resembljB the body of a chariot. (See Amminadab, War, Harness.) Chariot cities, (2 Chron. i. 14,) or cities specially desig- nated for storing the chariots of war during the time of peace, as magazines and ar senals of modern times are used. Chariot HORSES. (2 Kings vii. 14.) Horses that were pe- culiarly fitted, by size, spirit, docility, or special training, for service in chariots ; as car- riage, draft, and saddle-horses of later days. Chariot man. (2 Chron. xviii. 33.) Driver, or chariot- eer. Chariots of the sun. (2 Kings xxiii.ll.) Chariots which 148 CHE nad been consecrated to the sun by the idolatrous customs of the kings of Judah. Such consecration of horses and ve- hicles was common, especially in Persia. The word chariots is some- limes used figuratively for hosts or armies, (Ps. Ixviii. 17 ]) and Elijah, by his prayers and counsels, and power with God, was the "chariot and horsenien of Israel," (2 Kinss ii. 11, r2,) inasmucli as he did more for them than all the chariots and horsemen which they could muster. (Ps. xx 7. Tsa. xxxi. 1.) Chariots(forwar.) (Judg. iv. 3.) One class of carriages thus denominated were used as the common vehicles of orinces and generals ; but an- CHE other formed the most terrible of military engines, and were employed in great numbers. (1 Sam. xiii. 5.^ 1 Chron. xviii. 4.) Like other ancient car- riages, they had usually only two wheels, and iron scythes, strong and sharp, were affixed to the extremities of the axles on each side. Warriors sometimes fought standing on them, or leapmg from them up>on the enemy. The chariots in the army of Cyrus were capacious enough to permit twenty men to fignt from them. The following sketch of the wooden war-chariot used by the Parthians, may illustrate the general appea'rance and uses of the chariot of earlier days. CHiRITY. (1 Cor. xiii. 1.) In this and parallel passages, the word lore would more pro oerly express the sentiment Intended. (See Love.) Chari- ty, in the popular acceptation of the word, is almsgiving. (See Alms.) CHARM, CHARMER. (See AriDER, Asp, Divination.) CHARRAN. (See Haran.) CH.\TTER. (See Crane, Swallow.) CHEBAR. (Ezek. i. 1. 3.) A river in the land of the Chal- deans. A colony of the eap- 13* tive Jews resided here, and the prophet Ezekiel also, with whose predictions the place has very interesting associa- tions. CHEDORLAOIMER. (Gen. siv. 1. 5.) One of the kings who formed an allianceagainst the five cities of the plain, and whose spoils were taken from them by Abram. (See Abram.) CHEEKBONE. (Ps. iii. 7.) The figurative language of this passage presents the psalmist surrounded by his enemies as by a herd of wild 149 CHE leasts, and denotes their com- plete deprivation of the power of seizing upon or devouring their prey. CHEESE, (1 Sam. xvii. 18,) or the pressed curd of milk, was a common article of food among the Jews, and is now among many nations of the east. The word occurs but three times in our Scriptures, and in each of them tlie ori- ginal word is ditFerent. (2Sani. xvii. 29. Job X. 10.) Travel- lers tell us that new cheese, or the curd of cream salted, v?as a luxury of the richest tables. The milk was sepa- rated by a rude sort of churn- ing, (see Butter.) and the curd was placed in a close- woven rush or wicker basket, and so pressed as to retain its form, as in the annexed cut. Ten baskets of curds of this kind were not an unsuitable present for Jesse to make, even to an otticer of Saul's armv. (See Milk.) CHEMAKIWS. (Zeph. i. 4.) The priests of idol gods, as in 2 Kings xxiii. 5, auci Hos. x. 5, CHE wtiere the same word is trans- lated idolatrous priests. CHEIMOSH. (Num. xxi. 29.) The name of an idol of the Moabite.?, (Jer. xlviii. 7,) which bishop Newton and others sup- pose to have been the same with Baal-peor. It is called " the abomination of the Mo- abites," as Moloch was the abomination of the Ammon- ites. Solomon built a place for its worship in the suburbs of Jerusalem, (1 Kings xi. 7,) wliich Josiah afterwards de- stroyed. (2 Kings xxiii. 13.) The people of Ch'emosh are his worshippers. (Jer. xlviii. 46.) CHEPHIRAH (Josh. ix. 17) formerly belonged to the Gibe- onites. It afterwards fell into the hands of the tribe of Ben jamin, and was occupied by this tribe after their return from captivity. (Josh, xviii. 26. Ezra ii. 25. Neh. vii. 29.) CHERETHIMS. (Ezek.xxv. 16.) CHERETHITES. (1 Sam. XXX. 14.) These names are ap- plied to a part of David's army, (2 Sam. XV. 18, and xx. 7,) which seems to have been a distinct corps. (2 Sam. viii. 16—18.) It is probable they were either originally Philis- tines, skilful in archery, (comp. 1 Sam. XXX. 14. 16, with Zepli. ii 5,) and thus qualified to be- come a sort of body-guard to the king ; or that they were Is- raelites who were with David among the Philistines or Che- rethiles, and hence their corps was known by this name in the army. They are usually joined with the Pelelhites, ^ Sam. viii. 18,) who are sup- posed to have been native Is- raelites of the tribe of Reuben, (Num. xvi. 1,) or Judah. (1 Chron. ii. 3.3. See Crete.) CHERITH. (1 Kings xvii. 3. 5.) A small brook which emp- tied into the Jordan, and m the vicinity of which Elijah concealed himself and was supported by ravens. 150 CHI CHERUB, CHERUBIM. (Ezek. X. 5. 7.) The word cherubim occurs first, Gen. iii. 24, and is applied to the guard which was placed over Eden after the expulsion of fallen man. Among the directions given to Moses respecting the form and construction of the mercy- seat, one was, to make a che- rub at each end, whose face should be turned inward, and whose wings should cover the mercy-seat. From between these figures or cherubim God communed with Moses con- cerning the children of Israel. (Ex. XXV. 22. Num. vii. 89. 1 Sam. iv. 4. Ps. Ixxx. 1, and xcix. 1.) The size and shape of the figures representing the cheru- bim in Solomon's temple, are described particularly 2Chron. iii. 10—13. (See Biblical An- TIQ.UITIES, vol. ii. ch. ii. pp. 51—63, by Am. S. S. Union.) CHESTNUT TREE. (Gen. XXX. 37.) A well-known tree, which is figuratively used (Ezek. xxxi. 8) in connexion with the cedar and fir, to illus- trate the greatness of the As- syrian kingdom. The tree known to us as the plane, or buttomcood, is supposed to be intended by the sacred wri- ters, and the original has sometimes been so translated. CHIEF OF ASIA. (Acts xix. 31.) Certain wealthy persons were appointed annually in the Asiatic provinces of Rome, to preside over the religious rites, public games, &c. w'hich they maintained in honour of the gods, and at their own ex- pense. They received their title from the name of the pro- vince; as the chief or priest of Cariawas called Cariarch ; of Lycia, Lyciarch, &c. Seve- ral of these chiefs or priests were holding games at Ephe- BUS, when the tumult was ex- cited in that city because CHI Paul's preaching interfered with the personal interest of Demetrius. These people were friendly to the apostle, and advised "him not to expose his person unnecessarily to the fury of the populace. CHIEF PRIEST. (Seo Prie-st.) CHIMHAM. (2 Sam. xix. 37.) It is possible he was a son of Barzillai, but cannot certainly be inferred from 1 Kinsrs ii. 7, which is sometimes citeD to prove it. Some have supposed that David gave Chimham a parcel of land, which was afterwards known by his name. (Jer. xli. 17.) CHIMNEY. (See Dwell- 'CHINNERETH, (Num. xxxiv. 11. Deut. iii. 17,) or CHINNEROTH, (Josh. xi. 2, and xii. 3,) or CINNEROTH, (1 Kings XV. 20,) were names of a place and lake in Lower Galilee. The town of Cinne- roth was on the western shore of the lake, near the border of Zebulon and Naphtali. The town is supposed to have been the same with Tiberias, and the lake is called the lake of Genesaret, the sea of Galilee, and the sea of Tiberias, which is its present name. There is no part of Pales- tine to be compared with the environs of this lake for cli- mate, fertility, and richness of scenery. Many cities of note (as Capernaum, Bethsai- da, and Chorazin) stood upon its shores. The river Jordan flows through it, and it for- merly abounded with fish, and gave occupation to four of the first disciples of our Saviour, v/ho were born in its vicinity, and were called from their worldly business to follow him. Much of the time of his minio- try was spent, and many of hia most wonderful works wer© done, (m these shores. Though this lake was less than twenty 151 CHI miles long, by six or eight wide, it was subject to violent squalls. The wind from the south, sweeping down the sides of the mountains, and setting up against the strong current of the Jordan, rendered llie lake boisterous and full of peril. No craft is seen upon us waters in modern days. The Arab fishermen wade in with hand-nets, and take what fish they can. Mr. Fislce, an American mis- sionary, was at Tiberias (Ta- baria) in 18-23. The old town is surrounded by a wall, but within it is very ruinous, and the plain for a mile or two south is strewed with ruins. The Jordan, where it issues from the lake, was so shallow that cattle and asses forded it easily. Mr. F. was shown a house called the house of Pe- ter, which is used as the Greek Catholic church, and is the only church in the place. The number of Christian families is thirty or forty, all Greek Catholics. There were two sects of Jews, each of whom had a synagogue. The Jewish population was estimated at about 1000. On the Isl of Ja- nuary, 1S37, Tiberias was de- stroyed by an earthquake. (See YiEWS OF Palestine, p. 27, ana 0>TAK, pp. 120, 121, and Life of Peter, all by Am. S. S.Union.) CHIOS. (Acts XX. 15.) A mountainous island on the coast of Asia Minor, between Lesbos and Samos, thirty-two miles long and fifteen broad, inhabited by Greeks. It is now called Scio, and was the scene of a memorable massa- cre by the Turks in 1823. CHISLEU. (See Months.) CHITTIM. (Dan. xi. 30.) Probably this name was ori- ginally applied to the island of Cyprus, but afterwards be- came a general name for the maritime countries and islands i CHR of the Mediterranean. In Isa. xxiii. 1, we are told that the news of the destruction of Tyre should be revealed to the ships of Tarshish, as they passed the land of Chittim or island of Cyprus. The prophecy of Balaam, (Num. xxiv. 24,) of the visita- tion which should come on Asshur,(Assyria,)and Eber,(the Hebrews,) probably referred to the Greek and Koman inva- sion of those countries re- spectively. (See Cyprus.) CHIUN. (Amos V. 26.) An idol which the Israelites made and worshipped in the wilder- ness. (See Kemphan.) CHORAZIN. (Mall. xi. 21.) A town on the shore of the sea of Tiberias, (where Christ wrought miracles,) but its pre- cise location is not known. CHORASHAN. (See AsH- AN.) CHRIST JESUS. (Eph. ii. 10.) This is a compound name, significant of two characters. Christ is from the Greek word Christos, which signifies an- ointed. The word Messiah, in the Hebrew, corresponds to the word Chiistos, in the Greek. Hence the Jews or Hebrews speak of him as the Messiah, and Christians speak of him as tfie Christ. He i8 called Christ, or the anointed, in allusion to the custom of anointing with oil such as were set apart to a sacred or regal office. (Ex. xxviii. 41, and xxix. 7. 1 Sam. ix. 16 ; XV. 1. 2Sam. xxiii. 1. 1 Kings xix. 16.) This was a conse- crating ceremony, making the person of the subject of it sa- cred. (1 Sam. xxiv. 6. 2 Sam. xix. 21. 1 Chron. xvi. 22.) It was also emblematical of the effusion of the Holy Spirit. <» John ii. 20. 27 ; comp. Malt, iii. 16, 17. John iii. 34.) The Son of God was pre-eminently the Anointed. (1 Sam. ii. l^O, Isa. Ixi. 1. Dan. ix. 24. 26.^ 152 CHR The word Jesus is derived fcom a Hebrew word signifying to save, or sent to save. (Mall. ' 21. Luke ii. 11. 21.) The word Joshua has the same meaning, and is a very common name among theHebrews, and would have been more properly used in Acls vii. 45, and Heb. iv 8, than Jesus. The word Christ was origin- ally used, not as a part of the name, but as indicative of character or office : thus Jesus, the Christ, was a descriptive phrase, lilie John the Baptist. (Matt. xxvi. 63. Marie viii. 29;xiv. CI. John i. 20. 25. 41 ; vi. 69; vii. 41; x. 24; xi.27; XX. 31.) Such an official ap- pellation was necessary to dis- tinguish the Redeemer from others who were called Joshua or Jesus. Groiius says that the name Jesus was dropped at a very early period af^er the ascension, and Christ alone generally used; though we find upon examination, that .he word Christ is almost al- ways used alone in the Gos- pels, while in the Acts and Epistles, Jesus Christ, or the Lord Jesus Christ, is the pre- vailing expression. When God was pronouncing the dreadful sentence of con- demnation upon our first pa- rents, it was his sovereign pleasure, without any solicita- tion or act of man, to intimate a purpose of mercy in the fol- lowing language: And the Lord God said taito the ser- pent, I will put enmity be- tween thee and the woman, and beiiceen thy seed (posteri- ty) and her seed ; it (or he, i. e. her seed) shall bruise thy head, and thou shall bruise his (or its) heel. In this single verse lies the grand principle of all true re- ligion. It is the root and sub- stance of aW the prophecies and promises of after-times. The war between sin and ho- CHR liness was then waged, and hafl since been prosecuted without intermission. (Rom. vii. 23.) The Son of God and all true believers are " the seed of the woman." (Comp. Acts xiii. 23. Gal. iv. 4, and Heb. ii. 16, with John xvii. 21—23.) The devil and all his servants re- present the serpent and his seed. (John viii. 44. IJohniii, 8.) The temptations, suffer- ings, and ignominious death of 'Christ, and the fierce oppo- sition and cruel persecution which his true followers have endured in various ages of the world, are significantly de- scribed by the bruising of the iieel ; while the complete vic- tory which our glorious Re- deemer has himself achieved over sin and death, and which his grace enables the believer also to obtain, and the still more perfect and universal triumph which he will finally accomplish, are all strikingly illustrated by the bruisingm the serpent's head. The books of heathen my- thology furnish curious allu- sionslo this wonderful passage of the Bible. In one of them, Thor is represented as the eldest of sons, a middle divini- ty, a mediator between God and man, who bruised the head of the serpent and slew him ; and in one of the oldest pagodas of India are found two sculptured figures, repre- senting two incarnations of one of their supreme divini- ties ; the first to be bitten by a serpent, and the second to crush him. (See cuts on the next page.) The text which we have been illustrating is the first in- timation of a Saviour which was given to our world after it was ruined bysin; and through- out all succeeding ages of me church and of the world, in the wonderful system of sacri- ficial and ceremonial obser- 153 CHR CHR vances, in all the types and shadows of the Jewish law, in the whole current of pro- phecy, and in all the changes and revolutions of ancient kingdoms and nations, the Hebrews were so clearly in- structed in the character and o-ffices of the promised Messi- ah, that their unbelief and re- jection of him, when he ac- tually appeared, seem unac- countable on any other hypo- thesis, than that they were judicially blinded ; and espe- cially must we thus regard their conduct, when it is con- sidered how accurately the minute circumstances of his birth, life, and death are pre- dicted. (See Infidel Class, by Am. S. S. Union, pp. 38— 43.) So that it has been truly said, that a very full and well connected life of Christ could be prepared from the materials which the prophecies alone would supply. The Jews, as a nation, gross- ly misapprehended the" cha- racter of the Messiah and the purpose of his mission. So clearly were his advent and offices predicted in the words of prophecy, that a general expectation of the appearance of some great deliverer pre- vailed. They were even ac- customed to regard his coming as the grand era in the annals of the world ; for they spoke of the two great ages of histo- ry, the one as preceding and the other as following this wonderful event. Their views, however, were on the whole very narrow, and in the mass of the people were elevated very little, if at all, above tLe temporal advantages of their nation. Their foolish hearts were too much darkened to see that his kingdom was to be spiritual ; that their deli- verance was to be from the power and dominion of sin; that the blessings he would confer would be holiness and life everlasting, and that the benefits of his atonement, me- diation, and glorious reign, would be shared by all, both Jews and Gentiles, who should repent, and believe his gospel. How long these groundless apprehensions prevailed, even in the minds of those who had the best opportunity to know the truth, may be seen, Luke xxiv. 21, and Acts i. 6. We find that about the lime of the Messiah's appearance, 54 CHR Simeon, Anna, and others of like faiili, were eagerly ex- pectins the promised salva- tion. (Luke ii. 25—38.) At the appointed time the Redeemer of the world ap- peared. He was born in the year of the creation 4000, at Betlilehem, in Judea, of a vir- gin, named Mary, who was es- poused to Joseph ; a nd througli them he derived his descent from David, according to pro- phecy. Though we may not be able to trace this genealogy, we may be assured of the fact from the circumstance that the Jews never questioned it. This would undoubtedly have been the stronghold of their unbelief; for ifit could have been shown that the individu- al who claimed to be their Messiah was not descended from David, they miglit have justified themselves in reject- ing him, by referring to their Scriptures. (Ps. Ixxxix. 3, 4, and ex. 1. Comp. Acts i;. ^o— 36. Isa. xi. 1— 10. Jer. xxiii.5, 6. Ezek. xxxiv. 23, 24; xxxvii. 24,25. John vii. 42.) At the proper time he was subjected to the rite of circum- cision, under the Jewish law, and was called Jesus, accord- ing to the command. (Matt. i. 21. Luke ii. 21.) After a temporary stay at Bethlehem, whither they went to be taxed, in compli- ance with a decree of the go- vernment, they were prepar- ing to return to Nazareth, the place of their residence ; but they were admonished by an an^el of a cruel decree which had been issued by Herod the king, requiring the indiscrimi- nate massacre of all the male children in Bethlehem and its vicinity, wiio were noi over two years old. By this mas- sacre he hoped to cutoff the infant Jesus, who, as he sup- posed, from some confused apprehensions of his cbarac- CHR ter, might make some prelen sion to the government of the country. In obedience to the divine intimation, Joseph took the in- fant and its mother and went inio Egypt, where they remain- ed until another message from God informed them that Herod was dead, and they might safely return into the land of Israel. So they took up their abode in Nazareth, a small town in Galilee, where Jesus remained,subject to his earthly parents, until he was thirty years of age. The sacred wri- ter says that the residence of Christ at Nazareih was a ful- filment of that which was spoken by the prophet, He shall bt called a Nazarene. Probably to come from Naza- reth was regarded as a re- proach, (John i.46; vii. 52;) and hence, to call a man a Nazarene, ' was to apply to him, in one word, all that the prophets said of the humble ami despised origin of the Messiah. (Ps. xxii. Isa. liii.) At twelve he went up to Jeru- salem v/iih his parents, at the feast of the passover, anil as- tonished the Jewish rabbies by his wisdom and knowledge. The design of the evangelists being to record only the events of his public ministry, we are not fiivoured with many par- ticulars of Christ's life upon earth during the intervening period. When he was about thirty years of age, he went from Nazareth to the river Jordan, where John was preaching and baptizing, (Mark i. 3—9,) for John foreknew, supernatu- rally, that the followers of Je- sus were to be initiated by this rite, and that they were like- wise to receive the higher bap- tism of the Spirit. John at first declined administering the ordinance to him, for he recognised in Christ the great 155 CHR fountain and author of that inward and spiritual grace of which the ordinance itself was but the outward and visible sign. He therefore sought rather to be himself baptized by Christ ; but upon being in- formed by his divine master that a compliance was neces- sary, in order that he might sanction by his example the ministry of John, and the use of this significant rite, John ad- minister^ed the ordinance, and thereupon there was a visible and audible manifestation of God's presence, solemnly at- testing the divinity and messi- ahship of Christ. (Matt. iii. 16.) He then commenced his pub- lic ministry. Calling around him twelve humble fishermen, to be the companions of his journeyings, and the witnesses of his conduct, conversation, preaching, and miracles, and the propagators of his religion after he should have accom- plished the work of redemp- tion, he began to make known the great purposes of his incar- nation. For three years he exhibited to a faithless and perverse generation, the most indubitable evidence of his di- vine authority and power. He forgave sins, rebuked unclean spirits so that they came out of such as were possessed by them ; commanded the winds and the seas, and they obeyed him ; healed all manner of diseases; raised the dead, and showed conclusively, in every variety of form, that he pos- sessed all the divine attributes that there was any fit opportu- nity to employ, for the benefit either of the bodies or souls of men. In k\ his ministrations,— un(?er every species of insult, contradiction, and misrepre- sentation,—he most perfectly illustrated the precepts and principles of the religion he taught. His love and compas- CHR sion; his forbearance and for- giveness; his meekness and wisdom: his simplicity and ho- liness ; his equanimity and self- possession,have never had,and never will have, a parallel in any finite being. It seems im- possible that his history can be read with an unprejudiced mind, and fail to produce the conviction that it is of him, and of no other, that the pro- phet says. His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsel- lor, THE Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, thb Prince of Peace. (Isa. ix. 6.) When the grand purpose of his extraordinary mission was about to be consummatefl, he gave his disciples full instruc- tions respecting their duty, in- timated to them the difficulties and dangers which would at- tend the propagation of the religion, but assured them of strength, CTace, and final suc- cess in the enterprise. He then instituted a simple but most affecting memorial of his sufferings and death, which were to close his earthly minis- try. And while in the garden of Gethsemane, bowed "down, even unto deathj with exceed- ing sorrow, and m prospect of what he was about to bear for man's offence, the traitor, who was one of the little company of twelve disciples, drew near, and by a kiss signified to a band of ruffian soldiers that he was the object of their pursuit. Then ensued a mock trial, every stage of which was crowded with injuries and in- sults, and in the midst of which he was denied with caihs and curses by the most Viold and for- ward of his disciples. Wanton and unprovoked abuse, cruel mockings and scourgings, in short, whatever could increase the intensity of bodily and mental suffering wa? heaped upon the guiltless Redeemer without measure or mercy. 156 CHR They were such as the most base and contemptible male- factor seldom endured, and were terminated by the excru- ciating and disgraceful death of the cross. After hanging for upwards of three hours, till life was entirely extinct, (John xix. 33,) the body was taken down, and commiited to a tomb hewn out of a solid rock ; and, not- withstanding all the safeguards which the malice and cunning of his persecutors and murder- ers could invent, to secure him, he rose from the dead on the third day, as he had fore- told ; and after giving to his disciples and hundreds of others, in a variety of ways, and at different times, during the space of nearly six weeks, the most indubitable evidence of the fact that he had risen, he led a chosen company out to Bethany ; he there bestowed on them his parting benedic- tion, and, ascending up to heaven in their presence, a cloud received him out of their sight. Being thus raised up, and by the right hand of God exalted to be "a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance and remis- sion of sins, he soon furnished to his faithful disciples the evidence of his power and grace. (Acts ii.) And the his- tory of (rod's dealings with the church of Christ, from the be- ginning hitherto, abundantly shows the perfectness of his sacrifice and intercession, and that he is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (Rom. x. 4.) He is the way, the truth, and the life ; and no man cometh ttf the Father but by him. iJohn xiv. 6.) As our great high priest and intercessor, (Rom. viii. 34. Heb. iv. 14; vii. 25. 1 John ii. 1, 2,) he hath entered by his own blood into •he holy place, having obtain- A.I eieraal redemption for us. 14* CHR He hath put away sin by the sacrifice of himself, (Heb. ix 2(3,) and thus hath perfected for ever them that are sancti- fied, (Heb. X. 14,) so that they may have boldness to enter into the holiest by his blood, by the new and living way, which he hath consecrated, through the veil, that is to say, his liesh. (Heb. x. 19, 20.) Thus the seed of the woman hath bruised the serpent's head — the sting of death is removed. (I Cor. XV. 55.) He that had the power of death, that is, the devil, is subdued ; and they are delivered who, through fear of death, were all their lifetime subject to bondage. (Heb. ii. 14, 15.) Life and immortality are brought to light. (2 Tim. i. 10.) Because he lives, we shall live also. (John xiv. 19. Rom. vi.8. 2 Cor. xiii. 4. 1 Thess. v. 10. 2 Tim. ii. 11.) He comforts, sustains, and guides all true believers, of whatever coun- try, colour, or denomination they may be, through this world of tribulation; reveals to them fountains in the wil- derness, and springs in the de- sert ; passes with them through flames and floods; gives them the victory over sin and death, and bestows on them, as a free gift, eternal life and blessed- ness,— a crow^n of glory that fadeth not away. Whoever seriuusly examines the great plan of salvation by Christ, in all that preceded and has thus far attended its very partial and incipien development, will be led t^ exclaim, with the apostle, Without coKTROVERSY,greai is the mystery of goilliness. (I Tim. iii. 16.) The revelation of it sheds light on all preceding and succeeding time. It raises the veil throu^'h which tlie in- stitutions and ordinances of the Jewish dispensation seem- ed like a vain and burdensome ritual, and shows us of what 157 CHR g^onous things they were the imperfect types and shadows. It discloses a mode of redemf)- tion from the curse of God's violated law, — safe, suitable, and plain for man ;— just, con- sistent, and glorious for the lawgiver; and it reveals the eauctionof a judgment to come, in which the principles and purposes of the divine govern- ment will be carried out in the unchangeable destinies of men and angels: all God's ways will be vindicated in the view of an assembled world, and his perfect attributes will shine forth in new, endless, and in- finite glory. It has been well said, ihat the sum and substance of the en- tire Bible is, "Jesus Christ CRUCIFIED TO SAVE LOST SIN- KERS." The moment we lose sight of this srrand and amazing design, — wTiich eternal love and"mercy combined with in- finite justice and holiness to conceive and execute, — the Jewish Scriptures, from begin- ning to end, present only a ■vain and perplexing show, and the glory of the divine revela- tion is extinguished. (For a full and deeply inte- resting sketch of the rise and progress of the religion of Christ, and of his character and ministry, see Biblical ANTiauiTiES, vol. ii. ch. i.: Christ our .Saviour ; Sister IVIary'& Stories, (No. (;, 7'he Wondoful Redeemer;) First Lessons, Lesson xiii.— xix. ; all by the Am. S. S. Union.) It may be proper, before closing this article, to suggest the leading points and princi- pal references, respecting the true and proper divinity of the Lord Jesiis Christ. I. The names and titles of the Supreme Being are ai iplied to him. (Rom. ix. 5. 1 John v. 20. Rev. i. 11. Comp. Isa. vi. 1 — 10, Willi John xii. 41.) II. The principal attributes CHR of God are ascribed to Christ , as, Eternity, (John i. 1 ; viii. 58. Rev. xxii. 13;) Omnisci- ence, (Matt. ix. 4. John xvi. 30; xxi. 17. Rev. ii. 23;) Om- nipotence,(Phil. iii.21. Col.ii. 9, 10;) Omnipresence, (Matt, xviii. 20; xxviii. 20. John iii. 13;) and Unchangeaelekess. (Heb.xiii.8.) III. The works and preroga- tives of God are ascribed to him, as the Creatcr jf all things. (Isa. xliv. 24. John i. 1.3, Col.i. 16, 17;) their Pre- servation, (Heb.i. 3;) For- giveness OF Sins, (Dan. ix. 9, comp. with Ps. cxxx. Matt. ix. 2. 6. Col. iii. 13;) to raise thb dead, and judge the world. (Matt. XXV. 31—33. John v. 22 —29. Rom. xiv. 10. 2 Cor. v. 10.) IV. He is the oVject of reli- gious worship. (Phil. ii. 10, 11, Heb. i. 6. Rev. v. 11—13.) The following passages may also be cited: Ps. xlv. 6, 7. Comp. Isa. vii. 14, with Malt. i.23. Isa. viii. 14, with iPet. ii. 8. Isa. xliv. 23,24. Ps. Ixxxix. 8, 9, with Mark iv. 37—39. John ii. 24, 25; iii. 31; xiv. 7. 9; XX. 28. Acts i. 24; vii. 59,60; X. 36. Rom. xiv. 9. Eph. i. 20-23; iv. 8^11. Phil. ii. 6. 9-11. Col. ii. 9. ITim. iii. 16. 2 Pet. iii. 18. Rev. i. 5,6; v. 8; vii. 9—17; xxi. 22, 23; xxii. 16. False Christs. (Matt.xxiv. 24.) Our Lord warned his dis- ciples that false Christs should arise. Not less than twenty- four different persons of such pretensions have ajj. eared; and the defence of their claims to the messiahship has cost the Jews a great expense of life and treasure. One olthem. Cariba, or Barchocheba, lived early in the second century. He put himself at the head of the Jewish nation as their Mes- siah ; they adhered to him. The Romans made war upon him ; and the Jews ihemselvee allow, th'it in their defence of 158 CHR tiis false Messiah, they lost between ^ce and six fiurtdred thousand souls. In the twelfth century, not less than eight or ten impostors appeared under the same name, and were fol- lowed by great numbers of the Jews, ftlosi of them were pun- ished f.>r their imposture with death, and usually involved a multitude of their deluded followers ia persecution and death. The last that gained any considerable number of converts was Mordecai, a Jew of Germany, who lived in 1682 He tied for'his life, and his end ia not known. CHRISTIAN (Acts xxvi. 2S) was a name given to the fol- lowers of our Saviour. It was first used at Antioch, (Acts xi. 26,) about the year 42 or 43, and probably (like the names Nazarenes and Galileans) as a term of reproach or contempt. This supposition is contirmed by the circumstance that the word occurs in only three places in the New Testament, viz. in the two passages before cited, and in IPet. i\AQ, where it is strongly implied that the very name" was associated with reproach and sutfering. Taci- lus, a profane historian, tells AS of the low, or vulgar peo- ple, called the followers of Christ, or Christians. The term Christian is now emp'loyei],(l.)In contradistinc- tion to Pagans and Moham- medans ; and, (2.) To denote the open professors of religion, in contradistinction from those who are not professors. In lome countries it is still a lerm of bitter reproach, and vhe assumption of it is attended with persecution, cruelty, and death. The Christian religion is re- ceived at the present day (as it is supposed) by less than one auarter of the inhabitants of .tie world. Some have esti- mated the nmnbers as follows : CHxl Jews - - . 2,500,000 Mohamnredins - • 140,000,000 Pa?ar.s - - . 4t-2,000,000 Catholics - - - 80,000,000 Protestants - - 65,000,000 Greeks - - - 30,000,000 CHRONICLES, (IKings xiv. 19,) or ANNALS. In its gene- ral signification, this term de- notes a chronological history, or an acccount of facts and events in the order of time. The thirteenth and fourteenth books of the Old Testament are called the first and second books of Chronicles ; and are in some sense supplemental to the two books of Kings which precede them. They appear to have been compiled from the national diaries or journals, but it does not satisfactorily appear who compiled them. These voluminous diaries are referred to frequently under ditferent names, (1 Kings xiv. 19. 1 Chron. xxvii. 24. Esih. ii. 23;) but are not to be confounded with the ab- stract which constitutes the books to which this article refers. The principal object of the author of these books seems to have been, to point out, from the public records, the state of the different families before the captivity, and the distribu- tion of the lands among them ; that each tribe mii'ht, as far as possible, obtain the ancient inheritance of their fathers at their return. So that this por- tion of the Old Testament may be considered as an epitome of all the sacred history, but more especially from the origin of the Jewish nation to their return from the first captivity ; embracing a period oi nearly 3500 years. The fii-st book traces the rise and propagation of the children of Israel^ from Adam, together with a circum- stantial account of the reign and transactions of David : the second continues the narra- tive ; relates the proeress and 159 CHU dissolution of the kingdom of Judea, (apart from Israel.) to the year of the return of the people from Babylon. Samuel, Kings, and Chronicles should be read and compared together, as they relate substantially the same histories, though with dif- ferent degrees of particularity, and with different means of informa'ion : so that the whole contains bu. one history , and what is obscure or defective in one part mav be explamed or supplied in another. CHRYSOLITE. (Rey xxi. 20.) This was anciently a ge- neral name for all precious stones in which a golden or yellow colour was prevalent. It more particularly denoted a stone resembling in colour the modern topaz. The stone now called chrysolite is green, tinged with yellow. It is not very valuable, is seldom found larger than a buck-shot, and comes chiefly from the Levant. CHRYSOPRASUS. (Rev.xxi. 20.) A species of the beryl, found in Brazil and Ceylon, and in some parts of the United CHUB. (Ezek. xxx.5.) From the connexion of this word, it is presumed to have been an Ethiopian tribe or province. CHUN, (1 Chron. xviii. 8,) called Berothai in 2 Sam. viii. 8; and Berothah, in Ezek. xlvii. 16. CHURCH. (Matt. xvi. 18.) This word is variously used by the sacredwriters,but its import is generally to be inferred from its connexion. It may be suf- ficient to notice particularly two uses of the term. Sometimes it denotes simply an assemblyof persons for any purpose, (Acts xix. 41 ;) but in the New Testament it is ap- pl'ied particularly to Christians as a body or community. (Acts ii. 47.) It is also applied to the people of God in all ages of the world, whether Jews or Chris- CHU tians. (Acts vii. 38; xii. 1. Eph. iii. 21 ; v. 25.) For al- though there have been two dispensations, viz. that of the law by Moses, and that of the gospel by Jesus Christ ; yet the religion of the Bible is, and ever has been, and ever will be one religion ; whether they lived before or after the coming of Christ, true believers are all one in Christ Jesus. (Gal. iii. 28.) Of this church or company ofthe redeemed, the Lord Jesus Christ is now the head, and the church is therefore called the body, (Col. i. 18. 24,) and com- prises the redeemed who have gone to heaven as well as those who are or will be on the earth. (Heb. xii. 23.) Particular portions of the whole body of Christians are also called the church, as the church at Jerusalem, at Co- rinth, &c. (Acts viii. 1. 1 Cor. i. 2 ; iv. 17.) As the incarnation, death, resurrection, and reigning of Christ in heaven, constitute him the founder and head of the church as it now exists, he i? compared to "the chief corner-stone" in the building, (Eph. ii. 20,) on whom th"e wliole structure is dependent. For this purpose God " hath put all things under his feet, and given him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all." (Eph. i. 22.) The figurative language which is employed by Christ himself, as well as by his apostles, to denote the nature of his relations to the church (as composed of all true be- lievers,) and its relations to him, are of the most significant character. Some of them have been intimated above; others are, that of husband and wife, (Eph. V. 30—32 ;) a vine and its branches, (John xv. 1—6 ;) and a shepherd and his flock, (John IfiO CIL X. 11.) And it is generally sup- posed thai Solomon's Song is a higlily figurative and poetical illustration of tlie mutual love of Clirist and the people of his church in all ages. In modern times, the word is applied to various associations of Chrisiians, united by a com- mon mode of faith or form of government, as the Episcopal church, the Baptist church, the Moravian church, &c. CHURL. (Isa. xxxii. 5. 7. Comp. 1 Sam. xxv. 3. 10, 11. 17, with passage in Isaiah.) CHURN. (See Butter.) CHUSHAN-RISHATHAIM. (Judg. iii. 8—10.) A king of Mesopotamia, and an opiiress- or of the Israelites. Othniel, Caleb's nephew, delivered them from Jiis dominion. CIELED. (2 Chron. iii. 5.) CIELING. (1 Kings vi. 15.) Eastern floors and ceilings were just the reverse of ours. Their cielings were of wood, painted, (Jer. xxii. 14;) ours are of plaster ; their floors were of plaster or some sort of tiles, and ours of wood. Some public buildings in Europe are cieled with wood, and we sometimes see wooden ciel- ings in our own country. CILICIA. (Acts xxi. 39.) A province in the south-eastern district of Asia Minor, lying on the northern coast, at the east- ern extremity of the Mediter- ranean sea. Its capital city was Tarsus, the birth-place of Paul. The synagogue of" them ofCi- licia,'" (Acts vi. 9,) was a place of Jewish worship in Jerusalem, appropriated to the use of Jews who might be at Jerusalem from the province of Cilicia. A similar custom in modern times is the fitting up of public houses to accommodate stran- gers from particular States or countries. Paul, being of this Erovince, was probably a mem- er of this synagogue, and Derhaijs one of the defeated 14* CIR opposers and controvertists of Stephen. (Comp. Acts vi. 10 ; vii.58.) CINNAMON. (Sol. Song iv. 14.) A well known aromatic, produced from the inner bark of a tree which grows chiefly in Ceylon; and being peeled off, and cut into strips, curls up, in the form in which it is usu- ally seen. The cinnamon tree is a species of the laurel. Cin- namon was one of the ingre- dients of the holy oil, (Ex. xxx. 23,) and was probably an ar- ticle of commerce in ancient Babylon. (Rev. xviii. 13.) CINNERETH, CINNE- ROTH. (See Chinnereth.) CIRCLE (Isa. xl. 22) means, in this passage, the line within which the earth revolves, and figuratively describes a posi- tion from which every part of its surface can be seen. In Prov. viii. 27, the same word is rendered compass, and de- notes the boundary or mound within which the waters are restrained. The Creator is re- presented as marking out the habitation of the vast expanse of waters, with the same ease with which a designer or draftsman delineates the plan of a building or an estate. CIRCUIT. (Job xxii. 14.) A circular path or route. (1 Sam. vii. 16.) In the passage from Job, God is figuratively repre- sented as confining his pre- sence to the high heavens. (Comp. ver. 11, 12, with ver. 13, 14.) In Psalm xix. 6, the circuit of the sun is represented as extending from one end of heaven to the other, or from east to west. CIRCUMCISED. (Gen. xvii. 10.) CIRCUMCISION. (John vii. 22.) Circumcision was a remarkable rite or ceremony of the Jewish religion, which consisted in cutting around the flesh of the foreskin of all males, on the eighth day after their birth. This rite was esla- IBl CIS btifthed as the token of GoJ's covenant with Abraham, (Gen. xvii. 9—14,) who immediately subjected himself and all his family to its observance. The precept of circumcision was re- newed to Moses, (Ex. xii. 44. Lev. xii. 3. John vii. 22, 23;) requiring that all should sub- mit to it who would partake of the paschal sacrifice. And the Jews have always been very scrupulous in its obser- vance, though it was omitted in their journey through the wilderness for obvious rea- sons. Many other nations have adopted the rite ; and it is the chief ceremony of initiation into the religion of Moham- med, though it is regarded only as a traditionary precept, and is not performed till the child is five or six years old. The instrument used for this pur- pose was a knife, a razor, or even a sharp stone. (Ex. iv. 25. Josh. V. 3.) The design of this require- ment obviously was, to fix upon the persons of all the natural descendants of Abraham a dis- tinguishing mark, separating them from all the rest of the world. As this rite was pecu- liar to the Jews, they are call- ed the circumcision, and the Gentiles the uncircumcision. (Rom. iv. 9.) The terms uncircumcised and uncircumcision are also used to denote impurity or wickedness generally; and to circumcise the heart was to become trac- table and docile. (Ex. vi. 12. 30. Jer. iv. 4; vi. 10; ix. 26. Ezek. xliv. 7. Acts vii. 51.) Jews who renounced Judaism, under the Roman persecution, sometimes endeavoured to erase the mark of circumci- sion ; and probably Paul may allude to this, 1 Cor. vii. 18. (See Covenant, Concision.) CISTERN. (Prov. V. 15.) The face of the country, and the pe- culiarity of the climate, made GIT cisterns indispensable in Ju dea. They were generally, il not universally, private pro- perty. (Num. xxi. 2l) Soma were formed by merely exca vating the earth; others were covered reservoirs, into which the water was conducted, and others still were lined with wood, or cement, or hewn out of the rock with great labour, and ornamented" with much skill. When the pits were empty, there was a tenacious mire at the bottom, and they were used as the places of the most cruel and extreme pun- ishments. It was into such a pit probably that Joseph was cast. (See also Ps. xl. 2. Jer. xxxviii. 6.) Large cisterns are now found in Palestine, at in- tervals of fifteen or twenty miles. One of them is describ- ed by a modern traveller to be six hundred and sixty feet long by two hundred and seventy broad. These cisterns were the chief dependence of the people for water; hence the force of the allusion, Jer. ii. 13. (See Conduit.) CITY. (Gen. iv. 17.) It is noi very easy to determine by what the lews distinguished villages from towns, and towns from cities. Probably, at first, a number of tents and cottages formed a vil- lage. They were brought together by family relation- ship, by local attractions, or more probably, for mutual de- fence against more powerful clans or tribes. When their si- tuation became insecure, they be^an to protect themselves by a ditch or hedge, or perhaps a wall. The advancement from this rude state, to the fortified towns and cities of ancient days, was easy and rapid Some have supposed that cities were always walled, (Num. xiii. 28;) hutthere is no evidence of this. We know they were often (if noi always) fortified, and man/ CIT of them were very populous. The streets were narrow, so that, iu some of them, (as we are told,) loaded carnels could not paiss each other; and even at this day, in Alexandria and Cairo, mats are spread across the streets, from house to house, for shade. We know, however, that many of them were spacious. Sometimes, in Asiatic cities, a broad street, or a section of it, is covered for the accommo- dation of merchants or trades- men, and such places are called Bazaars ; and the pro- minent branch of business transacted there gives the name to the street"; as, the woollen drapers, coppersmiths, &c. Around the gates of cities WELS the principal" concourse of people, (Neh. viii. 1. Job xxix. 7;) and therefore these stations were desirable for booths or stalls, for the sale of merchan- dise. (2 Kings vii. 1.) These square or open places are pro- bably intended in 2 Chron. xxxii. 6, and Neh. iii. 16 ; viii. 1. 3. Some cities were adorned with open squares and large gardens. One-third of the city of Babylon, we are told, was occupied with gardens ; and Cesarea, Jerusalem, Antioch, and other of the largest cities were paved. Fenced City, (2 Kings x. 2,) or Defenced Cities. (Isa. xxxvi. 1.) A fortified city. To build a city, and \.o fortify or fence it, in the oriental idiom, mean the same thing. The fencing, or fortification, was usually with high walls, and watch-iowersupon them.(Deut. iii. 5.) The walls of fortified cities were formed, in part at least, of combustible materials, (Amos i. 7. 10. 14,) the gates be- ing covered with thick plates of iron or brass. (Ps. cvii. 16. Isa. xlv. 2. Acts xii. 10.) There was also within the city a cita- del or lower, to which the la- CIT habitants fled when the city itself could not be defended. (Judg. ix. 46—52.) These were often upon elevated ground, and were entered by a flight ot steps. (See Gate.) At the lime when Abraham came into the land of Canaan, there were already in exist- ence numerous towns, which are mentioned in the book of Genesis ; Sodom, Gomorrah, Zeboim, Admah, Bela, Hebron, and Damascus. This last is truly venerable, as it is beyond doubt the oldest city in the world. The spies who were sent over Jordan brought back an account of well "fortified cities. In the book of Joshua, we read of no less than six hundred towns, of which the Israelites look possevssion. — When the city of Ai was ta- ken, its inhabitants, who were put to the sword, amounted to 12,000, (Josh. viii. 16. 25 ;) and we are told that Gibeon was a still greater city. (x. 2.) It is commonly calculated that, in Europe, one-third or one-fourth of a nation is comprised in cities and towns. Reckoning the Hebrews, then, at 3,0OO,0i3O, it would give about 1250 for the average population of the towns; and, for greater safety, it is probable that half the inhabitants dwelt in towns. Now in Gibeah (Judg. xx. 15) there were seven hundred men who bore arms, and, of course, not less than 3000 inhabitants. By a similar cal- culation, we conclude that the forty-eight cities of th^Levites contained each about 1,000 souls. In the time of David, the population of Palestine was between five and six mil- I lions ; and we may suppose that the towns and cities were proportionably increased. Oa I the great annual festivals, Je- I rusalem must have presented ! a sublime spectacle of count- I less multitudes, when all the 163 CIT males of the nation were re- auired to be there assembled. In such limes the city itself was insufficient to contain the host of Israel, and thousands encamped around its outskirts. After tlie return from the Baby- lonish captivity, the population of the towns may l^ave been inconsiderable^ but the sub- sequent increase was most ra- Sid, so that in the time of asephus, the small villages f Galilee contained 15,000 in- habitants, and the larger towns 50,000. At the same period, Jerusalem was four miles in circuit, and had a population of 150,000. The same author tells us, that un- der Cestius, the number of paschal lambs was 256,500, which would eive an amount of about 2,000,000 attending the passover. At the time of the fatal siege of Jerusalem, more than a million of persons were shut in by the Romans ; so that the space included by the four miles must have been remarkably sconomized. City of David. (1 Chron. xi. 5.) A section in the southern part of Jerusalem ; embracing mount Zion, where a fortress of the Jebusites stood. David reduced the fortress, and built a new palace and city, to which he gave his own name. (See Biblical ANTiauixiEs, vol. ii. pp. 62,63; and Selu- MiEL, pp. 50, 51, both by Am. S. S. Union.) Bethlehem, the native town of David, is also called,from that circumstance, thecity of David. (Luke ii. 11.) CiTY-oF God (Ps. xlvi. 4) was one of the names of an- cient Jerusalem, and its ap- Bropriateness is evident from leut. xii. 5. Holy City. (Neh. xi. 1.) The sacredness of the temple extended itself in some mea- sure over the city, and hence Jerusalem itself was called the Holy City, and -is so distin- CIT guished in the east at the pre- sent day. Cities of Refuge (Deut xix. 7. 9. Josh. XX. 2. 7, 8) were six of the Leviiical cities divinely appointed by the Jew- ish lav; as asylums, to which those were commanded to flee, for safety and protection, who had been undesignedly accessary to the death of a fellow creature. The kinsmen of the deceased, or other per son who might pursue to kill him, coiUd not molest him in one of these cities, until his offence was investigated, and the judgment of the congrega- tion passed. If he was not within the provisions of the law, he was delivered to the avenger and slain. The cus- tom oi blood revenge was deep- ly rooted among the Israelites, and continues among the Arabs to this day; and the institution of cities of refuge was wisely designed to. check the violence of human passion. Several sections of the Jewish la whave relation to this subject. For the size and situation of the cities, see Num. xxxv. 4,5. 14; the description of persons, and the manner of killing, in cases which entitled the slayer to protection, Num. xxxv. 15 — 23. Deut. xix. 4— II. For the mode of ascertaining whether the offence was worthy of death, and the consequences of the judgment, see Num. xxxv. 24 — 33; and for the rules to be observed by the mansla^er, in order to avail himself of the benefit of the city of refuge, see Num. xxxv. 25—28. It is doubtful whether the trial of the manslayer was had at the city of refuge, or in the vicinity of the place where the offence occurred. Perhaps there were two processes; one Introduc- tory to the other, as we have a preliminary examination to de- termine if the party accused shall be held to answer for hia 164 CLE offence. This first process might liave been at the city of refuge. The Jewish writers say that, at every cross-road, signs were erected in some conspicuous place, pointing to the cities of refuee, on which was inscribed, "Refuge, Refuge," which, with many other similar provi- sions, were designed to direct and facilitate the flight of the unhappy man who was pur- sued by the avenger of blood. There were other sacred places, as it is supposed, parti- cularly the temple and thealtar of burnt-offerings. (Ex. xxi. 14. SeeBlBLICALANTiaUITIES,VOl. i. ch. ix. § 5 ; and the Refuge, ch. i , both by Am. S. S.Union.) CiTiESWiTH Suburbs. (Josh. xxi. 41, 42.) This expression is explained by reference to Num."xxxv. 1—5. (See Trea- sure-cities, Walls.) CLAUDA. (See (Jrete.) CLAUDIUS LYSIAS. (Acts xxiii. 26.) The chief captain or commander of a band of soldiers, stationed £is a pub- lic guard over the temple. (John xviii. 12. Acts v. 26.) His conduct on the occasion of the uproar in Jerusalem, and his interposition for the protection of Paul, on two oc- casions where his life was in jeopardy, are creditable to his efficiency and humanity. (Acts xxi. xxii. xxiii.) CLAY. (Isa. xlv. 9.) This substance was used by the an- cients as it is by us. It was mixed by treading. (Isa. xli. 25.) It was fashioned by the motion of a wheel or frame, (Jer. xviii. 3,) and was baked or burnt in a kiln. (Jer. xliii. 9. For its figurative uses, see Natural History of the Bible, by Am. S. S. Union, pp. 80-83.) CLEAN and UNCLEAN. (Lev. X. 10.) These words are of frequent occurrence and obvi- ous meaning in the sacred writings ; but it is in their pe- CLE culiar application, by the Jew- ish law, to persons, animals, and things, that they are now to be Gonsidered. In order to partake of the pri- vileges of the Jewish church, and to engage acceptably in its outward worship, the indi- vidual must not only be cir- cumcised, but he must be cere- monially clean ; that is, he must be free from uncleannes* How the various kinds of un cleanness were contracted, what time it continued, and what was the process of purifi- cation, we have particularly described, Lev.xi.— xv. Num. xix.; and a very vivid and in- teresting sketch of the whole ceremony will be found in Biblical Antiquities, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. ii. ch. vii. The division of animals into clean and unclean existed be- fore the flood, (Gen. vii. 2,) and was probably founded upon the practice of animal sacri- fice. Those animals only which divide the hoof and chew the cud were regarded as clean, (Lev. xi. 3, 4 ;) and the same chapter enumerates a variety of beasts, birds, rep- tiles, fishes, and things which are unclean. (See also Ex. xxii. 31 ; xxxiv. 15. 26. Deut, xiv. 21.) What was the design of these distinctions, and how they were abolished, may be learned with sufficient accu- racy from a comparison of Scripture with Scripture. (Lev. XX. 24— 26. Actsx.9— 16; xi. 1 -4. ia-21. Heb.ix.9-14.) It has been observed, that one object of these appointments may have been, to make the Jews suspicious of Gentile cus- toms and entertainments, and so induce them to abstain from all intercourse with them. We find in the New Testamen* that eating with the Gentiles was regarded as a peculiar aggravation of the offence of associating with them. (Matt- 165 ix. 11. Acts xi. 3.) It may be remarked also, that some of the prohibited animals were unwholesome ; and the He- brews were at least taught by these strict regulations habitu- ally to regard their relation to God, and 'the necessity of ab- staining from every thing that should offend his infinite ho- liness, or involve the least appearance of pollution. It is very evident that the Jews would not worship animals that were set apart as un- clean, and still less would they worsliip those they ate; so that, so far as the idol wor- shipof animals was concerned, it was very effectually guarded against. CLEOPAS. (See Alphecs.) CLOAK. (See Clothes.) CLOTH, LINEN. (See Clothes ^ CLOTHES. (Matt. xxiv. 18.) The art of making cloth was known very early. The skins of animals supplied the place of cloth at first ; but we may suppose that spinning and nee- dle-work were so far perfected as to furnish cloth, of a coarse kind at least, at an early peri- od. (Ex. XXXV. 25. Judg. V.30.) The beauty of dress consisted in the fineness and colour of the cloth. (See Colours, Sackcloth.) The Asiatic modes of dress are nearly the same from age M age ; and hence much light is thrown, by modern obser- vation, on the subject of the clothing of the Hebrews. We may suppose their ordinary dress to have consisted of the inner garment, the outer gar- ment, "a girdle, and sandals. One of the oldest and sim- plest garments was a strip of cloth Oinen or cotton) bound around the loins with a string or band, and reaching to the knees. It is the only garment of the Arabs. Such a strip ap- pears as the inner garment of the dress,in the foregoing cut. This is so slight a dress, that those who have no other are said to be naked. (Isa. xx. 2 — 4. John xxi. 7.) In its im- proved state, it was larger and longer, and supplied with sleeves. The coat was some- times woven in a loom, and had no seams. (Ex, xxviii. CI.0 82. John xix. 23.) The phrase 'coats and garments (Acts ix. 39) means inner and outer gar- ments. The woril hosen (Dan. iii. 21) is supposed to designate an under garment, not unlike trous'TS. These were worn by the Persian kings, and are represented in the preceding figure. The inner garment was at first singJp, as above described; Boon a strip of cloth was thrown over the shoulder, and covered the arm. It was sewed at the sides, and extended to the knees. This is now a com- CLO mon dress in Arabia. Nex* came sleeves; first to the el bows, and then to the wrists. This garment would resemble a shirt, except at tlie neck. The sleeves of this garment, among the Arabs, are wide and open, and easily thrown off. To make bare the arm is a lively and beautiful figure, represent- ing the removal of all encum- brances from the most powerful limb of the body, that it may be put forth in its utmost strength. (Isa. Hi. 10.) The following cuts represent the jjarmenta and sleeves just described. Girdles. When the gar- Dients came to be made long and Howing, they were con- fined around the loins with girdles, which not only served to bind them to the body, but also to hold them when lucked up. This increased the grace- fulness of their ajipeafance, and prevented them from in- terfering with labour or motion. Hence, to gird np the loins oecamp a significant figurative exprLtsion, denoting readiness for service, activity,and watch- fulness; and to louse the gir- dle was to give way to repose and indolence. (2 Kings i v. 29. Job xxxviii. 3. Isa. v. 27. Jer. i. 17. Luke xii. 3."). John xxi. 7. Acts xii. 8. 1 Pet. i. 13.) This girdle was a belt or band of cord, cloth, or leather, six inches or more in breadth, with a buckl • affixed to loosen or draw it cluser. Travellera say that eastern girdles of this day are wide enough for a ma«. CLO or covering, and that, when of this widllirihev are plaited in fuldg. Sometimes the girdle was made of linen, (Ezek. xvi. 10,) and was often adorned with CLO rich and beautiful ornaments of metals, precious stones, and embroidery. The forms and plan of the girdle are seen in the following cuts. The girdle was used to carry weapons, (2 Sam. xx. 8,) mo- ney, and other things usuiUy carried in the pocket. The Arabs carry their daggers in it, pointing to the right side; and, through all the east, it is the place for the liandkerchief, smoking materials, and the implements of one's profes- sion. (See Inkhorn.) Tlie word translated purses, (Matt. X. 9,) is in other places trans- lated girdle. The girdle not only protected the body, but braced it with strength and firmness. The girdle is sup- posed by some to have been a chief article or appendage of the armour : hence, to have it continually fastened upon the person is emblematical of great fidelity and vigilance. And because it encircled the body very closely, the perfect ad- herence of the people of God to his service is fieuralively illustrated by the cleaving of the girdle to a man's loina (Jer. >iii. 11.) In the same view, righteousness and faith fulness are called by the pro phet (Isa. xi. 5) the girdle o( the promised Messiah. The outer or 7ipper gar- ment, (Matt, xxi.8,) or cloak; (Malt. V. 40,) was probably square or oblong strip of cloth two or three yards long, an perhaps two yards wide. Such a garment is now worn by the Arabs. It was simply wrapped round tiie body, as a protec tion from the weather; and, when occasion required, it might be thrown over the shoul- der and under the arm, some- what like an Indian blanket, and be fastened v\'iih clasps or buckl3s, two corners being in 108 CLO front, and were called skirts, and were ofien used as aprons sometimes are among us. (Ex. xii.34. 2Kingsiv.39. Lukevi. 38.) The Arabs throw this gar- ment over the left shoufder and under the right arm, and thus cover the whole body, leaving only the right arm ex- posed. This garment was the poor man's bed-clothing. (Ex. xxii. 26, 27. Job xxii. (5 ; xxiv. 7.) This was probably the cloak and the coat or linen garment to which reference is had, (3Ialt. v. 40,) and, in a more ample form, was called a robe, (Luke xxiii. 11.) or a mantle. (2 Kings ii. 8.)' It is supposed that the fringes, with the blue riband, (Num. xv. 33,) were placed on the corners or lx)rders of this garment. (Matt. xxiii. 5.) They are seen still on ancient figures, in the fol- lowing form : In winter, fur dresses, or skins, were worn, as at the present day, in eastern coun- tries. A dress of sheep or goat- skins is perhaps meant in 2 Kiogs i. 8 ; and in Zech. ziii. 15 CLO 4. The common skins of this kind were worn by the jxwrest and meanest people, (Heb. xi. 37;) but the fur dresses were sometimes very costly, and consti luted a part of the royal apparel. The word translated robe (Jon. iii. 6) is supposed to mean a fur garment. The sheeji's clothing (ftlatt. vii. 15) was considered emblematical of innocence ami gentleness, and was the disguise of the false prophets, who were, in truth, fierce and ravenous as wolves, for the blood of souls. The word translated sheets (Judg. xiv. 12, 13) is supposed to denote some kind of garment worn next to the skin, and pro- bably the same which is spoken of, under the general na.mejine linen, in Prov. xxxi. 24. Isa. iii. 23; and Mark xv. 46. (See Sheets.) The linen cloth mentioned Mark xiv. 51, was probably an article of bed-clothing, caught up in haste,and thrown around the body. Some suppose tiiat this young man was following our Saviour, while his professed disciples were fleeing in all di- rections, and that those around him supposed him to be one of his adherents, and so laid hold upon him. If this view is re- jected, the only way of account- ing for the introduction of an in- cident so entirely unconnect- ed, as it seems to be, with the narrative, or at least unessen- tial to it, is to regard it a* illustrative of the confusion and excitement which attend- ed the arrest of our divine Redeemer by the lawless rab- ble. The Arabs use the same garment for a coinplete dress by day, which serves them for a bed and covering by night. (Deut. xxiv. 13.) Such also is the use of the Highlander's plaid. (See Sheets.) The common dress of females was probably as cheap and sim- ple as that of males. A loose CLO flowing outer garment, with a belt or zone upon the waist, and a veil, was probably the Srincipal dress. The veil or ood was considered a token of modesty in unmarried wo- men, (Gen. xxiv. 05,) and of subjection and reverence in those that were married. (I Cor. xi. 3—10.) The upper gar- ment or robe was often made full ; and, when lucked up, the front of it would answer the purpose of a large apron; which IS one meaning of the word translated veil. (Ruth. iii. 15.) The Arabs put their hykes or cloaks to a like use. Handkerchiefs. (Acts xix. 12.) These were common among the Hebrews ; and tra- vellers inform us that the peo- ple of eastern nations at this day carry them in their hands, and that they are often beautir fully wrought with the needle. Aprons, (Gen. iii. 7. Acts xix. 12,) we have no reason to doubt, were, in form and purpose, substantially like those in com- mon use at the present day. Sandals and shoes. (Deut. XXV. 9 Mark vi. 9.) The san- dal was at first a flat piece of wood or leather, suited to the sole of the foot, and bound I CLO are still in common use tn many countries of the east : upon it by straps or strings. The fastening was called a laUhet. (Gen. xiv. 23.) Per- haps the simplest f^ir a of the sandal is seen in the preceding cm, from ancient Egyptian monumems. We subjoin other forms of leather sandals, and such as The common sandal is made of a piece of hide, from the neck of a camel, and some- times of several thicknesses sewed together. It is fastened by two straps, one of which passes between the great and second toe, and the other around the heel and over the instep. Hence it appears that the shoe was easily slipped off, and that it afforded no protec- tion from the dust and dirt. Sandals were never worn in the h>juse, as it was considered a violation of good manners. The taking off the shoes was a mark of reverence shown to exalted persons and sacred places. At the doors of Hindoo pagodas, sandals are collected in great numbers; and the same ceremony is required by the Turks, even of Christians and strangers. The necessi' y of washi ng the feel after every walk is obvi- ous, and it was the first token of hospitality to supjily water for this purpose. (Gen. xxiv. 3-2. Luke vii. 44.) To unlooae the straps or lalcheia was the ^ 170 CLO CLO business of a menial, (Mark i. I of distinction, whom they wish 7,) as was alsc the washing of :-'->- - <- '". _ the feet. (John xiii. 1—16.) The wooden sandal is much worn in Arabia, Judea, and Egypt. It has a raised heel and toe, as represented in tiie following cuts; and, though often expensive and neat, it was usually a cheap, coarse, and very clumsy article. Mitre, (Ex. xxxix. 28,) or bon7iet, (Ex. xxviii. 40,) seems to have been pari of the sacred dress only. The Arab women wear a cap of folded cloth, not unlike the modern turban. Bonnets are mentioned as a part of female dress, (Isa. iii. 20;) but it is not known, at this day, with any certainly, of what material the Jewish bonnets were made, nor the shape or mode of wearing them. Change of raiment or gar- ments. (2 Kings V. 5. 22.) It is customary in the east, at this day, to make presents of gar- ments ; and the Asiatic princes keep changes of raiment ready made, for presents to persons particularly to honour. Tlie simple and uniform shape of the garments make this cus- tom practicable, and accounts also for the change of one per- son's dress for another's, which is mentioned in sacred his- tory. (Gen. xxvii. 15. I Sam. xviii. 4. See also Deul. xxii. 5. Luke XV. 22.) Changeable suits of apparel (Isa. iii. 22) are supposed to have been made of some thin fabric, ornamented wilh em- broidery, and worn over gar- ments of various colours; of which, beautiful representa- tions are to be seen in Indian paintings. Coat}^ many colours. (Gen. xxxvii. 3.) This was regarded as of peculiar value. A travel- ler mentions, that the noble families among the Turks at Haleb clothe their children, when small, in loose coats of fine texture, and woven of va- riegated threads; and speaks of them as very beautiful. Among the appendages to Jewish dress were jewels of gold and silver,bracelets,neck- laces, ear-rings, &c. Nose and ear-rings are"very common in the east. A celebrated travel- ler (Chardin) says he never saw a woman or girl in Arabia or Persia without a ring in the left nostril. The thread (Gen. xiv. 23) is supposed by some to mean the thread on which precious stones were hung for neck-chains. (Ezek. xvi. II.) Bracelets were worn on the arms by both sexes, (2 Sam. i. 10,) and by females upon the leg also. (Isa. iii. 19.20.) Women in Persia and Arabia wear rinss about the ankle, full of little bells. (Isa. iii. 16.) Hand- mirrors, made of molten brass, and finely polished, were also a common accompaniment of female dress, (Ex. xxxviii. 8. Isa. iii. 23,) and were either carried in the hand or sus- , pendcd from the girileorneck* CLO In later times, these mirrors were made of polished steel. All the Grecian and Roman women, without distinction, wore their hair long. On this they lavished all their art, disposing it in various forms, ana embellishing it with many ornaments. In ancient me- dals and statues we see the plaited tresses, interwoven with expensive and fantastic decorations, so pointedly con- demned by the apostle, as proofs of a vain mind, and as inconsistent wiih the modesty and decorum of Christian wo- men. (1 Tim. ii. 9. 10. 1 Pet. iii. 1.3,4. See Phylacteries.) We are told (Deut. viii. 4) that the raiment of the He- brews did not grow old during their journey of forty years ; and some have supposed that it was literally so, and that the clothes of the children were miraculously made to grow with their growth. The better opinion seems to be, that they were so provided with clothes and other necessaries, as to be comfortable and decent, in their external appearance, du- ring all that tedious journey. (See JouRNEYiNGS OF Israel, and Omar, by the Am. S. S. Union, pp. 23—25.) Rending clothes. (See Rend.) CLOSET. (See Dwelling.) CLOUD, pillar of. (Ex. xiii. 21.) "When the people of Israel commenced their march through the wilderness, God caused a cloud, resembling a fiillar, to pass before the camp, n the day-time, it was like a cloud, dark and heavy, and in the night bright and shining, likefire; though some have sup- posed there were two clouds, one to shade, and the other to give light to the camp. It also served as a signal for rest or motion. (Num. ix. 17—23.) CLOUTED. (Josh. ix. 5.) Worn out and patched. CDC CNIDUS. (Actsxxvii.7.) A city of Asia Minor, situated on the point of a peninsula of the same name, and lying north- west of the island of Rhodes. COAT. (See Clothes.) COCK.CSeeCocK-cRowiNG.) C0CKATRICE.(Jer.viii.l7.) A harmless species of lizard. The word in the Scriptures, however, evidently denotes a very venomous reptile. (Isa. xiv. 29.) Some have inferred from Isa. lix. 5, that it was of the viper tribe. Others have supposed the hooded snake is intended, which is known among the Portuguese as the most venomous of serpents. Naturalists tell us that its bite is always incurable, and proves fatal usually within an hour. This serpent is, however, un- known in Judea and the adja- cent countries. In the passage from Jeremiah above cited, al lusion is made to the unyield- ing cruelty of the Chaldean armies under Nebuchadnez zar, who were appointed mi nisters of divine vengeanc/ on the Jewish nation fq their manifold and aggravated sins. COCK-CRO\\aNG. (Mark xiii. 35.) A name given to th* watch of the night, from mid night to daybreak. Some per plexity has been occasioned' by the difference between th» expressions in Matt. xxvi. 34. " before the cock crow, thott shall deny me thrice,^' ana Mark xiv. 30, " before the cock crow ttcice, thoti shall deny me thrice." To reconcile this seeming variance, it is stated that there were two cock- crowings ; one soon after mid- night, and the other about three o'clock ; and that the last, which was the signal of ap- proaching day, was spoken of as the cock-crowing. To this it has been answered, that only one hour elapsed between the denials. (Luke xxii. 59.) This 172 COL ig true of the st^onJ and third ; but there seems to be no au- thority for saying it of the first and second. It seems most natural to suppose^ that the phraseology in both cases was substantially the same, and that the Jews understood, by the piirase, " before the cock crow," the same lime which was denoted by the phrase, '' before the cock crow twice ." both referred to that cocli- crowing which especially and most distinctly marked a watch or division of the night. COCKLE. (Job xxxi. 40.) This word, as we use it, de- notes a common wild plant, usually found in the borders of fields and among grain. The original perhaps refers to some offensive and poisonous weed; but it is not necessary to sup- pose any thing more than a reference to noisome weeds generally. COFFIN. (See Bury.) COHORT. (See War.) COLLEGE. (2 Kings xxii. 14.) Perhaps a place of in- struction in or near the court of the temple, but more proba- bly a range or block of build- ings in its vicinity. COLLOPS. (Job XV. 27.) Thick pieces of flesh. COLONY. (Actsxvi.l2.) A city or province planted or occupied by Roman citizens, as Philippi. COLOSSE. (Col. i. 2.) A city of Phrygia in Asia B'linor, on the river Lycus, (now the Gorduk.) About a year after Paul's epistle was written to the church at this place, it was destroyed by an earth- quake. The former site of Colosse is now occupied by the castle and village of Chonos. COLOSSIANS, EPISTLE TO, was written by Paul, while he was a prisoner at Rome, about A. D. 61-G2. It is probable that Epaphras, wlio is spoken of as the minister of Christ in that 15* COL place, (Col. i. 7,) came to Rome to consult Paul respecting some erroneous opinions that had been preached among the Colossians, (Col. ii. 8—23;) and Paul addressed tins epistle to them for their instruction and admonition. The design and force of this epistle is seen by comparing it carefully with the episile to the Ephesians, which was written nearly at the same time. It is not nnprobable that Paul himself established the cl'.urch at Colosse. (Acts xvi. 6; xviii. 23.) COLOURS. (Gen. xxxvii. 3.) The art of colour ing cloth seems to have attained to great perfec- tion among the J e ws. The ful- lers had a remarkable skill in imparting a splendid white,and this was considered the richest dress. (Esth. viii. 15. Mark ix. 3. Rev. iii. 4, 5.) The royal apparel was usually ot a blue or purple colour, and histo- rians say it was a perfect combination of the gayety of bright red with a sober, .soft- ening shade of olive. The material with which the rich- est kind of this colour was given, is obtained from a shell- fish, and was, it is said, so scarce as to be considered more precious than gold. (Luke xvi. 19.) The term purple was sometimes applied to any bright red colour, (comp. IVlatt. xxvii. 2S, with Mark xv. 17 ;) and indeed it was probably the name of a whole class of dyes. Pliny gives us to understand that there were two kinds of shell-fish which produced this dye, and tliat both were abun- dant on the Phenician and Slediterranean coast, but the excellence of the tint varied exceedingly. The colouring matter was found in a small vein, and the rest of the fish was useless. The most beauti- ful purple was dyed at Tyre. Scarlet or crimsmi was als» used for the royal apparel. 173 CON Lydia is said to have been a seller of purple, (Actsxvi. 14;) which may mean either that she kept the dye for sale, or cloth of that colour. COMFORTER. (John xiv. IG.) This word is used only by John. In four out of the five passages in which it occurs, it IS applied to the Holy fihost, and is peculiarly significant of our want of his office, viz. to Imparl hope and consolation to the true disciples of Christ, by exciting in their minds holy desires and aspirations, and causijig them to trust continu- ally, and without wavering, in his grace and love. In the re- maining passage, (1 John ii. 1,) it is translated advocate, and applied to our Saviour. COMMANDMENTS. (See Law.) j COMMUNION. (1 Cor. x. ! 16.) Intimate fellowship and communication ; sucli as is expressed in John xv. 1 — 7, and xvii. 10. 21—26. Rom. xii. 4, 5. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. IJohn i. 3. As the ordinance of the Lord's supper furnishes both the op- portunity and the motive (John I xiii. 34 ; xv. 12) to this mutual I love and confidence, it is call- ' ed, by v/ay of distinction, the i communion. CONCISION. (Phil. iii. 2.) The Egyptians, Edomiles, and others practised a partial or imperfect circumcision. It was a mere cutting, and not to be | regarded as a seal of the cove- I nant, or as, in any sense, a ' compliance with the law. The apostle denominates persons who do this the concision,— which implies in itself, and from its connexion, thai they degraded themselves, and were 10 'be shunned as false and corrupt. CONCUBINE. (2 Sam. xvi. 22.) By the Jev/ish law, a lawful wife, of a secondary or inferior i^anlt ; and, conse- quently neither regarded nor JON treated as the matron or mis- tress of the house. Concubines were not betrotiied or wedded with the usual solemnities and ceremonies which attended marriage. They had no share in tiie family government, and the children of the wiie were preferred to the child ofthecon- cubine, in the distribution of the inheritance. Where poly- gamy was tolerated, — as it was among the Jews,— the permis sion of concubinage would not seem so much at war with the interests and preservation of society, as we know it to be The gospel restores the sacred institution of marriage to its original character, (Gen. ii. 24. Malt. xix. 5. 1 Cor. vii. 2.) and concubinage is ranked' w iih fornication and adultery. (See Biblical Antiq,uities, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. i. ch. vi. § 1.) CONDEMNATION. (John iii. ly.) This term, in its ordi- nary acceptation, describes the state of a man who is not only adjudged to be guilty, but has had passed on him the sentence of the law. In modern prisons, there is often found a ward or apartment, appropriated to such prisoners as ha\»e received their sentence, and are await- ing its execution; and it is called the condemned ward. The gospel regards all man- kind as offenders against God's law. Their guilt is unquestion- able, and th"e sentence is per- manent and universally the same. TVie soul that sinneth, it shall die. (Ezek. xviii. 20.) There may be pardon or re prieve, under human law in consequence of the imper fection of all human govern ments and laws ; but every thing in the condemnation of the sinner is perfectly just and right ; and injustice would be done, if he were not pun- ished just according to law. If his guilt can be removed,- or cancelled, or taken from 17i «70N hfm, it must be by a process which no finite mind could anticipate or conceive. This Erocess the gospel makes nown to us; and well is it called GOOD tidings of great JOY. (Comp. John iii. 19, and V.24. Rom. V. IG. lS,andviii.l.) The effect of faith in Christ on the believer himself, is to place him in a slate of justification before God. Nothing of this kind can possibly occur under human governments, nor can it be illustrated by any analo- gy. It is the great mystery of codliness. The believer feels Ft, and rejoices and triumphs in it. To him, of course, Christ is Firecious. (IPet. i. 19; ii.4. 7.) t is because of the absence of all resemblance or analogy between the divine dispensV tion, in this case, and human laws and proceedings, that we find the words justify, jiist7yj.ed, and justification, opposed to the terms condemn, condemn- ed, and condemnation. (Ex. xxiii. 7. Deut. xxv. 1. 1 Kings viii.31,32. Prov.xvii. 15. Matt, xii. 37. Kom. ii. 13; iii. 4; v. 17, 18 : viii. 30. 33, 34.) CONDUIT, (Isa. xxxvi. 2,) or aqueduct, of the upper pool in the highway of the fuller's field. (Comp. 2Kings xx. 20. Neh. iii. 16. Isa. vii. 3, and xxii. 9, 11.) We know that the fountain of Siloah, or Gihon, which rises at the foot of CON mount JMoriah, formed two pools, called the uppe? pool, (Isa. vii. 3,) or king's pool, (Neh. ii. 14,) and the lower pool. (Isa. xxii. 9.) One, of these pools is mentioned John ix. 7. The aqueduct, which connected the upper pool with the fountain, or with the lower pool, or with the city, is called the conduit of the upper pool; and, to make Rabshakeh's position still more certain, it is added, that he stood in the highway or street that led to the fuller's field. This was doubtless an enclosure in the vicinity of the soft water of the Gihon, appropriated to the drying and bleaching of clothes. (See Siloam.) CONEY. (Deut.xiv.7.) Pro- bably the animal now known as the ashkoko. Instead of holes, these animals seem to delight in the clefts of the rock. They are gregarious; and frequently several" dozens of them sit upon the great stones at the mouths of caves, and warm themselves in the sun, or come out and enjoy the freshness of the evening. They do not stand upright upon their feet, but seem to steal along as in fear, their belly bei ng close to the ground ; advancing a few steps at a time, and'then pausing. They have something very milu, feeble-like, and^mid in their CON deportment; are gentle, and easily tamed. The celebrated traveller Bruce says : '' The coney is above all other annrials so much attached to the rocks, 'hat I never once saw him on the ground, or from amons large siones in the mouth of caves, where is his constant residence. He lives in families or flocks. He is found inJudea, Palestine, and Arabia, and cou- sei^uently must have been fa- miliar to Solomon. David de- scribes him very i>ertinently, and joins him toother animals perfectly known: 'the hills are a refuge for wild goats, and the rocks for the supkan.' And Solomon says, ' that they are exceeding wise,' that they are ' but a feeble folk, yet make their houses in the rocks.' Now this, I think, very obviously fixes the coney to be ike animal; for this weakness seems to allude to his feet, and how inadequate these are to dig holes in the rock, where yet, liowever, he lodges. From their tenderness, these are very liable to be excoriated or hurl ; notwithstanding which, they build houses in the rocks, more inaccessible than those of the rabbit, and in which they enjoy greater safety ; not by exertion of strength,— for they have it not,— but by their own Bagtaciiy and imlgment." CONIAH. (See Jehoiachin.) CONSCIENCE (Acts xxiv. 16) is that within us which judges of the moral character of our actions, and approves or censures, condemns or justi- fies us accordindy. (Rom. ii. 15.) This universal tribunal is established in the breast of every Juan. It may be weak- ened, perverted, stupified, de- filed, and hardened, in various ways; and its decisions are more or less clear, j-ust, and imperative, according to the degree of improvement in the CON understanding and heart, and especially according to the degree in which its purity and sensitiveness have been pre- served and cultivated. (John viii. 9. Acts xxiii. 1 ; xxiv. 16. Rom. ix. 1, and I Tim. i. 5.) CONSECRATE, CONSE- CRATION. (Ex. xxxii. 29. Lev. vii. 37.) The tribe of Levi was consecrated to the priesthood with the most so- lemn and imposing ceremo- nies. (See Biblical Antiq.ui- TIES, vol. ii. ch. iv. § 1, by Am. S. S. Union.) Vessels, (Josh. vi. 19,) profits, (Mic. iv. 13,) fields, (Lev. xxvii. 28,) cattle, (2 Chron. xxix. 3-3,) individu- als, (Num. vi. 9—13. 1 Sam. i. 11. 28,) and nations (Ex. xix. 6) were anciently consecrated or set apart to sacred purposes. (See Priest.) CONVERSION, (Acts xv. 3,) or turning from one slate, pursuit, inclination, or direc- tion, to another. In the gospel use of the term, and apart from technical theology, it denotes that change in the dispositions, thoughts, desires, and objects of affection, which takes place in the heart of the sinner, when the Holy Spirit convinces him of his sinful ness, and leads him, by His sacred influences, to hate sin, and to forsake every evil and false way, and, at the same time, persuades him to yield to the claims which God his Saviour justly and graciously makes to his lieart and life. The same thine is signified by the term new birth, or regene ration. The Scriptures de scribe mankind as alienated from God ; as having the understanding darkened and blinded, and as being dead in trespasses and sins. Hence the corresponding force and pertinency of the terms by which the change is described ; such as created, renewed, (Eph. iv. 23, 24,) restored ta 176 COR eight, (Eph. i. 18. Rev. iii. 18,) and raised from the dead. (John V. 21. 24, and Eph. ii. 1.) COOS. (Acts xxi. 1.) The name of a small island and city of Greece, twenty-five miles long and ten broad. It lies near the south-west point of Asia Minor, and about forty miles north- west of Rhodes. It was formerly noted for its fer- tiliiy, and for its wines and Bilk- worms, as well as for being the birth-place of two eminent men, Apelles and Hippocrates. It is now called Stanchio, and is still famous for lemons and maples. COPING. (1 Kings vii. 9.) The top course or finish of a wall. It is usually of flat o: semi-circular bricks or hewn Btone, projecting beyond the face of the wall, and forming an ornament similar in effect to the capital of a column. COPPER. (Ezra viii. 27.) A well known metal, but not now (as it was once) precious as gold. The word translated comer in this passage is else- where rendered brass; and coppersmith (2 Tim. iv. 14) signifies a worker in brass. Perhaps the same name was given to both substances. (See Srass.) COR. (See Measures.) CORAL (Ezek. xxvii. 16) was an article of Tyrian merchandise, and is well known as a marine production, found in almost every variety of shape and size, and some- times increasing to such an extent as to form the basis of islands, or to stretch out in dangerous reefs for many miles. It is capable of being worked up into beads, and other orna- ments ; for which use the red species is the most valuable. Job mentions it in connexion with pearls. (Job xxviii. 18.) CORE AN (Mark vii. 11) signifies a gift or thing conse- crated to God or his service. COR It seems the Jews permitted such an abuse to be made of this ceremony of consecration, that a child was permitted te deny the request of his parents, or withhold assistance from them in their distress, merely on the pretence that what they asked or needed was conse- crated to God. It would seem they sometimes exempted their whole substance from any con- tribution to the support of their parents; and said, concerning any thing and every thing that could assist them, it is corban, or devoted to God. CORDS. (See Ropes.) CORIANDER SEED. (Ex. xvi.31.) The coriander plant is a native of China and the south of Europe, but natu- ralized in England and the United Slates. The seeds are globular, and, when dry, are pleasant to the taste and smell, and are often sold by confectioners incrusted with sugar. We are told that the particles of manna were shaped like coriander seed. CORINTH. (Acts xviii. 1.) A renowned and voluptuous city of Greece, about twenty- five miles west of Athens, in which Paul resided a year and a half, and where he founded the church to which he after- wards addressed two of his epistles. (See Life of Paul, by Am. S. S. Union, ch. xi.) Situated on the isthmus that separates the Egean from the Ionian sea, and possessing singular advantages for com- merce, as it was a mart for the exchange of Asiatic and Italian goods, it became cele- brated for its wealth and magnificence, as well as the learning and ingenuity of its inhabitants. Profane histori- ans speak of it as the light and ornament of all, Greece. It was not less remarkable, however, for its corruption and 177 COR licentiousness. Indeed, so pro- verbially Droflisfate did the city become, that tiie very name of Corinthian, applied to a fe- male, was infamous. This was its corrupt state when Paul arrived there, not far from a. d. 52, as a Christian missionary. (SeeMAP,p.488-9.) A traveller, who visited Co- rinth in 1821, says it had hardly any occupants except soldiers ; and that, though a few ruins remain to attest the ancient magnificence of the city, they are rapidly disappearing. The fragments of capitals and co- lumns are employed to build the houses of the Turks ; and the wrought side of the richest specimens of architecture are found turned inwards ! The story that Corinthian brass originated here, from the ac- cidental fusion of different metals, when the city was taken and destroyed by fire, is fabulous. The composition so called was known long before that event. CORINTHIANS, epistles TO. These were both written by Paul. The first was proba- bly written at Ephesus, (com p. 1 Cor. xvi. 19. Acts xviii. 18. 26. 1 Cor. xvi. 8, 9. Acts xix. 20. 26,) in the beginning of a. d. 57, or about four years after the church was organized. During that interval, it would seem that some false teacher had appeared among them, and had succeeded in exciting Strong prejudices against the apostle. To vindicate his own ministerial character and of- fice from the aspersions and calumnies that were heaped upon him by his opposers, to answer some inquiries they had put to him, (1 Cor. vii. 1,) and to furn'sh them with rules of conduct adapted to their peculiar circumstances, temp- tations, and faults, (1 Cor. i. 10 —31,) seem to have been the irjain design of this first letter. COR It contains also the most per- ff'Ct and triumphant argument for the doctrine of the resur- rection. The .$e:iond epistle, written probably from Macedonia, less than a year after the first, seems designed to continue the good influence which the for- mer letter had exerted, and to furnish grounds of comfort and confide'nce to the steadfast believers. CORMORANT (Lev. xl. 17) was of the unclean class of birds; and its presence is used in the prophetic writings as an emblem oiruin and desolation, (Isa. xxxiv. 11. Zeph. ii. 14,) though the original word in these passages is elsewhere translated pelican. CORN. (Mark iv. 28.) This word, in the United States, is generally applied to maize, or Indian corn, but the Scriptures use it as the general name for all sorts of grain. A corn of wheat is a kernel of wheat. The figurative use of the word corn, usually in connexion with wine and oil, is very fre- quent; as grain, and wine, and olives were the leading pro- ductions of the country. (Deut. xi. 14; xviii. 4; xxviii. 51. 2 Chron. xxxii. 28. Hos. ii. 22, Joel ii. 19.) It is probable that grain wag commonly used in its crude state in the early ages of the world. It was sometimes done in later times, (Matt. xii. 1 ;) and even now it is no uncom- mon thing, in passing a field of wheat, to pluck an ear, and after rubbmg the husk or beard off, by rolling it be- tween the hands, to eat the grain, which, even in that state, is very palatable. The Jewish law permitted standing corn to be plucked by any one passing through it, (Deut. xxiii. 25 ;) and this custom, or right, is still respected in some parts of the east, '^ee Mills.) 178 COR (CORNELIUS. (Acisx. 1-3.) A Roman officer residing at Cesarea. He was a Gentile l.iy birih, and, though the higliesl character is given of him as a religious man, he was regarded fay the Jews ae an unclean gerson. (Acts x. 28, 29 ; xi. 3.) [is prayers, being offered in the faith of a promised Mes- siah, were heard ; and God was pleased to send Peter to make known to him the plan of salvation through a crucified and risen Redeemer. Thus the dour of faith was opened to the Gentiles; Cornelius and his family became converts to the Christian religion, and were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. CORNER. (2Chron. xxviii. 24.) The corner of the house- top (Prov. xxi. 9) is a narrow place exposed to sun and rain, contrasted with the wide room or house below. The " corners ofMoab," or any other country, (Num. xxiv. 17. Jer. xlviii. 45,) mean its capital, cities, &c., or the strength and substance of the country. Corner of a bed, (Amos iii. 12,) the corner of a room, was on the elevated part, (used by night for a bed, or couch,) and contained the most honourable seat. (See Bed.) In the passage last cited it figuratively denotes the most proud and luxurious of the Israelites in Samaria. In Zech. X. 4, the word cornc- is used to denote either the corner-stone or the most conspicuous part f a building, and evidently refers to Christ, (Matt. xxi. 42,) where he is mentioned as the head {or chief) of the comer, though the Jews, in erecting the temple of their faith, re- jectMl him as unfit for so imi^ortant a place. If God is true, ihey must find their ^xr\r sooner tir later; for other foun- dation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ (I Cor. iii. U. See COU alsolsa. xxviii. 10.) The wori corners is figuratively employ- ed t«) denote the whole length and breadth of a country, (Ezek. vii. 2,) or the world. (Isa. xi. 12 Rev. vii. 1.) C0KNER-.«T0NE. (JobxXXVJii. 6.) Christ is called a comer- stone, (1.) In reference to his being tlie foundation of the Christian faith, (Eph. ii.20;) (2.) In reference to the import- ance and conspicuousness of the place he occupies, (1 Pel. ii. 6;) and, (3.) As a projecting conier-stwie is likely to be stumbled aerainst, so it is not surfirising t)iat the doctrine of Christ and him crucified would prove an offence and a stone of stumbling to unbelievers, a8 it ever has been. (Com p. Isa. viii. 14. Matt. xxi. 44. Rom. ix. 32, 33. I Cor. i. 23. 1 Pet. ii. 8.) CORNET. (1 Chron. xv. 28.) An instrument of music about , eighteen inches long, shaped like the flute; used by the priests, and giving a loud, smooth sound. CORRUPTION, MOUNT of. (See Olives, MOtXNT of.) COTTAGE. (Isa. xxiv. 20.) The same with tent. COUCH. (See Bed.) COUNCIL (Matt. x. 17) de- notes a judicial tribunal, and generally the Sanhedrim. It is supposed by some to be the same tribunal which was in- stituted under Moses. (Num. xi. 16) This is the opinion of the Jews. It is evident that this tribunal existed in the time of our Saviour, as it is expressly named. (Mark xiii. 9; xiv. 55; xv. 1.) It was be- fore this tribunal that our di- vine Saviour w;ta arraigned. The inferior tribunals were very numerous, and variously constituted. (See Omar, by Am. S. S. Union, p. HI.) COUNSEl,LOK.(Lukexxiii. 50.) An officer connected with the royal camp of the Jews, 17^ GOV supposed to be referred to in 1 Kin?s xii. 6—12. COURSE. (See Abia.) COURT. (See Temple, Dwellings.) COVENANT (Gen. jx. 12) usually means an agreement or mutual obligation, contract- ed deliberately, and with so- lenmity. The scriptural sense is peculiar. God's covenant with men signifies his solemn romise or engagement. (Gen. vii. 14. Ex. xxxiv. 10. Deut. v. 13. Isa. lix. 21.) It also denotes the established order and constitution of nature, (Jer. xxxiii. 20;) and, again, a pre- cept. (Jer. xxxiv. 13.) It is remarked, that where the par- ties are equal,— so that either may accept or reject the pro- posal of the other,— the word used denotes a proposition ; but where the party proposing is greatly exalted above the other, the term used signifies appointment, or institution ; whereby the proposer pledges himself, but the other party is neither entitled to the privi- leges nor benefits of the obli- gator, until he accepts. The Hebrew word for mak- ing a covenant signifies cuttijig off, because covenants were often made by cutting off or slaying sacrifices. (Gen. xv. 9—19. Jer. xxxiv. 18.) The term the covenants (Rom. ix. 4) refers to the va- rious promises made to Abra- ham. (See Abraham.) The chief and most important use of the word, however, is in relation to the two great dis- Eensations under which men ave lived, and which are distinguished as the old and new dispensation, or covenant. (Heb. v)ii. 8.) The former was made with the children of Is- rael, and rested much in the outward ceremonies and ob- serv-ances which the law by Moses enjoined, (meats and drinks, and divers washings COW and carnal ordinances;) by strict obedience to which., with full faith in the promises and declarations of Jehovah, they became interested in the bless- ings of that new and better covenant which was thereafter to be revealed, (Gal. iii.,) and which, by way of distinction, is called the new or second covenant. (Heb. viii. 7. 13. Comp. Ex. XX.— xxiv. with Heb. viii.) The sign of the covenant was its seal or memorial. Thus the rainbow was a sign or memorial of God's covenalit with Noah, respecting a second deluge. So of the Sabbath, (Ex. xxxi. 16, 17,) and circum- cision. (Gen. xvii. 11.) The new covenant, of which Christ is the IMediator, was confirmed or sealed by his own blood, and secures to every true believer the bless- ings of salvation and eternal life. Covenant of Salt. (Num. xviii. 19. 2 Chron. xiii. 5.) This term is supposed to de- note a covenant, in the sealing or ratification of which salt was used. (Lev. ii. 13. See Salt.) CO^^T, (Ex. XX. 17,) CO- VETOUSNESS, (Ex. xviii. 21. Luke xii. 15.) To covet is to desire strongly. (I Cor. xii. 31.) When such a desire is felt for that which we cannot law- fully possess, it is sinful, and becomes C(n-etousness, which is idolatry, (Col. iii. 2;) for it is placing the heart and affec- \ tions on the creature rather ; than on the Creator. Covet- ousness has relation commonly to riches, and, in the scriptu- ral sense, includes the desire of accumulating, whatever ' may be the means. (Prov. xxviii. 16. Eccl. v. 10. Luke xii. 15-34. 1 Tim. vi. 9, 10.) ' COW. (Isa. vii. 21.) In this ] remarkable prophecy, the ; event foretold is, thai the face 180 CRE of the land of Judah should be 80 completely changed, and the iahabitanis so greatly re- duced in number, that, with only a single young cow, and two sheep, a family should be supplied with an abundance of mills; and butter; and vine- yards, which before command- ed a high rem, should be over- grown with briers and thorns. By the Levitical law, (Lev. xxii. 28,) a cow and her calf were not to be killed on the same daj^. A similar precept is found in Ex. xxiii. 19 ; and another in Deut. xxii. 6, 7. Whether they were designed to prevent inhumanity, or re- ferred to some heathen custom, is uncertain. The cow is es- teemed holy by the Hindoos. CRACKNELS. (1 Kings xiv. 3.) A kind of thin hard bread, not unlike the crackers or sea-biscuit of modern days, spread, as some say, with aro- matic seed. CRANE. (Jer. viii. 7.) A large bird of passage, measur- ing three or four feet in height, and living on worms and in- sects, or (if these cannot be had) on grain. Its cry is hoarse and melancholy; hence the allusion, Isa. xxxviii. 14. The regular return of this and other birds from their annual migrations, discovered a re- gard to their instinctive know- ledge which, in the passage of Jeremiah, is used to repro'e the ignorance and wayward- ness of God's people, in not regarding the judgments of his hand. (For illuslralive cut, see Bible Natural History, by Am. S. S. Union, art. Crane.) CREATE, (Ps. li. 10,> CRE- ATOR,' (Eccl. xii. 1,> CREA- TION. (Mark x. 6.) The word creation sometimes denotes all living things, (Rom. viii. 22,) and at others the great era or event of the creation. (2 Pet. iii. 4.) To create is t? cause asxj thing to exist that never 16 CRE existed in any form or manner before. (Gen. i. 1. Col. i. 16.) It is to make, without materials to make of Thus, God said, Let there he light, and there was light. (Gen. i. 3.) And with respect to the na- ture and duration of those six days, so particularly defined in the record, which it pleased the Creator, for an obviously wise and beneficent end, to occupy in this incomprehensi- ble work of creation, we can have no reasonable doubt that they were such days as are now, and ever have been, occasioned by one revolution of the earth on its axis; be- cause a perfect creation may be as easily the work of one day, or of one moment, as of thousands of years; and be- cause that record, on the evi- dence of which our confidence rests, on the subject of the creation, has distinctly defined each of these days by its even- ning and its morning; which terms, so often repealed, can be in no way applicable to any indefinite' periods. CRETE, (Acts xxvii. 7,) (CRETIANS, Tit. i. 12,) now called Candia, Kirid, or Kriti, is an island of the Mediterra- nean, one hundred and seventy miles long and fifty broad; po- pulation 250,000, about equal numbers of Greeks and Turks. j Constantinople lies five or six hundred miles north-east of it, and Syria six or seven hundred miles east. It was formerly a rich and powerfu kingdom, and is still remark able for its delightful climate and fertile soil. Oil, corn, fruit trees, and vines are among its principal [)roductions. The city of Candia, which is also the fort and capital of the island, lies on the northern coast. A Christian mission is already established there. Crete was settled, as it is generally suppoa«d, by Pbilis* 131 CRI tines from Egypt, part of whom j afterwards passed over to Pa- lestine, and are called Caph- torim, (Gen. x. 14,) Chere- tkinis, (Ezek. xxv. 16,) and Cherethites. (1 Sam. xxx. 14. Zeph. ii.5.) Some suppose that Crete itself is the Caphtor of the Scriptures. (Jer. xlvli. 4.) Salnioiie (Acts xxvii. 7) was a cape on the eastern ex- tremity of the island ; the Fair Havens (Acts xxvii. 8) was the name of a harbour, roads, or anchorage, near Lasea, on the southern shore. The apostle, sailing from the last named ?ilace to Phenice, (Acts xxvii. 2,) on the western coast, was driven under an island called Clauda, (Acts xxvii. 16^ (now Gozzo. See Map to art. Paul.) Probably Paul visited this island after his first imprison- ment at Rome, and establish- ed a Christian church there, which he left under the over- sight of Titus. (Tit. i. 5.) The Cretans were once noted for vicious habits. This charac- ter was given them by many profane historians ; and among them was one of their own na- tion, who was also a prophet or poet, (which terms were sy- nonymous among the Romans,) and who says they were liars, evil beasts, that is, brutal ana ferocious as wild beasts, and tloto bellies, or addicted to Toluptuousness and gluttony, as in Phil. iii. 19. (See Life OP Paul, ch. xviii., by Am. S. S. Uniim, and map prefixed to that volume.) CRIMSON. (Jer. iv.30.) A beautiful variety or shade of red. Stuffs for the drapery of Solomon's temple were em- broidered in this colour. (2 Chron. ii. 14 ; iii. 14.) Crimson is a deeper dye than scarlet ; and hence the force of the figure in Isa. i. 18, where the most free and perfect forgive- ness is offered to guilt of the deepest dye. CRO CRISPUS (Acts xviii. 8) wag an officer of the Jewish syua gogue at Corinth. He and his family were converted under Paul's preaching, and he re- ceived the ordinance of bap- tism at the apostle's hands (1 Cor. i. 14.) CROSS, CRUCIFY. (Matt. xxiii.34; xxvii. 32.) Crucifix- ion is a mode of execution of great antiquity, and still pre- vails amon^ the Hindoos and Chinese. It was regarded by the Romans as the basest and most ignominious death, de- served only by traitors. (Luke xxiii. 2.) It was an accursed death. (Deut. xxi.23. Gal.iii. 13.) Hence the force of the expressions, I Cor. i. 23. Phi), ii. 8. Heb. xii. 2. As soon as the sentence was pronounced, " Thou shalt be crucijied," the person was stripped entirely naked, (or leaving at most a narrow strip around the loins,) and fastened to a post about as high as the waist, and was then terribly scourged with rods or whips made of leather strips, (Isa. liii. 5,) armed with small bits of lead or bone; and often so severely as to occasion death. After the scourging, the person was compelled to bear his own cross to the place of execution. This was usually an elevated place with- out the city, and near the high. way. The simplest form of the cross was the following: .^^ 18S CRO CRO Other forms of the cross, and modes of execution, as seen above, illustrate the nature of the punishment. The cross was fixed into the earth, and was so high (say ten to fifteen feet) that the feet of the sufferer were usually about four feet from the ground. The transverse piece was usu- ally seven or eight feet in length. In or near the middle of the upright post there was a projection, to which he was raised by cords; and, being previously divested ofhis cloth- ing, he was first bound to the cross-beam, and then nailed by his hands, with strong iron spikes, to its extremities. There is conclusive evidence, from profane history, that the hands and feet were pierced in this way, and that it was peculiar to the punishment of crucifixion ; but whether the feet were nailed separately, or whether a sinsle nail transfix- ed them both ,1s doubtful. In order to lessen the pain, it was customary to give the Bufferer wine medicated with myrrh, &c. Our Redeemer re- jected this draught, (Mark xv. 23,) choosing,pr6bably,to suffer U) the full e:cteut the pains of that painful death. Vinegar, too, was a refreshing and sus- taining drink of the Italian soldiery; and this also was offered to him. (Malt, xxvii. 48.) The criminal was fasten- ed to the cross by four soldiers appointed for the purpose, whc were allowed the apparel of the sufferer as the perquisite of their office. (Matt, xxvii. 35.) Hence the passage, Ps. xxii. 18, was prophetic of the mode of death to be endured by Christ. Over the cross was commonly placed a writing or superscrip- tion, indicating the otTence for which the individual was put to death. It was called by the Romans titulus, or the title. (John xix. 19, 20.) Among the Romans, the pri- soner remained upon the cross often till his body fell to the earth by its own weight: but in the province of Judea, the Jews were permitted, in obe- dience to the precept of their law, (Deut. xxi. 22, 2:3^ to ter- minate the sufferings of the malefactor before sundown. This was effected in various ways: sometimes by setting fire to the foot of the cross; and, at others, by breaking 183 CRO :he limbs with a hammer, or piercing the body with a lance. (John XIX. 31—37.) It is to be observed, that the agonies of this death were so extreme tliat it was regarded as the utmost torment. Cicero him- self says : " The executioner, the covering of the head, the very name of the cross, should be removed afar, not only from the body, but from the thoughts, the eyes, the ears, of Roman citizens; for of all these things, not only the actual occurrence and endurance, but the very contingency and expectation, nay, the mention itsell, is unworthy of a Roman citizen and a free man." Even the judges denominated it ' the ut- most torment, the extremest punishment.^ The extension of the limbs, just after so severe a scourging, and the impossibility of n«ik- ing the slightest change or motion without occasioning suffering rather than relieving it ; the piercing of the hands and feet, in the parts most susceptible of acute and ago- nizing pain; the exposure of the wounded and lacerated flesh to the action of the sun and air hour after hour; the loss of blood, and the sense of indignity and contempt, which, in our Saviour's case, was the most bitter, malicious, and un- sparing that can be conceived : all conspired to make, to the very last degree, a death of pain. Often the strength of the malefactor lingered for three days, and even longer. Hence the surprise of Pilate, (Mark xv. 44.) The cross is often used figu- ratively for those reproaches, self-denials, and sacrifices which the ti-ue followers of Christ must be expected to endure, if they faithfully main- taia their profession. (Matt. xvi. 24.) CROWN. (2 Kings xh 12.) CRO Anciently the crown or dia dem was only a head band (Ezek. xvi. 12,) or a riband oi fillet, made of silk or linen^ suraiunding the head, and probably connected behind. (Ex. xxviii. 3G, 37; xxix. 6.) We find it represented on ancient medals. Newly mar- ried persons of both sexes wore crowns, (Ccmp.Sol.Songiii.il, wilhEzek.xvi.l2.) It was usu- ally a badge of royal tyor prince- ly distinction. It was sometimes of pure pold, and was worn by kings, (2Chron.xxiii. 11. Matt. xxv1i. 29,) and sometimes in battle. (2 Sam. i. 10; xii. 30) The weight, in the last pas- sage, denotes the value, and not the gravity of the crown. Afterwards the shape and size v/ere changed, and costly or- naments appended to it. (2 Sam. xii. 30.) It was worn by queens. (Esth. ii. 17.) It was customary for a king to wear as many crowns as he had kingdoms. (Rev. xix. 12.) The word is figuratively used by the sacred writers to denote honour, (Prov. xii. 4,) prosperi- ty, (Lam. V. 16,) eternal life and blessedness. (1 Pet. v. 4.) The inscription on the crown of the higli-priest (Ex. xxxix. 30) was significant of his sa- cred office and functions. Such inscriptions have some times been placed on the crowns of princes and heroes, to indicate some splendid ac- tion or service. In Rev. xvii. 5, allusion seems to be made m CRU lo the crown of the Jewish high-priest, whose raiment is described fts having the colours and ornaments of the sacred vestments. It is said that the word mysterium (mystery) was formerly engraven on the papal crown, and was erased in the time of Julius III. CRUCIFY. (See Cross.) CRUSE. (1 Kin-s xvii. 12.) A small vessel for liquids, used by the Jews. The following are given as representations of vessels now used for like purposes in the east : No. 1 represents a kind of flaskj common at the present day in the east; and which, on journeys, is covered with a wicker case, as in 2. Fi!];ure 3 js also a travelling cruse or flask ; and others are also found in the east of the form 4. Figures 2 and 3 represent the vessels which they take when on pilgrimages and other long •ourneys. 16* cue CRYSTAL. (Ezek. i. 22.) The Scriptures use this term to denote what is now known as rock crystal, — one of the most beautiful of precious stones, — perfectly transparent, and resembling the purest glass. It is ranked with gold in value, (Job xxviii. 17,) and its transparency is alluded to in Rev. iv. 6; xxi. 11 ; xxii. 1. In the passage in Ezekiel, first above cited, reference may be had to the peculiar dazzling etfect of light reflected from the surface of crystal. The same wcrd, w'hich is translated crystal in some passages, is translated/ros?, (Gen. xxxi. 40. Jobxxxvii. 10. Jen xxxvi. 30;) and ice, (Job vi. 16; xxxviii. 29. Ps. cxlvii. 17.) CUBIT. (See Measures.) CUCKOO. (Lev. xi. 16.) There is some uncertainty whether the bird known to us by this name was the unclean bird mentioned in this verse. The prevailing opinion is, that it was what we call the sea- mew, or gull. CUCUMBER. (Num.xi.5.) A garden vegetable well known in this count, . Cu- cumbers, melons, and onions are now among the leading productions of Egypt ; i nd the first is found in many va rieties, some of which are hig.ily va- lued for their medicinal pro- perties : and others art! much larger and more palatable, re- freshing, and wholeso0;e, as a melon, than the same fruit is among us. These plants grow in the open country ; and, to protect the fruit from thieves and beasts, a mound is erected in a central place, overlooking the plantation ; with a small hut for shelter of the guard. For two or three months, this poor watchman fulfils his painful trust, through storms and tem pests: and we find in Isa. i. 8, a striking allusion to this cus- 185 torn. CUP The prophet likens the city of Jerusalem, figuratively called the daughter of Zion, (see ZiON,) standing alone, in the midst of desolation, and itself soon to yield to its ene- mies, to a cottage or temporary shed, in which the person was sheltered who guarded a vine- yard when the grapes were ripening ; or the same kind of structure put up for the same purpose in a field of cucum- cers. As soon as the fruits were gathered, these booths or 'lodges" were abandoned. In like manner, the great capital stood for a momentary purpose, out soon, like them, was to be destroyed and removed. This prophecy was fulfilled in the various calamities of Jerusa- lem, especially when the Jews were taken captive to Baby- lon. (2 Chron. xxxvi. 19.) A similar illustration is employed inJobxxvii. 18. (See Youth's CUP Friend, vol. v., also same work for April, 1836, by Am. S. S. Union, for illustrative remarks and cuts. See Garden.) CUMMIN. (Matt, xxiii. 2.3.) An herb abounding in Syria, which produces aromati c seeds. In Isa. xxviii.25. 27, reference is made to the manner of sow ing and threshing it. The same method is observed in Malta at this day. It was one of the things of less consequence which the Pharisees strictly tithed. (See Mint.) CUP. (1 Kings vii. 26.) The horns of animals were ancient- ly used by some nations aa drinking vessels; but the Jews had cups and goblets at a very early period, (Gen. xliv. 2j) though they used horns for anointing oil. (1 Sam. xvi. 13.) Some of their cups were highly ornamented, (1 Kings vii. 26,) and in shape were probably not unlike the following, which art copied from figures in ancient I cording to the owner's wealth, ruins. Cups of this kind, made are in use in Persia at this oi gold, silver, copper, &c., ac- | day. 186 CUR CUR The simplest forms of these I and cuts under it.) The figti- Tassels may be inferred from | rative use of this word in the ihe following cuts. (See Cruse, | Scriptures is frequent. Gene- rally, however, it represents the blessings or the judgments of Heaven, or the allotments of God's providence. (Ps. xxili. 5; Ixxv. 8; cxvi. 13. Isa. li. 17—22. Comp. Jer. xxv. 15, and li. 7, with Rev. xiv. 10, and xvi. 19.) The sufferings of our Saviour are also repre- sented by a similar figure. (Matt. XX. 22, and xxvi. 39.) CUP-BEARER. (See But- LER.) CUP OF BLESSING. (See Blessing.) CURSE. (Gen. xxvii. 12.) In the scriptural use it is the opposite of bless. To curse is to imprecate evil upon any one. (Gen. ix. 25. Comp. Gen. xxvii. 12. Neh. xiii. 2. Matt. V. 44. John vii. 49. James iii. 9.) The curses which are recorded in the Bible as be- ing pronounced by Noah, Mo- ses, Josiiua. and others, are not to be regarded as the effects of passion or revenge. Tiiey were either pronounced under the immediate influ- ence of God's Spirit, or are to be viewed as only predictions of evil, uttered in the form of imprecation. The words curse and cursed are the opposite of bless and blessed, and are often so con- trasted. (Deut. xxviii. See Bless.) The curse of the ground, and of the serpent, (Gen. iii. 14. 17,) is to be re- garded cis the doom or judg- ment of God upon them. The curse of the law is the sentence of condemnation which it pronounces on the transgressor, (Gal. iii. 10,) and from which Christ redeems us by being made a curse for us. (Gal. iii. 13. Comp. Rom. viii. 1, and Gal. iii. 13, with Rom. v. 16, and 2 Cor. iii. 7—9.) To curse, in an evil or blas- phemous sense, is to affirm or 187 CYP deny any thing with thought- less or rash imprecations of divine vengeance. (Mati.xxvi. 74.) GUSH. (Gen. x. 6-^S.) 1. (A person.) The eldest son of Ham, and father of Nimrod. 2. (A place.) It is believed •there are three distinct coun- tries mentioned in the Bible under this name : one of them was probably the same with Midian. (Comp. Ex. ii. 16. 21. Num. xii. 1.) Cuth, or Cutha, 2 Kings xvii. 24. 30,) was evi- dently, from the connexion, a province of Assyria; and Gush is the marginal reading for Ethiopia, in Gen. ii. 13. Hab. iii. 7, and elsewhere. (See Ethiopia.) GUSHAN. (See Ethiopia.) CYMBALS. (IGhron. xvi. 5.) There is an instrument of music now common in the east, which consists of metallic plates about the size of a dollar, two of which are held in each hand, one upon the thumb, and the other upon the middle finger, and, being struck toge- ther skilfully, make an agree- able sound. Some have de- scribed the cymbals as two broad convex plates of brass, the concussion of which pro- duced a shrill piercing sound, like clattering, rather than tinkling. (1 Cor. xiii. i.) The follow, ng are given as the figures of the ancient cym- bals; but, in some respects, they are unlike both the above descriptions. CYPRESS. (Isa. xliv. 14.) A tall evergreen, the wood of GYll which is heavy, aromatic, and remarkably durable. Its foliage is dark and gloomy, and its form close and pyramidal. Gof. fins were made of it in the east, and the mummy-cases of Egypt are found at ih'is day of the cy- press-wood. The timber has been known to suffer no decay by the lapse of eleven hu'ndred years. It was used and culti- vated for idol timber, though some have thought that a spe- cies of oak was intended in the passase from Isaiah. CYPRUS. (Acts iv. 36.) A large, fertile, and salubrious island of the Mediterranean, It is of a triangular form, two hundred miles long, and sixty in its greatest breadth. Population 120,000, of whom 40,000 are Greeks. Some sup- pose it to be the same with Chittim. (Num. xxiv. 24. Dan. xi. 30. See Chittim.) The chiefproductions of Cyprus are, as formerly, wines, oil, honey, and wool. It is a famous place in mythological history, and was distinguished for the li- centiousness of its inhabitants. Salamis (Acts xiii. 5) was the principal city, and was situated on the eastern coast, and Paphos (Acts xiii. 6) was another large town on the op- posite extremity of the island which is new called PaphoSj or Baffa. In Paphos, and its vici- nity, 25,000 Greeks were mas- sacred in the late revolution; and it is said that, upon the whole island, not less than seventy-four villages, contain- ing 18,000 Christians, were de- stroyed by the Turks. Several interesting incidents of apos- tolic histol-y occurred on this island. (See Life of Paul, ch. iv., by Am. S. S. Union.) GYRENE. (Acts xi. 20.) A province and city of Libya- There was anciently a Pheni- cian colony called (jyrenaica, or '■'■Libya about Cyrene?' (Acta ii. 10.) It was in the CYR north of Africa, west of Egypt, and comprised five cities; one of whicli was Cyrene. (See Lybia.) The ancient city of Cyrene is now called Cyreune, Cairoan, or Cayran, and lies in the dominion of Tripoli. This district of the earth has lately occasioned much inte- rest among the Italian and French geographers. Great numbers of Jews re- sided here. (Matt, xxvii. 32. Mark xv. 21. Luke xxiii. 26.) Some of the Cyrenians were among the earliest Christians, (Acts xi. 20 ;) and one of them, it is supposed, was a preacher at Aiitioch. (Acts xiii. 1.) We find also, that among the most violent opposers of Christiani- ty, were the Cyrenians who had a place of worship at Jeru- salem. (Acts vi, 9.) CYRENIANS. (See Cv- BENE.) CYRENIUS (Luke ii. 2) be- came the governor or proconsul of Syria, eight or ten years after the birth of our Saviour. The taxing or enrolment which led Joseph and Mary to go up to Bethlehem, is said to have been " first made when Cyre- nius was governor of Syria." Various constructions of this passage have been proposed, to remove the supposed chro- nological difficulty. We have no doubt of the h).storical truth of the statement, whatever perplexity may attend it. If there is nothing in profane his- tory to corroborate it, neither is there any thing to contradict it. It may be that Cyrenius was associated in the govern- ment of Syria during the pro- gress of the enrolment, and had, in some sense, the superin- tendence of it. It may be that the enrolment was made at one period, and the levy of CYR taxes (of which that enrolment was the basis) was not made till a subsequent period. We know that such a tax was im- posed, and occasioned great popular discontents. (Acts v. 37.) And it may be also, that the phraseology employed by the sacred writer is susceptible of a construction which would remove every difficulty,though critics are not agreed in such a construction. At any rate, tlie occurrence of such passaps is strong presumptive evidence of the truth of the narrative ; for it would have been an easy matter to avoid all appearance of d ifficulty, if the object of the writers had been simply to make a book that should be believed. CYRUS. (Isa. xlv. 1.) A prince, statesman, and con- queror, of great renown, and an instrunfent or agent em- ployed by Jeliovah in the exe- cution of his designs of mercy towards the Jews. (Isa. xiii. xiv. xxi. xliv. 28; xlv. — xlvii. Jer. xxv. 12; li. 54. Dan. vii. viii.) The early life of Cyrua is involved in obscurity. It is generally agreed thai he was the son of (Jambyses, king ol Persia. His chief biographers (Xenophon and Herodolus;pre- sent his history and exploits in very different aspects. His con- quests extended over all west- ern Asia, but the most brilliant of them was that of Babylon, which took place b. o. 536. After this event, he ordered a return of the Jews, who had been seventy years in captivi- ty, to their own land, and fur- nished them very liberally with the means of rebuilding their temple. (See Life op Daniel, en. xiii. xiv. xv. xviL xviii.. by Am, 5. S Union.) DAG DA.M DABERATH. (Josh. xix. 12. 1 Chron. vi. 72.) A town on the bordera of Is- sachar and Zebuion. The description of the sacred his- torian leaves it uncertain to which tribe it belonged, and perhaps there was a town of this name in each tribe ; and, according to the most authen- tic modern maps, such was the fact. It was situated in the plain of Jezreel, at the foot of mount Tabor, and probably where modern travellers have found the villageof i?aW/a, or Debora, or Daburij. DAGGER. (Judg. iii. 16. 21, 22.) A short sword, usually made with a double edge, and suspended from the girdle. (See Arms.) DAGON. (lSam.v.2.) This was the nem part ofiheHauran. On the north- west, north, and northeast, stretches along a part of the eastern range of Anti-Libanus. On the south-e-.ist and east we see, at a great distance, rising in the horizon, a chn in of hills, or mountains, which divide this Mohammeilan paradise from the ha reLnms of the desert. These moiuuHins are not seen very disiinctly, on account of tlie cloi;ds, mist, and smoke which seem to cover them." According to the best in- formation, DHmasiiis cntains about one hiiiulrpJ and fifty thousand souls, al> 1:1 ten ihou- sand of whom are (Miiisiians. The Christians are divided nearlyas follows: Gre- ks,3,()00; Greek Catholics, 6,000; Maron- li^l DAM Ites, 100; Syrians, Armenians, and Catholic Armenians, 900. Of Jews, there are about 400 houses, and 3,000 souls. Malie Erun informs us that Damascus has a manufacture of soaps, and of stuffs made of a mixture of cotton and silk. The cabinet work of fine wood, adorned with ivory and mother of pearl, has excited the admi- ration of Europeans. This city is enlivened by the bustle of commerce, and the passage of the caravans to Mecca. The great street straight, which is two miles long, from east to west presents two rows of shops, in which the riches of India glitter along with those of Europe. The private houses of Damascus, simple in exter- nal appearance, exhibit in the interior all the splendour and elegance of refined luxury. The floors are of marble; ala- baster and gilding are display- ed on every side. In every great house there are several Fountains playing in magnifi- cent basins. The smallest house has three water pipes ; one for the kitchen, another for the garden, and a third for washing. The same magni- ficence is displayed in the mosques, churches, and coffee- houses. The environs of the city, watered by the Barrady and other streams, present, at all seasons of the year, a pleasing verdure, and contain an extensive series of gardens and villas. The art of inlaying iron or steel with other metals, es- pecially gold and silver, to make them elastic and yet very hard, was formerly so extensively carried on in this city, as to give its name to the substance. Hence Damascus razors, swords, &c. Silks, lea- ther, dried fruits, and sweet- meats are among the chief , exports. Tbfi fab'-''- which is I called. Damask is, by some, | DAM supposed to have been once manufactured chiefly in this city, and hence to have de- rived its name. The guides of travellers show the house, and the very room, in which, they say, Paul lodged during the three days of his blindness, and where, they tell us, he had his wonderful vision. (2Cor. xii. 2.) Here, too, they point out the grave of Ananias, the spot on the Jerusalem road where Paul was converted, and the wall by which he escaped ; the house of Naaman the Syrian, now a hospital for lepers, and the tomb of Gehazi, Elisha's servant , The commerce of Damascus is still very extensive, and is carried on by caravans. The place is regarded with interest as the theatre of missionair labours. The (London) Church Missionary Society, and the British and Foreign Bible So- ciety, have had encouraging success in their efforts, in Damascus and its vicinity. The hope has been entertain- ed, that the immense conflu- ence of merchants and pilgrims there may be made the means of dispersing the Scriptures through all the countries of DAMNATION. (Mark iii. 29.) This term, in its common scriptural use, denotes the final and endless perdition of the ungodly, — a doctrine as clearly taught as the resurrec- tion of the dead. (Dan. xii. 2. Matt, xxiii. 35 ; xxv. 41. 46. Mark xvi. 16. John v. 28, 29. 2 Pet. ii. 3.) In some passages this word is used where con- demnation or judgment would more properly express the sense. The same word which is rendered damnation in ICor. xi. 29, is rendered judgmer^ in 1 Pet. iv. 17. So in Rom. xiv. •23, the word damned would better read, is self-candevmed. (See Eternal.) 192 DAN DAN. 1. A PERSON. (Gen. XXX. 6.) The fifth son of Jacob. The prediciion uiteredbyJacob respecting Dan, (Gen. xlix. 16, 17,) is variously iulerpreted. It is probable that the eleva- tion of his tribe to an equal rank with the others, notwith- standing he was born of a con- cubine,'was foretold in v. 16; and the residue of the predic- tion may allude to the subtle and crafty disposition of his des( endants. Indeed, we know that Samson (who was among the most noted of them) was remarkably successful in stra- tagem, (Judg. xiv. XV. ;) and perhaps the same trait was characteristic of their tribe. (Judg. xviii. 26,27. See Adder.) 2. Tribe of, (Ex. xxxi. 6,) had its portion between the possessions of Judah and Eph- raim,on one side, and between Benjamin and the sea shore on the other. They were never in quiet possession of their pro- vince, (comp. Josh. xix. 43. Judg. i. 34, 35, and xviii. 1. 1 Sam. V. 10. 2 Kings i. 2,) and were much annoyed by the native inhabitants. Their tract was pleasant and fer- tile, though aboimding with winding vales and bluft" hills, but it was by far the smallest portion, (Josh. xix. 47. Judg. xviii. 1 ;) and hence the'y sought some place for the planting of a colony. To this end, they sent five of their most enterprising men to ex- Elore the country ; and they tund a place on the northern frontier, called Laish, (Jiids. xviii. 7,) or Leshem, (Josh. xix. 47,) which seemed easy of ac- quisition, and in every respect suited to their purpose. (Judg. xviii. 10.) They accord ingfy took measures at once to obtain It; and a very succinct and interesting history of the pro- ceeding is given us by the Bacred historian. The place i7 DAN was captured and destroyed by fire ; but the Danites rebuilt It, and called it Dan. (See Beer- SHEBA.) 3. Town of, was built up as mentioned in the preceding paragraph. It lay at the north- ern extremity of the land of Israel, in the iribe of Naphtali, at the foot of mount Lebanon, near the source of the Jordan, and (as some suppose) gave tiie name to that river, {Jor, the spring.) The town was captured by the king of As- syria. (1 Kings XV. "20.) It was here that "Jeroboam esta- blished the worship of one of the golden calves, (1 Kings xii. 29. "Amos viii. 14,) though idolatry prevailed there before Jeroboam introduced it. (Juds:. xviii. 17— 19.24— 31.) It seems to have been a place of some commercial importance, (Eze. xxvii. 19.) and, being a border town, is frequently the subject of prophecy. (Jer. iv. 15 ; viii. 16.) Probably the word Dan (Gen. xiv. 14) was inserted for Laish, by Ezra, or some other collector of the Jewish Scrip tures, as Hebron is for Kirjath- Arba ; for it is certain that neither Dan nor Hebron were known to Moses by those names. DANCE. (Ps. cxlix. 3.) The Jewish dances were generally expressions of religious joy and gratitude; sometimes they were practised in honour of a con- queror, (Judg. xi. S4. 1 Sam. xviii. 6, 7,) and sometimes on occasions of domestic joy. (Jer. xxxi. 4. 13. Luke xv. 25.) In I the religious service, the tim- brel wa"3 employed to direct I the daijce. and it was led by I some individual, whom the rest followed with mtasured step I and devotional songs. Thus, David is supposed to have led such a band. (Ps. cl. 4, 5. See also Ex. XV. 20. Judg. xxi. 20 I —23.) Individuals often ex- 193 DAN pressed feelings of joy in the same way. (Luke vi. 23. Acts iii. 8.) Dancing was doubtless known from a very early period as a mere worldly amusement. (Job xxi. 1 1—15. Mark vi. 22.) It is worthy of remark, how- ever, that the mingling of males and females, which is Bo conmion in modern dances, was unknown to the Jews ; unless, as it has been well observed, a precedent may be found in the scene of idolatrous confusion and madness when the children of Israel howed themselves before the imase of a calf. (Ex. xxxii. 6. 19.)" DANIEL. (Ezek. xiv. 14.) The name of a distinguished prophet, wliose history is given us with unusual minuteness. He was a descendant of the family of David, and, while quite a youth, was carried, amond; other Jewish captives, lo Ciialdea. He was there instructed in the language and arts of the Chaldeans, and, with three other Jew- ish youths, was appointed to be trained specially for the royal service, and to reside in the palace. (Dan. i. 1— 4. See Harvey Boys, chap, xi., by Am. S. S. Union.) He was very early distin''uished for his jtieiy and wisdom, as we are infurmed by a contem- porary writer, (Ezek. xiv. 14. 20; xxviii. 3,) and was ulti- mately raised to a very exalted elation in the court of the king of Babylon. Daniel interpret- ed several remarkable dreams which the king had; and was himself favoured with repealed visions, in which were dis- closed to him some of the miel imf)oitant and interest- ing e^ents; some of which are yet lo take place. {See nest paragraph.) It is uncertain where Daniel died, though it is generally supposed that it was u some part of Chaldea. (For DAN a full and complete history of this prophet,accompanied with a map of all the places mention- ed in his history, a view of Tyre, and of the celebrated Hanging Gardens, a fine picture of Bel- ehazzar's Feast, and other il- lustrations, see Life OF Daniel and Elisama, both by Am. S. S. Union.) Daniel, book of, is the twenty-seventh in the order of the books of the Old Testament. It is a mixture of history and prophecy, and contains (espe- cially the last six chapters) the most extraordinary and com- prehensive predictions that are to be found in the proplietical writings. So explicit are they respecting the advent of the Messiah, that the Jews were formerly unwilling to admit their genuineness; but this cannot be contested. (Matt xxiv. 15.) Josephus, the Jewish historian, regards iiim as the chief of the prophets. (Lib. x. ch. xi. § 7.) They were uttered liuring the captivity of the Jews, and both before and after the time of Ezekiel. The Life of Daniel, above men- tioned, contains a succinct view of these prophecies. There are one or two re- markable incidental proofs of the genuineness of this book, which ought not to be passed over. The first twelve chap- ters of the book, and indeed all the narrative part, were originally written in Hebrew; but when the |)rophet relates the conversation, or uses the language of otl)ers, vas from ch. ii. 4, to the end of ch. vii.> he employs the very words of those who spoiic, whatever tongue they used. This shows his unusual accuracy. The title, dissolver ufdaitbls, (Dan. v. 12,) (or unticr of knots, as the marginal reading is,) by which the cjueen described Daniel, is still used in the east as a title of I'onour. Sti D AR foaac Newton regards Danifil as the most distinct of all the prophets, in the order of time, and the least difficult to be understood, and therefore, in tlieihin'js relating to the last times, he is to be regarded as a key to the rest of the pro- phets. The prophecy of Da- niel, and the Revelation of John, are supposed by some to be illustrative of each other. DARIUS. (Ezra iv. 5.) There are several princes of this name in ancient history. The one, who is distinguished as the Median, (Dan. v. 31,) or Mede, (Dan. xi. 1,) called the son of Ahasuenis, (Dan. ix. 1,) or Astyages by the afiocryphal writers, was the successor of Belshazzar. (Dan. v. 30, 31.) Another was the last of the Persian kings, who adopted this name on his accession to the throne. Alexander the Great conquered him, and ended the Persian monarchy ; thus fulfiUinix the prophecies of Daniel. (Dan. ii. 39,40; vii. 5, 6 ; viii. 5, 6. 20. 22.) A third prince of this name was the son of H^staspes. It was under his reign that the Jews return- ed to Jerusal?m, and renewed the work of rebuilding the temple. The city of Babylon, dissatisfied with some of the edicts of Cyrus, revolted ; and Darius, after a siege of nearly two years, in which the pro- fihecy of Isa. xlvii. 7—9, was iterally fulfilled, obtained pos- session of the city by a base stratagem, though historians epeak of it as an heroic sacri- fice. Herodotus tells us that Darius ordered the hundred gates of brass to be taken away. (Jer. li. 58.) DARKNESS. (Gen.i.2.) It is said of the darkness which constituted one of the plagues of Ei'yi't, that " i7 might be fell." nsrdera- ble importance whether this miracle was wrought upon the rays of the sun, by which they were deflected in an extraordi- nary manner, so as iti produce this retrograde motion of the sliadow, while the sun itself seemed to go on its way, — as contended by bishop Lowth and others,— or whether the motion of the earth, or the position of the sun, were so changed as to proiluce this rrsull, as lield by archbishop Usher and the great body of the Jews. It was this miracle to which reference is made in 2Chron. xxxii. 31. DIAMOND. (Ex.xxviii.ia'> The hardest and most valuable of gems, and found chiefly in theTEast Indies and Brazil. It is mentioned anions the jewels of the king of Tyre, (Ezek. xxviii. 13;) and the PX|:)re!?sion in Jer. xvii. I, denotes the deep and indelible record whicii was madeof the sinof Judah. (See Ada iM A NT.) DIANA. (Acts xix. 2H.) A heathen emidess of sreal ce- lebrity, (ver. 27,) and who» 203 DIA worship was attencled with peculiar splendour and mag- nificence at Ephesus. Her temple in that ciiy was so vast and beautiful, as to be ranked among the seven won- ders of the worfd. Pliny tells us that it was four hundred and twenty-five feet long, and two hundred and twenty in breadth, and that it was adorn- ed with one hundred columns, % each sixty feet high ; twenty- eeven of which were curiously carved, and the rest polished. Little silver models of the temple, with the image of the goddess enshrined in them, were made for sale, and sold in such quantity as to afford pro- fitable work for many hands. (ver.24,25. See Demetrius.) The following cut represents, in miniature, a front view of this famous temple. The in- scription below signifies— Qf the Ephesians. Paul made himself offensive to the idolatrous Ephesians by preaching the very plain and sensible doctrine, "that they be no gods which are made with haiids." Hence the silver- smiths, who depended on the manufacture of images for their living, were sreatly excited by the fear that their craft was in danger; and so they moved the people to suppose that the temple itself, wiln all its mag- DIN nificence, would be destroyed, and the city cease to be the resort of worshippers. (See EpHESt^s, Paul.) DIBON. (Josh. xiii. 17.) A city of Moab, a few miles north of the Arnon, now called Di- ban. It was built up by the tribe of Gad, (Num. xxxii. 33, 34,) and hence called Dibon- gad. (Num.xxxiii. 45.) The same place is called Dimon. (Isa. XV. 9.) At a later day, it returned again to Moab. (Isa. XV. 2. Jer. xlviii. 18. 22.) In Neh. xi. 25, a Dibon in Judah is mentioned, which may be the same with Debir. (Josh, xiii. 26. See Debir.) A place called Diban is mentioned by modern travellers as situated about three miles north of the Arnon, or Madieb. DIUYMUS. (See Thomas.) DINAH. (Gen. xxx. 21.) Only daughter of Jacob and Leah. When her father was on his return from Padan-aram to Canaan, he halted at Sha- lem, a city of Shechem. Here she mingled with the young women of the neighbourhood, and fell a victim to the seduc- tive arts of Shechem, son of Hamor, who was prince of the country. He afterwards sought to marry her; but her brothers refused their consent to the alli- ance, unless the men of She- chem would submit to be cir- cumcised. To this condition they agreed; and when, by the effect "of the operation, they were all disabled from defend- . ing themselves or their city, I the sons of Jacob attacked ! them, slew Shechein and his [ father, coinpletely pi llased the place, and made prisoners of the women and children. Jacob severely reprimanded them for the act ; but they were so indis- nant at the abuse their sister i had suffered, as to justify heir I mode of revenge. (Gen. xxxiv. I 31.) Dinah is mentioned with ' the rest of the family who went DIS Into Egypt. (Gen. xlvi. S. 15.) DINNER. (See ]Meals). DIONYSIUS. (Actsxvii.34.) A convert to the gospel under the preachingofPaul aiAthens. Why he is called the Areopa- gite we cannot tell, unless he was one of the judges of ihe court of Areopagus. Ecclesi- astical historians say that he became an eminent minister of the gospel, and suffered martyrdoln at Athens, a. d. 95. DIOTREPHES. (3 John 9.) Probably a member, and per- haps an officer, of the church erf Corinth. John's third epistle is addressed to Gains of this church, (Rom. xvi. 23. 1 Cor. i. 14 ;) and in the course of it, a severe rebuke is given to Dio- trephes, who seems to have questioned the authority of the apostle, and to have exercised a most officious and unwar- rantable power in the church to which he belonged. (See art. John, epistles of.) DISCERNING OF SPIRITS (1 Cor. xii. 10) was one of the miraculous gifts of the Holy Ghost, bv virtue of which the epirits of men were tried whe- ther they were of God. (1 John iv. 1.) It was a most desirable gift in the former ages of the church, when false prophets and wicked spirits abounded on every side. DISCIPLE. (Matt. x. 24.) One who receives, or professes to receive, instruction from an- other. (Matt. xi. 2. Luke xiv. 26,27.33. John ix.2S.) In the New Testament, it denotes the professed followers of our Sa- viour; but not always his true followers. (Matt. xxvi. 20, 21. John vi. 66.) • DISEASES. (Deut. xxviii. CO.) Diseases come upon us by reason of sin ; so that the multiplied forms in which sickness and sufifering appear among men, to wear out their frail bodies and huny them to 18 DIS the grave, are so many signs of tiie evil of sin, even in its present elTects. Reference is made to the interposition of God in sending and removing diseases, Ps. xxxix. 9— 11 : xc. 3—12. The plagues, pestilences, and other instrumentalities by which, in former ages, a mul- titude of lives were destroyed at once, were often miraculous; that is, the natural causes and progress of disease were not employed, or were not visible. (Ex. x'ii. 2:3. 29. 2 Kings xix. 35. 1 Chron. xxi. 12 — 15. Acts xii. 23.) The plagues of Egypt were also of this character. From aa early period, we find the agency of evil spirits em- ployed to afflict and trouble men ; as in the case of Saul and Job. In the time of our Saviour, they seem to have been permitted often to take entire possession of the human frame; in which case the bo- dily, and often the mental powers, were to a greater or less extent suspended, and the wretched sufferer exposed to a train of the most dreadful dan- gers and calamities. (Matt, xvii. 15. Mark v. 11—15. Luke ix. 33^0. See Possessed.) The diet and habits of the early Jews were so simple and uniform, that diseases were un- common ; but at a later period, we have reason to believe they became common and severe, as the manners and customs of the nation grew more corrupt and luxurious ; so that we may suppose, in the multitude which resorted to our Saviour to be healed of all manner of diseases, there would be found a fearful list of painful and incurable complaints. The diseases of Egypt, and other countries of similar cli- mate, were ophthalmies, or dis- eases of the eyes; leprosies, inflammations of the brain, consumptions, pestilential f» DTV vers, &c. fee. Palsies fire often menlioned in ihe New Tesla- meni. These diseases are par- ticularly noticed in the iippro- priate place. (See Biblical ANTiauiriEs, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. i. ch. vii. § 1.) DISH. (See Table.) DI8PEN.SATI0N. (1 Cor. ix. 17.) This word, in its scriptural use, generally de- notes a plan or scheme, or a system of precepts and princi- Eles prescribed and revealed y God, for his own glory and for the advantage and happi- ness of his creatures. (Eph. i. 10; iii.2. Col. i. 25.) In the passase first al>ove cited it is Bitpposed to mean an authority or commission to preach the gospel. The dispensation of the law by Moses, and of the gospel by Jpsus Christ, are ex- amjjles of the use of the word in its firmer meaninsr. DISPERSED. "^DISPER- SIONS. (Isa. xi. 12. Jer. xxv. 34. John vii. 35.) These terms are usually applied to the Jews, who, after their capti- vity, and still more emphati- cally .after the fj iial destruction of their holy city, were scat- tered abroad through the earth. (James i. 1. 1 Pet. i. 1.) DIVINATION (Deul. xviii. 10) is the practice of divining or of foretelling future events. In the passage cited, it is put in connexion with witchcraft, necromancy, and other aljo- minations of the heathen ; which the Jews were to avoid. Divination was a pre- vailing sin among the Israel- ites and many of the eastern nations. The modes, or means of divining were l)y consulting, or being familiar with spiriis, by the motions of the stara, clouds, &c., and t>y lots, rods, or wands, dreams, the flight of birds, the entrails of animals, &c. &c. It is said of Joseph's cup ^eu. xUv. 5) that he divined DIV by it. It is not to be inft-rred, however, that he practised divination. He had received from God the gift of interpret- ing dreams, aiid he exercised it with great humility, and always for God's glory. It may be that Joseph's officer mis- took the gifts of his lord, and supposed "that he must have the power of divination. This is certainly the most obvious construction. It is said, how- ever, by a learned critic, that the word here rendered di vinelh elsewhere signifies to make an experiment"; so that the passage may read thus: Is not this the cup wherein my lord drinketh, and whereby he has made a trial of your ho- nesty, laying it in your way to see whether you would take it or not ■? The practice of divination in all its forms is reprobated with marked severity by the law of Moses and by the sacred writers. (Lev. xx. 27. Deut. xviii. 9— 14. Jer. xiv. 14. Ezek. xiii. 8, 9.) It is a branch of pagan idolatry and suiiersti- tioh ; and in whatever form it is practised or regarded, it is reproachful to Christianity, and argues great folly, igno- rance, and sin. (2 Pet. i. 19.) DIVOPvCE. (Jer.iii.8.) The dissolution of the marriage re lation. This was permitted ljy the law of Moses, for reasons of local expediency, and un- der circumstances jjeculiar to their situation as a people. It wasa mere civil regulaliof),and seems »o have bei-n so much abused by the liceniious that it became connnon for a man to put away his wife for tlie most trivial cause; and many of the Jewish (h)clors contend- ed that this was the siiiril of the law. To tempt our Saviour to say something oiTrnsive, they put the question to him whether it was lawful to do this; and, in the a)uise of the 206 DOG eonversation which ensued, he reproves their conduct in this particular with great severity, and restrains the practice to one class of cases. (Matt- xix. 3-9.) The husband was required to give his wife a writing or bill of divorcement, in which wag set forth the date, place, and cause of her repudiation, and a permission was given by it to marry whom she pleased. It was provided, however, that she might be restored to the relation, at any future time, if she did not meanwhile marry any other man. The woman also seems to have had power, at least in a later period of the Jewish slate, to put away her husband. (Mark x. 12.) DOCTOR. (Luke ii. 46.) Doctors or teachers of the law were those who made it their business or profession to teach the law of Moses; and they were in great repute among the Jews. Some have distin- guished the scribes from the doctors, by supposing that the former wrote their opinions, while the latter taught extem- poraneously. The doctors were generally of the sect of the Pha- risees ; perhaps always. (Luke V. 17.) It is thought that the peculiar office of teachers is intended, 1 Cor. xii. 23. (1.) Apostles or public instructers. (2.) Prophets or occasional in- structers ; and, (3.) Doctors or teachers, i. e. private instruc- ters. DODANIM. (SeeDEDAN.) DOEG. (See Ahimelech.) DOG. (Ex. xi. 7.) The dog was not only an unclean ani- mal by the Jewish law, but was regarded with peculiar contempt, (Ex. xxii. 31. Deut. xxiii. 18. 1 Sam. xvii. 43 ; xxiv. 14. 2Sam. ix. 8. 2King3viii. 13. Phil. iii. 2. Rev. xxii. 15;) ftud he is so regarded at the DOG present day by the Turks, who can find no more abusive and contemptuous language to ajv ply to a Christian,~tlian to call him a dog. Solomon puts a living dog in contrast with a dead lion, to show that the meanest thing alive is of more importance than the noblest that is dead. (Eccl. ix. 4.) Abner's exclama- tion, "Am I a dog's head 7" (2 Sam. iii. 8,) has a significa- tion of the same kind. Isaiah expresses the necessity of repentance and sincerity u, make a sacrifice acceptable to God, by declaring, that without them, "he that sacrifices a lamb, does nothing belter than if he had cutoff a dog's neck." (Isa. Ixvi. 3.) The only useful purpose to which dogs appear to have been put was to guard the flocks, (Job xxx. 1 ;) and even in that passage they are spoken of with contempt. Isaiah may be understood to allude to this manner of em- ploying them in his description of the spiritual watchmen of Israel. (Isa. Ivi. 10, 11.) Although dogs are numerous in the Jewish cities, they were not kept in their houses, but wandered through the streets, picking up whatever was thrown out of the remains of the table, after the family had eaten. So David speaks of his wicked enemies. (Ps. lix. 6. 14, 15.) The Mosaic law directed the people to throw to the dogs the flesh that was torn by beasts. (Ex. xxii. 31.) This manner of living ac- counts for the savageness of the animal among that people. They preyed upon human flesh, licked the blood of the slain, and sometimes were wild enough to attack men, as bloodhounds do. (I Kings xiv. 11; xvi. 4; xxi. 19. 23; xxii. 38. 2 Kings ix. 10.36. Ps.xxii. 16.20: Ixviii. 23. Jer. xv. 3, 207 DOR Their habits made ihem dan- gerous lo touch. (Prov. xxvi. 17.) The eastern people were in the practice of applying the names of animals to men who resemble them in their dispo- sition, as we call a cunning man a fox, a brave man a lion, &c. So our Saviour told his dis- ciples, "Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, lest they turn upon you, and" tear you," after they have eaten it, (Malt, vii. 6 ;) meaning that they should not offer the sacred things of the gospel lo those insolent and alx)niinable men who would only heap ahuse on them for it: having reference also to the practice of the priests at the altar, who would not throw to the dogs any of the meat used in sacrifice. He told also the Syro-phenician woman, that it was not proper to give the children's meat to dogs, (j\Ialt. XV. 2G ;) that is, the gospel was sent first to the Jews, who are called the child- ren, and was not yet to be given to one of the Gentiles, as she was, whom the Jews called dogs; that the children must 06 first fed befire the meat was thrown into the street. Those who are shut out of the kingdom of heaven are dogs, sorcerers, &;c., (Rev. xxii. 15,) where the word is applied to all kinds of vile persons, as it is to a particular class in Deut. xxiii. 18. The comparison of Solomon illusiraiins the return of a fool to his folly, cited in 2 Pet. ii. 22, is taken from a natural fact. Persecutors are called dogs, Ps. xxii. 16. (See Youth's Friend, vol. v., by Am. S. S. Union.) DOOR. (See Dwellings.) DOR. (Judg.i.27.) This is now a small town on the Me- diterranean coast, about nine miles north of Cesarea. Its present name is Tortura. It IS close upon the beach, and DOV contains about five hundred in- habitants. It was formerly a royal city, or capital of a dis- trict of Canaan. (Josh. xii. 23,) and was assigned lo the halt tribe of Manasseh. DORCAS. (See Tabitma.) DOTHAN (Gen. xxxvii. 17) was situated near Jezrpel,about twelve miles norih of Samaria, at a narrow pass in the moun- tains of Gilboa. It is memora- ble as the place where Joseph's brethren sold him, and also where the Syrian troops at- tempted to seize Elisha. (2 Kinss vi. 13-23.) DOTING (1 Tim. vi. 4) sig- nifies being excessively fond of, or foolish!j and vainly bent upon, questions and strifes about mere words. DOUGH. (See Bread.) DOVE. (Gen. viii. 9.) A bird clean by the Mosaic law, and often mentioned by the sacred writers. In their wild state, they dwell principally in holes in the rocks. (Sol. Song ii. 14. Jer. xlviii. 28.) They are innocent in their dispositions, and make no re- sistance to their enemies. (Mall. X. 16.) They are very much attached to their mates ; and when one is absent or dies, the other, or survivor, laments hs loneliness. (Isa. xxxviii. 14; lix. 11. Ezek. vii. 16. Nah. ii. 7.) There are various allusions to the mildness, peacefulness, and affection of doves. The church is called a turtle-dove and a dove, or compared to it, Ps. Ixxiv. 19. Sol. Son^i. 15; ii. 14 ; iv. 1 ; v. 2 ; vi. 9. Where "doves' eyes" are spoken of in these passages, allusion is made to the meekness of their expression. It is thought by eminent critics, that Sol. Song v. 12, is wrongly trans- lated ; that allusion is made to a deep blue coloured pigeon, common in the east, and that it is meant lo compare the 208 DOV w !te of the eye to milk, and the iv's to a blue pigeon ; and that the comparison is, "His eyes are lilie a dark blue pigeon, standing in the middle of a pool of milk." It was in the manner of a dove that the Holy Spirit descended upon our Saviour at his baptism. (Matt. iii. 16. Mark i.lO. Luke iii. 22. John i. 32.) Hosea compares timid Ephraim to " a silly dove without heart," (vii. 11 ;) and says, that when the Jews shall be called to their own land, they shall "tremble," or fly, '' as a dove out of the land of Assyria." (xi. 11.) David in his distress wish- ed that he could fly from his troubles as the doves do to warmer climates on the ap- proach of winter. (Ps. Iv. 6— 8.) The appearance of the dove is spoken of as an emblem of spring, Sol. Song ii. 12. The dove is mentioned in an interesting part of the early history of the world, as being sent out by Noah from the ark that he might discover whether the dry land had appeared. (Gen. viii. 6—12.) The dove was used in sacri- fices. It was, among other animals, prepared by Abram, when God manifested his in- tention to bless him, as nar- rated in Gen. xv. 9. When a child was born, the mother was required, within a certa-in time, to bring a lamb and a young pigeon, or turtle, for oflferings; but if she was too poor to afford a lamb, she might bring two turtles, or two young pigeons. (Lev.xii.6— 8.) Thus we may judge of the po- verty of Mary, the mother of Jesus, when, upon his birth, she brought to the temple at Jerusalem the two birds in- stead of a lamb. (Luke ii. 24.) It was to supply mothers with animals for sacrifice that those Sersons sat in the temple vvitli oves to sell, whom our Lord 18* DOW forced to leave it, because " the house of prayer" was not a fit place for buying and sell- ins. (Mark xi. 15. John ii. 14-16.) There is some obscurity in Ps. Ixviii. 13; but the natural import of it is most probably the correct one. The design of the psalmist is to present in contrast, the condition of the Israelites (who were address- ed) at two periods of their his- tory. Inthedayof their afflic- tion and calamity, they were covered as it were with shame and confusion ; but in the day of their prosperity, they should resemble the cleanest and most beautiful of birds. The allusion in Isa. Ix. 8, may be to the immense com- pact masses of these birds that eastern travellers describe, as they are seen flying to their houses or places of general re- sort. They sometimes resem- ble a distant heavy cloud, and are so dense as to obscure the rays of the sun. (See Youth's Friend, vol. vi., by Am. S. S. Union. See Turtle Dove.) Dove's dung. (2 Kings vi. 25.) There are but two modes of interpreting this passage; either ol whicii is satisfactory. The first is, that this particular substance was remarkably va- luable as a manure for those vegetables which might be soonest raised to supply the famishing Samaritans; and the other is, that a vegetable re- sembling the chick-pea, or lentil, is intended, which re- sembles dove's dung in appear- ance, and is still a common article of food at Cairo, Damas- cus, &c., especially for eastern pilgrims, and of which the cab would be a suitable measure. (See Measures.) The pas- sage evidently expresses the extreme severity of the famine. DOWRY, (Gen. xxx. 20,) in the eastern acceptation of the word, means that which tba 209 DRE husband pays for his wife, in- stead of that which the wife receives from her father and brings to her husband. (Gen. xxix. 18; xxxiv. 12. 1 Sam. xviii.25.) So (Ex. xxii. 16, 17. Josh. XV. 18) a man was re- quired to pay a certain sum as dowry, or a nuptial present; and tliis was to be according to the rank she sustained, and such as the fathers of virgins of the same rank were accus- tomed to receive for their daushters. (Hos. iii. 2) DRAGON. (Job XXX. 29.) It is quite uncertain what ani- mal, if any, is intended by this name. It is not improbable that it is a generic terra, de- noting some"class of animals distin'guished by some common characteristic; and yet, from Lam. iv. 3, and Mic. i. 8, we should infer tliat the word is applied to a particular animal that cries and gives suck. The word translated dragon, Isa. xxvii. 1, is translated whale, Gen. i. 21, and Job vii. 12 ; and serpent, Ex. vii. 9; and dragon, Deut. xxxii. 33, and Ps. xci. 13. In Isa. xxxiv. 13, the word translated dragons means some creature of the wilder- ness, whose presence denotes desolation. So in Job xxx. 29. Ps. xliv. 19. Jer. ix. 11; in all which passages, solitude and desolation are intended to be illustrated. (INIic. i. 8.) The figurative use of this term by the sacred writers, as in Ps. Ixxiv. 13. Ezek. xxix. 3. Rev. xii. 3, and xx. 2, is suflS- tiently obvious. DRAMS. (See Measures.) DRAUGHT. (Matt. xv. 17.) A vault or drain for the recep- tion of filih. In this sense it is probably used, 2Kings x. 27. When applied to fishes, it means those which are caught by one sweep or drawing of the net. DREAM. (Dan. vii. 1.) From a very early period, dreams DRE i have been observed with sti perstitious regard. God was I pleased to make use of them : to reveal his purposes or re- quirements to individuals, and I he also save power to inter- ! pret them. (Gen. xx. 3—6 ; xxviii. 12—14. 1 Sam. xxviii. 6. Dan. ii. Joel ii. 28.) And i if any person dreamed a ' dream which was peculiarly striking and significant, he ' was permitted t"b go to the high-priest in a jjarlicular way, an^'d see if it had any special import. But the observance of ordinary dreams, and the consulting of those who pre- tend to skill in their interpre- tation, is repeatedly forbidden, (Deui.xiii. 1—5; xviii. 9—14.) The words dream and vision are sometimes used indiscri- minately, (Gen. xlvi. 2. Num. xii. 6. Job XX. 8; xxxiii. 14, 15. Dan. ii. 28; vii. 1,) though else- where they would seem to be distinguished. (Joel ii. 28.) It has been suggested, that per- haps where any difference is intended between prophetic dreams and prophetic visions, it may be much the same in one sense as between common dreams and the wandering of the mind in a delirium. Ofihe latter description might be the cases recorded, 2 Kings vi. 17, and vii. 6. In respect to Paul's vision, (2 Cor. xii. 1, 2.4,) it seems to be doubtful whether his soul were not separated from the body, and permitted to mingle for a moment with celestial beings; for we must remember that all our notions of space and distance between this world and the world of spirits, are entirely fallacious. Sometimes miraculous revela- tions of God's will are called visions. (Luke i. 22. 1 Sam. iii. 15. See Vision, Trance.) The power of interpreting dreams was of course a super- natural gift, so far as the dreams had reference to future 210 DRI events ; for these are necessa- rily unknown, except to the Supreme Disposer of them. Of course Joseph was divinely instructed. (Gen. xl. 5. 8; xli. 16.) Since the fuller revelation of God's will has been made to u8 in the gospel, all confi- dence in dreams,' as indicative of future events, is presumptu- ous and delusive, and all pre- tension to the power of inter- preting Ihem must be regarded as in the highest degree impi- ous and absurd DRESS. (See Clothe.?.) DRINK. (Gen. xxi.l9.) The use of strong drink, even to ex- cess,was noiuncnmmon among the Israelites. Tliis is inferred from the striking figures with which the use and effects of it have furnished the sacred wri- ters, (Ps. cvii. 27. Isa. xxiv. 20; xlix. 26; li. 17—22,) and also from various express pro- hibitions and penalties. (Prov. XX. 1. Isa.v. 11. Hab. ii. 15,16.) Strong drink. A variety of intoxicating drinks are com- prised under the term strong drink. (Isa. xxviii. 7.) It indi- cates any intoxicating drink, whether brewed from grain or made of honey-combs, dates, or boiled fruits. The Alexan- drine interpreters, who were doubtless familiar with the beer of Egypt, render this word by other terms signify- ing intoxicating drink. Pliny enumerates various vegetables which enter into its compo- Bhion : among the rest, figs, pomegranates, apples, and par- ticularly dates. This date wine was in great request among the Parthians, Indians, and other orientals ; and is said by Xeno- ghon to have produced severe eadaches. We may naturally infer that the strong drink in- cludes this liquor of dates, as well as other artificial beve- rages. The Pharisees, it is said, strained their drink for fear of DRO swallowing some unclean ani- inal. Hence it is believed that ill the expression, Matt, xxiii. 24, at should be rendered out. However. proper this construc- tion may be, the original word requires neither a diflferenl rendering nor a reference to a doubtful custom, to render its meaning sufficiently obvious. (See Wine, Vinegar.) DRINK-OFFERING. (See Offering.) DR03IEDARY. (Isa. Ix. 6.) A species of the camel re- markal'le for swiftness of mo- tion, (Jer. ii.23,) which is from sixty to ninety miles or more in a day. He differs from the ordinary camel in that he is smaller, cannot bear the same degree of heat, and has but one hump or protuberance on the back. He is controlled by a bridle fastened in a ring which passes through the nose. (2Kin2S xix. 23.) DROUGHT. (Ps. xxxii. 4.) From the end of April to Sep- tember the land of Judea was very dry. It was the drought of summer. The grass was sometimes completely wither- ed, (P.s. cii. 4,) and the parched earth broke into chasms. The heavens seemed like brass, and the earth like iron, (Deut xxviii. -23,) and all the land and the creatures upon it suf- fered ; and nothing but the copious dews of the night pre- served the life of any living thing. (Hag. i. 11.) The heat was at times excessive. Dr. Clarke tells us, that when he was travelling near Cana, in Galilee, in Ju y, the thermo- meter, in a gloomy recess un- der ground, perfectly shaded, stood at one hundred degrees of Fahrenheit at noon. It is maintained by some critics that the word drought, in Deut. viii. 15, is applied to a serpent whose bite was poi- sonous and attended with in- satiable and agonizing thirst. 211 DUN But llie ordinary meaning of the word is certainly appro- priate to the subject and con- nexion. DRUNKENNESS. (See Drink, Wine.) DRUSILLA. (Actsxxiv.24.) Tliird daughter of the Herod who is mentioned Acts xii. 1— 4. 20—23. She married Felix the Roman governor, while she had another husband living; and was present at the hearing of the apostle Paul before her Lusband at Cesarea. DUKE (Gen. xxxvi. 15) means only a chief or leader, and is in no sense a title of nobility. DULCIMER. (Dan.iii.5.10.) The instrument denoted by this word was a pipe or flute of reed, like wha*. the Italians call zampogna. The Rabbins describe it as two pipes con- nected with a leather sack or skin. The dulcimer of the present day is entirely unlike It, both in form and in the mode of using it. Some have supposed that the word means a strain or chorus, rather than an instru- ment of music. DUMAH. (Tsa. xxi. 11.) There was a city of Judah of this name, (Josh. xv. 52,) but the Dumah which is the sub- ject of this prophecy was pro- bably a country settled by the descendants of Dumah, Ish- mael's sixth son. (Gen. xxv. 14.) It is said that they inha- bited the borders of the desert of Syria, one hundred and fifty or two hundred miles from Damascus, and a district of country is there still, bearing the name of Duma the stony, or the Syrian Duma DUNG. (Ezek. iv. 12.) In many countries of the east wood is so scarce and dear as to be sold by weight. Hence (as travellers inform us) ani- mal excrements are used as j fuel. Le Bruyn Bays it is a ! very common material for heat- ing ovens, even among people of^comfortable circumstances. Niebuhr says, that in Arabia, the excrements of asses and camels are collected in the streets by children, and mixed with cut straw. It is then put ia the sun to dry, and is thus fitted for use. The effluvia arising from the use of it is very offen- sive, and penetrates the food. Dove's dung. (See Dove.) DURA. (Dan. iii. 1.) An ex- tensive plain in the province of Babylon, where Nebuchad- nezzar caused the golden imatre to be erected. DUST. (Jobii. 12.) To shake off the dust of one- s feet against another, (Jfati. x. 14. Mark vi. 11. Acts xiii. 51,) was expres- sive of entire renunciation. The custom is supposed to have been common among the Jews, when they had set a foot on heathen ground, to shake off the dust, so as to carry nothing unclean or pol- luting into their own land. Rain of dust. (Deut. xxviii. 24.) In Judea, or its immediate vicinity, are plains or deserts of fine sand, which, when agi- tated by a violent wind, maker most terrific and desolating storms. Eastern travellers de- scribe them particularly, and think them much more dread- ful than storms at sea. This fact affords us a striking illus- tration of the nature and hor rors of the plasiue. mentioned Ex. viii. 16. DWELLINGS. (Lev.vii.26.) Tlie most common dwellings in the earlier ages of the world were tents. The simple habits of life which were then more prevalent, and the climate of the first settled portions of the globe, made these the most convenient and comfortable dwellings; and tents of various sizes and shapes were formed by setting poles in the ground, and stretching over them a 212 DWE DWE covering ofcloth or skin, which was fastened to stakes by means of cords. (Isa. liv. 2.) One mode of tent building is seen in the preceding cut". Sometimes they were divided into apartments by means of curtains, and the ground was covered with mats or carpets. The door was formed of a fold of cloth, which was dropped or raised. The fire was kindled in an excavation in the middle of the tent ground, and the cooking utensils, which were very few and simple, were easily moved from place to place. (Isa. xxxviii. 12.) Some- times tents were expensively adorned and furnished ; and they are very common dwell- ings at this day among many nations. The form of modern tents in the east is said to re- Bemble the hull of a ship turned Bpside down. When the habits of mankind changed, and their pursuits fixed them to one spot, their dwellings were built with a view to permanency, and we may suppose that the science of building was well under- stood at a very early period. The skill required to build the ark, independently of inspired directions, must have been considerable. The attempt to build the tower of Babel would not have been made by those who had only a mere ele- mentary knowledge of archi- tectural principles. That large and costly houses were often built in Judea we have scriptural evidence, (Jer. xxii. 14. Amos iii. 15. Hag. i. 4,) though doubtless those which were occupied by the mass of the people were rude and inconvenient when com- pared to the middling or even the very ordinary class of our houses. 213 DWE DWE Ter^'vtcc Section Ouier Ciamien Tn Inner Chainber. A 1 1 a a s = a III 1 "* AllKA '"' ^ in OR II" 1 1 A 11 OPEN COURT nil m 1 1 _ a i nil III nil Hi -: 1 ' 1 The above cut represents the ground plan of an eastern house : A A A A is the house, built in the form of a cloister, surrounding the area or open court. The entrance is by a door which was commonly- locked, and attended by some one who acted as porter. (Acts xii. 13.) This door opens into a porch, which is furnished with the conveniences of sit- ting, and through which we pass, both to the flight of stairs which leads up to the cham- bers and also to the open quadrangular court. We will first examine the court and its uses. It is called the middle of the house, or " midst^'' (Luke v. 19,) and is designed to admit light and air to the apartments around it. It is covered with a pave- ment, more or less costly,which receives and sheds rain, and is often supplied with foun- tains or wells of water. (2 Sam. xvii. 18.) In Damascus, every house has a court of this kind, and the wealthier citizens spare no expense in making them places of delightful re- sort in the hot season. (For description and cut, see Ha- DAssAH, pp. 13. 16, by Am. S. S. Union.) A colonnade a a o a (such as is often seen in modern houses) surrounds the court, and supports a gallery or piazza above. In this court, large com])anies assembled on festive and other occasions, (Esth. i. 5 ;) and it is then fur- nished witli carpets, mats, and settees or sofas, and an awning or roof of some suitable mate- rial is stretched over the whole area. It was probably such a roof which was uncovered for the accommodation of the pa ralytic. (Markii.4.) And it is also alluded to in the beautiful figure of the psalmist. (Ps. civ. 2.) As to the case of the paraly- tic, it may be proper to observe that our Saviour was probably in the court or area surrouna ed by a dense crowd, through which it was impossible to pass with the diseased man. They therefore ascended to the roof, and after removing the veil or covering which was stretched over the court, they let him down over or by the 214 DWE way of the roof into the midst ] before Christ. Around the I court, over the doors and win- ! dows of the ijouse, each apart- j ment has a door opening into • the court or gallery, and the | communication with each is only on the outside ; so that to ' go from room to room it is ne- 1 cessary to come out into the ! court or gallery. These galle- 1 ries are guarded by a balus- 1 trade or lattice work in frOnt, io prevent accidents. I The rooms of the ground | floor often include a whole ' side of the court, and are en- 1 lered by spacious doors from | the piazza. The rooms on the j farther side of the court, both ' above and helow, are assigned I to the females of the family, \ and upon them is bestowed ] the greatest expense. Hence, j as same suppose, these rooms j are sometimes called palaces. ' (1 Kings xvi. 18. 2 Kings xv. I 25. Isa'xxxii. 14.) The "^oMse of the iDomen" (Esth. ii. 3) was probably peculiar to the royal residence, and mi'jht be liiie ' that referred to, I Kings vii. 8 — 12. It is supposed that in the houses of Judea, as in those ! of Aleppo at the present day, ! the ground floor was appro- priated principally to domestic ' uses, such as storing provi- sions, oil, baggage, lodgings for servants, &c.~(kc. j Ifwe ascend to i hesecond story by the stairs before m'^nlinneil, we find the chambers are large and airy, and often finished aid furnished with much ex- pense and elpga nee, with mats, curtains, and divans. (Mark xiv. 15.) This room or story is higher and lariier than those below, projecting over ihe low- er part of the building, so that the window of the apartment, if there is one, ronsiderably overhansrsihestreel. SHclndoJ, ^^•>acious, and commndious, as Buch a ro im must have been, Paul would be likely lo preach his farewell sermon there. And in a large company, it is com- mon to have two circles or ranks, the outer circle beine next to the wall, and elevated on cushions, so as to be on a level with the lower part of the window-casement. In this situation, we may suppose Eu- tychus fell asleep, and was thence precipitated to the street. To most of the eastern houses a structure is attached called oleah. It is sometmies built over the porch or gate- way, and has two or three apartments; and, in other in- stances, it consists only of one or two rooms, and often rises one story alwve the main house. The oleah is used to entertain strangers; also, for wardrobes and magazines, or for places of retiremeni,repo8e, and meditation. (Matt. vi. 6.) There is an entrance to it from the street, with lut going into the house; but there is also a communication with the gal- lery of the house, when il is needed. It is observed that the terrace of the oleah alTorded a much more retired place for devotional e.xercises than the roof of the main house, which was lialjle to be occupied at all limes and for various pur- poses by the whide family. The little rfuimher forKlisha, (2 Kings iv. 10,) the siiininer r/j(2/7t6cr of Eglon, from which Ehud escaped by a i)rivaie stairway, (Juilg. iii. 2f»— 23,) the chamber over the gale, (2 Sam. xviii. 33,) the ujiper 'Itumher, (2 K'livis xxiii. 12.) the inner thaiuber, (1 Kings x.<. 3(1,- -see Cha.muer.) n» 'y ilesJL'MH'e the oieuk. (Kor descri) iion and illnsiralive cut, sf^e ()m>ii. pfV 17— 19. and Hebrew CijjsToMS, pp. 3:i. 34, both by Am S. S. Union.) The tjjiper room, (Acts i. 13,) railed the uj>j>ei "'un.ber, (Acts XX. 8,) is su'..pcised by 215 DWE Jowelt to have resembled the upper room in modern houses of the east. He minutely de- scribes a house in which he resided. The first or ground floor was appropriated entirely to storing oil and other arti- cles; the second floor was occupied by the family for common daily use, and the third floor or loft was fitted up for social meetings, &c. (Actsi. 13; ix. 37; xx-^S.) But the roof is one of the most important parts of an eastern house. We ascend to it by a flight of steps, as al- ready mentioned, which are entirely unconnected with the interior of the house. (Matt. xxiv. 17.) It is made nearly flat, allowing only suflicient elevation to carry oif the water, and is surrounded by a para- pet, battlement, or balustrade, lest one should heedlessly or unwittingly fall from it. This was a matter of divine com- mand. (Deut. xxii.8.) A wall on the roof designates the li- mits of contiguous houses, but it is so low that a whole range of buildings, and even a street, DWE may be passed over without coming down. The roof ia covered with a kind of cement, which hardens by exposure to the weather, and forms a clean, smooth, and very agreeable floor or terrace. Sometimes clay, or earth of some kind, suflicient for vegetation, was used, and hence the frequent allusion to ffrass upon the housetops, (2 Kings xix. 26. Ps, cxxix. 6;) and sometimes tiles or broad bricks were used The roof was a place of repose (Neh. viii. 16,) and of resort. (2 Sam. xi. 2. Isa. xv. 3 ; xxii. 1. Jer. xlviii. 38. Luke xii. 3.; It was also used for drying linen and flax. (Josh. ii. 6.) Sometimes a tent was spread to protect the sleeper from the cold and damp of the night. (2 Sam. xvi. 22.) It was a place of conference (1 Sam. ix. 25) and worship. (2Kingsxxiii. 12. Jer. xix. 13. Zeph. i. 5. Acts X. 9.) The following cut represents the roof of a house, with the battlement, and a person going down for water. The windows of eastern DWE houses, as already intimated, open into the court. Hence tlie appearance of eastern ci- ties, in passing througli tfie streets, is very gloomy and in- hospitable. Someumes latticed DWE. windows or balconies are open upon tlie street, but tliey were used only on some public day. (•2 Kings ix. 30. See Hebkew CirsTOMs, pp. 33 — 35, before mentioned. (See Window.) The above representation tf an Arabian iiouse shows the external appearance of an Eastern dwelling, and the ole- ofi, or one kind of upper cham- ter, rising above the roof of the nmin building. The doors of eastern houses are not hung with hinges. The jamb, or inner side-piece of the door, projects, in the form ef a circular shaft, at the top and bottom. The upper pro- jection is received into a socket m the lintel or head-piece, and the lower projection falls into J9 a socket in the threshold or sil thus. OWE Chimneys were probably un- known,lhough the word occurs, Hos. xiii. 3. What we call chimneys were not invented till the fourteenth century. The smoke of ancient houses escaped through ajjertures in the wall. The hearth (Jer. xxxvi. 22) was a fireplace or portable furnace, such as is still used in eastern countries. The materials for building were abundant. Stone ana brick, and the best species of timber, fur the strong and heavy as well as the light and ornamental work, were easily obtained. Hewn stone was often used, (Amos v. 11,) and marble of the richest vein and polish. (IChron. xxix.2. Esth. 1. G.) Cedar was used for wain- scots and ceilings, (Jer. xxii. 14. Hag. i. 4,) which were of carved panel-work, with mouldines of gold, silver, or ivory. Perhaps the profusion of ivory in them may account for the expressions, 1 Kin^s xxii. 39. Fs. xlv. 8. Amos ifi. 15. Many eastern houses are built with mud walls, reeds, andrushes.andsomeiimesonly stakes plastered with clay. Hence they were very inse- cure, (Matt. vi. 19, 20,) and afforded a place for serpents and vermin. (Amos v. 19.) Such a house, built even on a reck above the reach of the DWE periodical torrents of rain, IS strikingly emblematical of weakness"^ fragility, and decay, (Job iv. 19;) but when placed on the sand, and exposed on every side to the rain, and wind, and floods, the folly of the builder is almost incredi- ble. (Mall. vii. 26, 27.) In addition to what we have before said in treating of the oleah, it may be remarked that the winter and summer houses or parlours. Ainos iii. 15) were constructed with parti- cular reference to the season. The summer houses were built j)anly undprground,and paved with niarlile. The fountains which gush out in their courts, and the various contrivances to exclude heal and secure a current of fresh air, render them exceedingly refreshing amid the torrid heals of sum- mer. The winter houses might have had accommodations cor- responding to the season. We are told that it was rus- toniary among the Hebrews to dedicate the house when it was finished and ready to be inha- bited. The event was cele- brated wiih joy, and the divine blessing and jjroteclion im- plored. (Deut. XX. 5) The following is a sketch of a more ordinary Arab house, designed for four families. The doors of eastern houses are made low, especially vvheu they are in an exposed situiu DWE lion; and one must stoop or even creep to enter them. This is done to keep out wild beasts, or enemies, or, as some say, lo f)revent the wandering Arabs irom riding into them. (See Selumiel, pp. 41 — 14, by Am. S. S. Union.) The eastern mode of build- ing is brought to our view in the case of ilie destruction of the temple of Dason by Sam- son. It is probable that the place where Samson made sport for many thousand spec- tators (Jud^. xvi. 27) was a court or area consecrated to the worship of Dagon ; that DWE this was surrounded by a range of galleries (Ezek. xli. 15, 16,) or cloisters, which were sujk ported chiefly by one or two co- lumns in fronl,or at the centre. The palaceofthedey of Algiers lias such a structure. It is an advanced or projecting cloister over against the gate of the palace,'(Esth. v. l.) where the officers of slate assemble and transact public Ini.siness, and where public emeriainmenta were given. The removal of one or two contiguous pillars would involve the building, and all that were ujwn it, in one common destruction. EAG EAGLE. (Deut. xxxii. 11.) A well known and ferocious bird of prey, unclean by the Levitical law, (Lev. xi. 13. Deut. xiv. 12,) whose peculiar groperties are often alluded to y the sacred writers. The habits of the eagle are de- scribed in Num. xxiv. 21. Job ix. 26 ; xxxix. 27—30. Prov. xxiii. 5 ; xxx. 17. 19. Jer. xlix. 16. Ezek. xvii. 3. Obad. 4. Hab. i. 8; ii. 9. Matt, xxiv, 23. Luke xvii. 37. In these last passages, the Jewish nation is compared to a decaying body, exposed in the open field, and inviting the Roman army, whose standard was an eagle, to come together and devour it. The eagle was also the Persian standard. The tenderness of the eagle to- wards its young is character- istic, and is beautifidly and accurately described, Ex. xix. 4. Deut. xxxii. 11. The rapi- dity of the eaele's flight is alluded to in Deut. xxviii. 49. 2Sam.i.23. Jer. iv. 13; xlviii. 40. Lam. iv. 19; its destruc- tive jtower in Isa.xlvi 11. Hos. viii. 1 ; and its great a2;e, and the popular oyyinion that it re- news its plumage in advanced EAR life, is intimated in Ps. ciii. 5, and Isa. xl. 31. The ravenous bird (Isa. xlvi. 11) might better be rendered eagle ; and it is a fact, accord- ing to Xeno)ihon, that Cyrus, who is alluded to under the figure of an eagle, had an image of that bird for the stanilard of his army. (For cuts of the eagle, and a more parti- cular account of his properties, see YouTH-'s Friend, for 1S27; Bible Natural History, art. Eagle ; and Portfolio of Animals, all published by Am. S.S. Union.) EARING, (Gen.xlv.6,) EAR- ING-TIME. (Ex. xxxiv. 21.) Earing is an old English word ioT ploughing. The same word is used, Ps. cxxix. 3, and is translated ploughed. What we call arable land is some- times written earable land. (Deut. xxi. 4. 1 Sam. viii. 12. Isa. xxx. 24.) EAR-RINGS. (Gen. xxiv. 22.) This word occurs, Ex. xxxii. 2, 3; and in Isa. iii. 21, we have the word nose-jewels ; and some versions have aw ornament for the nose in tlie aV)ove passage from Genesis, The weight of the ornament 219 EAR mentioned in this passage migiit appear almost incredi- ble, if we were not informed by travellers that the women of the east, even in modern days, wear ornaments of equal and even greater weight. Poor people use glass or horn in- stead of gold or silver. The annexed cut of an Egyptian dancing girl shows the size and manner of wearing these rings. (See Clothes.) EARNEST. (2 Cor. i. 22.) Something going before, or given in advance as a pledge or assurance of more in re- serve: thus earnest, or eamest- money, is a sum paid in ad- vance as a pledge of full pay- ment at a future time. In a spiritual sense, it denotrs those shifts and graces which the Christian receives as a pledge or earnest of perfect holiness and happiness in the future world. A pledge is taken back when the promise wliich it guarantied is fulfilled ; but whatever is given as earnest, oeing a part in advance of the whole, is of course retained. EARTH. (Ps.xxiv. 1.) Be- sides the ordinary acceptation of the word, as in the passage cited, it is used by the sacred writers to denote only a par- EAS ticular country. Thus the phrase, (Ezra i. 2,) "a// the kingdoms of the earth,'''' means only Chaldea and Assyria ; anil it is often restricted to Judea only. Lower parts of the earth (Isa. xliv. 23) may signify lite- rally the valleys, or fienra- tively the grave. (Ps. Ixiii. 9- Eph.iv.9.) EARTHQUAKE. (1 Kings xix. II.) It is supposed that Ko- rah and his companions were destroyed by an earthquake. The earthquake mentioned, Amos i. I. Zech. xiv. 5, is also mentioned by Josephus, wh® adds that it divided a mountain near Jerusalem, and was so violent as to separate one part some distance from the other. The earthquake was among the fearful signs which attend- ed the crucifixion of our Sa- viour. Travellers tell us that the rocks on Calvary are rent asunder, and evidently by some such convulsion as an earthquake, and very early tradition says it was by the earthquake which happened at the time of the crucifixion. That the scene was terrible may well be inferred from Matt, xxvii. 51—54. Earthquakes are mentioned amonsr the calamities which should precede the destruction of Jerusalem, (Matt. xxiv. 7,) and Josephus and other histo- rians affirm the literal fulfil- ment of the prediction. Earth- quakes, in prophetical lan- guage, denote revolutions and conimotions in states and em- pires. EAST. (Gen. xxviii. 14.) The Hebrews used this word to describe all the countries or provinces lying around and beyond the rivers Tigris and Euphrates, or east or north-east of Judea. The word is also used. Gen. xi. 2, "from the east," and denotes the country east or south-east of mount Ara 220 EAT rat. In travelling from the foot of that mountain to the plain of Shinar, thp descendants of Noah woulu pass southerly on the eastern side of the moun- tains of Media until they came opposite to Shinar or to a point north-east of Babylon, from which, by a direct western course, they would pass into Assyria and the plain of Shi- nar. This is said to be the usual caravan route. East sea (Ezek. xlvii. IS. Joel ii. 20) is the same with the Dead Sea. (See Salt Sea.) East WIND. (See Wind.) EASTER. (Acts xii. 4.) In every other passage of our translation, this word is ren- dered passover, and of course denotes the same season or fes- tival. (See Feast.) EAT, EATING. (Isa. Ixvi. 17. Acts xi. 3.) The Hebrews were scrupulous about eating and drinkmg with the Egyp- tians, as the Egyptians also were about eating and drink- in£ with the Hebrews. (Gen. xltii. 32.) So also the Hebrews declined to eat with the Sama- ritans, (John iv. 9;) and the refusal to eat with one implied an entire separation. (Matt. ix. 11. ICor. v. 11.) The manner of eating among the Jews is still common in eastern nations ; the guests re- clined on couches or mattrass- es, resting on the left elbow, EAT and using chiefly the righ hand. This peculiar position makes the interesting scene described, Luke vii. 36—50, perfectly natural, and also shows how one of the guests could repose his head oil an- other's bosom. (John xiii. 23.) Women were never present at Jewish meals as guests. The present mode of eating among eastern nations illus- trates some interesting pas- sages of the New Testament. In Syria the guests use their fingers; a knife, spoon, and plate being used only by foreigners, and that as a spe- cial privilege. The bread, wliich is very thin, is dipped in the vegetable soup, and if there is a very dainty morsel on the table, the master of the house takes it in his fingera and presents it to the mouth of his guest. From Matt. xxvi. 23, we may presume that Judas was near enough to our Lord to use the same dish, and from the additional circumstances in John xiii. 26, 27, we may in- fer that he was near enough to receive the sop from our Lord's hand, accordm^ to the custom above described. (See Feast.) To eat a meal together is regarded in the east as a pledge of mutual confidence and friendship ; hence the force of the expression, Ps. xli. 9. (See Omar, pp. 30. 45, and Hebrew Customs, pp. 36 — 46, both by Am. S. S. Union.) The expression, John vi. 53 —58, is evidently metaphor! cal. This appears from the context, and from the design of the discourse, which was introduced by an allusion to the eating of manna. Our Saviour often speaks of him- self as the bread, (Johnvi. 41,) the bread of hfe, (John vi. 35,) and living bread, (Johnvi, 51,) and it was in perfect accord- ance with this figurative lan- guage to speak of those who 221 EBE received him, and exercised faith upon him, as eating his flesh and drinking his blood. Parallel phrases may be found, Jer. XV. 16. Ezek. iii. 1. John iv. 14: the force of the last passage is apparent from John vi. 35. EBAL,MOUNT,(Deut.xi.29,) and MOUNT GERIZIM, were situated in the tribe of Ephra- ira. They were but a short distance apart, and in the val- ley between, was the old city 01 Shechem, now Nablouse. The altitude ofthese mountains does not exceed seven or eight hundred feet, and they are "re- markable for the solemn ratifi- cation of God's covenant with the Jews, which took place upon them, and a particular account of which we have in Deut. xxvii. 12—26 ; xxviii. 2— 68. A modern traveller speaks of the lofty, craggy, and barren aspect of theselwo mountains, which seem to face each other with an air of defiance. According to the injunction of Moses, the Hebrews, after ihey obtained possession of Ca- naan, built an altar, and cele- brated a feast on mount Ebal. (Deut. xxvii. 4. Josh. viii. 30 — 35.) The Samaritans contend- ed that this should have been done on mount Gerizim, and not on mount Ebal, and they afterwards built a temple on Gerizim, the ruins of which are still visible, and regarded it as the Jews regarded their temple at Jerusalem. The re- mark of the Samaritan woman at Shechem to our Lord is in allusion to this difference of opinion. (See Omar, pp. 110— 115, by Am. S. Union. See also Shechem, and Samaritans.) EBED-MELECH. (Jer. xxxviii. 7.) An Ethiopian ser- vant of Zedekiah king of Ju- dah, who was instrumental in saving the prophet Jeremiah from "death by famine, and who, for his kindness in this ECC behalf, was promised deliver- ance when tlie city should fall into the enemy's hands. (Jer. xxxix. 15 — 18. isee Life op Jeremiah, ch. x., by Am. S. S, Union.) EBENEZER. (ISam.iv.l.) This name is used in the pas- sage cited, and also in 1 Sam. v.l ; but the application of it to a particular place was a subsequent event. While the Israelites were worshipping God at IMizpeh, they received intelligence that the Philis- tines were approaching them with a formidable army. In this emergency they betook themselves to sacrifice and prayer, and the God of armies interposed in a most signal manner for their deliverance. (] Sam. vii. 5—12.) In com- memoration of this event, Sa- muel erected a monument near the field of battle, and called it Ebenezer, or the stone of help, sa.yine, "Hither- to hatn Jeihovah helped us." Hence it is often said, " Here we will set up our Ebenezer," or here we will establish a memorial of the mercy and faithfulness of God. EBER (Gen. x. 21) was the great-grandson of Shem, and the ancestor of Abraham, in the seventh generation. (See Heeketts.) EBONY. (Ezek. xxvii. 15.) A w^ell known wood, which is produced in India and some districts of Africa. It is sus- ceptible of a fine polish, and is Used for musical instruments and ornamental work. ECCLESIASTES, or (as the name signifies) the Preacher, is the twenty-first in the order of the books of the Old Testa- ment, and was written by Solo- mon towards the close of his splendid and eventful career as monarch of Israel. The de- sign of the Author evidently i (L) To demonstrate the folly and madness of making this £DE world, its pleasures, or Us pur- suits the objects of affection or hope; and, (2.) To show the character, influence, and ad- vantages of true wisdom or re- ligion. Much of the obscurity of some passages in this book may be ascribed to the circum- stance that the author was refuting maxims and reprov- ing practices common to the errorists and libertines of his day, the particular character of which is now unknown. EDAR, TOWER OK. (See Tower.) EDEN. (Gen. ii. 8.) That part of the earth in which wks situated the garden planted by the Almighty for the residence of our first parents, and where they dwelt at the time of their apostacy. The word is also applied generally to denote any place remarkable for beauty and fertility. (2 Kings xix. 12. Isa. xxxvii. 12.) The attempt to establish the locali- ty of the garden of Eden is of course attended with great dif- ficulty. An eminent geologist says, we can trace over all those regions through which the Ti- gris and Eujjhrates flow, the same monuments of the flood which are so remarkable in every other quarter of the world, in the form of boundless deserts of sand mixed with salt and shells ; and of course we might as well look for the rich and beautiful dwelling place of our first parents in the prairies of America or the sands of Africa, as expect to discover any trace of them on the banks of the Euphrates. It is supposed by many to be safe, however, to fix upon Ar- menia as embracing the site of this interesting spot. As to the precise location, it is suggested that God may have chosen to obliterate every vestige of this fair portion of his works, unfit- ted for any thing but the re- sidence of innocence, and to EDO blot at once from the face of the earth, like the guilty cities of the plain, both the site and the memorial of man's trans- gression, an awful event which would add tenfold horror to their punishment. (See Eve- ning Recreations, vol. i. pp. 8-16. Am. S. S. Union.) Eden, house of. (Amos i. 5.) Thisterm, in its connexion, indicates a place of some im- portance. Modern travellers find a place near Damascus bearing a name of the same import, (house of pleasure^ which they suppose to be the same mentioned by the pro phet. EDOM, (Judg. xi. 17,) called I'lumea. (Isa. xxxiv. 5) by the Greeks and Romans, was the name of a district of country inhabited by the Horites, (Gen. xxxvi. 21,) or Horims, (Deut. ii. 12,) lying south of the Dead Sea, and bordering on Moab. Edcm, or mount Seir, was ori- ginally a small strip of elevat- ed land between the desert of Zin on the west, and Arabia Petrea on the east. The cli- mate was delightful, and it was remarkable for the richness of its soil and the almost impreg- nable fortress it contained. (Gen. xxvii. 39. Jer. xlix. 16.) It derives its name from Esau, (called also Edom, Gen. xxxvi. 43,) whose descendants are supposed to have settled there. The same province is now called Sherath, and extends across the whole southern bor- der of Canaan, from the Dead Sea to the eastern gulf of the Red Sea, including riiount Seir. Of the eastern division of their territory, Bozrah, or Bezer, was the capital, and Petrea (or Sela) of the southern. Te- man, a grandson of Esau, (Gen. xxxvi. 11,) resided here, and gave his own name to part of the province. (Jobii. 11. Jer. xlix. 7. 20.) The Edomltes were governed by kings (Gen. 223 EGG XXX vi. 31) until they were con- ?uered by David, (2 Sam. viii. 4,) thus fulfilling the prophe- cy. (Gen. xxvii. 29) Hadad, a lineal descendant of one of the Idumean kings, regained the control of the eastern pro- vince. The inhabitants of south Edom afterwards revolt- ed from Jehoram, (2 Ciiron. ixi.lO,) and sustained some se- vere reverses, (2Kings xiv. 7. 2 Chron. xxv. 11 ;) and were finally conquered by Nebu- chadnezzar. There is no country on the face of the globe, the present state of which more fully at- tests the truth of prophecy than Idumea. The predictions are singularly specific, (especially Isa. xxxiv.5. 10—17. Jer. xlix. 13—18. Ezek. xxxv. 7. Mai. i. 3, 4;) and their literal and exact accomplishment is fully sustained by the testimony even of the enemies of the Bible. Modern travellers unite in their declaration that it is one broad plain of barrenness and desolation, and that its present state could not be more graphically described than it IS in the words of the prophe- tic writers. (See The Bible IS True, ch. vii., by Am. S. S. Union.) EDREI. (Josh. xiii.31.) One of the capital cities of Ba- shan, the ruins of which still remain under the name of Draa, about seventy-five miles north of Bozrah. Og, king of Bashan, was defeated at this place by the Israelites, and nis kingdom assigned to the half tribe of Manasseh. An- other town of this name was inthetribeofNaphtali. (Josh. xix. 37.) EGG. (Deut.xxii.6.) This passage humanelyprohibits the taking away of a brooding bird from a nest, and is similar in its nature to the provision re- specting other anima1.s and their young. (Lev. xxii. 28. EGY Comp. Isa. X. 14. See Part RIDGE, Scorpion.) EGLON. l.APERSON,(Judg. iii. 14,) and king of the Moab- ites, who held the Israelites in bondage eighteen years. He formed an alliance with the Ammonites and Amalekites, and took possession of Jerfcho, where he resided, and where he was afterw ards assassinated by Ehud. (See Ehud.) 2. A PLACE. (Josh. X. 3; XV. 39.) EGYPT. (Exodus i. i.) One of the most ancient and inte- resting countries on the face of the earth. It is bounded south by Ethiopia, north by the Mediterranean Sea, and east by the Red Sea. Its north- ern and southern limits are given in Ezek. xxix. 10 ; xxx. 6. It presents itself to the eye of the traveller as an immense valley, extending nearly six hundred miles in length, and hemmed in on the east and west by a ridge of hills and a vast expanse of desert. It has an alluvial basin, owing its existence, fertility, and beauty to the river Nile, which flows through it. Hence Egypt was anciently called the gift of the Nile. As to the origin of the name, there is much dif- ference of opinion. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word translated Eeypt is Miz T-am, which was the name of one of the sons of Ham, (Gen. X. 6,) who might have been the founder of the nation. It is sometimes called Ham, (Ps. lxxviii.51; cv.23.27; cvi.22,) and ^.\3oRahab. (Ps. Ixxxvii. 4 ; Ixxxix. 10 Isa. li. 9.) The Arabs now call it Mizr. It was in Egypt that Joseph was raised from the condition of a slave to the highest rank in the king's retinue. In the providence of God, his falher and brothers came thither to live, and in the space of four 224 EGY hundred and thirty years in- creased from seventy-five souls to between one and two mil- lions. Their deliverance from oppression under Pharaoh is perhaps the most striking pas- sage of Jewish history. (See Hebrews.) As a subject of prophecy, Egypt is one of the most in- teresting of ancient nations. (Isa. xviii.xix. Jer. xlii.— xlvi. Ezek. xxix.— xxxii.) The pre- dictions concerning it are re- markable for their precision and fulness; and their exact fulfilment in every essential point is attested by incontro- Tertible evidence. At the time when some of -he most extraordinary of these predictions were uttered, (Eze. XXX. 21—26,) Egypt was flou- rishing in arts and arms. Her eplendid cities rose up on every side, and the stately monuments of her genius and industry were without a pa- rallel. But when the divine counsel was fulfilled, the scep- vre of the Pharaohs fell, and Egypt became a tributary jimgdom, without a prince of its own, subject to a foreign yoke, and has often been go- verned by slaves. The present population of Egypt is estimated at two mil- lions and a half. Before the Persian conquest, (which took place B. c. 350,) the authority of the Pharaohs extended over seven and a half millions. The inhabitants consist of Copts, Arabs, Greeks, Jews, and Sy- rians ; of whom the Copts are the most numerous, and are usually regarded as the de- scendants of the true Egyp- tians ; but the country has been so often invaded, over- run, and colonized, that it is proba-ble the original stock is exterminated. Great and rapid changes havs taken place in this interesting country within Ihe last thirty years. The cara- EGT paign of the French army in 1800, which was undertaken witii a view to subdue Egypt, and so secure to the French an im])ortant share of the East India trade, though it resulted unsuccessfully, was attended with important consequences to the interests of science and learning. A new era in the history of this country com- menced then. Mohammed Ali, the present viceroy, though a perfect despot, has done much to elevate his dominions to a rank with civilized nations, in arts, commerce, and industry. The works of internal im- provement which he has un- dertaken, the extensive manu- factories he has established, and the encouragement he has given to literary institutions, promise to change the politi- cal if not the moral aspect of Egypt. (See Ev. Eec. by Am. S. S. Union, vol. iii. 28—115.) Egypt, river of, (Gen. xv. 18,) called by way of pre-emi- nence the River, (Gen. xli. 1. Ex. vii. 17,) and sometimes Sikor, (Isa. xxiii. 3,) or Shihor, (1 Chron. xlii. 5,) was the Nile, a remarkable river, which flows twelve lumdred miles without meeting a tributary stream. Its overflowings inun- date the adjoining country, (Amos viii. 8 ; ix. 5,) and give it its extraordinary fertility. {Seepreceding article.) Hence a failure of this periodical overflowing must occasion the utmost distress. (Tsa. xix. 5,6.) It is not improbable, how- ever, that another and smaller river was called the river cf Egypt, and that it emptied into th'e Mediterranean at some place south of Gaza. (Num. xxxiv. 5. Josh. XV. 47.) Such a river is mentioned by mo- dern travellers, about thirty yards wide, called Wadi Gaza, the same with the brook Besor, Its being the border of Judea, on the Egyptian side, might EKR five it the name river of ^Sypt' The precise import of tlie phrase must be deter- mined in each case by its con- nexion. (See Besor.) EHUD. (Judg. iii. 15.) A son of Gera, of the tribe of Benjamin, who delivered the Israelites from the oppression which they sutfered under Eg- lon king of Moab. The Israel- ites sent Ehud to pay some tax or tribute to Eglon, as a token of their allegiance. Un- der the pretence that he had aome secret message to the king, he obtained a private audience; and while they were together in the king's apart- ment, Ehud drew a dagger which he had made expressly for the purpose, and gave him a mortal wound. The custom of delivering confidential mes- sages in secret appears to bave been so common, that the attendants of Eglon left his presence as soon as Ehud's wish was known. Such is the custom in eastern courts at this day, as travellers assure us; as soon as a confidential message is announced, the au- dience chamber is cleared of all but the messenger. Ehud fled towards mount Ephraim, and summoning the oppressed Israelites to his help, they se- cured the fords of tlie Jordan, BO that the Moabites, by whom their land was garrisoned, might not escape. As soon as he had collected a sufficient force, he fell upon the Moab- ites, and cut them off in every direction. EKRON. (Josh. XV. 45.) A city of the Philistines, lying north-west of Gath and north of Ashdod, assigned by Joshua originally to the tribe of Judah, (Judg. i.l8,) but afterwards said to belong to the tribe of Dan. (Josh. xix. 43.) Neither tribe seems to have been in actual possession of the place. (Judg. ELA i. 34,35. ISam. v. 10; vi. 17. •2 Kings i. 2. Jer. xx v. 20. Araos i.8. Zeph. ii.4. Zech. ix.5.7. See Selumiel, p. 28, by Am. S. S. Union. See Philistia.) ELAH. 1. A PERSON. (1 Kings xvi. 6.) Son and succes. sor of Baasha king of Israel. As he was revelling at a friend's house, he was assassinated by Zimri, one of the officers of his army. (See Omri.) He reigned only two years. 2. A PLACE. Valley of, (1 Sam. xvii. 19,) li( 8 south-west of Jerusalem, three miles from Bethlehem, on the road to Jaffa. The Israelites were en camped in this valley when David fought and subdued Go- liath. (See Selumiel, p. 31, and Life of David, pp. 26, 27, both by Am. S. S. Union.) ELAM. 1. A PERSON. (Gen. X. 22.) Eldest son of Shem, and the ancestor of the Elam- ites and Persians. 2. A COUNTRY, (Gen. xiv. 9,) settled by the family of Elam, and lying east of Shinar and north of the Persian gulf, and a part of the ancient Per- sian empire. Chedorlaomer was one of its earliest kings. (Gen. xiv. 1.) Shushan was the capital of the province. (Dan. viii. 2.) When the country of Elam is mentioned by the sa- cred writers, Susiana or Shu- sistan is meant. The Elam- ites were a warlike peopde, and distinguished for their skill as bowmen, (Isa. xxii. 6. Jer. xlix. 35,) and were regard- ed as a formidable enemy. (Ezek. xxxii. 24.) Some of this nation were present in ^^ Jerusalem, at the miraculous effusion of God's Spirit on the day of Pentecost. (See Shu- shan.) The " bringing again the captivity of Elam" (Jer. xlix. 39) is generally supposed to refer to the restoration of the kingdom of Persia by Cyrus ELD who subdued the Babylonians, as ihey had previously subdued the Persians. £ L A T H, (Deut. ii. 8,) or ELOTH. (2Chron. viii. 17.) A seaport of Idumea; of great ce- lebrity, lying on the shore of the eastern orElaniiic gulf of the Red Sea. It was a place of nuich importance in Solo- mon's time. (1 Kings ix. 26— 28.) It was probably a part of David's conquest, (1 Chron. xviii. 13,) and was recaptured by the Edomites in the rei^n of Jehoram, (2Kings viii. 2D,) was taken from therh again by Uzziah kingof Judah, (2 Kings xiv. 22,) was afterwards taken by the kins of Damascus, (2 Kings xvi. 6,) who was in his turn deprived of it by the king of Assyria. (2 Kings xvi. 7— i).") Elath adjoined Ezion-Geber, and Akaba now occupies the site of one or both of those ancient towns. ELD AD (Num. xi. 26) and MEDAD were of the seventy elders of Israel appointed by Moses lo assist him in the go- vernment of the people. When the elders were assembled around the tabernacle to seek wisdom from God on a particu- lar occasion, Eldad and Medad were absent. The Spirit of God was however poured out on them there, while they con- tinued with the camp, as well as on their colleagues who sur- rounded the tabernacle, and they began to prophesy. Their Kmceedingwas represented to loses, and he was asked to prohibit them, but he declined, and, so far from wisliing them to be silenced, uttered a prayer that all the people might re- ceive the same Spiril^which was upon Eldad and Medad. ELUERS. (Ex. iii. 16.) A comprehensive title, the pecu- liar force of v/hich must be determined by the connexion, &c. Wiiile in Egypt, the elders of Israel (Ex. jv. 29— 31) ELL were probably either the heads of tribes, or the oldest and most judicious of the people. And though their authority was ia its nature paternal, they were regarded to a certain extent, as the representatives of the nation. In the Hebrew com- monwealth every city had ila elders. (Deut. xix. 12; xxi. 1 —9. Josh. XX. 24. Judg. viii. 14; xi. 5,6. Kuth iv. 2.4. 9. Ezra X. 14.) There was a body of elders, however,selected and appoint- ed for special duties, (Num. xi. 16, 17. 24, 25;) and they seem to have been taken from the general class of elders. The expression is, " Gather me se- venty men of the elders of Is- rael, whom thou knoicesl to be el ters of the peiyple, and offi- cers over them." The seventy men who were with MosesatmountSinai were also seventy of the elders of Israel. (Ex. xxiv. 1. 9.) At a subsequent period of Jewish history, we find a tribunal of seventy elders known as the sanhedrim, which the rabbies maintain was a continuance of the original appointment of elders tiy Moses. It is generally agreeil, however, that the son- hedrim was a distinct orijani- zation, unknown till the lime of the Maccabees. The term elders is used in the New Testament generally, if not always, to denote a class of officers in the Jewish or Christian church. Concerning the duties which appcriained to their office, there are coa- tlicting opinions. It is supposed by some that in Acts xi. 30, the wonl elders means simply the aeed men. The word rendered elders^ Acts XX. 17, is ren.lered over- s ers. Acts xx. 28, and binhopa in Phil. i. 1. However difficult it may be to ascertain its ori- ginal import, there can be no doubt that one class of tlis ELE elders so frequently spoken of in the New Tesiament by the evanpelisis and others, con- stituted a judicial tribunal. When they are associated with the apostles, (as in Acts xv. 6,) offi' 'rs or members of the Christian church are intend- ed; and when they are asso- ciated with the civil authority, (as in Acts xxiv. I,) officers of the Jewish church are intend- ed. That the corruption and contempt which attached to the latter in their judicial cha- racter was very general in our Saviour's time, "appears from Matt. xxvi. 59; xxvii. 3. 41; and that the former had ex- tensive ecclesiastical power, appears from Acts xvi. i. Estate op the elders (Acts xxii. 5) means the whole body, bench, or order of the elders. ELEALEH. (Num. xxxii. 3. 37.) A city of the Amoriles, assigned to the tribe of Reuben. Jt is denounced in the prophe- cies among the cities of Moab. (Isa. XV. 4. Jer. xlviii. 34.) And to this day the ruins of a town are seen one or two miles north-east of Heshbon, that still retain the name of Eleale or El-Aal. ELEAZAR. 1. (Num. xx. 23.) The third son of Aaron, (Ex. vi. 2.3.) and his successor in the office of high-priest, which he held for upwards of twenty years, and his family after him, till the time of Eli. Nadab and Abihu, Eieazar and Iihamar, together with their father Aaron, were con- secrated to the sacerdotal of- fice. The first two were struck dead for a particular sin. (See Abihu ^ Eieazar, being the eldest surviving son, succeeded his father, alid was himself suc- ceeded by his eldest son Phine- lins, according to the covenant. (Num. XXV. 12, 13.) The office continued in Eleazar's line ELE through seven successions, and then passed into the line of Iihamar, in the person of Eli, who was both high-priest and judge. In Ithamar's line, it cominued until the reign of Saul, who caused Ahimelech to be slain, and probably trans- ferred the priesthood to Zadok, who was of the line of Phine- has; for in David's time we find the priesthood sustained jointly by Zadok and Abialhar, who was of Ithamar's family. (2 Sam. XX. 25.) It is supposed that Zadok was advanced by Saul ; and David, not wishing to depose him, but feeling bound to advance Abiathar, whose family had sacrificed so many lives for his sake, he conferred the office on them jointly. (2Sam.viii. 17.) The apparent contradiction in this last cited passage, by which tiie relation of Ahimelech and Abialhar is reversed, is ex- plained by supposing that Abi- alhar had a son Ahimelech, and that this son officiated in his father's stead, and hence is spoken of as executing the priest's office with Abiathar. Afiervrards, Abiathar was de- posed, (1 Kinss ii. 27,) and Za- dok sustaineLflhe office alone ; and the succession continued in his line thenceforward until the captivity. Abiathar received the title of hi^h-priest after his deposition, (I Kings iv. 4,) but it was no- thing more than nominal; it could only have been a se- condary rank, such as Zepha- niah held. (Jer. lii.24.) Why the sacerdotal succession was transferred from Eieazar tj Ithamar, we are not informed ; but we are told why it reverted to the family of Eieazar. (i Sam. ii.27, &c.) 2. (1 Chron. xi. 12.) A wajv rior of distinguished courage, two of whose exploits are re- corded, 1 Chron. xi. 11—18, and 2 Sam. xxiii. 9. ELE 3. (I Sara. vii. I.) The son ' of Abinadab, to whose care the ark was commitied when it j was sent back by the Philis- j tines. EL-ELOHE-ISRAEL. (Gen. xxxiii. 20.) The word El is from a Hebrew word signifying strength, poicer, or an object of adoration. It is most fre- t quenlly used of God, but is | applied both to Jehovah and i to heathen gods. It enters into I the composition of a variety of words, to which it gives a | highly significant meanin?, i as El-bethel, Eluzal, Daniel, Jabneel, Othniel, Penuel, &c. (See Eloi.) El-bethel. (Gen. xxxv. 7.) TVie God of Bethel. The flame with Bethel. (See Be- thel.) ELECT, (1 Pet. i. 2,) ELEC- TION. (Rom. ix. 11.) Both in the Old and New Testament a class of persons is spoken of as the elect, mine elect, (Isa. Ixv. 9,) the elect, (Matt. xxiv. 22,) his elect, (Mark xiii. 27,) his owji elect, (Luke xviii.7,) God's c^ec^ (Rom. viii. 33. Tit. i. 1,) the elect of God. (Col. iii. 12.) So also in the New Testament a corresponding phrase often occurs, Elected together icith you, (1 Pet. V. 13,) 'the purpose of God, according to election, (Rom. ix. 11,) election of grace, (Rom. xi. 5,) election of God, (1 Thess. i. 4,) calling and election. (2?et. I [0.) These terms, in their various connex- ions, involve a very important and interesting doctrine, con- cerning which Christians are much divided in opinion. It is evidently a matter of mere revelation, and many of the reasonings and inferences of men are therefore likely to be very vain and erroneous. TVie counsel of the Lord, that s?iall stand. (Prov. xix. 21.) And i we may be fully ass red, that i in his counsel there is nothing laconsislent with the infinitely i 20 ELT perfect attributes of his cha- racter. Elect lady. (2 John 1.) Whether this title is applied by John to some eminent Christian woman, or whether it was a figurative expression, denoting a Christian church, is uncertain. The expressions in verses 4, 5. 8, and 13, would favour the latter supposition. ELEMENTS, (Gal. iv. 3.9,) elsewhere rendered rudiments, (Col. ii. 8. 20,) or the first prin- ciples of an art or science, is a term ajiplied to the ceremonial ordinances of the Mosaic law, which were worldly, weak, and beggarly, inasmuch as they consisted very much in outward or worldly observ- ances, (Heb. ix. 1,) and were of temporary and partial ser- vice, when compared with the disclosures of grace and mercy which they were designed to shadow forth. In the case of the Colossians, probably these rudiments of the world em- braced the doctrines of some vain and deceitful philosothy. ELI. (ISam. ii. 11.) A de- scendant of Ithamar, the fourth son of Aaron, and successor of Abdon, as high-priest and judge of Israel. Tn consequence of his negligence or injudicious management of his two sons Hophni and Phinehas, he suf- fered servere chastisement. Sa- muel was directed to disclose to Eli the judgments that would come upon his family, (1 Sam. iii. 13, 14,) chiefly be- cause of his neglect of pater nal duty. The old man re- ceived the intelligence ^hh remarkable submis'sion , ^ Jt it was not until twenty-seven years after, that God fulfilled his threatenings. Then his two sons were both slain in the same battle with the Philis- tines, into whose hands the ark of God fell. The aged priest, then in his ninety-eighth year, was so overwhelmed when 229 ELI these calamities were made known to him, thai he fell backward from his seal, and broke his neck. He had go- verned the Hebrews in all their concerns, civil and reli- fjious, for the long period of (Wty years. (1 Sam. iv. IS. See Et.oi.) ELIAB. (1 Sam. xvii. 28.) The eldest son of Jesse, (1 Sam. xvii. 13,) and a man of angry and envious temper, as ap- Eears from liis treatment of his rother David. ELlAKliM. 1. (2Kingsxviii. IS.) An officer in the court of Hezekiah king of Judali, and one of the commissioners ap- pointed to treat with the king of Assyria, who liad laid siege to Jerusalem. We have a mi- nute and deeply interesting account of the whole scene, 2 Kings xviii. and xix'. 2. caKingsxxiii. a4.) Son and successor of Josiah king of Judah. His name was changed to Jehoiakim. (.See Jkhoia- KIM.) ELI AS. (See Elijah.) ELIASHIB. (Neh. xiii. 4.) An officer of the temple. To oblige Tobiah, a relative, he look the stores out of one of the courts of the temple, and filled it up for Tobjah's lodg- ings. As soon as Nehemiah tnew of it, he caused all To- Diah's furni'ure to be cast out, the apariinents to be thorough- ly cleansed, and the stores lo be reiumrd. ELIEZEK. (Gen. XV. 2.) A name of fre(iuent occurrence in the Old Testament. The most distinguished person wlio bore it WHS Aliraham's steward and confidential servant. (Gen. jcxiv. 2.) ELIHU. (Job xxxii. 2.) A friend uf Job, and a kind of arl^itralor in the controversy between liim and three of his ac(|uainiKiu es who had come lo sympathize with hi)n in his calamiiies. Elihu regarded ELI both parties as in the wrong; Job, for justifying himself ra- ther ihaii God I and his three friends, for their unfair or un satisfactory mode of answering the afflicted patriarch. Elihu was the youngest of them all. He is called the Buzite, from Buz, the place of his nativity, probably a city of Idumea, as were also Dedan and Teman^ (Jer. XXV.23; xlix. 7, 8. Ezek, XXV. 13.) The ground taken by the three friends of .lob, I respecting the cause of his calamities, was, that his pro- fessions of piety were hypocri- tical; and these were God's judgments upon him for his sins. Elihu shows thai ihis inference of tlieir's was rash and unauthorized. He cen- sures many of the feelinss and expressions into which Job had been betrayed by the taunts and reproaches of his visiters; and then puts him in remem- brance of the infinite attributes of the Di vi lie Being,as a ground of submission and confidence. The soothing, yet faithful and honest, discourse of Elihu is [finely conirasi6;d with the I sharp and severe language of I the other three; and especial- ly are his wisdom, piety, and benevolence ailmirable, when we consider his youih and the character and slanilin^of these w horn he addressed. (See Job.) ELIJAH, (1 Kings xvii. I,) or ELIAS, (Mail. xvii. 3,) wa« a native of Gilead, and is called the Tixhbite, pmbably from the name if ihe town or district in whiih he livf d. He is first introduced to our notice as a messenger from God lo Ahab, the wicked king of Is- rael. He was sent to Hter a prophecy of a three years' drought in the land of fsraeL He was miraculously feil, (i Kings xvii. (j-IG: xi.x. 5-«,) and was favoured with the most remarkable displays of ELI divine power in his behalf, anil in answer to liis prayers. (iKingp xvii. 17—2-2; xviii. 15 —16. xix.2-:i. iKlngs i.3— 17; ii. 1— llj Two of these inciJenls are used in the New Testainenl to illustrate im- portant doctrines. (Lulie iv. 25, 2G. James v. 17, IS.) As a rt^prover of wicked men in high places, Elijah dis- coverei! great intrepidity, (I Kincs xxi. 17—21. 2 Kings i. 2—16,) thouQ;h on one occasion he seems to have l.ieen betray- ed into some impatience. (1 Kings xix. 3, 4) Afer executing the prophe- tic office ten years, Elijah was translated to heaven in a mi- raculous manner, in presence of Elisha and fifty other per- sons. The advent of John the Baptist is prophesied under the name of Elijah. (Mai. iv. 5. Comp. Matt. xi. 14; xvii. 10. Mark ix. 11. Luke i. 17. For a full history of this prophet, with illustrative maps and cuts, see Life of Elijah. See also Bible Pictures, and Widow and her Son, all by Am. S.S. Union.) ELIMELECH. (Ruth i. 2.) A Bethlehemiie. and the hus- band of Naomi, Ruth's mother- in-law. ELIPHAZ. (Jobii. 11.) One of the three friends of Job who came to sympathize with him in his calamities. He ig called ihe Temanite, probably be- cause he was a native of Te- man, a country of Idumea, settled by one of the descend- ants of Esau. (Gen. xxxvi. 10, 11. Comp. Jer. xlix. 7.20. Ezek. XXV. 13. Amos i. 11, 12. Obad. 8, 9.) ELISABETH. (Luke i. 5.) The wife of Zacharias, and greatly distinguished as the mother of John the Baptist, She was a descendant of Aa- ron; and of her and her hus band tliis exalted ciiaracter is given by the evangelist— T/iey ELO were both righteous before Gorl, walking in all the com' vw.ndnients and ordinances of the Lord blameless. (See Za- charias.) ELISHA, (1 Kings xix. 16,) the disciple and successor of Elijah, was thesonof Shaphat, and a native of Abel-Meholah. Elijah was commanded to anoint liim; which service he performed at Abel-Meholah,' where he found Elisha plough- ing, and threw his mantle over him as they stood in the field; thus signifying the service to which "he was called. Elisha promptly obeyed the call, and leaving his oxen in the field, took leave of his father and mother, and ftdlowed Elijah Many miracles were wrought by Elisha. (2 Kings ii. 19— 22; iv. l.S— 37; v. vi. 1—7. See Naaman.) He received frequent and signal tokens of the divine fa vour,(2 Kings ii. 23, 24 ; vi. 8—23,) and uttered se- veral remarkable predictions. (2 Kings iii. 16—27; vii. viii. 7 —15.) He exercised the pro- phetic office upwards of sixty years with great fidelity and success. (For a full biography of this eminent prophet, with maps and cuts, illustrating his travels and the prominent in- cidents of his life, see Life op Eli.sha, by Am. S.S. Union.) ELISHAH. (Gen. x. 4.) A son of Javan, who is supposed to have settled upon some islands of the sea. (Ezek. xxvii. 7.) Perhaps Elis is the Peloponnesus. E L L A S A R, (Gen. xiv. 1,) supposed to be the same with Thelasar, (2 Kings xix. 12.) and T'e^assar, (IsaTxxxvii. 12,) was probably a country of Ara- bia, and perhaps the province which was afterwards enlarg- ed into Assyria or El-Asur. ELM. (Hos. iv. 13.) The original is elsewhere trans- lated oak. (See Oak.) ELOI. (Mark XV. 34.) One 231 EMB tf the names of the Most High, but is applied to other objects of adoration. It is the a/ZaA of the Arabians. (See El.) The exclamation of our Saviour is in the Syro-Chaldaic tongue, and is taken from Ps. xxil 1. The peculiar application of the passage may be learned from comparins Isa. liii. 4, 5. Zech. xiii. 7. Luke xxii. 53. 2 Cor. V. 21. Gal. iii. 13. ELUL. (See Month.) ELYMAS. (SeeBARJESUs.) EMBALM. (Gen. 1.2.) The practice of embalming prevail- ed at a very early period. The Hebrews learned it from the Egyptians, by whom it was understood very perfectly, and it is said that the inundation of the Nile, which kept the flat country under water for nearly two months every year, proba- bly obliged them to resort to some such method of preserv- ing their dead. Others tell us it was to preserve the body for the dwelling place of the soul, after it had completed its vari- ous transmigrations. The em- balmers or" physicians were regarded as sacred officers. The deceased person was open- ed, (both head and body,) the inward vessels and organs en- EMB tirely removed, and the cavi- ties filled with drugs and spices, — such as myrrh and cassia,— whereby the humours should be imtnbed and ab- sorbed, and the torm preserved from decay. It was then swath- ed in linen bandages, with a profusion of aromatics. The price of embalming a single body was sometimes upwards of $10(X), and from that down to S-00, or $300. Sometimes the process lasted from thirty to seventy days, and afterwards the body was placed in a coffis of sycamore-wood or stone, and then placed upright against the walls of the house, where it often remained for years. Finally, the bodies were placed in subterraneous vaults in the ground, or in the rock, where they were often found, after the lapse of two or three thou- sand years, in a state of perfect preservation. We have no evidence that embalming was practised by the Hebrews, except in the cases of Jacob and Joseph, and then it was for the purpose of preserving their remains till they could be carried into the land of promise. (See Bury.) EMU EMERALD. (Ex. xxviii. 18.) A very valuable gem, of a pure green colour, to which it owes Its chief value. The deepest colours are the most valuable. The emerald was anciently obtained from Egypt. It is found in Peru and the East Indies, and was an article of Tyrian merchandise. (Ezek. xxvii. 16; xxviii. 13.) EMEKODS. (1 Sam. v. 6. 9.) The name of a painful disease sentuponthe Philistines. Some think it resembled the modern disease of the piles; and others, that it was like the dysentery ; and others still, that they were a very large and venomous species of the spider. It was customary with the heathens to offer to their gods figures of wax or metal, representing the parts which had been cured of disease. Whence they infer, in connexion with 1 Sam. vi. 5, that the priests and diviners of the Philistines recommend- ed a similar course. EMIMS. (Deut. ii. 10.) A numerous and warlike people, of gigantic size, who dwelt on the eastern borders of Canaan, and who were supplanted by the IMoabites. E]\IMANUEL. (See Imma- NUEL.) E:\IMAUS. (Luke xxiv. 13.) A village seven or eight miles north-west of Jerusalem. It was on the way to this village that our Lord held a most inle- restins conversation with two of his Hisciples. The supposed ruins of the place are still vi- sible, though too imperfect to excite much interest. EMULATION. (Rom. xi. 14. Gal. V. 20.) The oppo- site meaning of this word, in the passage above cited, is obvious. In the last casej it is the same with what is elsewhere called envy and envyings, (Acts xiii. 45. 2 Cor. xii. 20";) and in the former passage it signifies that holy 20* ENG strife or effort to equal or excel others, which is excited or pro- voked by an exhibition of good example. ENCHANTMENTS. (See Inchanters.) ENDOR. (Ps. Ixxxiii. 10.) A town of Manasseh, with- in the territory of Issachar, south of mount Tabor, where lived the woman whom Saul consulted as having a fami- liar spirit. A cave is still pointed out to travellers a few- miles south of Nazareth, as the one she inhabited. (1 Sam. xxviii. 7—25.) It would seem from the passage in Psalms, above cited, that it was near this place that Barak defeated Sisera. (Judg. iv.) ENDOW. (SeeDowRT.) ENGEDI, (2Chron.xx.2,) or HAZAZON-TAMAR. A town about thirty miles south-east of Jerusalem, and directly w^est of the southern extremity of the Dead Sea. It was celebrated for its palm trees and vineyards, (Sol. Song i. 14;) and modern travellers speak of the district as affording the richest wines. It was also celebrated for its caves and almost inaccessible fastnesses. (1 Sam. xxiiii 29.) Wilderness of. (1 Sam. sxiv. 1.) Part of the wilder- ness of Judah. , ENGINES. (See War.) ENGRAVE. (Ex.xxviii.il.) Engraved seals are spoken of at a very early period of the world. The names of the chil- dren of Israel were directed to be engraved on two stones; and the words " Holiness to THE Lord" were also to be engraved on the high-priest's breastplate ; both to be like the engravings of asignet. (Ex. xxviii. 11. 36.) The^signet is mentioned before Joseph was sold into Egypt. Job also speaks of engraving with an iron pen upon a rock. (Job xix. 24.) The ten commandments were engraved, (Ex. xxxii. 16:) and 233 ENO graven images were undoubt- edly among ihe earliest objects of idolatrous worship. (Ex. xx. 4; xxxii. 4.) Allusion is also made to the engraver's art in Ezek. xxiii. 14. "The engraved lines were probably filled in with colouring matter. (See also Acts xvii. 29. See Seal.) ENOCH, (Heb. xi. 5,) the eon cf Jared and father of Methuselah, was born a. m. 622. He is called the seventh frmn Adam, (Jude 14,) to dis- tinguish him from Enoch the son of Cain, who was only the third from Adam. We are told that he walked with God ; an expressive figure to denote the closest cornaiunion with the divine being, and entire conformity to h.\3 will. And concerning his departure from the world, we are told that he was not, for God took him, — a phrase which im- ports a mere, change of resi- dence, without suffering the ordinary dissolution of the body. In this case, as well as in Elijah's, the body was clothed with immortality, or endued with the immortal principle by the immediate power of i'imothy Titus . . Romans - Janies Philemon Coiossians Ephesians Fbilippiaos Hebrews Jude 2 Tinfiothy 1 Peter ■ 2 Peter • 1, 2, and 3 John ERASTUS (Acts xix. 22) was the steward or treasurer of the city of Corinth, (see Cham- berlain,) and a convert un- der Paul's preaching. (Rom. xvi, 2.3.) He followed Paul to Ephesus, and thence went to Macedonia, (Acts xix. 22,) and afterwards returned to Corinth. (2Tiin. iv.20.) ERECH. (Gen. x. 10.) A city of Chaldea, built by Nimrod on the Tigris. It was called Erecca and Aracca by the Greeks and Romans. Some have supposed there were two places of this name, and others that Erech was the same with Edessa, (now Orfah,) in north- ern Mesopotamia. ESAIAS. (Matt. iii. 3.) The eame with Isaiah. ESH Of the epistles, Paul wrote fourteen; James, one; Peter, two; John, three; and Jude, one; which are more particu- larly noticed either under the names of the individuals re- spectively, or of the churches or persons to whom they wrote. The following table is sujiposed to show the probable chrono logical order of the epistlea, wiUi the places at which the]^ were written, and the dale of each. It will be perceived that the earliest and latest date embrace a period of less than twenty years for the whole. Places where xuri'ten. Year of Christ. Thessalouica, or Corinth • • • 51—53 Corinth 52—54 Ibid. 52—56 Ephesus 56 Macedonia ..... 67 — 69 Ibid. 66—59 Colosse, or Macedonia . Corinth Judea Rome Ibid. Ibid. Ibid. Ibid. Uncertain Rome Uncertain Uncertain Ephesus 58 61 61-63 61-K 61-^ 64 61-62 66 ESARHADDON. (2 Kings xix. 37.) Son and successor of Sennacherib king of Assyria, and the same with Sargoa,(Isa. XX. 1,) and with Sardanapalus of prodine history. ESAU, (Gen. xxv. 25,) or EDOM. (Gen.xxxvi. 1.) Son of Isaac and Rebecca, and twin brother of Jacob. The most important events of his life are so intimately connected with the life of Jacob, that they will be considered under that ar- ticle. His family settled on mount Seir, east of Jordan, which was hence called Edom, and his descendants were the Edomites, one of the most pow- erful and furmidalile nations ofthata^e. (See Edom.) E S H B A A L. (1 Chroa. viii. EST 33 ) The same with Ishbosheth. (See Ishbosheth.) ES HCOL. 1. A PERSON. (Gpo. xiv. 24.) One of Abra- ham's allies. 2. A RIVL'LET, or VALLEY, (Deul. i. 24,) in ihe suutli of Juilea. The spies sent out by the Israelites to explore the promised land and ascertain Us siiualinn, fertility, &c. &.C., came to this brook, and cut down a branch of a vine with a Biniile cluster of grapes, which was s.) 1 irre and heavy as to be born" upon a siaiT by two men. This they look to their brethren, as a visible illuplra- lion of the richness of the s.iil ami its productions. (Num. xiii. ~t; xxxil. 9.) ESHTAOL. (Josh. xv. 3-3.) A town in the valley or l>w- lamls of Judah, though after- wards in the possession of Dan. (Judg. xiii. 2."); xvi. 31.) It is Bupposed to have been situated eouih-east of Askalon. ESHTEMOA. (Josh. xxi. M. 1 Chron. vi. 57,) or ASHTE- MOH. (Josh. XV. 50.) A town in the s tuthern part of Jndah, assisn'^d to the sonsof Aanm. ESPOUSE. (See Betroth.) ESKOM. (Matt. i. 3. Luke iii.3.3.) The same with Hezron. (Gen. xlvi. 1-2.) ESTATK (Mark vi. 21) is the seneral name for an order or cla.ss nf men in society or government. As in Great Bri- tain, the lirds and connnons are railed the estates of the real'n. (See Elders.) ESTHER, or HADASSAH. (Esiii. ii. 7.) An orphan child of the Inn.lred of Mordecai, wh iiti he ad ipted as his own danihior. She was fair and beaiiiifid, and in process of time b'>c-ime the wife of Aha- Biipnis, one ul the m >sl dislin- gu'slu'l of the n.nnarrlis rf the east. (The hist >ry of liiis celeljraied queen, i'.i all its de- tail i« irivon in Haoa.ssah. by Aiii. S. S. U nion, with a variety ETE of beautiful illustrative engraT- inss.) !Book op, is the seventeenth i n the order of the books of the Old Testament, and embraces a period of pr.rbably less than twenty years, commencing about A.M. 3544. The author of trie book is not certainly known. It bears the most un- questionable internal evidence of its authenticity, and the feast of Purim, of the institution of which this hook gives an ac- count, is still observed by the Jews ; who hold, that whatever may be the fate of the other parts of their Scriptures, this will ever be preserved. It contains an acciunt of the ele- vation of Esther to the throne, the pride and envy of Hainan, his malicious plot for the de- struction of the Jews, the turn- ing of his schemes against himself, the honour and dig- nity of Mordecai, the destruc- tion of the enemies of the Jews, (and among them Hainan's family,) and the power and glory of the king. ETAM. (Judg. XV. S. 11.) A famous rock, probably near a city of the same name in Judah, built by Kehoboam, (1 (^Ihron. iv. 32. 2Chmn. xi. 6,) and ly- ing between Bethleliein and Tekoah. Modern maps place it in the tribe of Simeon, east of Gaza. ETERNAL, ETERNITY. (Deut. xxxiii. 27. Isa. Ivii. 15.) These terms, when applied to Jehovah, embrace 'Jie past as well as the future. Beim; self- exisient, he must be eierual. He is without beginning or end of years. When applied to the future existence, Iiappi- nes^?, or misery of nan, (i\(alt. xix. IG. 2 Cor. iv. 17. Jude 7,) they denote the endlesduesa of the state. A 'id it is to be observed, tha' if the word is restricted in its applicatim lo future punislimeui. it must *je restricted in the same degree 231; ETH in its application to future hap- piness and even existence. When applied to the princi- ples of truth and justice, they Bignifyunchangeableness. The words forever, everlasting, eternal, &c., are often used figuratively to denote long du- ration, as Gen. xvii. 8; xlix. 26. Ex. xii. 14 ; but this restrict- ed sense is always shown by the connexion, and affords no argument in favour of the like restrictions in other connex- ions, where the term is evi- dently employod in its full force and extent. ETHAjM. (Num. xxxiii. 6.) One of the early stations of the Israelites in their journeyings to Canaan. It is said to have been in the edge of the wilder- ness, and was'' probably situ- ated at the extremity of the western gulf of the Red Sea. The wilderness of Etham (Num. xxxiii. 8) was probably part of the great desert or wil- derness of'^Shur, which lay around the liottom of the west- ern sulf of the Red Sea. ETHAN, (1 Chron. vi. 44,) called the Ezrahitc, (Ps. Ixxxix. title,) was of the tribe of Levi, and was remarkable for his wisdom. (1 Kings i v. 31.) He is supposed to have written the eighty-ninth Psalm, and was a leader of the temple mu- sic. (1 Chron. xv. 19.) ETHANTM. (See Months.) ETHIOPIA. (Acts viii. 27.) The Hebrew word Cush, which is here and elsewhere trans- lated Ethiopia, seems to have been applied to at least three distinct countries. It was used very much as the word India is at this day. 1. In Zeph. iii. 10, where the prophet speaks of Judah's re- turn from captivity, it refers probably to the country east of the Tigris, the principal seat of the captivity, which is call- ed Cuthah. (2 Kings xvii. 24. Comp. Ps.liviii. 31. Isa.xviii.) EVA Profane writers call this coun. try Ethiopia, or Cush, from which the modern name Khu- sisian is derived. 2. In Num. xii. 1, the word Ethiopian is applied to a coun- try of -southern Arabia, lying along the Red Sea, elsewhere called Cushan, (Hab. iii. 7;) in which last passage allusion is made to the portion of history recorded. Num. xxxi. 3. In numerous other pas- sages, (Isa. xl V. 14. Jer. xiii. 23. Ezek.xxix. 10; xxx.4. 9. Acts viii. 27,) it must be understood as Ethiopia proper, lying south of Egypt, and including the modern countries of Nubia and Abyssinia. It was a mountain- ous and well watered country. (Isa. xviii. 2. Zeph. iii. 10.) The northern part of Ethiopia was called by the Hebrews Seba, (Isa. xliii. 3,) after the eldest son of Cush, (Gen. x. 7,) and by the Romans Merot. The inhabitants are said to have been men of stature, (Isa. xlv. 14 ;) and this is confirmed by an eminent Greek histo rian, who says they are the "tallest of men." The Ethiopian queen Can- dace (which, as profane histo rians say, was the common name of the queens of that country) reigned in Seba. Her treasurer was baptized by Phi- lip. (Acts viii. 27.) There is a version of the Scriptures in the Ethiopian tonsue. EUNICE. (2 Tim. i. 5.) The mother of the evangelist Timo thy. She was by birth a Jewess, but married a Gentile. (Acli EUNUCH. (2Kingsix. 32.> Eunuchs were employed by eastern kings to take charge of the beils and lodging apart ments, and also of the secluded princesses. (Esth. ii. 3.) In Persian and Turkish courts the principal offices are held by eunuchs. (Acts viii. 27.) EUPHRATES, (Gen. ii. 14^^ EUT a famous river of Asia, rises in 1 Armenia, on llie northern side ! of mount Taurus, receives ma- | ny tributaries in its winding ' course along the borders of Sy- j ria, and skirling the Arabian [ desert, passes through the mid- l die of Babylon to the sea. Its! whole length is fifteen hundred I miles. It is navigable for ships of five hundred tons to Bas- sora, seventy miles above iis mouth, and for large boats, one hundred and fifty miles. It ! flows in a broad, deep current, | filled to the level of its banks, j and at Babylon is considera- bly less than a mile in width. | The Tigris flows in a narrower channel, with deeper banks, and a less rapid current. The country between the two rivers elopes towards the Tigris, and thus greatly favours the drain- ing otf of the superfluous wa- ters of the Euphrates. The Euphrates overflows its banks in the spring of every year, when the snow of the Ar- menian mountains dissolves ; and it sometimes rises twelve feet. Dykes, lakes, and canals, constructed at vast expense, preserved the water for irriga- tion during the dry season, and prevented its carrying away the soil. The Euphrates is called in Scripture the great river, and was the eastern boundary of the promised land. (Deut. i. 7. Josh. i. 4.) EUROCLYDON. (Acts xxvii. 14.) A very tempestu- ous wind, and now known un- der the name of a Levanter. It blows from all points, and its danger results from its vio- lence and the uncertainty of it£ course. EUTYCHUS. (Acts xx. 9.) The name of a young man who .fell from the third story of a house where Paul was preach- ing in Troas. It is generally Bupirosed he was killed by the fall, and that his restoration to life was a miracle. It is nut im- 21 tsvTE portant to prove this point,how ever, inasmuch as the posses- sion of the gift of miracles by the apnstle is" suflicienlly shown without it. (See Dwellings.) EVANGELIST. (Acts xxi. 8.) One who brings good tidings. Hence the wriiei-s of the four gospels are called " the evan- gelists," because they, in a pre- eminent sense, declare good tidings of salvation throusrh Christ. Evangelists were early designated as a particular class of religious teachers, (Eph. iv. 11 ;) and some suppose that, without being attached to any particular church, they aban- doned all worldly relations and pursuits, and probably by the commission of the apos- tles, preached the gospel wherever they were called. (2 Tim. iv. 5.) Others suppose that they were rather se- condary or assistant apostles, and were entirely under the authority and direction of the chief apostles when they or- dained ministers and regulated churches. The primitive order of evangelists, distinct from other public religious teachers, is supposed to have been mere- ly temporary, like that of apos- tles and prophets. And ihenB is no doubt that whatever ex- traordinary gifts and powers they possessed have ceased ; but the principal duties and services which they performed, and many to which they were not called, seem to have fallen upon those who in modern days are called missionaries. E\T:. (Gen.iii.20.) The name given by Adam to his wife. It is derived from a word whicli signifies life, and was applied to"her as the mother of all the living. In consequence of her disobedience to thedi vine com- mand, (see Adam,) she was doomed to sulfer a multiplica- tion and aggravation of sorrow, especially tn the birth of her olfspring. It was also declared 241 EVI concerning her, that her desire should be lo her husband, and he should rule over her. (Gen iii. 16.) It is well known thai in those countries which are unenlightened by the gospel, women are the most degraded and miserable slaves to man ; and, taking into view the deli- cacy and seiisi'iveness which are characteristic of their sex, we may sufifxise this part of the oritrinal sentence is visited upon millions of them with in- tense severity even at this day. EVENING, (Ps. Iv. 17,) EVENTIDE. (Gen. x.xiv. 63.) The HcJjrews reckoned iwo evenings: one commencing at sunset, antl embracing ihe pe- riod of twilight; and the other commencing' at dark. Some suppose that the first evening commenced as early as three o'clock in the afiernom, and the second at sunset. It was in ihij interval between me two evenings, at whichever of these periods it occurred, that the passover was to be killed and the daily sacrifice offered. (See marginal reading of Ex. xii. 6. Num. ix. 3; xxviii. 4.) Eventide is the same with evening-time. E VIL-MERODACH.(2King8 XXV. 27.) Son and successor of Nebuchadnezzar kingofBaby- lon, who reigned du"ring the exile of that monarch from hu- man society. Soon after his permanent accession to the lhr>ne, he released Jehoiaohin kingof Judah from prison, and treated him with great re^rard through life. (Jer. lii.31— 31.) It is sui>pi>sed that when Nebu- chadnezzar wus restored to his reason and his crow n,hecau8ed Evil-Merodach to be imprison- ed for the al>uses of which he was iruiliy while he adminis- tered the government, and that it was liieii he became ac- quainted with Jehniachin as a fellow prisoner. Heatlastff^il A victim 10 d couspiracy,fonned EXO I among his own kindred, head- I ed by his brother-in-law Neri- ' slissar. who succeeded him. !" EXCHANGERS. (See j Changers of Money.) EXODUS. The name of the I second book of Moses, and the I second in the order of the ' booksoftheold Testament, and descriptive of its design; for the word is derived from a Greek word which signifies ^ojwg- or*/, or departing; and the book contains the history of the re- lease of the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt, and of their going out of thai coun- try up 10 the promised land. This bonk is cited as the work of Moses by David, Da- niel, and others of the sacred writers ; and it has been re- marked, that twenty-five dis- tinct passages are quoted from it by Christ and his apostles in express words, and nineteen in substance. It comprehends a history of nearly one hundred and forty-five years, viz. from A. M. 2369 to A. M. 2514, inclu- sive, or from the death of Jo- seph to the erection of the tabernacle ; and informs us respecting the birih, preser- vation, education, exile, and divine legation of Moses, and the miraculous deliverance of Israel from the bondaiiC of Egypt, the institution of the passover, the entrance into the wilderness of Sinai, and their subsequent journeyings, until the giving of the law and the building of the tabernacle. The third and fourth ▼(> lumes of Union Questions are framed upon portions of this book, and contain maps of the jiiurnpyings of the child- ren of Israel, v\ hile the Teach- er's Assistant, in the use of th!)8Ptwo voluine3,and iheLiFB OF MoyES, with majjs, &.C., furnish a full exp'Silion of the l-ading passagesof the history. All the above works are pulJ- lished by the Am. S. S. UnioOi Hi EZE EXORCISTS. (Actsxix.l3.) Those who, by the use of the name of God, alieni-pted lo ex- pel evil spirits from places or persons of whom they had pos- session. It was not an un- common profession among the Jews, as we may infer from Matt. xii. '27, and Mark ix. 38. EXPIATION, FEAST OF. (See Feasts.) EYES. (Gen.xiii. 10.) The figurative uses of this word abound in the sacred writings, and are generally obvious. In the visions of Ezekiel and John, (Ezek. i. 18; x. 12. Rev. iv. 6. 8,) the allusions are evi- dently to the alacrity and vigi- lance with which the ministers of Jehovah perform his will. EYELIDS. (Prov.vi.2o.) The custom of adornin| the eyelids in any svay for effect is not known among us, but the practice is often alluded to in the sacred writings, (■2Kin2S ix. 30. Jer. iv.30. lEzek. xxiii. 40,) and prevails extensively now among eastern ladies. The hair and edges of the eye- lids are tinged with a f.ne black powder, moistened with oil or vinegar, which causes a small black line to appear around the edge, and at a dis- tance, and especially by can- dlelisht, gives a heavy dark shade to the eyes. The man- ner of doing it is particularly described by travellers. A smooth cylindrical piece of silver or ivory, shaped like a quill, and about two inches long, is dipped into the com- position and placed within the eyelashes, which are closed over it. EZEKIEL, (Ezek. i. 3,) the son of Buzi, was both a pro- phet and priest of the Jews, and was carried into capti- vity with Jehoachin king of j Judah, B. c. 598, and was j probably settled, with other j exiles, on the banks of the i Ciiebar, a river of Chaldea. I EZR (See Chebak.) He was favour- ed with sublime visions of the divine glory, and his prophecy as a whole is characterized by great force, sublime imagery, and as much perspicuity as the subjects of it would allow. Prophecy of, is the twenty- sixth in the order of the books of the Old Testament. It was uttered during a period of about twenty-one years, be- tween B. c. 590 and b. c. 540. The first eight years of this period were"contemporaneoi3 with the last eight of Jere- miah. The prophecy relates chiefly to Tyre, Egypt, FJdom, and Judea. It contains the most solemn denunciations against the idolatry, hypocrisy, and rebellion of the Jews, with exhortations to faith and con- fidence in God's righteousness, and with promises of mercy and final restoration. EZION-GEBER, or GABER. (Num. xxxiii. 35. 1 Kings ix. 26.) A city of Arabia, at the head of the eastern or Elanitic ^ulf of the Red Sea, adjoining Elath. It was here that Solo- mon's vessels were built,which were intended to trade with Ophir and Tarshish. It de- rives its name (Ezion-Geber, or the back-bone of a man) from a reef of rocks at the entrance of the harbour re- sembling that part of the hu- ■^an frame. (See Elath.) EZRA (Ezra vii. 1) was a son or rather descendant of Seraiah, who was slain by or- der of the king of Babylon. (2Kia5S XXV. 18—21.^ He go- verned Judea twelve years, under a commission from the king of Persia, which ex- pired a. m. 3558, when he was superseded by Nehemiah. He then engaged, as it is supposed, in collecting and publishing the Jewish Scriptures, and re- storing the purity of the Jewish worship. Book of, is the fifteenth in ai3 E2R the order of the bookg of the Old Testament, and is a con- tinuation of the Jewish history from the close of the booli of Chronicles. The period em- braced by it is from seveniy- five to one hundred years, between 3450 and 3550; and it may be read most profitably in connexion with the propiie- cies of Haggai and Zechariah. It contains" a history of the re- turn of the Jews from the time of Cyrus, with an account of his own subsequent proceed- ings. There are two apocry- phlil books ascribed to him under the name of Esdras, which is the Greek form of the name Ezi-a. The book of Ezra is written in Chaldee from the eighth verse of the fourth chapter to the nineteenth verse of the sixth chapter, and from the be- ginning of the seventh chapter Jo the twenty-seventh verse ; for as this jmrt of the work contains shiefly letters, con- versation, and decrees uttered in that language, it was con- EZR sistent with the fidelity of the sacred historian, to transcribe the very words which were used ; especially as the people recently returned from the captivity svere familiar, and perha-ps more conversant with the Chaldee, than even with the Hebrew tongue ; and it was probalily about this time that the Chaldee paraphrases be- gan to be used ; for it appears byNehemiah'saccount,tnatall could not understand the law : which may mean that some of them had forgotten the Hebrew during their'dispersion in the captivity. Some assign, like- wise, to this time, the origin of the Jewish synagogues, though it is possible that they existed before the captivity. (For a particular and highly inte- resting account of Ezra, and the eVents of his time, see Elisama, ch. xi. ; and for an historical and chronological analysis of the events of the same period, see Union Ques- TioNs, vol. ix., both by Am. S. S. Union.) FAG FACE. (Gen. iii. 19. See Blackness.) Whatever of a thing is most exposed to view, is called its ^a;e ; hence we read of the/ace of the country, field, gate, house, ground,porch, w^ilderness, waters, sky, &c. Face, when applied to God, denotes, (I.) His omniscience, (I Sam. XX vi. 20;) and to pro- voke him to the face, is to do it very openly and impudently. (Isa. Ixv. 3.) (2.) The brighter displays of his glory, which cannot be enjoyed in this world. (Ex. xxxiii. 20. 1 Tim. vi. 16.) (3.) His favour and love, and the gracious displays thereof: this is always meant, when his /ace is said to shi7ie, or it is represented as a mercy FAI to behold and enjoy it, or a misery to be deprived of it. (2Chron. xxx. 9. Fs. xxxi. 16 ; Ixxx. 7. Dan. ix. 17.) (4.) His wrath, and the providential displays thereof (Ps. xxxiv. 16.) Christ's/ace denotes, (1.) His person and office, as the image of the invisible God. (2 Cor. iv. 6.) (2.) His gracious, glorious, or terrible appear- ances. (Rev. XX. 11.) FAIR HAVENS. (Acts xxvii. 8.) The name of a harbour or anchorage on the southern shore of the island of Crete. (See Crete.) FAIRS (Ezek. xxvii. 12) may either mean periodioai meetings of buyers and sellers, for purposes of merchandise 244 FAM nr fixed places of buying and t;>'iling in any city or town, sucli as we call markets. i-AITH. (Mau. viii. 10.) The word sometimes denotes the credit we give to the declara- tion of God, or to the evidence Bf the pans or propositions pre lented to us in the Bible, f he word is also used to denote the truth of the gospel, or that which is the object of faith. (Jude 3.) The faith which is necessary to salvation, and without which it is impossible to please God, (Heb. xi. 6,) com- bines assent with reliance, be- lief with trust. Thus Christ is exhibited in the gospel as hav- ing made an atonement for sin ; and whoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. Exercising this faith, the sinner is receiv- ed and treated as if he were just and righteous ; and hence the process is called justifica- tion by faith. The belief or faith in him, by which this salvation is secured, includes not only a cordial concurrence of the will and affections, in this scheme or plan of redemp- tion, together with all its rela- tions and bearings, as they are revealed in the gospel, but also such an actual personal trust in Christ as a Saviour, as leads to the renunciation of every other trust ; to the for- saking of all known sin, and to the cheerful and constant obedience of all his commands. Thb faith of God, (Rom. iii. 3,) means his faithfulness. FAITHFULNESS (Ps. Ixxxix. 1. 33,34) is a divine at- tribute, and denotes the truth and certainty of the accom- elishmentofall that the divine eing has declared. (Num. xxiii. 19. Heb. x. 23.) FALLOW-DEER. (See Hart.) FAMILIAR. (See Divina- tion.) FAMINE. (Gen. xii. 10.) We 21* FAS have an account of several fa- mines in Palestine and the neighbouring countries. The most remarkable one was that of seven years in Egypt, while Josejjh was governor. Il was dis- tinguished for its duration, ex- tent, and severity; particularly as Egypt is one of the countries least" subject to such a calami- ty, by reason of its general fertility. Famine is sometimes a natural effect, as when the Nile does not overflow i n Egypt, or rains do not fall in Judea, at the customary seasons, spring and autumn ; or when eater- pi liars, locusts, or other insects, destroy the fruits. FAN. (Isa. XXX. 24.) A well known agricultural imple- ment, which was used by the Jews as it is by hiisbantlmen of the present day, to separate the chaff from the wheat when the wind is not sufficient. The shovel which is mentioned in the same passage was used to throw up the grain in the air, when the wind was strong enough to cleanse it. (Matt, iii. 12. See Thresh. FARTHING. (See Mea- SURES.) FAST, (1 Kings xxi. 9,) FASTING, (Neh. ix. 1,) or DAYS OF FASTING. (Jer. xxxvi. 6.) In seasons of dan- ger, or general affliction, when nature itself ceases for a lime to crave indulgence, it was customary among the Jews to abstain from food as a religious duty, (Josh. vii. 6. Judg. xx.26,) and the same practice prevail- ed among individuals when tho occasion was personal. (Ex. xxiv. 18. 2Sam. xii. 16. IKinp xix. 8.) So our blessed Saviour fasted forty days and forty nights. (Watt. iv. 2.) Some of'these protracted fasts were endured by miraculous inter- position. The Jewish fasts were kept with great strict- ness, and generally from eve- ning to evening, that is, twen- 245 FEA ty-four hours, and included not only an abstinence from food, but from all other sensual indulgence. The body was clothed in sackcloth, no shoes were worn, ashes were sprink- led upon the nead, the hands were unwashed, and the head unanoinled, and the syna- gogues were filled with the voice of supplication and the sobs of grief and penitence. (Isa. xxii. 12. Joel ii. 15—17.) During the captivity, four spe- cial fast days were observed, (Zech. vii. 5;) the fast of the fourth month, for the capture of Jerusalem, (Jer.li. 27;) the fast of the fifth month, fjr the burning of the temple, (Jer. Hi. 13;) the fast cf the seventh month, for Gedaliah's death, (Jer. xli. 2 ;) and the fast of the tenth month, for the com- mencement of the attack on Jerusalem. (Jer. lii. 4.) Fasts are evidently of di- vine authority. Fasting, at the present day, may be regarded as one of the outward means which may be profitably em- ployed to humble and chasten the soul, and train it anew to the love and pursuit of holy and spiritual joys. There can be no doubt of its being sanc- tioned under the gospel dis- pensation. (Matt. vi. 18; ix. 15. Acts xiii. 3. 1 Cor. vii. 5.) FATHER. (Gen.xlv.8.) The word " father" is used in this case to signify "an ad- viser," or "counsellor;" and it is not unusual for this idea to be connected with it in eastern countries. FATHQM. (SeeMEASVRES.) FEAR. (1 Pet. i. 17.) The fear of God is a Christian grace, and denotes such a reverence for his holy character,and such a dread of offending him by a violation of his holy law, as lead to watchfulness, humili- ty, and unceasmg jirayer. It is entirely filial in us nature, and is necessarily accompa- FEA nied by love and obedience. It is the peculiarity of the Christian faith, that the reve- laiion of God's justice, in the suffering and death of our di- vine Redeemer, which fills the soul with fear and trembling, discloses at the same time a scheme of unparalleled love and mercy ; so that our strong- est impressions of fear, and our deepest emotions of love, grati tude, and confidence, are de- rived from a common source, and share a common character. FEAST, (Luke xiv. 13,) FEASTS. (Lev. xxiii.2.) We often read in the Bible of feasts, or sumptuous entertainments, and of the customs pertaining to them. They were generally given to celebrate or comme- morate some important or joy- ful event. (Gen. xxi. 8 ; xxix. 22; xl. 20. Eccl.x. 19.) It was common among the eastern nations to ask and bestow special favours at these festivals. (Esth. v. 6; vii. 2.) As the Hebrews brought back with them from their captivity the custom of lying at meals, so they learned to imitate tlie Persian voluptuous- ness. The Romans also were accustomed to tliis long con- tinuance at entertainments ; they assembled early on such occasions, and often remained together all night. Entertainments in the east are commonly held in the evening; at which time the rooms are brilliantly illumi- nated. The Roman feast was always a supper, which, how- ever, began about three o'clock. We suppose it to have been much the same among the He- brews. The guests amused themselves with stories, or sallies of humour, and some- times with enigmatical ques- tions, (Judg. xi\\ 12.) but more frequently" with poetry and music. (Isa. v. 12; xxiv.7— 9. A'mos vi. 4 — 6.) 246 FEA The customs of the Arabs re- semble those which have been described; and perhaps we may say the same of all orien- tal countries. And such being the festivity of these occasions, we see how a feasl became the emblem of great mirth and gladness. (Isa. xxv. 6.) Among the Romans, the guests at feasts reclined upon couches. The first ceremony was to bathe with the master of the feast, and then to change their dress. Then the first man in order took his place at the head of the long couch, resting the upper part of his body on his left elbow, and having a pillow or bolster to support his back. The second guest lay with his head and feet on a line, or parallel with the first, from whom he was separated by his own bolster. Being set- tled in their places, they wash their hands,(Mark vii.2;) after which the guests are served with garlands of flowers, and also with essences and per- fumes. CPs. xxiii. 5 ; xlv. 7. Eccl. ix.8. Lukevii.38) The most honourable place, or seat, or uppermost room, as it is called, (Matt, xxiii. 6,) or highest or chief room, (Luke xiv. 7, 8,) was the middle couch, and the middle of that ; and lying below one at table, is to lie as it were in or upon his bosom. (John xiii. 23.) In ancient times, besides music and dancing while they were eating, they had combats of gladiators. Some idea may be formed of the number of guests, and the grandeur of an ancient feasl, from the fact that Julius Cesar once gave a popular entertain- ment^ the guests of which oc- cupied twenty-two thousand places, (rooms or seats.) The accounts in the Bible,of feasts with a multitude of guests are not improbable, therefore, as FEA some have alleged. (Esth. i. 5 Luke xiv. IC— 24.) The cut on the nest page represents an eastern feast. The heads of the guests are crowned with garlands; the table, furniture, and provisions are seen; also the position of t?he guests at table, and the amusements. The highest, or most honourable seat, occupied probably by the governor of the feast, is seen at the extreme left. The sandals which are put off are also seen at the side of the couch. Under the Mosaic dispensa- tion, the rites of hospitality were rendered sacred by being connected with religion. The Israelites were not merely al- lowed, but commanded, to re- joice before the Lord in this way. They were ordered to come to the holy place, and bring thither their sacrifices, tithes, and firstlings ; anil there (says the law) ye sJiall eat before the Lord your God; and ye shall rejoice in all that ye put your hand unto. (Deut. xii.) Every member of the family was to join in this, and especially theLeviie, who had no other inheritance. In these entertainments, not only the children and the Levites were to take part, but the slaves of both sexes, the poor, the widow, and the orphan were to be in- vited ; a?id the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow that are among you ; and thou shall remember that thou uast a bondman in Egypt. (Deut. xvi. 11.) In consequence of these regulations, the feasts of the Hebrews were more or less religious observances,and were hence free from the abuses which prevailed on similar occasions among the heathen. We observe here likewise, that our Lord gave no new commandment, but simply ex pounded the ancient la w,whe 247 FEA FEA he said, MTien thou viakest a I There were also staled sea- dinner {or a feast;) call the] sons of religious worship among poor, the maimed, the blind; \ the Jews, attended with j)ar- and thou shall be blessed. \ licular duties and ceremonies, (Luke xiv 12.) 1 by the observance of which FEA some great event in God's pro- vidence was brought into re- membrance:— such were the Sabbath, which commemo- rated the creation of the world, — \he feast of the Passover,a.n6. the feast of Pentecost. 7%e Sabbath. The only weekly ffeast among the Jews was the Sabbath. (Gen. ii. 3. Ex.xvi.23. Lev.xxiii.3.) This feast or festival did not come into being, however, with the Jewish worship, but was ap- pointed before the aposiacy, as a special memorial of the goodness and power of God displayed in the finished work of creation ; and it is the opin- ion of many very learned men, formed after the most labori- ous and unprejudiced investi- gation, that it is in some form or other recognised throughout the world as a sacred day. It eeems to be agreed among Christians generally, that the knowledge and observance of the Sabbath were preserved in Bome form and degree, through Noah and his family ; nor is it Burprising that it is not parti- cularly mentioned in the con- cise history of the intervening period, which the Bible con- tains. In the law of the ten commandments, the Sabbath not only is recognised, but its inviolable sanctity and perpe- tual obligation are both taught us, not only in the language and spirit oi the commandment itself, but ty its incorporation with that original and funda- mental law of God's govern- ment which was promulgated amidst the thunders and light- nings of mount Sinai, and en- graved on tables of stone. It is true that the oliservance of the Sabbath as a Jewish fes- tival partook of the peculiar ceremonial character of their whole system of religion ; and it was also by special command to be reg.arded as a particu- lar and interesting memorial FEA of their wonderful deliverance from Egypt, (Deut. v. 15,) and as a sign or perpetual covenant between God and them. (Ex. xxxi. 13—17.) And it is true, moreover, that so much of the Jewish Sabbath as stood in carnal ordinances was done away when the Lord of the Sabbath came and made known the true import of the ancient dispensation. (Malt, xii. 1 — 15. Mark ii. 23. Luke xiii. 14—17.) But in all this time, the original and substan- tial principle of the institution was never abandoned or lost sight of; but, on the contrary, is established and solemnly ratified in a variety of forms throughout the whole sacred volume. Labour ceased at the time of the evening sacrifice, upon the day preceding the Sab- bath, that preparation might be made for the sacred season. (Mark xv. 42.) Some suppose this was as early as three of the clock, or even earlier. Appropriate religious service was attended in the evening by each family, and resumed on the next day,(see Evening,) and every thing relating to food, dress, &c., was prepared. When the day arrived, it was spent in religious services, (2 Kings iv. 23,) two extra sa- crifices were otfered. and the shew-bread was changed. This was the priest's work. (Mall, xii. 5.) The Sabbath, by the Jev/iph law, was observed on the se- venth day of the week, or on Saturday; but Christ changed it to the first day of the week, (which is our Sabbath day, or Lord's day, as it is frequently c vlled in the New Testament,) that it might become a memo- rial of his resurrection from the dead ; while it should lose none of its original character, nor answer any less perfectly all the primitive Durposea of FEA its institution. The expres- Bion, second Sabbath after the first, (huke vi. 1,) more proper- ly reniiered, thejirst Sabbath after the second, is supposed to oenoie the first Salibaih after the second day of unleavened tread. The second day of un- leavened bread was a festival day for which a particular ser- vice was appointed, (Lev. xxiii. 5. 9,) and from it the Sabbaths were reckoned; as first, se- cond, or third Sabbath after the second day of unleavened bread. (See Sabbath.) The word Sabbaths is some- times used to denote all the sacn d days or festivals. (Lev. xix. 3.30. Sabbath day'' s jour- ney. See Measures.) Feast of Neic Moons, or Trumpets. The first day of every month was sacred to the Jews, (Num. xxviii . 1 1— 15,)and was to be observed by absti- nence from common worldly business, and by religious du- ties and services. (2 Kings iv. 23. Amos viii. 5.) Particular sacrifices were appointed, in addition to the daily sacrifices, and were to be attended with flie sound of the trumpet. The first day or new moon of the seventh month, which was the beginning of the Jew- ish civil year, was particularly regarded above oiher feast days of the like period. It was dis liftguished by more strict observance, by extraordinary public sacrifices, and by spe- cial annunciation and pro- clamation from the trumpets. (Lev. xxiii. 24. Num. xxix. 1— 8.) The observance of these seasons being wholly of cere- monial appointment, and not, like the Sabbath,) an original fundamental law of the mo.al government of God, ceased with the Jewish dispensation. (Gal. iv. 10. Col. ii. 16.) Feast of Pentecost, or Feast cf Weeks, or Feast of Harvest , fasted only one day. It was FEA celebrated at the close of bar vest, and was a solemn public thanksgiving to God for thp bounties of his providence. It was observed at the «nd of seven weeks, (or a week of wcfks,) forty-nine days from the second day of the passover, when the offering of first-fruits was made, or the day on which " the sickle was first put in the corn." The sacrifices were special, both public and Srivate. (Lev. xxiii. 15—20. urn. xxviii. 26— 31. Deut. xvi. 9—12.) It was to celebrate this feast, that the multitude of de- vout men out of every nation under heaven had assembled at Jerusalem, when the pro- mise of the Saviour was fulfil led in the wonderful descent of the Holy Ghost, as related in the second chapter of Acts. (See Omar, by Am. S. S. Union, ch. v.) Feast of Tabernacles lasted eight days, the first and eighth of which were peculiarly sa- cred. It was celebrated from the fifteenth to the twenty- third of the seventh month or first month of their civil year. It was so called because the people during its continuance dwelt in booths, (Neh. viii. 14 —18,) or tents of the branches of trees, as they did in the journey through the wilder- ness, in memory of which the feast itself was appointed. It is also called xhe feast of in- gathering, (.Ex. xxiii. 16. Lev. xxiii. 39 — 44,) because it took place at the close of the vin- tage, when the fruits of the year were all gathered in. Some have supposed that the people were required to attend at the temple during the whole of the eight days, wnile, in the other feasts, an attendance on the first and last days sufficed. This festival was distinguished by extraordinary sacrifices and offerings, both public and pri- vate. (Num.xsix.l2— 38. Deut. 250 FEA 3tvi. 13—15.) A variety of cpre- nv>nies were appended to tlie observance of this feast, a par- ticular and inleresiiiig account of which may be found in Bib- lical ANTiauiTiKS, ch. vi.§ 4, and also in Elisama, ch. xii., both by Am. S. S. Union. Feast of unleareried Bread, or of the Passover, was insti- tuted to commemorate the dis- tinguishing mercy of G>d in passing over the families of Israel when he went tlirough Egypi to smite the first-born of every other family with death. (Ex. xii. 1—2.8.) The time of its celebration was in the first month of the Jewish sacred year,— answering to our April, —and it lasted from the loth to the 2Ist, inclusive, or seven days. The principal ceremony of this festival cmsisied in the sacred supper by which it was introduced ; the nature and preparation of which are staled minutely in the passage above cited. The utmost strictness was observed in regard to the removal 'if all leave'n from the house. This was done on the fourteenth day, which was hence called ihe first day of tmleavened bread, though it was not one of the f^ast days. The manner of celebrating this feast in the early and modern periods of the church, is siven ai len Passover.) These three feasts of unlea- vened bread, tabernacles, and treeks.were the great festivals of thp Jews, wht^ti all the males of their nation w^ho were- of suf- ficient a2«' were rei;uir8d to apf)ear before Go I. (Ex. ,\xiii. 14-17. Deut. xvi. U5, 17.) The advaniaiies of these ce- leUraii ins, Uith in a reli'ii oiis end civil view, are oi'vioiis. The fiMMial national r»»c<)L'iii- lioii i'f Jidiiivah H.«t their ki-isr and ruler, and as the liountiful FEA giver of every good and perfe<*4 gift, made at slated limes, and under such imposing solemni- ties, could not be without effect on the religious character of the people, while the mingling together of all the nation, for purposes suited locall forth the best social and benevolent feel- ings, svould remind them of their common origin, fiiih, and worship, and unite them more closely in bondsofreligiousand friendly regard. (See Ev. Rec. by A. S. U.^ol. iv. pp. 43-60.) Atonement, or Feast of Exm ation, was celebrated on u\b tenth of the seventh month, or six days before the feast of ta- bernacles, and was the most important and solemn cf all the yearly fejiBis. It was '.he day on which the sins of the year were brought into Sfieciai remembrance. Thti people were required to observe it aa a day of rigid rest, fasting humiliation, and affliction of Siiul. The high-prieal, as the head and representative of the entire prieslhood, personally officiated, and enured with blood into the Holy of Holies, — where the life and glory of the sanctuary were appointed to reside,— and there he offered a sacrifice for himself and hi3 family, and the wh de congre- gation of Israel, from the high- est to the lowest. Tliis waa the general expiation, and seemed designed to reach and wash away that deep stain of guilt which remained on the heads of the people, notwith- standinz the blood which flow- ei| day by day, unceasingly, from the altar' of com m(»n sa- crifice. The manner of cele- brating this fcasi is set forth in liev. xvi., and an a'-.coiint of the intereaiing ceremoniea wliii-.h atieiulr>il it. with their typi.iil import, may be fiuud in Biblical A.NTia' ities. by Am. S. S. Union, vol. i\. chap v5. § y. S3l FEA The Feast of Punm y,-a.a ob- served about the middle of the ..welflh month. It was insti- tuted in commemoration of the deliverance of the Jews from the power and malice of Ha- man, in the days of Mordecai and Esther. The name is de- rived from Pur, a word which signifies lot. (Esth. iii. 6, 7; ix. 24—32.) This feast is celebrated in modern times with singular ceremonies and with great licentiousness and extrava- gance. (See Biblical Akti- Q.UITIES, vol. ii. pp. 190. 191. ■) An American missionary, who was at Jerusalem, March 16, 1835, when this feast was celebrated, speaks of it as a day of great excess, intempe- rance, and boisterous mirth with the Jews. The Talmud enjoins intoxication on this day as a duty. A man is in duty bound (it says) to get so inebriated that he cannot dis- tinguish between the words, " cursed be Haman," and '•blessed be Mordecai." Feast of the Dedication. This feast was instituted one hundred and sixty-four years before Christ, in remem- brance of the new dedica- litm of the sanctuary, after it had been grossly profaned by a heathen monarch. The season of celebration was in the latter part of the ninth month, and of course partly in our December. (John x. 22.) The Sabbath Year, or Year nf Release, was every seventh year. No particular reli^ioiis services were prescribed for its celebration; but the Hnd was to be leftuntilled, and the vineyards undressed, and the spontaneous produce of both was to be enjoyed by all the people of the land in common. (Lev. XXV. 2-7. 20—22.) Pro- vision was made by the special interposition of (Jod, to supply the deficiency of food wnich FEA this abstinence from labour for a whole year would necessarily cause; and a law was made that no debts should be collect- ed during the Sabbatical year, and yetlhat none should for this cause refuse to lend tc such as would borrow. Whe- ther the law required an aoso- lute release of debts, or only a suspension of the right to en- force payment, has been con- sidered doubtful. The language of the law is however very pre- cise. (Deul. XV. 1—11.) 77ie Year of Jubilee was a most singular appointment of the Jewish law. It was cele- brated every half century, or at the end of every seven times seven years. The manner of its celebration is particularly described. Lev. xxv. 8 — 18. It commenced on the great day of atonement, and was ushered in with the universal sound of trumpets throughout the land. The remarkable feature of this festival was, that it re- stored individuals, families, and communities, as far as possible, to the same situation they occupied at the beginning of the fifty years. All servants of Hebrew origin were set free ; all pledges were given up, and inheritaTices which had been alienated.no matter how often, nor for what cause, came back to the hands of the original pro- prietors. The only exception was in the cases of houses, built in walled towns. (Lev. xxv. 29 —31.) And as its effect was i known and anticipated, the ' business of society was con- ducted with reference to that period, and of course no inkis- lice or hardship was occasfon- . ed. The manner of keeping the festival, and its striking emblematical import, are par ticularly described in Biblical ANTiariTiES. by Am. S. S. Union, ch. vj. § 6. The mastek, ruleu, or go- VEENOB OF THE FEA. ST, (John FEE li. 8,) was an officer appointed to direct the servants, and to regulate the whole order and ceremony of the table during the festivities. He seems to have been one of the most plea- sant and diverting of the com- pany, selected for his skill and adroitness for this delicate and important office, and after the feast was ended, he took his place with the guests. One of his duties was to taste of the wine, that he might judge of its quality and fitness for the particular stage ef the enter- tainment at which it was brought on. (John ii. 8, 9.) Feasts of charity, or love. These are mentioned Jude 12, and are supposed to refer to the social interviews estab- lished among the early Chris- tians, in imitation, perhaps, of the Jewish (Deui. xii. 18 ; xxvi. 12) or Gentile observances of like character. The Greeks and Romans observed similar services. The feast was sup- plied by the contributions of the guests, each according to his ability. There was no dis- tinction of rank among the guests; and every thing was marked with simplicity, tem- perance, and religious feeling. It was held in the" assembly or church, either after or before the celebration of the Lord's supper. Similar observances are customs rv at the present day amont; s«»ii,e Christian de- nominations. FEET. (Ex. iii. 5.) To re- move the shoes from the feet was regarded as a token of re- verence, and also of mourning. (Ezek. xxiv. 17.) It is supposed that the priests officiated with naked feet, and in modern times, among heathen nations and some nominal Christians, it is customary to enter the place of worship with the shoes off and the feet washed. To wash the feet was a common markofhospitaliiy,(Gen.xviii. 22 FEL ' 4,) and was usually done by a { servant. (1 Sam. xxv.41. John jxiii.5, 6.) *ar eastern mission- : aries have given particular accounts of the prevalence of this custom. At Smyrna, the washing of the priests' feet by the bishop is a distinct and very imposing ceremony, and is designed to be an exact imitation of Christ's example. (See Clothes, Dust, Foot.) Foot-chains are supposed to be meant by the word chains in Num.xxxi.50,andlsa.iii.l9 They were worn around the ankles, and causeil the wearer to observe a certain measured pace. The sarfte ornaments are now worn by the women of Syria and Arabia. Little rings are hung upon them, which tinkle when the foot is in motion ; and they are often richly ornamented. FELIX (Acts xxiii. 26) was the Roman governor of Judea, A.D.50 — GO. He persuaded Dru- silla to leave her husband, and marry him ; and they were residing at (jesarea when Paul was brought there, in custody of a guard of soldiers, to be exammed on a charge of sedi- tion, &c. On a certain day, Paul was summoned to appear before Felix, that he and his wife might hear from him some ac- count of the new religion of which he was a believer and advocate. The apostle obeyed the summons; and so faithfully did he re})rove and admonis!i the governor, that he made him tremble in view of his sins and of their impending punish- ment. We iiave good reason to believe, however, that the impression was trausient; for he kept the apostle in custody two years without any warranty or just cause,— which was in itself a most cruel and arbi- trary act,— and postponed the inquiry respecting his own sal FIG ration, which his conscience had been excited to suggest, until a more convenient sea- son, which probably never ar- rived. Felix was recalled to Rome soon after, and was suc- ceeded by Festus. FENCED CITY. (See Ci- ties.) FERRY-BOAT. (2Sam.xix. 18.) This word, as used by us, is of modern derivation, and we know the rivers of Judea were generally fordable ; but when the translators of the history found a word denoting the passing over the river, (it might have been on a raft or on a rude bridge of some kind,) they perhaps adopted a term to express the fact most intel- ligible to modern readers. FERRET. (Lev. xi. 30.) The animal known to moderns by this name is tamed in tlurope, and used in catching rats. It is of the weasel family ; but FIG the ferret mentioned in ihft Levitical law is supposed by many to have been of the lizard species, called the geh- ko, which is found in the east, and is said to be poisonous. FESTUS, (PORCIUS,) (Acts xxiv.27,) succeeded Felix (A. D. 60) in the government of juilea, under the Romans, and died in 62. Paul had a hearinj before him on sundry charge* alleged against him by th» Jews. But in the exercise of his right as a Roman citizen he appealed to the emperor, and was sent to Rome for trial FIG, FIG TREE. (Isa.xxxiv. 4.) A well known fruit, which formerly abounded in Judea, (Deut. viii. 8,) and hence is often alluded lo in the sacred writings. The fruit, in its natu- ral state, resembles the pear; and with the leaf, and manner of growth, may be seen in the annexed cut. The fig tree spreads its branches nigh and wide, and the leaves are broad, (Gen. iii. 7;) in one species they are said to be found four or five feet long by three broad. Hence the shade was highly valued. (1 Kings iv. 25 2 Kings xviii. 81. Isa. xxxvi. 16. Mic. iv. 4. Zech. iii. 10. John i. 4a) One of the most strikiD^ peculiarities of the fig tree i% that the fruit shoots foiih with- out the appearance of any blos- som, and even before the leave?. Hence a fig tree with leaves, but without fruit, may be known to be Ijarren for the present season. (IMail. xxi. 19-) The fruit which the ueo bears FIG during ten months of the year ia of three sons: 1. The early fig. (Sol.So.ii. 13. Hos. ix. lU.) These are ripe towards the end of June. This early fig is the most beautiful and delicious. (Jer. xxiv. 2.) 2. The summer Jig 1 which appears in June, about the time that the early fig is ripe, and comes to maturity in Au- gust. These last a long time, and may be kept. 3. The winter fig appears in August, and is ripe towards the latter part of autumn, when the tree has lost its foliage. If the winter is not severe", it is plucked in the spring as a dainty. It is larger than the former, of an oblong shape, and a dark colour. These various kinds of figs are eaten as they come from the tree, and are also dried in masses or cakes. (1 Sam. xxv. 18.) They seem to have been an ordinary article of food, and to have possessed medicinal properties. (2 Kings xx. 7. IChron. xii.40.) The putting forth of the fig tree was one of the earliest in- dications of summer, (Sol. Song ii. 13. Matt. xxiv. 32. Luke ixi. 29;) and a failure of its fruit was a great calamity. (Jer.v. 17; viii. 13. Joel i.7. 12. Hab. iii. 17, 18.) The cursing of the fig tree, by our Saviour, (Mark xi. 13. 21,) has perplexed some per- sons, because it is said that the lime of figs had not come, and of course they were not to be expected. The passage rather means that it was not the time to gather figs, and there- fore it was reasonable to ex- Cecl to find some on the tree; ut it had none, (ripe or un- ripe,) though it had leaves, which, in a bearing fig tree, are not found until after the fruit appears. It was therefore cursed for its unfruiifulness. Tile object undoubtedly was, FIR to inculcate some great moral truth on the minds of the dis- ciples. FIKTREE. (Hos.xiv.8.) A well known evergreen, which "revv luxuriantly upon mount Lebanon and in other parts of Palestine, and was a very va- luable tree. It was used for ship building, (Ezek. xxvii. 5,) musical instruments, (2 Sam. vi. 5,) and in the frame and ornamental workof costly edi- fices. (1 Kings V. 8. 10; vi. 15. 34; ix. 11.2Chron. ii.8; iii. 5. Sol. Song i. 17.) The fir is still used in" the manufacture of harps, lutes, guitars, &c. It was a tall, straight tree, of fine appearance, in the tops of which the storks built their nests. (Ps. civ. 17.) Hence it is used to illustrate power or grandeur. (2 Kings xix. 23. Isa. xiv. 8; xxxvii. 24;) and in Nah. ii. 3, the brandishing of weapons of war is compared to the shaking of the tops of fir trees by a violent wind. The springing up of the fir is emblematical of verdure and plenty. (Isa. xli. 19; Iv, 13: Ix. 13.) FIRKIN. (See Measures.) FIRMAMENT. (Gen. i. 17.) The word expansion would more perfectly convey the meaning of the original word. A similar idea is suggested, Ps civ. 2. Isa. xl. 22l and the same word is used to denote a covering, (Num. xvi. 38, 39,) or a spreading over, (Isa. xl. 19,) or spread forth. (Isa. xlii. 5.) The Jews probably understood the word firmament to denote an immense arch sprung from one side of the horizon to the other, studded with stars, and forming a sort of separating wall between the upper and lower waters. (See Ps. xix. 1. Dan.xii.3.) FIRST-BORN. (Gen. xxvii 19.) The first-born male of every Jewish family, though by a succession of wives, and 255 FIR of all beasts also, was conse- crated in a solemn manner to the service of God, in com- memoration of the judgment which God brought upon the first-born of Egypt in the night of Israel's deliverance. Seve- ral provisions ef the Jewish law relate to the first-born. He -received a double portion of the estate, (Deut. xxi. 17,) and officiated as priest of the family, in the father's absence or death. The privileges of the first-born were obviously great, in the cases of Esau and Reuben, (Gen. xxvii.29. 1 Chron. v. 1, 2;) and there is reason to believe that they extended to the Jewish fami- lies generally; and that the re- ligious pre-eminence was far more desirable than the world- ly. It is supposed, however, that the former ceased when the priesthood was committed exclusively to the tribe of Levi. (Num. iii. 12—18.) On '.hat occasion it was designed that a Levite should be substi- tuted for every first-born male; birt the number of the latter exceeded that of the former by two hundred and seventy-three •persons. It was then required that a certain piece of money (about S2.50) should be paid for the redemption of these, and of all the first-born of suc- ceeding generations ; and this redemption money became part of the sacred revenue. (Num. iii. 12, 13. 40— 51 ; xviii. 15.) The first-born of all beasts nsed in sacrifice were devoted to the Lord, and could not be redeemed; but the first-born of beasts not lawful for sacri- fice might be redeemed if the owner chose to redeem them ; otherwise, they were sold, ex- chansed, or destroyed. (Ex. xiii. 13. Lev. xxvii. 27.) It is supposed that dogs were never redeemed. (Deut. xxiii. 18.) Several figurative expres- oions of the sacred writers are FIS derived from the relation of the first-born; and by all ot them some extreme or superla- tive quality or circumstance is denoted. The first-born of the poor (Isa. xiv. 30) implies ex- treme poverty ; the first-bom of every creature (Col. i. 15) denotes the beginning and head of creation {'xhefirst-boin of God (Heb. i. 6) expresses the dignity and superior glory of Christ. FIRST-FRUITS. (Num.xviii. 12.) The first-fruits of harvest, of the vintage, the threshing floor, the wine-press, the oil press, the first baked bread of the new crop, and the first fleeces of the flock were re quired by God to be given for the use of his ministers, the priests. (Ex. xxiii. 19. Num. XV. 19 — 21 ; xviii. 11—13.) These ofiferings were brought to the temple. No particular quantity was designated, but it is supposed a sixtieth part of the whole was the leasl measure. The manner of offering the first-fruits is prescribed. (Lev, xxiii. 10—14.) A sheaf of the first ripe barley was brought on the second day of the pass- over, and waved by the priest before the Lord ; and, after be- ing threshed in a court of the temple, a handful of it was cleansed and roasted, and pounded in a mortar; of was mingled with it, and it was then offered to the Lord in the* name and behalf of the nation, as an acknowledgment of de- pendence and gratitude. Until this w as done," the harvest re- mained untouched. The first-fruits are thus em- blematical of abundance and excellence, (Rom. viii.23,) an^ also the earnest or sample of a fiill harvest at hand. (1 Cor. XV, 20.) FISH-HOOKS. (Amosiv.2 Comp. Jer. xvi. 16.) The mo dern method of taking fish '.'56 FLO with hooks was doubtless known in the early ages oi the world. (Job xli. 1, 2.) The spear was also used. (Job xli. 2. 7.) The FISH-POOLS of Heshbon are used to illustrate clear- ness, brightness, and serenity. (Sol. Song vii. 4.) They were probably situated near a public gale of the town, and well known for their qualities. (See Heshbon.) FITCHES. (Isa. xxviii. 25.) A vegetable resembling the common pea. The word ren- dered filches in Ezek. iv. 9, is rendered ri/e in Ex. ix. 32. FLAX. (Ex. ix.31.) A well known plant, which furnishes the material of linen stuffs of every variety. It was pro- duced of the best quality in Egypt, (Isa. xix. 9,) and was an article of extensive com- merce. The spinning of flax was anciently the labour of the most noble ladies. (Prov.xxxi. 13.19.24. See Linen.) FLINT. (Ps. cxiv.8.) A hard stone, the uses of which are well known. The figura- tive use of the word in Deut. xxxii. 13, represents the great abundanceof oil; and in Isa. 1. 7, and Ezek. iii. 9, it is used to denote firmness and con- stancy. FLOATS. (IKingsv. 9.) Probably like the rafts of mo- dern days; by which the tim- bers already fitted for the building mieht be floated coastwise to "Joppa, and then carried over land to Jerusa- lem. (2Chron. ii. 16.) FLOCK. (See Sheep.) FLOOD. (Gen. vi. 17.) One of the most remarkable events in the history of our world, and of course one of the principal epochs in chronology. It oc- curred in the year 1656, or 23-18 years before the birth of Christ. It was a judgment upon the world for the great 22* FLU wickedness of lis inhabitants, only eight of whom were saved. These "eight composed the fa- mily of Noah, a righteous man, who was divinely instructed to prepare a vessel large enough to contain his family and "so many animals as were neces- sary to preserve each species. (.See Ark.) Having faith in God, he obeyed the divine command, and furnished the vessel.and was securely lodged in it with his family before the judgment came. It was in the six hundredth year of Noah's life, and between the middle of October and the middle of November, that the waters be- gan to fall. The clouds from above descended in over- whelming torrents, and the fountains' of the great deep were broken up; so that, at the end of forty days, the highest elevation upon the face of the earth was fifteen cubits, or twenty-two and a halffeet, under water, and "all flesh died that moved upon the earth," and Noah only re- mained alive and they that were with him in the ark ; and the waters prevailed upon the earth, or increased continual- ly, for one hundred and fifty days. The several dates men- tioned, the account of the de- luge, andthellems of evidence from observation, history, and tradition, that such an event as the deluge happened,will be found arranged in the Teach- er's Assistant, vol. iii. pp. 45—50, and also in Evening Recreations, part i. pp. 17 — 28, both by Am. S. S. Union. FLOOR. (See Threshing.) FLUTE. (Dan. iii. 5. 7.) A wind instrument of music, made of reed, horn, bone, or wood, and used on mournful as well as on festive occasions It was played like the clario- net, though there were pro- bably various modes both of making and using it. 257 FOO The mashrokitha or pipe was, according to eminent writers, a kind of pandean pipe,which was furnished with bellows, and thus was in its principle an organ. It is trans- lated/?«ie in Dan. iii. ?>. FLY. (Isa. vii. 18.) The nameof a large tribe of insects, FOO some of which are exceeding- ly annoying and destructive. They abounded in Egypt and Judea ; and one species, which is found by modern travellers in the vicinity of the Nile, and called the Abyssinian fiy, (see cut,) is as large as a bee, and is so terrible an annoyanceto cat tie and other large animals, as to oblige them to forsake their pastures and ranges, and flee to some place where they can roll themselves in the mud or sand. .Hence we may judge of the terrible nature of the judg- ments mentioned in Ex. viii. 24. Isa. vii. 18; in which last passage, we are informed that the fly shall be found in the very places to which the cattle resort to rid themselves of their presence. » FOLD. (See IRieep.) FOOD. (Gen. iii. 6.) We may form some judgment of the ancient diet from what we know of the modern orientals. Vegetable food is much more common than animal. Instead of butter, lard, and suet, they use olive oil. A soup, or rather pottage, of beans and lentiles, Jeasoned with garlic and oil, js still, as it was of old, a fa- vourite dish. The " red pottage of lentiles," for which Esau sold his birthright, was some- thing of this kind. Eggs,honey, milk, especially sour milk, and garden productions of every kind, afford the principal mate- rials of eastern diet. The most common dish at this day in the east is the pilau; which con- sists of rice cooked with meat, so as to make a sort of broth, seasoned variously,and colour- ed blue, red, or yellow. We do not find animal food often occurring, except upon the occasion of entertainments, or the exhibition of hospitality to a friend. (Gen. xviii.7. Luke XV. 23.) Though, as above stated, the orientals make far less use of animal food than we do, yet we find it, in every successive age, upon the tables of the rich ; and the animals used for this purpose, especially neat cattle, were often stalled and fattened. (lSam.xvi.20; xxviii. •24. 1 Kings iv. 23. Neh. v. 18. Isa. i. 11; xi. 6. Jer. xlvi. 21. Ezek. xxxix. 18. Amos vi. 4. Mai. iv. 2.) Wild game, lambs, and kids may be considered as the fa- vourite viands in the east. At this day beef is not much used, though from son^'e texts above^ 258 FOO and other similar authorities, we learn that the flesh of young ballocks and siall-fed oxen was highly prized. (Prov. XV. 17. Matt. xxii. 4.) In very ancient times it waa always the master of the liouse, whether he were rich or poor, who slew tlie animal. Grecian and Roman writers mention a like custom of later times. (Judg. vi. 19.) The preparation of the food by cooking was the busmess of the mistress. Tiie shoulder was probably the choicest part. (1 Sam. ix. 24.) It is customary for the Arabs to serve up at one meal the whole of any animal which they have killed. This is occasioned in some measure by the difficulty of preserv- ing fresh meat in that cli- mate. (Gen. xviii.7. Lukexv. 23.) The people of the east are particularly fond of fisli, and in Egypt they constitute a very important part of their subsist- ence. (Num. xi. 5.) Melons, cucumbers, and on- ions are the common food of the Egyptians in summer. It is said that the Egyptian onions are the sweetest in the world. Endive, or succory is a common food of the poor. Purslane is al- so common. Radishes, carrots, and ttie leaves of the vine are also eaten. Leeks and garlic — the latter of which :s import- ed from the Archipelago— are a common repast. Goals' milk makes a great part of the diet of the east, from the beginning of April till September, and cows' milk the rest of the year. The food of the common people of Aleppo, in winter, is very plain, and consists of bread, the juice of grapes thick- ened to the consistence of ho- ney or coagulated eour milk, butter, rice, and a very little nmtloa. We are told, con- FOO cerning the Arabs, that roasted meat is almost peculiar to the lablesoftheir emirs, or princes, and also lambs stewed whole, and stuffed with bread, flour, mutton-fat, raisins, salt, and aromatic herbs. (See Bedouin Arabs, by Am.S.S.U., ch. vii. FOOL, (Prov. XV. 5.) FOOL- ISH, (Job ii. 10,) FOOLISH- NESS. (2 Sam. XV. 31.) These terms are used by the sacred writers, sometimes to denote weakness or defect of under- standing, as in their modern use, (I Cor. i. 27 ; iv. 10-;) but generally they denote sm or wickedness. (2Sam. xiii. 13. Ps. xiv. 1. Prov. xix. I.) Fool isii talking, jesting, foolish and unlearned questions, &c., (2 Tim. ii. 23,) are such as are vain, frivolous, or have no use- ful tendency. The phrase, thou fool, (Matt. V. 22,) implies not only an angry temper, by which such severe language is prompted, but a scornful, con- temptuous feeling, utterly in- consistent with the love and meekness which characterize the disciples of Christ, and of course exposing the individual who is under their influence to eternal punishment. FOOT, (Deut xi. 10,) FEET. (Gen. xlix. 33.) In the first of these passages, the phrase VHiteredst icith thy foot is sup- posed to refer to some process by which the foot was employ ed in irrigating the soil; and very learned commentators trace the allusion to a machine for raising and distributing water, which modern travel lers tell us is still used for this purpose in eastern countries, and a representation of which is given in the following cut (But see Water.) Nakedness of the feet was a sign of mourning, (Ezek. xxiv. 17,) I and of respect or reverence. (Ex. i!4. 5. See Feet.) 259 FOR FOR FOOTSTOOL. (2Chron.ix. IS.) Kings and other rulers, Bitting in siaie, required a stool upon which to rest their feet. The divineglory which resided symbolically in the holy place, between the cherubim above the ark, is supposed to use the ark as a footstool. (1 Chron. xxviii. 2. Ps. xcix. 5.) So the earth is called God's footstool by the same expressive figure which represents heaven as his throne. FOREIGNER. (Ex. xii. 45.) Any one not of the genuine He- brew stock. (Coaip. F.ph. ii. 12.) _ FOREKNOWLEDGE. (Ads ii. 23) A peculiar and essential attribute of the Supreme Be- ing. (Acts XV. 18. Comp. Prov. xix. 21 ; xxvii. 1. Isa. xiv. 24. James iv. 14.) It implies the absence of any succession of time, as past, present, and future. (2Pet. iii. 8.) FORERUNNER. (Heb. vi. 20.) One who not orriy goes be- fore to a particular place, to make arrangements for his suc- cessor, but who leads or pre- pares the way. The Athenians call the figs that are ripe be- fore the rest by the same word which, in the above passage, 13 ira.ns\3i\ edfo?-erunner ; liiat is,ihefustfiuiis. (Comp. 1 Cor. XV. 20. 23.) There is also sup- posed to be a beautiful meta- phorical allusion to the person or boat that carries the anchor within the pier-head, and makes the ship fast, although the tide will not yet admit her to come up. Swinging at her cable's length, the ship rides out the gale ; for her anchor is sure and steadfast. (Heb. vi. 19.) FOREST. (1 Kings vii. 2.) Several tracts of country were designated in this way ; as, the forest of Ephraim, &c. The house ^ tlie forest of Lebanon, whicii was built by Solomon, and which was magnificent in size and style, (1 Kings vi.) was so called probably from the great quantity of cedar which was used in the con- struction cf it. rORGIV'ExVESS. (Acts v. 31.) Forgiveness of sin is the great Messing of the gospel. To fcrgive sin is the exclu- sive prerogati ve of Jehovah, of whose law sin is the trans- srression. (Ps.cxxx.4. Isa.xliii. 25. Markii.7.) And the gos- pel makes known, not only that there is forgveness with God, but also how he can for- give sin and still maintain unsullied the infinite purity, and holiness, and perfection FOR of his nature, government, and ".aw, and even clslhe ihem all with new glory. The consciousness of guilt is universal. Hence, in all parts of the world, Christian and pagan, savage and civilized, ihere are found institutions or customs which have a di- rect reference— more or less clearly defined— to expiation and forgiveness ; but the Chris- tian scheme alone makes known a way of mercy, (Acts xiii. 38, 39,) safe to man and ho- nourable to God, and, through Christ, oITers forgiveness— full, free, and everlasting— to all who will believe and obey the gospel. (Acts V. 31; xiii. 38, 39. 1 John ii. 12.) The duty of mutual forgiveness is urged upon man with the most so- lemn sanctions. (Matt. vi. 14, 15; xviii. 15— 35. Luke xvii. 3,4.) FORKS. (1 Sam. xiii. 21.) The oriental manner of par- taking of food is, like their fur- niture,verysimple.They make use of no plates,spoons,knives, nor forks ; nor are these im- plements necessary. Instead of plates, they use their round pieces of bread, upon which they lay such things as we should put on a plate. (See Eat, Eating.) Their bread is broken with the Rands, and their meat is usually cut into small morsels before it is serv- ed up. "When thi.s is not the case, as in the instance of boiled fowls, they tear it to pieces with their finders, and carry it to tlie mouth in this way; as they also do in helping themselves to rice, pulse, ana other articles of diet. The dishes are of wood or tinned copper; in the Persian palaces, of silver and gold. Even broth and milk are laded out in the noUow of the hand, or the bread is dipped into them. The forks mentioned in the FOX above passage were used, not in eating, bm in taking meal out of the vessels in which it was cooked. FORNICATION. (Matt. v. 32.) This word, as used by the sacred writers, denotes various acts of lewdness and inconti- nency; and it is also figura- tively applied to idolatry, or the mingling of the pure wor- ship of God with the impure rites of heathenism. FORSWEAR. (See Oath.) FOUNTAINS. (Gen. xvi.7.) Springs or sources of water are olten mentioned by the sacred writers. In the dry and thirsty land of Judea they were of pe- culiar value; and hence the figurative use of the word,when applied to the hopes, blessings, aod consolations of religion, must have been very forcible to the Jews. Perpetual foun- tains, or springs of living wa- ter, were greatly valued. (Ps. xxxvi. 7—9. Ipa. xlix. 10. jer. ii. 13. Joel iii. 13. Zech. xiii. 1. Johniv. 10. Rev. vii.l7.) The word fountains is figuratively used to denote children or pos- terity. (Deut. xxxiii.28. Prov. v. 16.) FOX. (Neh. iv. 3.) A well knov/n animal, remarkable for its cunning and voracity. Foxes, or jackals, abounded in some districts of Judea. They live on birds and small quadru- peds, and follow armies that they may feed on bodies that may be left on the march. Hence the allusion, Ps. Ixiii.lO. T'ne m.ethod adopted by Sam- son (Judg. XV. 4, 5) to destroy the corn,"vineyarris, and olive- yards of the Philistines, shows that this animal must have been very conunon ; and that there is nothing incredible in the account itself appears from the fact, that in an ancient Roman festival it was custom- ary to couple foxes in a similar way, with a brand betweea 261 FRI them. The crafiy, artful nature of the fox is proverbial. (Ezek. xiii.4. Luke xiii. 32.) Volney says thai jackals are concealed by hundreds in Sy- ria, in the gardens and among ruins and tombs. Hence the allusion, Lam. v. 18. (For cut and description, see Youth's Friend, for Feb. 1826, by Am. S. S. Union.) FKANKINCENSE. (Ex.xxx. 34.) A dry, resinous, aromatic substance, of a yellow tinge, bitter and acrid to the tasie, but exceedingly odoriferous. The tree, whence the gum is obtained by incision of the bark, grows in Arabia, and re- sembles our sumach. It is also found in India, but of an in- ferior quality; and, as some suppose, it was found in the mountainous districts of Judea. It is sometimes called incense. (Isa. Ix. 6. Jer.vi.20. Luke i. 9.) It is cal led /mn/c, because of the freeness with which it burns and gives forth its odours; and the uiire incense is that which is first obtained, and is freest from foreign admixture. Sweet incense^, (Ex. xxx. 7,) might as well be rendered in- cense of spices, and is the com- position mentioned Ex. xxx. The substance which is ge- nerally used in modern times as frankincense is the produc- tion of the Norway pine. The ude of incense in the Jewish worship may be learn- ed from Ex. xxx. 7, and Lev. xvi. 12, 13, and it is figuratively employed to represent lovely and agreeable qualities. (Sol. Songiii.6; iv.6. 14,) and devo- tional fervour. (Ps. cxli. 2. Mai. i. 11. Rev. viii.3.) FRIEND. (Ex. xxxiii. 11.) There are several passages in which this word is used where no actual friendship or affec- tion is intended, (Matt.xxii. 12: xxvi. 50;) and in these it is perhaps employed as a com- FRI men term of salutation, as the word neighbour is often used in modern times. FRINGES (Deut. xxil. 12) were the hem or border of a particular Jewish garment. (Matt. ix. 20 ; xiv. 36.) At the time when the Sab- baih-breaker was stoned to death, (Num. xv. 32.41,) Moses was commanded to speak to the children of Israel, and " bid them make fringes in the borders of their garments, throughout their generations," and that they should " put up- on the fringe of the borders a riband of blue," as a constant remembrancer of God's com- mandments, and a visible warning against forbidden in- dulgence. These fringes were principally upon the comera of the dress. Perhaps the hem was of lace; for the original word denotes that which was twisted like a rope, and hung like hair. (Ex. xxxix. 31.) U was evidently a badge of dis- tinction. (See Clothes, and cut.) In some parts of Europe and Asia a Jew is instanily known by his apparel. In all syna- gogues, however, there is worn a kind of scarf, from three to five feet long, and one foot wide, which is furnished with fringes at the corners. Let us hear the account which they give of it themselves :— " When we put on that garment on which ihefringes ordained by the law are fixed, (Num. xv. 37. Deut. xxii. 12,) we pro- nounce likewise the following prayer of thanks : ' Praised [be God] who hast sanctified us through thy command- ments, and commanded us the precept of the fringes.' But when we cover ourselves with the prayer-cloak, we say, in place of the concluding words of the foregoing, 'sanctified and commanded us to envelope our selves with the garment oj 262 tVE fringes.^ These fringes are to be considered as marks of re- membrance, and tokens, by hich we are always remind- ed ol the command menis of God ; as it is written, (Num. XV. 33,"> 'These fringes shall serve you for the purpose that you may see them, and re- member all the command- ments of the Eternal, and do them; but not follow the bent of your heart and of your eyes, by which you are led to ein ; ye will thereby remember all my precepts, and obey them, that you may be holy to your God." A Jewish commentator on Num. XV. says, that any man clothei with this fringe is safe, and shall be delivered from all hurl and destruction. FROGS. (Ex. viii. 2.) A well k now n,am|jhibious, loath- some reptile, found generally jn the margin of brooks and ponds, and living on insects, worms, fee. They were sent upon the Egyptians in such numbers as to fill their beds, ovens, and kneaiiing-i roughs; and when they died, as they did in immense masses, they" fill- ed the land with an offensH'e and pestilential effluvia. (See Youth's Friend, for Auirust, 1823, and Life of Moses, p. G9, both l^v Am. S. S. Union.) FRC)NTLETS. (See Phy- FRUIT.^'Lev.xix.23, isthe only {passage in which this term is ns^d in a doubtful sense; and it here means, that the fruit of a tree newly filant- ed shall lie regarded as unfit to be oflered to the Lord, until the fourth year of its growth. FUEL (Tsa. ix. 5) was so scarce in the east that the peo- ple rcs)rted to almost every kind of combustible matter; even the withered stalks of herbs and flowers, (Matt. vi. 28 -3lt.) tli'.rns, (Ps. 1 viii. 9. Eccl. vii,6,) and even excrements. FUL (Ezt-k. iv. 12—16. See Dcng., It is supposed that by the word brand (Amos iv. 11) is meant a dry vine, twig, or other brush- wood, which' is so light and combustible as to be co'nsumed at once, if not instantly pluck- ed out; thus renderintr the striking figure of the prophet still more expressive. FULFILLED. (Matt. ii. 17.) This word is generally u.sed in reference to the accomplish- ment of prophecy. It is to be oljserved, however, concerning the expression, that it might be fulfilled,— \\h\oh is fre- quently used, (Matt. ii. 15. 23; viii. 17; xii. 17, &,c. &,c.,)— the event does not happen merely for the purpose of making good the prediction. Wiien it is said, for example, that they parted Christ's garments among them, casting lots, — that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, &c.,— it is not" intended that this was done in order to se- cure the accomplishment of the prediction; but rather that, in or by this was fulfilled the prophecy, &c. ; or thus it came to pass, in fulfilment of the p»-o- phecy, &c. Those concerned had no knowledge generally of the fact thai th>y were fulfilling a pmphecy. Our Saviour of course knew it; and hence the [leculiar ex- pression, John xix. 28. (See Prophecy.) The" meaning, in most of the above and parallel passages, would be more accurately expressed b^ the word verified. In this event teas verified what was said by, &c. FULLER'S FIELD. (See CONDOIT.) FULNESS. (Gal. iv. 4.) Thisexpressiim has a [leculiar meaning in some passages of the sacred writings. 'Y\ic ful- ness oflitne, in relation to the Messiah, means the actual presence of the verv time ap 263 FUR pointed for his advent. So, when the day of Pentecost was fully come. (Actsii. 1.) The same word is used (John i. 16, and Col. i. 19) to signify the perfect and complete suffi- ciency of spiritual blessings in Christ Jesus, to meet all the wants of our guilty, ruined, helpless race. ^hefulness of the Godhead (Col. ii. 9) denotes all the attri- butes of the divine nature, n their entire and complete perfection. FUNERAL. (See Bory.> FURLONG. (SeeMEA- FURNACE. (Gen. xv. 17.) Furnaces were used for melt- ing the precious metals. (Prov. xvii. 3.) They were also used to punish criminals. The fur- nace into which Nebuchadnez- zar cast the young Hebrews who refused to worship his image was probably an open furnace, or place of fire, suffi- ciently confined to concentrate FUR the heat to the last extreme, and yet so open that what took place in the midst of it might be easily seen. Such places are now found in Syria, and were evidently used by idola- ters as temples for the fires which represented their gods, and in which they offered sa- crifices. FURNITURE.(See Camel.) FURROW. (Ps.lxv.lO.) The phrase, they shall bind themselves in their two fur- rows, (Hos. X. 10,) is explained by the context, especially verses 4, and 11—13. FURY (Jer. X. 25) is attri- buted to God like anger, meta- phorically, or speaking after the manner of men ; tTiat is, God's providential actions are such as would be performed by a man in a state of anger; so that, when he is said to pour out his fury on a person, or on a people, it is a figurative ex- pression for dispensing afflic- tive judgments. GAB GAAL (Judg. ix. 26) was the son of Ebed, and the lead- er of a revolt against Abime- lech, king of the Shechemites. He was, however, defeated, and put to flight, and his partisans were scattered and destroyed. GAASH. (Judg. ii.9.) A hill in the tfirritoiT of Ephraim, in the vicinity of which was Tim- nath-serah, where Joshua lived and died. (Josh. xxiv. 29, 30.) Tlie brooks ^or valleys) of Gaash (2 Sam. xxiii. 30. 1 (^hron. xi. 32) were probably in the same neighbourhood. GABBATHA. (Johnxix. 13.) A Hebrew word, denoting an elevated place; like the bench of the judges in modern court rooms. The floor of this plat- form, and perhaps the whole area of the apartment, was pro- bably paved with stone, — a GAD common practice in palaces and public offices. Hence it is called in Greek, by a word,, s\gmiymz the pavement. GABRIEL. (Luke i. 19.) One of the ministering spirits of God,whowasspeciallycharged with the message to Zacharias, respecting the birth of John, and to Mary, respecting the birth of Christ. At an earlier period he was sent to Daniel to unfold a vision. (Dan. viii. 16; ix. 21.) The name signifies the strength of God. GAD. (Gen. XXX. 9—11.) 1. Tribe of. (Num. i. 25.) The posterity of Gad, the son of Jacob, by Zilpah, Leah's hand- maid. It was predicted of Gad by his father, (Gen. xlix. 19,) that a troop should overcome him, but he should overcome at the 264 GAD last. Anl in Deut. xxxiii. 20, 21, Moses predicts still more Sarlicularly the events whicii istinguish tiie Iiistory of this tribe. After the defeat of the kings of Bashan, the tribes of Gad and Reuben petitioned Moses to assign them their portion in that district of the country, as it was favourable to their pas- toral pursuits. Their request was granted, and Gad's tribe was located south of Reuben, between the mountains of Gi- lead and the river Jordan, In this position they were subject to frequent incursions from the neighbouring hordes ; but they were valorous, (1 Ciir. V. 19,20.22; xii.8,) and, under David, subdued all their ene- mies. In the song of Moses, (Deut. xxxiii. 20, 21,) allusion is made to the enlargementand courage of the Gadites ; to the provision made by Moses the lawgiver for that tribe before the rest, on the east of Jordan, and to the fidelity with which the tribe fulfilled their agreement to go up with the other tribes to the conquest of the promised land, just as if no portion had been assigned them in Bashan. 2. (1 Sara. xxii. 5.) A prophet and a particular friend of Da- vid. He was on more than one occasion God's messenger to David, (1 Sam. xxii. 5. 2 Sam. xxiv. 13-19. 1 Chron. xxi. 9— 11,) and was also one of his biographers. (1 Chron. xxix. 29.) GADARENES, country of. (Mark v. 1.) Gadara was one of the ten cities called Deca- polis. (See Decapolxs.) It was on the east of Jordan, in the vicinity of the lake of Genne- saret, beyond the brook Jar- muk, about eight miles above its junction w'ith the Jordan. It gave its name to the district or canton of which it was the chief town. Gerobsa or Gk- ; 23 GAI RESA was another city in the same neighbourhood, which gave to another district the name of the country of the Gergesenes. Gergesa was si- tuated about twenty miles east of the Jordan, and ten or twelve south-east of Gadara ; so that the region generally might be designated by either name, (Matt. viii. 28. Mark v. 1 ;) and the discrepancy rather con- firms than invalidates the sacred history, as it might so easily have been avoided. Dr. Seetzen discovered, in the year 181G, what he sup- poses to be the ruins of Gerge- sa, now called Djerash, where three temples, two superb amphitheatres of marble, and hundreds of columns still re- main, among other monuments of Roman power. It was in this vicinity that Christ WTOught a wonderful miracle on two demoniacs. (Luke viii. 26—36.) Gadara, in the time of Josephus, was an important city, and the metro- polis of Perea, or the country beymid Jordaii. It now lies in ruins, being wholly deserted on account of the scarcity of water, though the foundations of its spacious streets are visi- ble. In the vicinity are famous medicinal springs ; and we are told by modern travellers, that the rocks by which the coast is bound contain the remains of tombs, cut out by the early inhabitants of Galilee, which even now seem a fit resort for the wretched outcasts of soci- ety who had their dwellin" among them two thousand years ago. (Luke viii. 27.) GAIUS. (Acts xix. 29.) A Macedonian, resident in Co- rinth, at whose house Paul stayed while labouring as a missionary in that city. (Rom. xvi. 23.) He was probably con- verted under Paul's ministry. (1 Cor. i. 14,) and accompanied him to Ephesus, and, witt 265 GAL Arisiarchus, another of Paul's adherents, was seized by the mob, during the uproar occa- sioned by the apostle's preach- ing. Probably reference is made to this individual, Acts XX. 4, and 3 Jolni 1 ; though fiome have supposed two indi- viduals to be intended. GALATIA. (Actsxvi.6.) A province of Asia Minor, lying east of Phrygia, and called Galalia iiy the Gauls, who were the original settlers of it. Christianity was introduced into this province by the ajx)3- lle Paul, who was there once with Silas and Timothy, (Acts xvi. C) about tiie year 53, and again, f lur or five years after- wards, on his return from Co- rinth.' (Acts .wiii. 23.) GALATIAN8, epistlk to, is the ninth in the order of the Looks of tlie New Testament, and was vvriuen by Paul about the year 53-54. Its design evi- dently is, to correct some erro- neous opinions they had been taugiil, particularly respecting the doctrine of justification by failli ; and to instruct them as to the true scope and intent of the gospel. This ej)istle is peculiarly interesting, as it contains a record of llie evi- dences of Paul's aposlleship, a ekelch of his life after his con version, and a masterly eluci- dation and defence oftiie great hut sim|jle plan of salvation througii faith in the Lord Jesus Clirisi. (See Union Questions, vol. viii., by Am. S. S. Union, for a complete analysis of this inleresiins epistle.) GAl.BANUi\l.(t:x.x.\x.34.) A resiniuis gum, jmuluced in Syria and its vicinity, from llie eajior milk of a plant of the eame name, which grows eight or ten feet iiigh. Ii'was an in- preoientof llie sacred incense, and is siili valuable for its medicinal jiroperties. GAMLIIANS. (Lukpxiii.l.) A beci or party of ike Jews GAL who took their name from their leader, Judas, a Gaulan- ite, or Galilean. It is supposed that llie party originated in opposition to a tax imposed by the Koman government on the Jews, A. D. 10—12. Judas and Jiis party resisted the go- vernment, (Acts V. 37,) and maintained their 0])i)osition until the desl.'-uclion of Jerusa- lem and the lemj^le. Jewish historians tell us that the Gali- leans agreed with the Phari- sees, but were distinguished by an unconquerable love of liberty, contending, on the strength of Deut. xvii. 15, that God only was their sovereign, and that all exactions of earth- ly princes were opi)ressive and unlawful. The Galileans who are men- tioned as having been otter- ing sacrifices at Jerusalem, when they were suddenly as- saulted, and put to death by order of Pilate,— so that their blood Howed out and actually mingled with the very sacri- fices they were ottering. (Luke xiii. 1,2,)— were j)robal.ly the subjects of Herod, between whom and Pilate there was a deep-rooted hostility. (Luke xxiii. 12.) Their sudden and violent death, in the very act of worshiji, seems to have marked them, in the view of some, as the sjjecial objects of divine indiunation. G A L 1 L^K K. (Mall. iv. 12. Mark i. 9. Luke ii. 3y.) In the time of Christ, Palestine waa divided into three parts: of wiiich the northern was Gali- lee, Ujunded on the north by Anti-Libanus ; east, by Jor- dan and the sea of Galilee; south, by Samaria; and west liy Phoenicia, wliich occupied the coast north from Carmel to Tyre. It was distinguished into Ljyjter ami Loicei ; the for- mer lying on the north, and inhabued jiartly by Syrians, Phenicians, and Arabians ; 266 GAL whence it was called Galilee of the Gentiles. (Isa. ix. 1.) or Nations, (Mail. iv. 15;) the latter, especially the valley along the sea of Tiberias, was fertile anil populous. Within the liiniis of Galilee were comprehended Issachar, Zebulon, Naphtali.and Asher. Christ is called Jes7is of Gali- lee, (Matt. xxvi. 69.) because he was brought up in that pro- vince, and there lived, taught, and called his first disciples, (Malt.iv. 13— 23;xiii.55. Marii i. 39. Luke iv. 44 ; viii. 1 ; xxiii. 5. John vii. 1 ;) and ii became a nameof contempt, (John i.46; vii. 5-2. Acts ii. 7,) both among Jews and Gentiles, because they were a mongrel race, and used a corrupted dialect, which originated in the amalgama- tion of the Jews, who settled there after the captivity, with the Gentile foreigners. (Matt, xxvi. 69. 73. Mark xiv. 70.) Galilee, says a modern tra- veller, would be a paradise, were it inhabited by an indus- trious people, under an en- lightened government. Vine Flocks are "to be seen here a foot and a half in diameter, forming, by their twining branches, vast arches and ex- tensive ceilings of verdure. A cluster of grapes, two or three feet in length, will give an abundant supper to a v*hole family. The plains of Esdrae- lon are occupied by tribes, around whose brown tents the sheep and lambs gambol to the sound of the reed,' which at nightfall calls them home. Sea of Galilee. (SeeCniN- NERETH.) GALL. (Ps. Ixix. 21.) An animal fluid, of exceedingly bitter taste, secreted by the liver. Allusion is made to it in Job xvi. 13 ; xx. 14. 25. Lam. ii. 11, and elsewhere. But by the same word in Ps. Ixix. 21, reference is made to the ex- iraction of a very bitter herb, GAL (Deut. xxix. 18; xxxii. 3^ perhaps hemlock. (Hos. x. 4.) It was so bitter as to be used as a generic term for bitter sub- stances; as sour wine, sour cider, &c. is called viiiegar. (Comp. Matt, xxvii. 34. Mark xv.23.Acts.viiij23. SeeMYRRH.) GALLEPJES. (See Dwell- ings.) GALLEY. (See Ship.) GALLIC (Acts xviii. 12) was the brother of Seneca, the famous philosopher, who describes him as a man of uncommon mildness and sim- plicity. He was appointed groconsul of Achaia by the Oman emperor Claudius.A.D. 53. He resided chiefly at Co- rinth : and when Paul waa preaching in that city, and nad excited the jealousy of the Jews by the success of his mission, they took him by violence before Gallio, and charged him with persuading men^to worship God contrary to the law. Gallio was disin- clined to interfere with con- troversies of that kind, wiiich were not cognizable by the law which he was appointed to administer; and so he dismiss- ed the parties. As they were leaving the place, a tumult occurred, in which Sosthenes, an ofiicer of the Jewish church, was severely treated by a party of Greeks. It does not appear but Gallio had left the bench before this event occur- red ; and even if he were pre- sent, the expression, that he cared for none o^ these things, may imply nothing more than that he did not concern himself with the controversies of the various sects and parties into which the community around him was divided. This course, so far from evincing hostility or indifference to Paul, or to religion generally, was cer- tainly wise and prudent for a commissioner ol^ the Roman government, appointed, as he 2C7 GAM was, to a temporary office in a foreign province. GAMALIEL. (Acts v. 34.) A distinguished Jewish rabbi, a doctor or teacher of the law, and possessed of a large share of public confidence. It is said he was for thirty-two years President of the Jewish san- edrim. He is first introduced to our notice in connexion with the attempt made at Jerusalem, a. d. 33, by the op- posers of the gospel, to stop the mouths of Peter and the other apostles. The faithful mis- sionaries were brought before the Jewish council, and there boldly proclaimed their in- flexible purpose. This excited their enemies to madness ; and they had al ready made up their minds to put them to death, when Gamaliel, by a plain and seasonable exhvbilion of the folly of such a step, changed' their counsel ; and, after having scourged the apos- tles, they discharged them. So distinguished was this rabbi for his wisdom and learning, that GAR Paul went up to Jerusalem to receive instruction from him, and afterwards mentions this fact in his oration to the peo- ple of Jerusalem, (a. d. 60,) as evidence that he had the best opportunity to know the na- ture and requisitions of the law. (Acts xxii. 3.) GAMMADIMS. (Ezek.xxvii. 11.) The prevailing opinion respecting this term is, that it is rather descriptive of the character of a people ; as, the brave, the warlike, the invin- cibles, than the name of any particular nation or tribe. GARDEN. (Isa. i. 8.) The gardens of the Hebrews were doubtless very rude and sim- ple. Allusions to them are made, Gen. xxi. 3-3. Num. xxiv. 6. Jobviii. 16; and there is reason to suppose that they were chiefly devoted to fruit and shade trees, and aromatic plants and herbs. (1 Kings xxi. 2. Sol. Song iv. 12—16.) A re- servoir of water was considered an indispensable appendage, either in the form of a foun- GAR tain, well, or stream, passing through ii. (Gen.ii.lO; xiii. 10.) The gardens around Damascus are described as abundantly watered by little currents which are made to flow through every part of them. Beau- tiful allusions to this are madeProv.xxi. 1. Isa.lviii.il. Eccl. ii.5, 6. The gardens of Persia, at the present day, are well laid out, and cultivated with much care. Gardens were used to some extent as burying places, (John xix. 41,— see Bu- rial,) and also as places of religious worship and retire- ment. (Isa. J. -29; Ixv. 3.) Gar- dens were probably often unfenced, and formerly, as now, esculent vegetables were planted on some fertile spot in the open field. A custom pre- vails in Hindostan, as travel- lers inform us, of planting, at the commencement of the rainy season, in the extensive plains, an abundance of me- lons, cucumbers, gourds, &c. In the centre of the field is an artificial mound, with a hut on the top just large enough to shelter a single person from the storm and heat. Here a solitary being is posted, night and day, in the midst of tem- pests and storms, for two or three months, to protect the crop: and if any depredation is attempted, the alarm is given to some adjacent vil- lage. This custom fully ex- plains the allusion in Isa. i.8. At this season, Niebuhr re- lates that he observed in Ye- men, that men were placed in trees, or upon some such elevation, to watch the fields, and keep off birds, beasts, and thieves. So also among the Hebrews, watchmen were sta- tioned to guard the harvest, who relieved one another. As the keepers of a field are they against Jerusalem round about : watchers come from a far country, and give out their 23* GAT voices against the cities of Judah. (Jer. iv. 16, 17.) He (the wicked) buildeth his house as a moth, and as a booth that the keeper maketh. (Job xxvii. 18.) These keepers were not allowed to prevent one from taking from the field enough for the supply of his immediate wants. (Deul. xxiii. 25.) GARLANDS. (Acts xiv. 13.) The heathen adorned the vic- tims of their sacrifices in a variety of ways. Probably the garlands mentioned in this passage were to decorate the head of the ox which they de- signed to sacrifice to the sup- posed gods. GARLICK. (Num.xi.5.) A well known bulbous root or vegetable, which was in com- mon use in Egypt, and much esteemed by tlie Jews. GARMENTS. (See Clothes.) GARRISON. (See War.) GATE. (1 Sam. iv. 18.) The entrances to walled cities are secured by gates, either of wood, iron, or brass. (Acts xii. 10.) Houses also were protected in the same way, and we may suppose that sometimes a door or passage was made in the gate, (as is common in many parts of our own country,) so as to save the necessity of opening the whole gate every time a single per- son would pass. (Acts xii. 13.) In many Asiatic cities, there are broad streets covered over wholly or in part, and appro- priated to merchants or trades- men in particular branches of business ; and there were also open squares in which the booths and stalls of venders were erected. These were fre- quently at the gates of the city, which were of course places of the greatest concourse. (2Sam. XV. 2. 2Kings vii. 1. Neh. viii 1. Jobxxixr?. Prov. xxii. 22 ; sxxi. 23.) The gates were often 269 GAT also the places of judicial pro- ceedings, (Deul. xvii. 5 ; xxv. 7. Amos V. 10. 12. 15 ;) ilie mode of conducting which may be learned, Ruih iv. 1—12; and of "eneral resort, (Gen. xix. 1,) ana of course frequented by idlers and loungers. (Ps. Ixix. 12.) In Arabia, the gate of the city is still the place of judg- ment. The king or governor passes certain hours of the day there, and not only hears and decides controversies, but transacts business with the people who are passing in and out. As the possession of the gates of the city was a posses- sion of the city itself, the word is sometimes used to signify power. (Gen xxii. 17. Isa. xxiv. 12.) "We are told, that it is common in many parts of Asia, to build the gale or door of the house of iron, very strong, and so low as to pre- vent the incursion of the Arabs, who often ride on horseback into the houses of those whom they wish to harass and rob. Sometimes the gate is not more than three feet high ; and to elevate or exalt it, was only to court the notice of the destroy- er, or to admit a friend. (Ps. xxiff. 7. 9.) There are other figurative uses of the word which are sufficiently obvious in themselves. (SBe Hell, Jerusalem, Lazarus, Tem- ple.) GATH. (Josh. xi. 22.) An ancient city in the territory of Dan, celebrated as the birth- place of Goliath. (1 Sam. xvii. 4.) It was situated about thirty- two miles west from Jerusalem. In the days of David, it was in the possession of the Philis- tines, and Achish was its king. (ISam. xxi. 10 — 15; xxvii. 1— 7.) David afterwards captured it. (2 Sam. XV. 18. 1 Chron. xviii. 1.) It was afterwards subject to frequent revolutions. 1 Kings ii. 39. 2 Kings xii. 17; GAZ xiii. 25. 2 Chron. xi. 8; xxvi 6.) The inhabitants of Gath are called Gittites, (Josh. xiii. 3,) and the place Gittah-he pher. (Josh- xix. 13.) GATH-HEPHER. (2 Kings xiv. 25.) A city in the tribe of Zebulon, and probably in the land of Hepher. (1 Kings iv. 10.) It is noted as the birth- place of the prophet Jonah. GATH-R IMMON. (Josh .xix. 45.) It would seem there were at least three cities of this name : one in the tribe of Dan, (Josh. xxi. 24;) a second in the half tribe of Managseh, (Josh, xxi. 25;) and a third in the tribe of Ephraim. (1 CKron. vi. 69.) GAZA. (Gen. X. 19.) A city, and one of the five principali- ties of the Philistines, was situated on the coast of the Mediterranean, at the southern extremity of Canaan, within the tribe of Judah, (Judg. i. 18. 1 Sam. vi. 17,) and about sixty miles south-west of Jeru- salem. In the reigns of Jotham and Ahaz, it recovered its in- dependence, but was again subdued by Hezekiah. (2Kings xviii. 8.) It was afterwards subject to the Persians and Chaldeans, and was captured by Alexander the Great about B.C. 300. In the time of Euse- bius, it was a flourishing city, but has been often reduced since that day, and now con- sists of three sma 1 villages, with from 3,000 to 5,000 in- habitants. Messrs. King and Fisk, American missionaries, spent a Sabbath there in 1823, They tell us that the city stands on an elevation; the houses are built of stone, but make a very mean appear- ance. The scenery around is beautiful. They found several Greeks there, and a Greek priest, who said the church there had been built twelve centuries. They sold twenty- S70 GEB five copies of the Scriptures', in Greek, and gave away thir- teen. The place once abounded in monuments of the power, opulence, and greatness of the \ city. Many traditions are held ' by the inhabitants respecting Samson and his feats ; and they formerly showed the sunken arches of the temple which Samson pulled down upon himself and the people around him, and also the hill to whose summit he bore the gates of the city. Mr. Thompson, an American missionary, was at Gaza in the spring of 1834, and speaks of the number of Christians in the place as exceeding his ex- pectations, and also mentions a flourishing school there. GEB A, (2 Kings xxiii. 8,) called also Geba of Benjamin, (Josh. xxi. 17. 1 Kings xv. 22,) probably to distinguish it from another town of the same name, was one of the most northerly towns of Judea. Hence the expressions, 2Kings xxiii. 8, and Zech. xiv. 10, de- note the length of the land. It was in the vicinity of this place that the Philistines were defeated by David's army. (2 Sam. V. 25.) GEBAL. (Ezek. xxvii. 9.) A city of Phenicia, north of Bey- root, called Byblos by the Greeks and Romans, and lat- terly Jiblah, or Jibail. It now exhibits little else than ruins, which are sufficiently magni- ficent to indicate its former ¥eatnesg. In the days of yre's glory, it was famous for ship-building. (Ezek. xxvii. 9.) The land of the Giblites (Josh, xiii. 5) was the extensive plain which stretches around this city. In Ps. Ixxxiii. 7, Gebal most probably refers to a dis- trict in Idumea, east of the El-Ghor,known to the Romans as Gebalene, and at present DjebaL. GEN GEDALIAH (Jer. xl. 5) was appointed by Nebuchadnezzar to take charge of the govern- ment of Palestine, after he had subdued it, and destroyed the temple and capital of the nation. (2 Kings XXV. 22.) He was assassinat^ed by a party of the royal family of Judah, headed by Ishmael ; of which event, we have the particulars in Jer. xli. Several other per- sons ofthe same nameare mere- ly mentioned in the Bible. GEDEON. (See Gideon.) GEHAZI. (2 Kings iv. 12.) The servant and constant at- tendant ofthe prophet Elisha. ^\'Tien the prophet had accom- plished, by divine power, the wonderful cureofNaaman,the latter otfered him a munificent present, as a token of his grat- itude ; which the prophet de- clined. Gehazi coveted what his master refused, and by a deliberate falsehood obtained a portion of Naaman's gift. As a punishment for his of- fence, the very disease ol which Naaman had just been cured was visited upon him and his family. (2 Kings v. 15 -27.) GEMARIAH. (Jer. xxix. 3, Zedekiah's ambassador to the king of Babylon, by whom Jeremiah sent a letter to his countrymen in captivity,warn- ing them against the indul- gence of any false hopes of redemption. There was also a minister of Jehoiachim ofthe same name. (Jer. xxxvi. 12.) GENEALOGY. (IChron.v. 1.) The lineage of a family, or list of ancestors, was preserved with extraordinary care (Ezra ii. 62. Heb. vii. 3) by the Jew ish nation, (1 Chron. v. 17 ; ix 1. 2 Chron. xii. 15,) not only because it was through Abra- ham that the privileges of the Jewish church were transmit- ted, but chiefly because of the deep interest which was felt in the predictions concerning the 271 GEN Messiah,and the iribe orfaniily from which he was to sfning. (Heb. vii. 14.) The variance which seems to exist in many of the genealogical tables, or statements of t"he sacred wri- ters, has been in a great mea- sure reconciled bylhose who have diligently investigated and compared Ihem. if is a matter of astonishment that records of such high antiquity — and concerned'principaliy with names of families and individuals, which are very liable to many inaccuracies- are preserved so perfectly. These public tables, or genea- logical records, were in'exist- ence as lately as tlie lime of josephus ; for he undertakes to show his descent by them. The genealogies against which the apostolic admoni- tions are directed, (1 Tim. i. 4. Tit. iii. 9,) were probably spe- culations on the subject of genealogy, when the reason for regarding it so particularly was done away by the appear- ance of the Messiah, and the introduction of a new dispen- sation by him. GENERATION. (Gen. v. 1.) This word is used to denote a particular class of people. (Ps. xxiv. 6. 1 Pet. ii. 9.) It signi- fies the history as well as the lineage of a man,— as in the passage first cited, and Matt.i. 1, — and also the history of other things. (Gen. ii. 4.) It is em- ployed to denote a period of time, (Matt. xxiv. 34. Acts ii. 40,) and sometimes posterity or future ages. (Isa. xxxiv. 10.) When used to mark the lapse of time, its import is very un- certain. Perhaps it may gene- rally mean, as it does in our day, the period which one generation or race of men spend on earth. GENESIS. This is the name of the first book of the Bible, and in the original it denotes the contents of the book: viz. GEN an account of the generation or production of all things. Mosea is universally regarded as its author, and its authenticity is settled by the most indisputa- ble evidence. It has been remarked that passages of this book are cited in Ihe New Testament twenty-seven times literally, and thirty-eight times substantially. The fiistory it contains embraces a period of at least 2370 years, and pre- sents to us an account of the creation and fall of man, the religion, arts, settlements, ge- nealogies, corruption and de- struction of the antediluvian world, excepting eight souls, — the re-peopling and division of the earth, the dispersion of its inhabitants, and the inte- resting biographies of Abra- ham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. It is well observed, that without this history the world would be in comparative dark- ness ; but that, in the first page of Genesis, a child may learn more in an hour, than all the philosophers in the world learned without it in thousands of years. (For an analysis of the contents of this book, and explanatory and illustrative notes, &c., see Union Questions, vol. iii., and Teacher's Assistant in the use of the same work, both liy the Am. S. S. Union.) GENNESARET. (See Chin NERETH.) GENTILE. (Rom. ii.9.) This was the name by which the Jews distinguished all the rest of the world from them selves. All who were not Jews and circumcised,they regarded as Gentiles, or heathen ; and, as such, they were excluded from the religious privileges and relations by which the Jews were so greatly exalted. Hence they became accustom- ed to look on the Gentiles as outcasts from the favour of God ; and, mistaking the end 272 GER of their peculiar dispensatioH, and supposing it to be perpe- tual, we cannot wonder at the strong prejudices tiiey enter- tained against a Saviour and a gospel wliich placed Jews and Gentiles on the same fooling, (Acts X. 1—48. Rom. ix. 30— 33; xi. 1—36;) thus displaying the riches ol that grace an3 mercy through which all that call on the name of the Lord are saved. And now, in the wonderful order and economy of tiie divine government, the Gentiles com'pose the great body of God's people, and the Jews, who reject the Messiah, have become a reproach and by- word in the earth. Those who embraced Judaism, but were not Jews, were called proselytes. The word Greeks, in the writings ©f Paul, usually denotes the Gentiles ; and, in the New Testament generally, those are called Gentiles who were subject to the Greek go- vernment, either in the east or west. Court of the Gentiles. (See Temple.) Isles of the Gentiles (Gen. X. 5) are supposed to de- note Asia Minor and the whole of Europe, which were peopled by the children of Japheth. GERAK. (See Measures.) GERAR, (Gen. x. 19.) a capital city of the Philistines, was situated south-west of Ga- za, between Kadesh and Shur. ] (Gen. XX. 1.) It is remarkable that both Abraham and Isaac I retired to this place during the prevalence of a famine, - and were both guilty of de- | ceiving Abimelech, the king of the place, respecting their wives. (Gen. XX. 1 ; xxvi.l.) i Valley op, (Gen, xxvi. 17,) was the residence of Isaac, and probably in the vicinity of the city above described. t (JERGESENES.GERGESA. (See Gadarenes.) i GERIZIM. (SeeEBAL.) | GET GESHUR. (2 Sam xiii. 38.) A district of Syria, (2 Sam. xv. 8,) lying on the east of Jordan, north of Bashan, and near mount Hermon. (Josh.xiii.il. 13.) The Geshurites aie also spoken of as inhabiting an- other territory south of Judea. (1 Sam. xxvii. 8.) The district above mentioned retained its independence in the time of David. (2Sam.xiii.37.) Tra- vellers tell us of a bridge over the Jordan, between the sea of Tiberias and mount Hermon, called the Geshur, (Jisr, or Jisser, Beni-Jakub,) the bridge of the sons of Jacob. GETHSEMANE. (Matt, xxvi. 36.) A retired place, con- taining about half an acre of land on the western side of mount Olivet, commanding a full view of the city of Jerusa- lem. The name indicates the fertility of the spot, especially in olives. It was called a garden, though it was proba- bly a grove, laid out in walks, and furnished with fountains, affording shade and seclusion to those who resorted thither from the noise and distraction of the adjacent city. Messrs. Fisk and King, American missionaries, were there in 1823. They tell us that the garden is about a stone's cast from the brook Cedron ; that it now contains eight large and venerable looking olives, whose trunks show their great antiquity. The spot is sandy and barren, and appears like a forsaken place. A low broken wall surrounds it. Mr. K. sat down beneath one of the trees, and read Isa. liii., and also the gospel history of our Redeem- er's sorrow during that memo- rable night in which he was there betrayed ; and the inte- rest of the association was heightened by the passing through the place of a party of Bedouins, armed with spears and swords. It is said that the 273 GIB monks, to whom this ground now belongs, preserve the ker- nels of ilie olives that grow there, to use as beads for rosa- ries. (See Views of Pales- tine, p. 14, and Selumiel, ch. vii., both l.iy Am. S. S. Union.) GEZER. rJosh. xvi. 3.) A town of Ephraitn on the border of Benjamin, norih-w est of Je- rusalem. It remained in the possession of the Canaaniies (Josh. X. 33; xvi. 10. Juds. i. 29) till the king of Egypt s'ub- dued it, and gave it to his daudner, the wife of Solomon. (1 Kings ix. Ifi.) Solomon re- built It. (1 Kings ix. 17.) GHOST. (Gefi.xxv.S.) To give up the ghost is a common term, wiih tlie sacred writers, to express death. It is the yielding up of the spirit or soul to God who gave it. When nsc'l to express the death of Christ, a diiferent word is em- ployed in the original, which implies the voluntary cliarac- ter of the act, or the power to give life up, or retain it at pleasure. Holy Ghost. (See God, Spirit.) GIAx\T.(lChron.xx.6.)Some- times this word is employed to denote men of great violence, cruelty, and crime; and at others, it denotes men of ex- traordinary size or height. The sons of Anak were the most noted of the latter class which the sacred writers mention. They dwelt in Hebron, and were such mighty men that the Israelites thought of them- selves as mere grasshoppers in comparison; an expression, however, by no means indica- tive of exact relative size, liut simply denoting a fearful odds in strength and stature. The king of Bashan (Deut. iii. II) and Goliath (1 Sam. xvii. 4) were men of extraordinary size. (See Rephaim.) GIBBETHON (Josh. xxi. 23.) A city of the Philistines, GIB within the tribe of Dan, where Baasha killed Nadab, son of Jeroboam. (1 Kings xv. 27.) GIBEAH. (ISam. xiii.2.) A city a few miles nortli of Jeru- salem, called Gibeah of (the children of) Benjamin, (2 SaLvn. xxiii. 29,) in distinction from one in Judah. (Josh. xv. 57.) It was aiso called Gibeah of Baul, (2 Sam. xxi. 6,) because it was his birth-place and resi- dence. (1 Sam. X. 26. Isa. x. 29.) Its inhabitants were emi- nently vvicked,as they evinced by their conduct, recorded Judg. xix. 30, to which Hosea refers as proverbial. (Hos. ix 9 ; X. 9.) The city was terribly destroyed. (Judg. xx. 46.) GIBE ON. (Josh. X. 2, 1 Chron. xvi. 39.) A great city in Benjamin, five to seven miles northerly of Jerusalem, inhabited by Hivites, who se- cured the protection and alli- ance of Joshua by stratagem, (Josh. ix. 4—15;) and were" con- sequently attacked by the five Canaanitish kings, but deli- vered liy the aid of the Israel- ites. (Josh. X. iO. Isa. xxviii. 21.) In the close of David's, and beginning of Solomon's reien, the sanctuary was there. (1 Chron. xvi. 39, 10 ; xxi. 29.) Near to it was a pool ; probably the "great waters" referred to by Jer. xli. 12, where Abner was defeated by Joab; and also a "great stone," or monument- al pillar, perhaps to the twen- ty-four men of David and Ish- bosheth who fell there. (2 Sam ii. 13;xx. 8. See Servant.) The wilderness of Gibeon (2 Sam. ii. 24) was doubtless in the vicinity of the city of the same name : as was also the valley of Gibeon, famous for the victory over the five allied kings above described, and for the wonderful miracle per- formed there. (Josh. x. 12.) It is supposed that the four cities named, Josh. ix. 17, en joyed a sort of democralir 274 GIF rvernment. (Comp. Josh. x. and ix. 11.) GIDEON. (Ju.lgvi. 11.) The sou of Joash tlie Abi-ezrite, anil the same with Jerubbaal tlie seventh judse of Israel, a miL'hiy man of valour, and peculiarly favoured with the presence of the Lord. He was a very humble man; and when the angel proposed to him to go in the strength of the Lord 10 save lsrde\ from the hands of the MiJianiteS; he replied, *'BehoM, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least of my father's house." The Lord was pleased to favour Gidf;on with most remarkable tokens of liis power and grace. which are [larticularly "men- tioned in Judg vi., vii., and viii. He is honourably men- tioned, Heb. xi. 32. GIKK-EAGLE. (See Eagle.) GIFT, (Ex. xxiii. 8,) GIFTS. (Rom. xii. 6.) The practice of making presents as a token of honour, respect, or affection, prev'ilpil very extensively in eastern countries in early a^es, and is still maintained. Hence to refuse making pre- Benls to a king was esteemed a mark of contempt. (I Sam. X. 27.) Kinss and princes often made splendid gifts of garn;ent5 to their favourite of- ficers, and to others whom they were disposed to honour. (Gen. xlv.2-2. ii.) The peculiar offerings under the law are spoken of as gifts. (Dent. xvi. !7. Matt. v. 23; 24.) And it is with singular force that the blessings of the gos- EpI, and e.sp''cially the great lessiiicr of eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord, are call ed eifis; inasmuch as they never ciMilil be piirchaseil, and notliinu can be given in return for them. The word gifis is al.*! employed to describe those giaci's or qnaliiies with which ChrisH only can endue his dis- aplws. (Eph. iv. a 11, 12.) GIL Some of these, which were be- stowed on the early aposilefli were miraculous, and designed to confirm iheir claims to apos- tolic aiilhoriiy; such as the gift of tongues, of f)roi>hecy, &c., and when the end of con- ferring them was answered, they ceased. GIHON. 1. (Gen. ii. 13.) One of the rivers of Eden, sup- [xised by some to be the Araxes which empties into the Caspian Sea. Gihmi signifies ivtpetit- Otis; and this is the course of the Araxes. Others suppose that the river known to mo- dern geographers as the Oxus, which the Arabs at this day call Jih(m,\s the same with the Gihon. 2. (1 Kings i.33.) A fountain or stream near the city of Je- rusalem, (2Chr()n xxxii. 30,) lieside which Solomon was anointed. (I Kinu's i. 38.39.) GILBOA. (ISam. xxviii.4.) A riilge of mountains west of the plain of Jordan, which the Arabs of this day call Ujebel Gilbo. It is memorable as the field of battle on which Saul and his three sons fell. (1 Sam. xxxi.8 2Sam.i.'.il. See Omar, by Am. S.S. linion,pp.ll8,ll9.) GILEAD. 1. A PLACE,(2Kin£;8 X. 33,) orGALEED, (Gen. xxxi. 47,48,) so called because of the monument which wa.'' erected by Laban and Jacob to pe' pe- tuate the remembrance of their covenant, was a m'tuntainoiia region, embracingTrachonitis, east of the Jordan. The terra is used rather indefinitely by the sacred writers. The pos- sessions of the tribe of Gad are described as all tke cities of Gileaft^ and half the land of the 'hildren ofAvimon. (Josh, xiii. 25.) And the halt tribe of Manasseh are said to have received, as t'ari of their inhe- ritance, all Bashati ami half Gilea.'l, (Josh. xiii. 30. 31 ;) and in Deui. iii. 12, 13. 16. half mount Gilead is said to have 275 GIL been given lo Reuben and Gad, and the rest of Gilead to Manasseh; while, in verse 15, we are lold that Gilead was given to Machir. It would seem that the pos- sessions of Manasseh lay north of the Jabbok, and were di- vided between his two sons, Jair and Machir; the former taking the land of Argob, and the latter the land of Gilead, or the northern part of it; and that the Reubeniles and Gad- ites took the tract between the Jal)bok and the Arnon, in- cluding the southern section of Gilead. The LAND OF Gilead, (Deut. xxxiv. 1,) as used in this pas- sage, probably denotes the whole country east of the Jor- dan to Arabia, including the modern Belka. Mount Gilead, properly speaking, is the ridge or sum- mit which rises six miles south of the Jabbok, and extends five or six miles from east to west. It is now called Dje- laad. It was at this point that a part of Gideon's army desert- eahim. (Judg. vii. 3.) There was a tree in Gilead, the eum of wliich (hence called the "balm of Gilead) possessed medicinal properties, (Jer.viii. 22; xlvi. 11; li. 8,) and was an important article of com- merce. (Gen. xxxvii. 25.) Strabo, the prince of ancient geographers, speaks of a field near Jericho, in Palestine, which was full of these bal- sam trees. The sap is like viscid and tenacious milk, and coagulates rapidly. It was va- luable for inflammations ; and, in the time of Alexander, was estimated at twice its weight in silver. (See Balm.) 2. A PERSON. (Num. xxvi. 29,31), and Judg. xi. 1, 2;) in both which cases the name is probably derived from the fact that the individuals resided, GIT or had their inheritance, In Gilead. ' GILGAL. (Josh. iv. 20.) The origin of this name is given us in Josh. V. 9. It was a villago in the plains of Jericho, east of that city, and north-east of Jenisalem; it was from three to five miles west of the river Jordan, and was the first place of encampment of the army of the Israelites after passing that river. There the twelve slonea were set up as a memorial of the miracle. It was the rest- ins-place of the tabernacle until it was taken to Shiloh, whence it was again returned to Gilgal, (I Sam. x. 8 , xv. 33,) and also the se?it of govern- ment, or place of rendezvous, during Joshua's wars with the Canaanites. In Samuel's day, it was one of the places for holding a circuit court, (1 Sam- vii. 16,) but afterwards became devoted to idolatry. (Hos. xii. 11. Amos iv. 4.) The word quarries, in Judg. iii. 19, is rendered graven images in the margin, and, if correctly rendered, shows the prevalence of idol worship there. Other interesting in- cidents connected with this place are recorded, 1 Sam. xi. 14, 15; xiii. xv. There was another Gilgal "beside the plains of Moreli," not far from Shechem. (DsuL xi.30. Josh. xii. 23. See Omar, p. 137, and Selumiel, p. 157, both by Am. S. S. Union.) GIRD, GIRDLE. (See GIRGASITE. (Gen. x. 16,) or GIRGASHITES. (Gen.xv.21.) A tribe of the Canaanites, who are supposed to have inhabited a section of the country east of the sea of Galilee ; whence the name of the city of Ger- gesa. GITTAH-HEPHER. (See Gath-hepher.) GITTITES. (SeeGATH.) 276 GLO GTTTITH.Psalms viii.lxxxi. and Ixxxiv. are inscribed to the chief musiriun upon Gittilh. The \Yord may reler lo a parti- cular iaslrunient of music, or 10 a particular tune, or it may have relation to some circum- stance in the time or occasion of its composition, which the word Giuiih denotes, but which has not been preserved. GLASS. (lCor.xiii.l2.^ The substance which we call glass was invented in the twelfth century; but the ancients pro- bably used some semi-transpa- rent substance, through which a deirreeof light was admitted, and 'external objects very in- distinctly seen. Specimens of such substances are often found among Roman anti- quities. Looking glasses (Ex. xxxviii.8. Jobxxxvii. 18) were doubtless made of polished me- tal. One of the latter is sup- posed to be meant in James i. 23, and one of the former in 1 Cor. xiii. 12. GLEAN. (Ruthii.2.) In the joyful season of harvest, the Jewish farmer was not al- lowed to forget the poor and the stranger. A special com- mand was given (Lev. xix. 9, 10) that he should leave some of the fruits for them to gather. GLEDE. (Deut.xiv. 13.) A rapacious bird of the hawk or vulture species. The original word is rendered vulture, in Lev. xi. 14. GLORY, GLORIFY. (Ps. xlix. 16. Isa. xxiv. 15.) These terms are of frequent occur- rence throughout the Bible; and are so common that many fail to see how very significant they are. To glorify is to render glori- ous. (Dan. V. 2-3. Acts iii. 13. 2 Pet. i. F.) Hence the com- prehensive precept of the apos- tle, (1 Cor. vi. 19,20,) requiring the devotion of our whole pow- ers and faculties to this one 24 GOA great end, tfie glorij of God, (1 (Jor. X. ol,) or making God glorious. The glory of God is disj)layed to his creatures in tlie works of creation, provi- dence, and grace.; so that they are without excuse who see only the tilings that are made, and the evidence they furnish of his eternal power and God- head, and yet neglect or refuse to glorify him as God. (Rom. i. •:»— 32.) Under the INIosaic economy, the glory of God often appear- ed in some visible emblem, but dwelt especially within the vail, between the cherubim. (1 Kings viii. 11. Ps. Ixxx. I. Zech.ii.5.) It is, however, in the plan of redemption that we have exhi- bited to us at once a complete, consistent, and perfect display of the glory of the divine cha- racter, to which every other manifestation of it, whether in creation or providence, or in the former dispensations of his ^ace,wereandaresubservient. The wisdom, power, and good- ness of God, as well as his holi- ness, faithfulness, and justice, areheremagnified tothehighest degree ; so That the expressions of the apostle have great force, THE LIGHT OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE GLORY OF GoD, IN TH S FACE OF Jesus Christ. (Jolin i. 14. 2Cor.iv.6. Heb. i.3.) GNASH, GNASHING. (Ps. cxii. 10. Matt. viii. 12.) A striking or grinding of the teeth in the paroxysms of ai>- guish or despair. GNAT. (Matt, xxiii.24.) > very small but trouldesonie in- sect, common in iiot countries. In the passage cited, the words strain at sTiould rather be strain out; the phrase will then better express the gross inconsistencies which our Sa- viour reproved. GOAD. (Judg. iii.31.) This was a rod or fwle, about eight feet long, armed at the largest 277 GOA end with a piece of iron, with which the ploughshare was freed from clods and earlh, and at the smallest with a small spike, by which the oxen were ur^ed on in their lal our. A modern traveller in the east says: "The country people were now everywhere at work ploughing in the fields, in order lo sow cotton. It was observa- ble, that in ploughing they used goads of an extraordinary size. Upon the measuring of several, I found them about eight feet long, and at the big- gel- end six inches in circum- ference. They were armed at the lesser end with a sharp prickle for driving the oxen, and at the other end with a small spade or paddle of iron, strong and massy, for cleansing the plough from the clay that encumliers it in working. May we not from hence conjecture, that it was with such a goad as one of these, that Shamgar made that [)rodigious slaughter related of liim? (Judg. iii.3l.) I am confident that whoever should see one of these instru- ments, would judge it lo be a weapon not less fit, perhaps filter, than a sword for such an execution. Goads of this sort I saw always used hereabouts, and -also in Syria ; and the rea- son is, because the same single Fert)n both drives the oxen and also holds and manages the plough, which makes it necessary lo use such a goad as is alwvc described, to avoid the encumbrance of two in- struments." GOAT. (Lev. iii. 12.) Goats were among the chief (wsses- eions of the wealthy in the earl); ages of the world. (Gen. xxvii.i). lSam.xxv.2. 2Chrou. xvii.ll.) Resembling the sheep in its general structure and appearance, it is covered with hair instead of wool, and is much more active, bohl, and Avandering in its habits. Il GOA. feeds on bark and lendei twigs, and its feet are formed for" leaping and climi)ing among rocks and mountains. Its milk is valuable for food, (Prov. xxvii. 27,) tlie hair for manufactures of various kinds, (Ex. XXV. 4. Num. xxxi. 20. Hel>. xi.37,) and ihe skin for vessels or bottles, (Joeh.ix.4. Ps. cxix. 83. Matt. ix. 17,) and in modern times for leather, {morocco.) It was a clean animal by the Jewish law, (Ueul. xiv. 4,) and was much used in sacrifices. (Lev. iii. 12. Num. xv.27. Ezra vi. 17.) The peculiar qualities of goats occasion frecjuenl figu- rative allusions to them. Trie boldness and strength of the leaders of the flocks are al- luded to, Prov. XXX. 31. Zech. x. 3 ; and they are made to re- present oppressors and wicked men generally. (Ezek. xxxiv. 17; xxxix. 18. IV! alt. xxv. 33.) Wild Goats, (Deul. xiv. 5,) now called the ibex, or moun- tain goat, were of the same species; but being confined lo the high and almost inacces- sible summits of mountains, were seldom taken, and were of little domestic use. The mountain goal is still found in many parts of Syria, and the flesh is nearlv of the flavour of venison. "The Be- douins make Ijags oT bottles of their skins, and" rings of their horns. When they are found among the rocks, they usually elude the pursuit of ihf' hun- ter, sometimes leaidng twen- ty feet,— but in thejdains they are often taken. Their habita are alluded to, 1 Sam. xxiv. 2, Job xxxix. 1. Ps. civ. 18. (See Youth's Friend, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. ii.No. 6; iii. No. 7; and iv. No. 10.) Scape-goat. (Lev. xvi. 26.) In this chapter we have an in- teresting account of the man- ner in which goats were euo- GOD ■ployed under the Jewish law lo prefigure the atoning sacri- fice of "Christ. It was on the great day of atonement. Two goats were lalien; one to be presented as a sin-offering, and the other to stand while the priest laid his hands upon its head, and confessed over it the sins of the people; after which it was led or sent away into the wihferness; thus repre- senting the taking or bearing away of guilt. (See the cere- mony and its meaning fully illustrated in Biblical Anti- quities, vol. ii. ch. vi. § 5, and Elisama, pp. 169—172, both by Am. S. S. Union.) GOB. (2Sam.xxi. 18, 19.) A place or plain where the Isra- elites fought two battles with the Philistines. It is sujjposed to be the same with Gezer. (1 Chron. xx. 4. See Gezer.) GOBLET. (See Cup.) GOD. (Gen. i. 1.) The name of the uncreated Creator of all things. He is revealed to us in an endless variety of ways in his works and pro- vidential government, , (Rom. 0 i. 20,) but more fully in the Holy Scriptures, as a Spirit infinitely wise, holy, just, and benevolent; and though he is truly and essentially one in his being, nature, and at- tributes, and the only proper object of religious worship, (Deut. vi. 4. Isa. xliv. 8 ; xlv. 5. 6. 14. 18. 21, 22,) yet he is clear- ly revealed to us as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, (Isa. xlviii. IG, 17. Matt, xxviii. 19,20. John i. I— 3; V. 23; x- 30; xiv.23. Phil. ii.6. 1 Tim. iii. Ifi.) to each of whom are as- cribed the essential attributes of the supreme God, while they are distinguished from each other in the sacred writings by all the acts and all the forms of speech by which men are accustomed to designate differ- ent persons. Among a multi- tude of passages, lhe~followiag GOG may be cited : Gen. i. 2(5; iii. 22; xi.6,7. Acts v. 3, 4. 2 Cor. xiii. 14. Col. ii. 9. As every thing concerning the mode or manner of the divine existence must be necessarily and en- tirely a matter of divine reve- lation, it is to be received as such, with the most profound and humble reverence. The student of the Bible, however, and especially the teacher, would do well to settle in his mind distinctly and definitely what are the facts or truth which the Bible makes know to us respecting this great mystery of our holy religion ; and so to arrange and classify them, that they shall exhibit at one view, to his mind, and to the minds of those he teaches, .exactly what is revealed, and no more: and in doing this, es- pecially when the matter is of sucn great solemnhy and im- portance, it is safest to abide as closely as possible by the language of inspiration. The words God and Gods are frequently used to express the office, power, or excellence of some created being; as, an- sels, (Ps. xcvii. 7,) magistrates, (Ex. xxii. 28,) the devil. (2Cor. iv. 4. See Jehovah, Christ Jesus.) GODHEAD. (Col. ii. 9.) The nature or essential being of God. (Actsxvii.29. Pvom.i.20.) GODLINESS. (2 Pet. iii. 11.) Piety, resulting from the know ledse and love of God, and leading to the cheerful and constant obedience of his com mands. In 1 Tim. iii. 16, i. imports the substance of re- vealed religion. GOG AND MAGOG. (Ezek. xxxviii. 2.) INIagog was the name of one of Japheth's sons. (Gen. x. 2.) It was also a ge- neral name of a country north of the Caucasus or mount Tau- rus, or for the people of that district. Gog was the kin^ of the country. Probably tney GOL were remarkable for their in- vasive and predatory habits ; and perhaps the phrase was descriptive of barbarians and spoilers generally. (Rev.xx.S.) GOLAN. (Deut. iv. 43.) A considerable city belonging to the half tribe of Manasseh, and situated in the north-western part of the old kingdom of Ba- fihan ; whence the district, of which it was the capital, is ca.\\ed Gaulonitis. It was east of the sea of Tiberias, and still bears the name oiJolan. Golan was one of the cities of refuge. (Josh. XX. 8.) GOLD. (Gen. ii.ll.) The heaviest and most malleable of metais, is found at the pre- sent day chiefly in Africa and South America. Several places are mentioned by the sacred writers as abounding in gold; such as Ophir, (Job xxviii. 16,) Parvaira, or Ceylon, as some suppose, (^Chron. iii. 6,) and Sheba and Raamah. (Ezek. xxvii. 22.) The use of gold was very common among the He- brews. Several parts of the temple, its furniture and uten- sils, were overlaid with this precious metal, (Ex. xxxvi. 34 —38. 1 Kings vii. 4S— 50 ;) and many of the vessels of the wealthy, as well as their per- sonal ornaments and insignia of office, were of eold. (Gen. xli. 42. 1 Kings x. fZ— 22. Esth. i. 6, 7. Dan. v. 29. Luke xv. 22. James ii.2.) GOLDEN CANDLESTICK. (See Candlestick.) GOLGOTHA. (See Cal- vary.) GOLIATH. (ISam. xvii.4.) A renowned champion of the Philistines.- His native place was Gath. He was more than nine feet in height, and his armour corresponded with his stature and strength. The par- ticulars of his defea'. in single combat with David are given, I Sam. xvii. (See Life of Da- vid, ch. iii., by Am.S S. Union.'* GOP In 2 Sam. xxi. 16—22, is an account of several contests, in one of which Elhanan, a Eeth- lehemite, is spoken of as having slain Goliath tlie Gitiite. In another, which occurred in Gath, a man of stature, with twelve fin_ers and twelve toes, is re])resented as having been slain by Jonathan, David's ne- phew, in a third a giant named Saph was slain by Sibbechai^ the Husha'.hite; and a fourth was between Ishbi-benob and Abishai, in which the fcrmei was slain. These four, it is said, were born to the giant in Gath. The probability is, that some other giant than Goliath is in tended in this verse, as one of the four persons named was his brother, and not his son, and that the true readin" of 2 Sam. xxi. 19 is given in 1 Chron. xx.5. COMER. (Ezek. xxxviii. 6.) The eldest son of Japheth, whoseposterity peopled a large district of Asia Mir.or, embrac- ing Phrygia. From them came the natives of northernEurope. Hence, too the Gauls and Celts, and the bands ofOomer, and in later times, the peojjle of Ger- many, France, and Britain. GOMORRAH. (See Sodom.) GOPHER WOOD. (Gen. vi. 14.) The ark was constructed of gopher wood. It has been supposed that this may mean, (1.) The wood of those trees which shoot out horizontal branches, such as the fir, ce- dar, &c.; (2.) Squared timber; (3.) Smooth or planed timber; (4.) Any light, floating wood; (5.) Any wood that does not readily cornipt; (6.) Pitched wood; (7.) Wicker or basket work, made of osier or other pliable material of the same species; (8.) Or any of the kinds of wood that abound with resinous, inflammable juices. The weight of author- ity, or rather conjecture, is GOS bet'-veen the cypress and ce- dar. The Greek name of cy- press bears a resemblance to the Hebrew of gopher. It was considered by the ancients as the most durable wood, least exposed to worms and natural decay; it abounded in Assyria, was used very commonly for ship-building, and was almost the only wood which could furnish suitable timber for so large a vessel. The cedar is light, incorruptible, and resin- ous. It was used by the Egyp- tians and Assyrians in the construction of ships ; and some of the oldest rabbins suppose it was used for the GOSHEN. 1. (Gen.xlv.lO.) A fertile section of pasture land in the north-eastern divi- sion of Egypt, between the Red Sea and the river Nile, upon the southern border of Canaan, allotted by Joseph to his father and his brethren ; where they dwelt for upwards of two hun- dred years. It was, for grazing purposes, the best of the land. (Gen. xlvii. 6. 11.) Mr. Smith, an American missionary, passed, with a ca- ravan, through the northern district of ancient Goshen in 18-27; and he describes it as an immense sandy desert, drifted with sand-banks ; and presenting here and there, in email patches, a few shrubs of evergreen, like our whortle- berry bushes, on which the Bedouins pasture their flocks. Rameses and Pithon are men- tioned as cities of Goshen, and the supposed ruins of them are described by modern tra- vellers. The pacha of Egypt has lately established a colony of five hundred Syrians in the ancient land of Goshen, for the purpose of cultivating the niul- terry and rearing silkworms. 2. (Josh. XV. 51.) A city in the territory of Judah, which gave the name -^f the land of 24* GOS Goshen to the country around it. GOSPEL. (Mark i. 1.) The word which is rendered gospel in this passage is elsewhere renderea good or glad tidings^ (Luke ii. 10. Acts xiii. 32 ;) and in both cases it describes the books written by the four evan- gelists. Hence, when we say the gospel according to Mat- tJieip, we mean, the history of Jesus Christ the Son of God, and an account of the salvation otfered by and through him, as the same was prepared under the guidance of the Holy Ghost by Matthew, one of our Sa- viour's disciples. A harmony of the gospels is an arrange- ment of these four histories in such a manner as to show their harmony with each other, and to present them in connected chronological order. One of these harmonies maybe found in The Help to the Gos- pels, published by the Am. S. S. Union. The gospel of Matthexc was undoubtedly written first, and, as it is generally supposed, about the year 65. It is not certain whether it was origi- nally written in Greek or Hebrew. The gospel by Mark was probably written under the influence and direction of the aposlle Peter ; and tradition says it was written at Rome, and published after the death of Peter and Paul. The gospel of Luke B sup- posed to have been written by the beloved physician,the com- panion of Paul in his travels, and under the direction or oversight of the apostle, and after the destruction of Jerusa- lem. The gos]7el of John is to be regarded as supplementary; and it was written last of all. Some have fixed the period at the year 96, when John was eighty years old,and after Mat- 281 GOU fliew's gospel had been publish- ed thirty years. It is termed the gospel of peace, (Kom. x. 15,) and the word of reconciliation, (2 Cor. V. 19,) because it shows the only way in which man can oe at peace with God through Jesus Christ; and lience it is also called the gofipel of the grace of God, (Acts xx. 24,) as it is a declaration of God's free favour and good will towards those who are utterly worthless and undeserving. The four gospels were writ- ten by ditferent men, each of whom was under tlie immedi- ate inspiration of God, and was led to adopt a style and arrangement suited to tlie pur- pose he had in view. When it IS considered what an endless variety of places, persons, and incidents are introduced into the sacred narratives, and what a variety of expressions are reported, on the accuracy of which, and the circumstances under which they were spoken, so much of their force depends ; when we consider, moreover, the character and education of the writers, and the peculiar disadvantages of their situa- tion ; we shall be ready to ad- mit the extraordinary claims of these books, and to allow that the immaterial discrepan- cies which they present con- firm rather than invalidate those claims. GOURD. (Jonah iv. 6.) A climbing vine of quick growth, allied to" the family of the cu- cumber, melon, squash, &c. . IS fruit is found in a hard .igneous shell, of which drink- ng cups and other household utensils are formed. It was cul- tivated from the earliest limes in Asia and Africa. The pulp is eatable ; and the lower classes in Egypt and Arabia boil it in vinegar, or make it into a son of pudding by filling the shell witn rice and meat. In a wild GRA I state, they were probably poi j sonous, as the wild parsnip is i among us. (.2 Kings i v. 38— 41.) } GOVERNOR. (Matt.xxvii. ' 2.) After Judea became a pro- j vince of the Roman empire, I governors or procurators were [ appointed and sent thither from Rome. This was the I office held by Pontius Pilate I at the time of our Saviour's crucifixion. Sometimes the word governor is used as a general title for ruler. (Gen. xlii. 6. See Feast.) GOZAN. (1 Chron. v. 26.) A river, which probably rises in Media, to the vicinity of which the captive Israelites were transported. (2Kings xvii. 6.) This river is now known as the Kizzil Ozan, and empties into the Caspian Sea. There was also a province, and per- haps a city, of the same name, (Isa. xxxvii. 12,) now called Gausania, lying between the Caspian Sea and the moun- tains which separate Media from Assyria. Through this Srovince the river Gozan or ;izzil Ozan runs. GRACE. (ITim. i.2.) The theological use of this word denotes the free favour of God, bestowed upon men without any merit or claim on their part. Hence the New Testa- ment, which reveals the plan by which this grace is bestow- ed consistently with the divine attributes, (viz. the atonement, mediation, and intercession of tlie Lord Jesus Christ, in and through whom alone the free, rich, and eternal fulness of God's favour is dispensed,) is called the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts XX. 24.) GRAFF. (Rom. xi. 17.) To graff or graft is tn insert a shoot j or bud of one tree into the branch of another; the stock ; of the latter is usually infe- rior, the graft valuable. The sap of the natural tree being conveyed into the craft is, by 282 GRA a ppculiar process, changed into the natural sap of "ihe graft; and hence the fruit of the graft will be of its own kind, and the fruit of the natu- ral tree of another kind. The force and beauty of the apos- tle's figure in the passage above cited are suthcienlly obvious. GRAIN. (See Corn.) GRAPES. (Gen. xlix. 11.) The fruit of the vine. When fully ripe and dried, they are called raisins. (1 Sam. xxv. 18; XXX. 12. 2 Sam. xvi. 1. lChron.xii.40.) The soil and climate of Judea were well suited to the growth of the vine ; and it was among the principal productions of the country. Particular districts of Judea were famed for the excellency of their grapes; as Engedi, and the vales of Eshvol and Sorek. The word Sorek is not only the name of a region in the tribe of Judah, but also signifies the noblest variety of the vine and its clusters, which there abounded. This grape was while, with delicious juice, and with seeds so small and soft as to be almost imperceptible. In Persia, the best raisins are made of this grape. It is of this that the celebrated Kish- mish wine of Shiraz is made. Very fine grapes were in old times, as at present, produced on mount Lebanon, and Hel- bon, or Aleppo. Travellers agree in relating that Pales- tine, even in its present slate 3f subjugation to the Mussul- mans, who are forbidden to use wine, produces clusters of twelve pounds weight each, the single grapes of which are as large as plums. They tell us that the clusters of Judea, a few miles westward from Jeru- salem, are larger than any in Europe; and that they have often seen them of such size that it was impossible for a single man to carry one of GRA them »;n injured for any dis- tance It "is pleasing to find this corroboration of the scrip- tural account. (Num. xiii.23. See EsHCOL.) Brocard informs us in his travels, that the best vines grow in the environs ot Bethlehem, in tlie vale of Re- phaim, (between Bethlehem and Jerusalem,) and in the vale of Eshcol. The grapes of the Holy Land, with the exception of "the So- rek, above mentioned, are mostly red or black. Hence the juice is called the blood of the grape; translated, in our ver- sion, red irJne. (Isa. xxvii. 2.) The vines of the east attain a very great size, reaching tlie tops of the highest trees, and are sometimes much thicker in the trunk than a man's body. (See'WiNE,WiNE-PRES.s, Vines, Vineyards.) The Jews were expressly re quired by their law not to gather the grapes until the vine was three years old, (Lev, xix. 23,) and to leave some on the vines and on the ground, (Lev. xix. 10;) and it was the privilege of the poor and de- pendent to gather these for their own use, provided they were eaten on the ground. They were not allowed'^io take any away. (Deut. xxiii. 24; xxiv. 21.) The grapes thus left were called the gleanings; and, as they hung, here and there one, on the vines, or scattered on the ground, they were strikingly emblematical of the depopulation of a city or country. (Isa. xvii. 6; xxiv. 13. Jer. vi.9; xlix. 9. Obad.5.) The proverb to which refer- ence is made in Jer. xxxi. 29, is explained in the whole of Ezek. xviii. The Jews com- plained that they siiffered be- cause of tlie iniquity of their fathers. The prophet shows them their error and delusion, and triumphantly vindicates the divine proceedinffs. 233 GRA So in Isa. v. 2, before cited, Ine Jewish i.ation is repre- sented to us uiuler the figure of a vineyard favourably plain- ed, and cultivated with the utmoat skill and labour, and every preparation made for the vintase. and yet the hus- bandman's hopes are all blast- ed ; for instead of a full crop of genuine fruit, he finds upon the vines a bitter, poisonous, wild fruit, entirely unfit for use. . A more striking illustra- tion of the perverseness and ingratitude of the Israelites, cannot be conceived. GRASS. (Isa, li. 12.) Thi.s wonl is frequently applied in the Scriptures to herbage gene- rally, (Isa. XV. 6,) though some- limes a distinction fs made between such herbs as are used by man, as grain and vegeta- bles, and such as are used chiefly by cattle. (Ps. civ. 14.) The quick growth and ten- derness of this species of vege- tation furnish several of the most striking illustrations of the Scriptures. (Ps. xc. 5, 6; xcii. 7; ciii. 15, 16. Isa. xl. 6 -8; li. 12. James i. 10. IPet. i.24.) The passage in Prov. xxvii. 25, would be more accurately rendered thus: "The grass(/tai/) appeareth, and the green herb {tender grass) showeth itself, and the plants {herbs) of the mountains are gathered." So \ in Isa. XV. 6: " The grass (hai/) withereth, the green herb (^rass) faileth, there is no green thing." Nothing can exceed in beau- ty and appropriateness the gradation of images employed by the prophet, 2 Kings xix. 20; the weakness and tenderness of the fir?t shoots of any green herb; the frailty of the few Bpires ofrrass that sometimes spring up in the vegetable mould or shallow earth uppn the housetop, or the withered GRE arid wilted blade of corn, blast- ed before it rises into a stalk. The dry stalks of herbs were often used, as faggots are now, for the purpose" of heating ovens. (Matt. vi. 30 ; xiii. 30. Lukexii.28.) GRASSHOPPER. (Eccl.xii. 5.) An insectof the locust spe- cies, often mentioned in the sacred writings. The word ren- dered grusahopper in the above cited passage is rendered locust in2Chron. vii. 13. The grasshopper was al- lowable food under the Jewish law. (Lev. xi.22.) Their timi- dity is proverbial. (Job xxxix. 20.) They are often found in great multitudes, (hence the figurative language, Judg.vi. 5, and vii. 12. Jer. xlvi. 23,) and prove destructive to vegetation, i especially in its early stages. (Amos vii. 1.) The allusion in Nah. iii. 15 — 17, is to a common habit of this insect. When benumbed with the cold, they assemble in vast numbers upon the hedges or other shrubbery ; and such is their multitude, that the places they occupy are darkened, and resemble the encamping ground of a great army. As soon, how- ever, as they are revived by the warmth of the sun, they fly away no one knows whither. The grasshopper is used to illustrate comparative insisni- ficance, (Num. xiii. 33. Isa. xl. 22;) and in the passage from Ecclesiastes, first cite'd, reference is probably made to that degree of weakness and infirmity in old age which makes the weight, or even the chirping, of a grasshopper bur- densome. GRATE, BRAZEN. (SeeAi^ TAR.) GRAY E. (SeeBcRiAL,EN- GRAVE, Hell.) GREAT SEA (Num. xxxiv 6) is the same with the Medi 284 GRE terranean, and constitutes that large mass of waters between Europe, Asia, and Africa,which receives its name Onidland) from its position, and has its only communication with the ocean by the straits of Gibral- tar. It is also called the utmost sea, (Joel ii. 20.) the hinder sea, (Zech. xiv. 8,) and was the western boundary of the pro- mised land. GREAVES. (See Armour.) GREECE, (2;ech. ix. 13,) or GRECIA, (Dan. viii. 21,) was known to the Hebrews by the name oiJavan. (Isa. Ixvi. 19. Ezek. xxvii. 13. 19.) As used in the New Testament, it more generally comprehends Greece E roper, Ionia, and Asia IMinor. Q the time of Alexander, the Greeks were masters of Egypt, Syria, and the countries and provinces beyond the Eu- phrates, and hence the name Greek became somewhat in- definite, and was applied by the Jews to all Gentiles who were subject to Grecian power. Indeed, as some hold, the word Greek was to the Jews syno- nymous with Gentile, (Mark vii. 26;) that the world was di- vided by them between Jews and Greeks. All that were not Jews were Greeks. (Acts xx. 21. Rom. i. 16. 1 Cor. i. 22. 24.) •The New Testament was writ- ten originally (with the excep- tion, perhaps, of Matthew) in Greek. The invasion and con- quest of the eastern nations by Alexander the Great, which took place about three centu- ries before the Christian era, led to a general use of the Greek language. And it is pro- bable that a book designed for the world, as it then was, and was likely to be, would find more readers in that language than in any other. The pre- vailing language of our Saviour and his apostles, and probably of the people of Juaea, was Syriac, though the commercial GRO intercourse of the Jews raadfi them familiar with the Greek ; and a version of the New Tea tament in the Syriac language was extant, as is generally be- lieved, during the apostolic age, which all admit to have been made as early as the se- cond century. When Greeks are opposed to barbarians, as in Rom. i. 14, the former term implies the learned, and the latter the illiterate class, or such as do not speak the lan- guage of the country where they reside. (See Barbarian.) GREVTHOUJSD. (Prov. xxx. 31.) The motion of the animal known in modern times by this name, is both graceful and fleet. It is by many supposed that the original word reiers to some entirely different animal; but there appears to be no satis- factory reason for the opinion. GRIND. (Job xxxi. 10.) This expression here denotes not only the lowest menial service, but also that the person of the patriarch's wife may be at the disposal of another, as female slaves in the east are at the present day. (See Mills.) GRINDERS. (Eccl. xii. 3.) The grinders ceasing because they are few, in Solomon's allegorical exhibition of the decline of life, is supposed to represent the loss of the teeth, or their failure to perform their office in masticating or grind, ing one's food. GRIZZLED. (Gen. xxxi. 10. Zech.vi.3.6.) Black and white intermingled in small spots. GROVE. (Judg. iii.7.) The idolatrous heathen worshipped their gods on the lops of hills and mountains, and in groves of trees. (Deut. xii. 2, 3. Hos. IV. 13.) The use of groves as places for religious worship seems to have been very early, (Gen. xxi. 33;) and the selec- tion of such places originated probably either in a desire to make the service more agree 285 GRO able to the worshipjiers, or j more inviling lo the gods; or i because the gloom of the forest | is calculated lo excite awe; or because the concealment of these odious rites and impuri- ties Wis more effeciual ; or pro- bably because it was supposed that the spirits of the departed often hovered over the place where their bodies are buried ; and, as it was very common lo bury under trees, (Gen. XXXV.8. ISam. xxxi. 13,) the erection of altars or places of devotion to their spirits, or to other spi- GUE rits, good or evil, in or near such trees, was very natural. Hence it became common to plant groves (Deut. xvi. 21) with a view to idolatrous worship; and as these were constantly furnished with the images of the eods, the terms groie and idol, beoame con- vertible. (2Kings xxiii. 6.) GUARDCHAMBEK.dKings xiv. 23.) The apartment occu- pied by the kinir's guard. GUEST. (See Feast.) GUEST-CHAMBEK. (See Chamber.) HAB HABAKKUK. One of the twelve minor prophets, of Ivhose birth we know neither the time nor place. He lived in the reign of Jehoiakim, and was of course contemporary with Jeremiah; and it is gene- rally supposed he remained in Judea, and died there. Prophecy of, is the thirty- fifth in the order of the books of the Old Testament. It was uttered aboutsix hundred years before Christ, and relates chief- ly to the invasion of Judea by the Chaldeans, the overthrow of the Babylonish empire, and the final deliverance of God's faithful people. Some passages of this prophecy are not sur- passed m sublimity and sim- plicity of style, nor in the strength and fervour of piety which they express. The dedication with which the prophecy closes has refer- ence probably to the ode or prayer which constitutes the third chapter. The word ne- ginoth (stringed instruments) signifies an instrument which was played by friction or pul- sation, (as violins, harps, &.c.,) in contradistinction from wind instruments; and the compo- sition was directed, as several >f the psalms are, (Ps. iv. vi. HAD liv. Ixi. Ixvii. Ixxvi. title,) to the leader of some particular department of the temple music. HABERGEON. (See Ar- MOUR.) HABOR. (2King9 xvii.6.) A city or country of Media, on the river Gozan, and one of the places to which Tiglath-Pile- ser first transported a part, and Salmanezer, afterwards, the whole of the ten tribes of Israel. Habor, or Chabor, is thought by some to be the mountain- ous region called Chaboras by Ptolemy. But others, with greater precision, fix upon the modern town of Abhar, near the river Kizzil Ozan, or Gro- zan, as the more probable site of ancient Habor. HACHILAH.HiLL oF.dSam. xxiii. 19.) A stronghold at the southern extremity of the wil- derness of Judea, where David concealed himself flora his persecutors. HADAD. (1 Kings xi. 14.) A descendant of the royal family of Edom. When David con- quered that country, (2 Sam. viii. 14,) and cut off its male population, certain of the king's household escaped the general massacre, and fied, taking with them Ha dad, then 2S6 HAD » little child. After a lime, they went into Kgypi, and younz Hadad was presented to the king, and probably his roy- al descent was made known. The king received him with great tavour, and in process of lime he married the queen's Bister, and the families were afterwards on terms of the closest intimacy. After David's death, Hadad requested Pha- raoh to let him return to Edom. And this he probaiily did, as we find him mentioned as Hadad the Edomite, and the adversary of Solomon, I Kings x\. 14-2-2. HADADEZER, (2Sam. viii. 3,) or HADAREZER. (2 Sam. X. 16. IChron. xviii.3.) A Sy- rian kmg, with whom David had several contests. In one of them he took twenty thousand footmen and seven hundred horsemen of Hada- dezer's army prisoners, be- sides chariots of war. Oa another occasion, when Hada- dezer had tormed an alliance with a neighbouring province, David again defeated him, and look twenty-two thousand of his army prisoners. Amon? Ihe spoils were gold shields, and a great quantity of brass or copper. Some years afterwards, Ha- dadezerand three other Syrian princes formed an alliance to assist tiie Ammonites aeainsi David; l)Ut the whole Syrian army was defeated o.i the east tank of the Jordan, by the araelites, under the command of jMab. Between forty and fifty thousand of the enemy were kille bins and the Mohammedans make, in the same way, seven heavens. (Comp. 2 Cor. xii. 2. Eph. iv.lO. Heb.vii.26.) Kingdom of Heaven. (See Kingdom.) HEAVE-OFFERING. (See Offerings.) HEBER (Judg. iv. 17-21) was of the family of Jethro, and was distinguished as the husband of Jael, who killed Sisora. (See Hebrews.) HEBREWS. (Gen. xiv. 13.) This term is used to denote the people who descended from Abraham. The derivation of it is either from Heber, one of the ancestors of Abraham, or from the Hebrew word Eber, which signifies /rwn the other side. The people who are known by the name Hebrews, came " from the other side," as vv e say of a foreigner, that he is from beyond sea ; and hence the Canaanites might very naturally call them Hebrews, or people from the other side. They were not called Jews until a much later period of their history ; and this name was derived from Judah. In the present article, we can give but a very general outline of the history of this extraordinary people. 1 . IVieir origin. A man of wealth, wisdom, and integrity 298 HEB was selected by God to be the father and founder of the Hebrew nation; and was fa- voured with many visions and revelaiioiis, promises and co- venants, all lending to show him the greatness and glory of his posterity. (See Abra- ham.) Among other things, he was told that his descendants should subdue and possess a most fertile and beautiful country. 2. TVieir government. About two hundred years after Abra- ham was appointed to this dis- tinction, we find Joseph, his great-grandson, holding one of theT principal offices in the government of Egypt ; and, by a tra'.n of remarkable provi- dences, his father Jacob, to- gether with his eleven bre- thren, also became inhabitants of that country. (S^e Joseph.) The great increase of their number and wealth soon pro- voked the je ilousy of the go- vernment, and led to a royal decree that all their male children should be destroyed at the birth. While this decree was in force, (b. c. 1-571,) Moses was lx)rn ; and, being conceal- ed by his mother, he escaped the general slaughter of male infants, and was preserved to be the leader and deliverer of the people. Being instructed particularly in the religion and expectation of his forefathers, he early became interested in their oppressed condition; and, happening to see an Egyptian ill-treat an Israelite, he took part with the latter, and slew the f >rmpr. Fearing the ven- geance of the king, he escaped to a distant land, where he remained forty years. He was there divinely directed to return to Egypt; and God was pleased to accomjdish, by his inslr'uneniality, the deliver- ance of Israel from their bond- age, and to lead them, by a journey of forty years through HEB the wilderness, into the rich and fertile land of Canaan. (See Moses.) Up to this period they had lived under a patriarchal form of government, some traces of which remained through suc- ceeding ages, (see ^atri- ARCHS,) but in the progress of this eventful journey, God es- tablished a government for them,— the elements or grand principles of which are found in the law of the ten com- mandments, [iroinulgated from mount Sinai. This"most per feet and admirable constitu- tion or code, embracing as it did all that pertains to the civil as well as the religious rights and obligations of the people, was formed by God himself, and by him ailminis- lered, as emphatically law- giver, and jidge, and king of Israel ; and hence it is called a theocracy. This theocratic form of government, under various modifications, existed even to the cominur of the Messiah. The Jewish kings were mere viceroys, bound to govern by certain laws, and fearfully punished for disobe- dience. They were raised up and displaced by the imme- diate and frequently visible direction of God, (Hos. xiii. 11 ;) they were subject to his autho- rity, (Deut. xvii.14— ^20;) and the prophets, in their long and glorious succession, were ap. pointed to maintain the inter- course between God and his peculiar people, and to r^nrove and rebuke the kings of Judah and Israel for all their rebel- lion against Him. Hence it is justly inferred that the shocks and revolutions in the Jewish government, however it might interrupt or modify, never de- I stro>^ed the theocratic relation I subsisting between God and the seed of Abraham, until the light of the clorious gospel I arose, and eal'vation for all, HEB Jews and Gentiles, was pro- claimed through the blood of Christ. In due time they entered the land of Canaan, and, after a series of severe contests, in which God displayed his power in their behalf, they expelled the original possessors of the soil, and under a long suc- cession of judges and kings, occupied the country as their romised inheritance. ' 3. Their religion. It was evidently the design of God, that the Hebrews should be entirelv separated and distin- euished from all other na- tions; and to this end their religion and laws were most wisely adapted: and, besides this, the rites and ceremonies which they were required to observe were of the most sig- nificant import, and perfectly fitted to engage tne attention of such a people. There was a body of men set apart, to whom was committed all mat- ters relating to religion and law, (which, under this singu- lar government, were one and the same thing.) To these per- sons, who officiated as priests, judges, advocates, &c., was allowed one-tenth of all the Erodnce of the land. The evites, which were a sub- division of the first, had a jMrtion Df the lands assign- ed them ; and thus formed a connecting link between the priests an~a the cultivators of the soil. Commerce was ne- cessarily very limited ; as, by the very nature of their insti- tutions, all connexion with other nations and societies was in a great measure made im- practicable. And yet the feasts and festivals, which were peri- odically celebrated,— and upon the most important of which the whole nation was required to attend in a body,— effectu- ally preserved their social character and habits. (See HEB Fbasts.) This constitution and these laws were given chiefly at or near mount Sinai. And thus, in the wastes of Ara- bia, and long before any law- giver arose, oYwhich the world has now any knowledge, a system of laws and a form of ' government were prescribed I for the children of Israel, I which has been the wonder of i succeeding ages, and has ex- I erted a boundless influence ' on the minds and institutions I of all succeeding generations of mankind. 4. Their political history. I After forty years' continuance in the wilderness,during which time every individual but two I of the race that left Egypt had ' died, and given place'to their ] children, "they were brought I into the land of Canaan. I After the death of Joshua, the administration of the go- ! vernment was committed to a body of men called judges. I This was a species of aristo- { cracy ; but it would seem that ! these judges were appointed j only for extraordinary occa- • sions and for specific purposes, kJudg. iii.8— 10. 14,15; vl. 33, I 36) Their power was very great, however. (Judg. viii.) Of these judges there were in all fifteen, from Othniel to Samuel, in whose time the go- vernment was changed. When the Hebrews had fallen into idolatrous practices, God suf- fered their enemies to prevail against them and as they came to be involved in wars with the neighbouring nations, they felt the necessity of a military leader, or some more efficient government; and they asked for a king. Saul was given to them in this relation; but, though victorious in many battles, h'e displeased God, and David, the son of Jesse, was appointed to the throne in his place. Under his reign, Jeru salem was adorned and for 300 HEB tififed, and made the seat of govenimem; the empire was greatly exieiiJed, and the pros- pects of the nation were never more glorious. He was suc- ceeded by his son Solomon, whose reign forms the most splendid period of the Jewish history, and was distinguished by tlie erection of the tem- ple at Jerusalem. His cost- ly palace and magnificent court could not be main- tained without having contri- butions from the people; and upon his death, and the suc- cession of his son Rehoboam, Ihey demanded some relief from these heavy burdens. This being refused in a very offensive manner, ten of the twelve tribes revolted under Jeroboam, and were called the kingdom of Israel. Judah and Benjamin adhered to Re- hoboam, and were called the kingdom of Judah. The sub- jects of the kingdom of Judah were probably called Jews from this time till the kingdom of Israel, as such, was destroyed ; and then the word Jews be- came the common name for all the descendants of Jacob. After a series of wars between Judah and Israel, and be- tween them and other nations, for a period of two hundred and fifty years, the kingdom of Israel was at length sub- verted, the territory fell into the hands of strangers, and the people of the ten revolted tribes which composed it were carried captive mto Assyria, never to return. (2Kingsxvii.) The kingdom of Judah, too, soon after met a similar fate, her people being carried into Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar. Seventy long years of bond- age passed away before any relief came to them; but then Cyrus, king of Persia, subdued Babylon, and permitted the Jews, then in captivity, to re- turn to their country; but they HEB went back with the foreign and idolatrous customs and endless dogmas with which they had become familiar in the time of their exile. The lofty aspiration, the simple piety and pure morality of their better days, were not with them ; the subtle and self-righteous Pharisee, and worldly-minded Sadducee,and a variety of other sects, sprang up; and error, corruption, ana superstition prevailed in every form. For three hundred years after their return from Baby- lon, the Jews were favoured with almost uninterrupted tranquillity; but, at the end of that period, the Romans, seizing a favourable occasion, reduced Judea to the condition of a province of that empire; and Antipater was appointed by Julius Cesar, the emperor, to its government. Soon after Antipater's death, the kingdom fell mto the hands of lierod, who, after a cruel reign which terminated in the firsl year of our Saviour's life, divided it by will between his three sons, Archelaus, Antipas, and Philip. In a little more than forty years, however, this dy- nasty came to an end, Judea sunk to a minor province, and thenceforward governors were sent from Rome until the destruction of their once holy and beautiful city, Jeru- salem. After this mournful event, the Jews remained sub- ject to the Roman governmenC until Adrian became empercT of Rome, a. d. 76, when they rebelled, and were entirely dispersed, and so remain to this day. It has been well said, that to the eye of mere philoso- phy nothing can appear more striking than the effects pro- duced upon the world at large by the opinions and events which originated among the Jewish people. A pastoral fa HEB mily, neither so numerous, so warlike, nor so well instructed in the arts of civilized life, as many others in the same quar- ter of the globe, gradually in- creased into a powerful com- munity, became distinguished by a system of doctrines and usages different from those of all the surrounding tribes ; re- taining it, too, amid the nu- merous changes of fortune to which they "were subjected, and finally impressing iis leading principles upon the most enlightened nations of Asia and of Europe. At a re- mote era Abraham crosses the Euphrates, a solitary traveller, not knowing whither he went, but obeying a divine voice, which called him from among idolaters to become the father of a new people and of a purer faith, at a distance from his native country. His grandson Jacob, a "Syrian ready to perish," goes down into Egypt with a few individuals, where his descendants, although evil entreated and afflicted,became a " nation, great, mighty, and populous," and whence they were delivered by the special Interposition of Heaven. In prosperity and adversity they are still the objects of the same vigilant Providence which re- served them for a great pur- pose to be accomplished in the latter days; while the Israel- ites themselves, as if conscious that their election was to be crowned with momentous re- sults, still kept their thoughts fixed on Palestine, as the the- atre of their glory, not less than as the px)Ssession of their tribes. We accordingly see them at one period in bondage, the ■victims of a relentless tyranny, and menaced with complete extirpation; but the hope of enjoying the land promised to their fathers never ceased to animate their hearts ; for they HEB trusted that God would surely visit them in the house of their affliction, nd, in his appoint- ed lime, carry them into the inheritance of peace and rest. At a later epoch we behold them swept away as captives by the hands of idolaters, who used all the motives which spring from fear and from in- terest to secure their compli- ance with a foreign worship; but, rejecting all such induce- ments, they still continued a separate people, steadily re- sisting the operation of those causes which, in almost every other instance, have been found sufficient to melt down a vanquished horde into the population and habits of their masters. At length they ap- pear as the instruments of a dispensation which embraces the dearest interests of all the sons of Adam ; and which, in happier circumstances than ever fell to their own lot, has already modified and greatly exalted the character, the in- stitutions, and the prospects of the most improved portion of mankind, in both hemispheres of the globe. Connected with Christiani- ty, indeed, the history of the Hebrews rises before the re- flecting mind in a very singular point 01 view ; for, in opposition to their own wishes, they laid the foundations of a religion which has not only superseded their peculiar rites, but is ra- pidly advancing towards that universal acceptation which they were wont to anticipate in favour of their own ancient law. In spite of themselves, they have acted as the little leaven which was destined to leaven the whole lump; and in performing this office, they have proceeded with nearly the same absence of intention and consciousness as the la- tent principle of fermeniaiion to which the metaphor beara 302 HEB allusion. They aimed at one Ihing, and have accomplished another; but, while we corn- Dare the means with the ends, whether in their physical or moral relations, it must be admitted that we therein exa- mine one of the most remark- able events recorded in the annals ofthe human race. (See Canaan, Captivity, Jews, Tribes. See also the following Eublications of the Am. S. S. fnion, viz. Biblical ANXiari- TiES, vol. ii.ch. i.,f)r a full his- tory, plan, &c., of the Jewish commonwealth; O.mar, for a history of the Jews during the period between the close of the Old Testament history and the coming of Christ; and Union Questions, vols. iii. iv. vi. vii. ix., with Teacher's Assistant in use of vols. iii. andiv.) Hebrew of the Hebrews (Phil. iii. 5) has been supposed by some to denote that the in- dividual so called had both a Hebrew father and mother; but others take it to mean that he was a Hebrew both by na- tion and language, — which many of Abraham's descend- ants were not,— or a Hebrew Jew performing worship in the original Hebrew tongue, and of course more truly honourable in a Jew's eyes than one born out of Judea, and speaking the Greek or any other than the Hebrew language. Epistle to the Hebrews. There is probable evidence that this epistle was written by Paul about the year 62-3, in the Greek language, and ihat it was addressed to the believing Jews of Palestine. This important portion ofthe New Testament is designed to ehow the divine character and offices of the Redeemer, the superiority ofthe gospel to the law, and the true design and import of the Mosaic institu- tions ; the fortitude and perse- HEB verance to which the gospel promises were calculated to excite*ihe Hebrew converts, and the course of life to which such hopes and promises as the gospel reveals should lead. It has been said of this epistle, Uiat whether it is considered in reference to Christian doc- trine or to Christian practice; whether it be applied to for instruction, or comfort, or re- proof, it will be found emi- nently crilculated to enlarge our minds, to strengthen our fiiih, to encourage our confi- dence, and to animate our hopes. It carries on the be- liever from the first elements of the doctrine of Christ to perfection. It exhibits the di- vine character ofthe Redeem- er in all its glory, establishes his infinite superiority to Moses as an apostle, and to the Aa- ronic family as a priest. It contrasts the grandeur, the efficacy, and the perpetuity of new-covenant privileges, wor- ship, and promises, with the earthliness,the feebleness, and the temporary nature of the figurative economy; and it en- foTces the awful responsibility which attaches to the profes- sion of Christianity by consid- erations derived from all that is fitted to elevate hope and to give energy to godly fear. It is the key to the ritual of Mnses, which unlocks its most intricate and mysterious, and apparently trivial arrange- ments. It brings to view the soul that animated the whole body of its ceremonies, aad which gives them all their importance; and by the light it alTords, we are enabled" to enter into the darkest places of that extraordinary edifice, and to see the wisdom ofits proportions, and the admira- ble adaptation of all its parts to their desijn. It was calcu- lated to reconcile the Jew to the destruction of his temple 303 HEB the loss of his priesthood, the abolition of his sacrific^, the devastation of his country, and the extinction of his name; because it exhibits a nobler temple, a better priesthood, a more perfect sacrifice, a hea- venly inheritance, and a more durable memorial. And as the distinguished honours and pri- vileges which it makes known are equally the portion of the Gentile believer, they are no less fitted to wean his mind from the beggarly elements of this world, and to reconcile him to the lot of a stranger and sufferer on the earth. HEBRON, (Num. xiii. 22,) so called after a son of Caleb, VFas one of the most ancient cities of Judea, and was origi- nally called Kirjath-Arba, or the city of Arba, from its being the residence of a famous giant of that name. (Josh. xiv. 1.5.) Moses calls it Mamre, Gen. xxiii. 19, and xxxv. 27. It Vvas situated on an eminence from twenty to thirty miles south of Jerusalem, and nearly a hundred from Nazareth, (Luke i. 39,) and is still known as the flourishing town of Ha- broun, or El-khalil, — which means the friend or the he- loved, (2 Chron. xx. 7,)— cele- brated for the manufacture of glass. Mr. Fisk, an American mis- sionary, was at Hebron in Feb. 1824. He says the place is called Haleel of Khaleel-Rah- nian or the beloved of the merciful, and that Haleel and At)raham are used inter- changeably as the name of the same person. The number of houses he states at four hun- dred. Mr. Whiting, an American missionary, visited Hebron in April, 1835, and describes the vineyards and oliveyards, that cover the valleys, as by far the best he saiv in any part of the C9untry. HEB He visited what is regarded as the field of Machpelah, situated on the side of a high hill, sloping westward ; from the summit of which is a beautiful view of the plains of Mamre, where has been erect- ed a splendid temple by the mother of Constantine, or, as the Moslems say, by Solomon, which neither J'^ews nor Chris- tians are allowed to enter. Mr. Fisk says that the Jews are allowed to come to a place at the side of a certain gate, and there read and weep, and repeat their prayers in honour of their ancestors. Mr. W. read in Arabic, to some Mos- lems who were there, the twenty-third chapter of Gene- sis. About four hundred fami- lies of Arabs dwell in Hebron, and about one hundred and twenty families of Jews; the latter having been greatly re- duced in number by a bloody battle in 1834, between them and the troops of Ibrahim Pa- sha. A mile or two north of Hebron is a quadrangular spot, enclos- ed by the foundations of a very ancient wall, the stones of which are composed chiefly of shells. This is pointed out to the traveller as the place where Abraham received the angels. (Gen. xviii.) Hebron is associated with some of the most interesting passages of sacred history. The valley of Eshcol (Num. xiii. 24, 25) is supposed to have been in its vicinity; and the vale of Hebron was at one time the residence of Jacob. (Gen. xxxvii. 14.) Abraham's abode was also here, (G en. xiii. 18,) and his family burying place. (Gen. xxiii. 2, 3. i9; XXV. 10; xlix.29-^; 1. 12, 13.) Upon the conquest of Canaan, Hebron was assigned to Caleb as part of his portion, (Num. xiii. 30— a3; xiv. 5,24. Josh, xiv. 6—14.) though it was 304 HEL finally a city of refuge, and | among the possessions of the priests. (Josh. xx. 7; xxi. 11. 13.) It is supposed by many that Zacharias and Elisabeth lived at Hebron, and that it was the birthplace of John the Baptist. Hebron was the residence of David until Jeru- salem was made the capital, (2 Sam. ii. 1; v. 4— 9;) but we find it among the cities of Ju- dah at the tnne of the revolt. (2Chron. xi. 10.) HEDGE. (Hos. ii. 6.) Tra- vellers tell us that such hedges as are mentioned in this pas- sage are often found in east- ern countries at this day, and that they are especially useful as defences against the incur- sions of the Arabs on horse- back. The hedge is sometimes figuratively used to denote pro- tection. (Comp. Job i. 10. Ps. xxxiv. 7.) HEIFER. (Hos. X. 11.) The figurative allusions of the sa- cred writers to the wildness, sportiveness, and indocility of this animal, especially when well-fed, are very striking. (Jer. xlvi. 20; 1. 11. Hos. iv. 16.) In Isa. XV. 5, allusion is proba- bly made to the lowing of a heifer— a mournful sound that can be heard at a great dis- tance : so should the lamenta- tion of the Moabites be in the day of their visitation. The heifer was used in sacri- fice on a particular occasion, (Num. xix. 1—10. Comp. Heb. ix. 13, 14 ;) the manner and de- sign of which are fully staled in the passage cited. (For a full and interesting exposition of the whole subject of the wa- ter of separation, see Biblical Antiq,uities,vo1. ii. ch.vii.,and Omar, p. 174, both by Am.S.S. Union.) HELBON. (Ezek.xxvii.lS.) A Syrian city of great opulence and antiquiiy,celebrated for its wines ; and probably the same With Aleppo, (or as the Arabs 26* HEL say, Alep or Halab,) which is now one of the most flourishing cities of Turkey. Its buildinga are of hewn stone, and its streets paved with the same. It was once deeply concerned in the India trade, and is still a place of commercial inter- course and manufacturing en- terprise. This city was almost entirely destroyed, in 1822, by an earthquake, and its popu- lation reduced from 250,000 to. less than 100,000 ; one-sixth of whom are regarded as nominal Christians. HELL. (Deut. xxxii. 22.) This word is used by the sacred writers in several senses,which it is important to distinguish. The original word, from which hell is derived, means to hide dr conceal. The Hebrew word, translated hell in our Bible, sometimes means simply the frave, the receptacle of the ead, or the place of departed spirits, as in Job xi. 7 — 9. Ps. xvi. 10 ; cxxxix. 8. Isa. v. 14 ; xiv. 9. Amos ix. 2, 3. Acts ii. 31. Rev. xx. 14. In other passages it denotes the place of future punishment, as in Ps. ix. 17. Prov. v. 5; ix. 18; xxiii. 14. One of the Greek words, which is translated hell in the New Testament, gene- rally means the grave ; and another Greek word, which is also translated hell, literally means the valley of Hinnom, (2Chron. xxxiii. 6,) where the most abominable idolatries were practised ; called also Topheth, (2 Kings xxiii. 10,) from toph, (a drum,) because that instrument was used there to drown the cries of victims. Hinnom or Topheth thus be- came a fit emblem of hell. (See Selumiel, ch. ix., by Am. S.S. Union.) It is generally easy to see from the connexion, in any given case, in what sense the word is used. Thus, in Ps. ix. 17. Matt, xxiii. 33. Mark ix. 43 305 HER ^48. 2 Pel. ii. 4, the word hell evidently denotes the place of the future ana everlasting mi- eery of the ungodly; consisting, in pan at least, in the eternal separation of the soul from God, and from the presence of his glory, and in the suffering of inconceivable anguish ana remorse for ever and ever. These sufferings are described with all the force and vivid- ness which language or ima- gination can supply. And whether material substances are actually employed or not in ministering to the torments of the prison of despair, it is sufficient for us that the most excruciating suffering we can endure in the flesh is used to represent, as far as it can be represented, the suffering of the lost soul. Gates OF Hell. (Matt.xvi. 18.) A figurative expression, denoting the power of wicked spirits. (See Gate.) HEMLOCK. (Hos.x.4.) A well known bitter and poi- sonous herb, a species of which is common in the United States. The word rendered hemlock in the above pas- sage, and in Amos vi. 12, is elsewhere rendered gcdl. The figurative use of it is explain- ed by comparing the above passages with Deut. xxix. 18. Amos v. 7. Heb. xii. 15. The evils of perverted judgment resemble the springmg up of useless and poisonous plants, where we look for and expect valuable and nutritious vege- tation. HERESY, (Acts xxiv. 14,) HERETIC. (Tit. iii.lO.) These terms, as tliey are generally used by the sacred writers, imply no judgment respecting the truth or "error of religious sentiments, but simply sects, 0" a ceculiar system of opin- tF-lua; JO that when the word S'ict is used, the word heresy would be equally appropriate, HER as in Acts v. 17; xxiv. 5; xxvi.S? and xxviii. 22. In the epistles, where the word is usually employed without reference to any particular class by name, it imports either differences which led to divisions in the Christian church,— and which were greatly to the reproach of the faith, — or corruptions of the trud faith, (1 Cor. xi. ID ;) and it is in this last sense that the term is commonly ap- plied at the present day. HERMON. (Deut. iii. 8.) A mountain, branching off south- east from Anti-Lebanon, and running between Damascus and the sea of Tiberias, called by the Sidonians, Sirioti; and by the Amorites, Shenir, and also Sio7i. (Deut. iii. 9 ; iv. 48.) Mr. Fisk, an American mis- sionary, passed mount Hermon in the autumn of 1823, and de- scribes it as nearly south of Tabor, which rises like a vast pyramid, while the ridge of Hermon is longer and uneven. At the foot of Hermon, the guide pointed out a place as Nain. The country was cover- ed with shrubbery, and the soil was rich. (See Dew. See also Omar, p. 124, by Am. S. S. Union.) HEROD, (Matt. ii. 1,) sur- named the Great, was the an- cestor of several of the same name, mentioned in the New Testament. He was governor of Judea (then a Roman pro- vince) at the time of our Saviour's birth. Though he was called king, he was sub- ject to the Roman emperor, and was distinguished for his savage cruelty. The table on the following page shows at a glance the chief connexions of this fami- ly, so far as they are mentioned in the sacred history. In the thirty-third year of the reign of Herod the Great, Christ was born in Beihle hem. Fearing that this event 306 HEK HER v/ Herod Mariamne, the Great, j a his second wife. Herod Mariamne, the Great . . his third wife. Agrippa, (Acts xjv. 13, audxivi. 2.) Herod Antipas, • ■ (Mark vi. 22.) / \ (Mark vi. 22.) Salome, (Mark vi. 22.) might in some way affect his luterests,and not knowing pre- cisely the age of the supposed pretender to his throne, and Having attempted in vain to ascertain the precise period of his birth, Herod issued a de- cree, requiring the indiscrimi- nate massacre of all the child- ren of Bethlehem, of two years old and under. This decree was executed. Herod died a most, dreadful death at Jeri- cho; distributing the govern- ment of the province among his three sons ; Judea to Arche- laus ; Galilee and Perea t) Herod Antipas ; and the three upper districts east of the Jor- dan (Batanea, Auranitis, and Trachonitis) to Philip. eat. She first married her uncle, Herod Philip, and afterwards Herod Antipas, an- other uncle, and that too dur- ing her first husband's life- time. For this unlawful and scandalous connexion, John the Baptist faithfully reproved the parties; and his fidelity cost him his life. (Matt. xiv. 3—10.) HERON. (Lev.xi.l9.) An unclean bird, but of what spe- HEZ cies is quite uncertain. The original word describes the bird known to us as the heron, bet- ter perhaps than any other bird now known. HESHBON. (Num. xxi. 25.) A royal city of the Amorites. It was given first to Reuben, (Josh. xiii. 17,) then transferred to Gad, (Josh. xxi. 39,) and in the time of Isaiah and Jeremi- ah, recovered by the Moabites, to whom it had before belonged. (Isa. XV. 4. Jer. xlviii. 2.) It exists now under the name of Heshban, and lies east of mount Nebo, about twenty miles from the Jordan. Near it are wells and ponds, hewn out of the rock, referred to in Sol. Song vii. 4. HETH (Gen. x. 15) was the eldest son of Canaan, and the ancestor of the Hittites. HEZEKIAH. (2 Chron. xxix. 1,) a distinguished kin of Ju- dah, was the son and successor of Ahaz. He was twenty-five years of age when he came to the throne^and he immediately took measures to break up the idolatrous customs into which the people had fallen during the reign of Ahaz; to bring them back to the temple and worship of their fathers, and to repair the losses and defeats they had suffered. Early in his reign, the Assyrians in- vaded the neighbouring king- dom, of Israel, and carried the ten tribes into bondage. Notwithstanding this threat- ening position of affairs, Heze- kiah^ not willing to acknow ledge any subjection to A.-^syria, refused to pay the tribute which had been imposed and paid during the reign of his father. In consequence of which, the Assyrian army, under Senna- cherib, invaded his territory. This event happened in the fourteenth year of Hezekiah's reign, and is described, with all the interesting details, in Isa. xxxvi. 1—22. The Assyrian 303 HIE army was so far reduced in a single uiglil by the immediate judgment of God, as to be obliged to make a precipitate retreat. Soon after this signal deliverance, Hezekiah was seized with a severe illness, the fatal lecmination of which was averted in answer to his prayers. Fifteen years longer were promised him; and the promise was confirmed by a miraculous sign. (See Dial.) His gratitude" is expressed in the most affecting language, (Isa. xxxviii. 10 — 20;) and yet we find him afterwards greatly elated byamessageof congratu- lation from Baladan, king of Babylon, before whose ambas- sadors he made a vain and pompous display of his posses- sions. To punish this pride and vanity, he was informeii by a special message from God that his wealth should, at a future day, be transported to Babylon, and his own sons be- come servants in the palace of her king. The latter years of his life were passed in tranquillity, and he was succeeded by his son Manasseh. HIDDEKEL. (Gen. ii. 14. Dan. X. 4.) Universally ac- knowledged to be the Tigris, which divided Assyria from Mesopotamia, and the present names of which, Degil, Dihlat, and Diklath, are manifestly derived from the ancients. It rises about fifteen miles from the source of the Euphrates. HIERAPOLIS. (Col.iv.13.) A city of Piu"ygia, in the neigh- bourhood of Colosse and Lao- dicea, about five miles from the latter. It was formerly fa- mous for its hot baths. It is supposed to have derived its name (which signifies holt/ city) from the rnultitude of temples which it contained; the ruins of which are still visible. The Turks call the place Pambuk-Kalasijfrom the HIG whiteness of the rock on which it stands. Nothing but the hot baths could have furnished a motive for building a great city on a spot so sterile. HIGGAION (Ps. ix. 16) signifies meditation, and calls for extraord inary a ttention a nd reflection to the passage; like a 13° or ^- B. in modern wriimsrs. HIGll PLACES (1 Sam. ix, 12) were places upon hills and mountains, appropriated some- times to the true service ot God, but generally to idolatrous worship. The most elevated places seem to have been cho- sen from the earliest period for the erection of altars. (Gen. xii. 7, 8; xxii. 2; xxxi. 54.) Before the temple furnished a fixed place of worship, it seems to have been consiilered proper to erect altars on such places. (Jud2. vi. 25, 26. 1 Sam. ix. 12. 19. 2o. ICliron. xvi. 39; xxi. 29.) After the temple was built, such places became an abomi- nation. These places became so universally the scene of idolatrous worship, that the sacred historian says of a par- ticular king, that he did that which was'right, &c., yet the high places were not taken away. (2 Kings x v. 35.) HIGH-PRIEST. (Lev. xxi. 10.) The head of the Jewish priesthood. All the male de- scendants of Aaron were by divine appointment conse- crated to the priesthood ; and the first-born of the family, in regular succession, was con- secrated in the same manner to the office of high-priest. The ceremony of con"secration was alike for both, and is par- ticularly described in Ex.xxix. The dress of the high-priest was much more costly and magnificent than that of the inferior order of priests. It is described, Ex. xxxix. 1—9. In the first cut are seen the robe and ephod ; the latter of which HIG HIO is outermost of all, and is curi- ously wrought with gold-wire, and blue, purple, and scarlet thread. Upon either shoulder is seen an onyx stone, on each of which were engraved ihe names of six of th"e tribes of Israel. The breastplate is also seen, with a wrought chain of gold attached to each corner, and passing under the arms and over the shoulder, (Sea Breastplate.) The mitre, or head-dress, is formed of eight yards of fine linen, in circular folds, and in- scribed in front, upon a plate of pure gold, Holiness TO thb Lord. The frinee, or hem of the robe, and the bells sus- pended from it, are also seen. The dress of the high-priest, 3lff HI6 HIG on thb day of expiation, Is given in trie ""^cond cut, and is very plain ana 'mple; con- sisiini; only of plain linen, with a sash or girdle. Hence thesp were called by the Jews, the priest's " white garments,^' &c. ; the iormer,''^ garments of golrf." The office of the high-priest was originally held for life; but this, as well as the right of the firsi-iwrn, were disregarded in the later ages of that dispen- sation ; and the sacred jdace was occupied by the worst of men, among whom was Caia» phas. The hish-priest's most solemn, peculiar, and exclu- sive duly was to officiate in the most holy place on the great day of atonement. I';Lev,xvi. 311 HIR we have a full account of this most interesting service, and the imposing ceremonies which preceded it. The high-priest might, at any lime, "perform the duties assigned to tne ordi- nary priests. "The high-priest is supposed to have had an assistant, to occupy his place in case of his incompetency from sickness, defilement, or otherwise. (2 Kings xxv. 18. Jer. lii. 24. For a more full account of this office, and the duties, &c., appertaining to it, see Scripture Illustra- tions, part ii. pp. 75—82, and Biblical Antiquities, vol. ii. ch. iv. § 3, and ch. vi. § 5, both by Am. S. S. Union.) HIGHWAYS, (Lev. xxvi. 22,) sometiniPs simply ways, (Ps. Ixxxiv. 5. Prov. xvi. 17, metaphorically,) means any public way or high-road, in uislinction from a private wall or footpath. (See (Jauseway.) HILL-COUNTRY. (Lukei. 39.) This term was applied to the country in the vicinity of Jerusalem. HILL OF ZION, (Ps. ii. 6,) and HOLY HILL, (Ps. iii. 4,) both refer to the eminence on which the temple of Jerusalem was erected, and iu which God was supposed to manifest his presence in a peculiar man- ner. (Comp. Ps. xlviii. 1, 2.) HIN. (See Measures.) HIND. (See Hart.) HINGES. (See Dwelj.ings.) HINNOM. (See Hell. See also Selumiel, ch. ix., by Am. S. S. Union.) HIRAM. 1. (2 Sam. v. 11, 12.) A distinguished king of Tyre. He was contemporary with David and Solomon, and on terms of the strictest politi- cal and personal friendship with them. Under his reign, the city of Tyre became cele- brated for its wealth and mag- nificence; and the vast sup- plies he furnished to the kings of Israel show the greatness IlIV of his resources. (1 Kings ix. 14;x.22.) 2. (1 Kings vii. 13.) An emi- nent artificer of Tyre, who was employed by Solomon on some of the most difficult of the fix- tures and furniture of the tem- ^ HIRELING. (Jobvii.l.) One who is employed on hire for a limited time, as a day or year. By the Levitical law, such an one was to be paid iiis wages daily. (Lev. xix. 13.) The cir- cumstance that the time is limited suggests the figurative language in the above passage, and" in" Job xiv. 6: and the little interest which would be fell by such a temporary la- bourer, compared with that of the shepherd or permanent keeper of the flock, furnishes a striking illustration in one of our Lord's discourses. (John X. 12, 13.) HISS. (1 Kings ix. 8.) To hiss at one is an expression of insult and contempt, (Jer. xix. 8. Ezek. xxvii. 36. Blic. vi. 16;) and to call any one with a hiss denotes power and autho- rity over him, (Isa. v. 26; vii. 18. Zech. X.8;) asifitshould be said, "he will come at my beck or nod." HITTITES. (IKingsxi. I.) The posterity of Heih, the se- cond son of Canaan. Their settlements were in the south- ern part of Judea, near Hebron. (Gen. xxiii. 3.) They are also spoken of as inhabiting the mountains of Judah, (Num. xiii. 2*);) and again as in the neighbourhood ofBethel.(Judg. i. 26.) Probably they main- tained a sort of independence, (1 Kings X. 29. 2Kingsvii.6:) and they seem to have retain- ed their distinctive name to a late period. (Ezra ix. 1, 2.) HIVITES. (Gen. x. 17.) A horde of the CanaanitPs, else- where called Avims. (Deut. ii. 23. See AviM.) They seem to have been settled in various 3U] HON rrtsoftheland. (Gen. xxxiv ' Josh. xi. 3. 19.) HOBAB. (Num. x. 29-32.-) ' The son of Jethro, and broiher- in-law of IMosPS. HOBAH. (Gen. xiv. 15.) A place north of Damascus, where a hill is siill shown to travel- lers, bearins the same name, and alleged to occupy the same site. HOLY, HOLINESS. (Ex. XV. 11. Lev. xxvii. 14.) Holi- ness, or perfect freedom from sin, and infinite purity, is one of the distinguishing attri- butes of the divine nature. (Iaa.vi.3.) These words (which in their primitive meaning im- ply a separation or setting apart) are sometimes used to denote the purity of the angelic nature, (Matt. xxv. 31,) the comparative freedom from sin which results from the sancti- fication of the human heart, — as in the caseof prophets,(Rev. xxii. 6.) apostles, (Rev. xviii. 20,) ministers, (Tit. i. 8,) Chris- tians, (Heb.iii.l,)— and the con- secrated character of things, (Ex. XXX. 25. Lev. xvi. 4,) and places. (2 Pet. i. 18.) HOLY CITY. (See Jeru- salem.) HOLY DAY. (See Feasts.) HOLY GHOST, HOLY SPI- RIT. (See Spirit.) HOLY LAND. (See Canaan.) HOME-BORN SLAVE. (See Servant.) HOMER. (See Measures.) HONEY, HONEYCOMB. (Ps. xix. 10.) The abundance of honey in the land of Judea may be inferred from a variety of passages in the Bible, as well as from the accounts of modern travellers. It was, al- most, without metaphor, a land floicing with milk and honey. (Ex. iii. 8. 17.) The wild honey on which John the Baptist lived was, perhaps, such as he could gather from rocks and hollow trees. The syrup obtained from 27 HOR dales is supiTosed to be some- times intended by the word honey. (2 Chron. xxxi. 5.) And we are told of a tree, found in some parts of the east, upon the leaves and twigs of whicli a ssveet substance collects, and is gathered and used by the Arabs, which at first strongly resembles honey. The figura- tive allusions of the sacred writers to honey and the honey- comb are striking and beauti- ful. (Ps. xix. 10. Prov. V. 3; xxvii. 7.) Milk and honey were the chief dainties of the earlier ages, as they are now of the Bedouins; and butter and ho- ney are also mentioned among articles of food. (2Sam. xvi,' 29. Isa. vii. 15 ) In South Airi- ca, bees deposit their honey on the surface of the cliffs of rocks; and, for its protection, cover it with a dark coloured wax. This, by the action of the weather, becomes hard,and of the complexion of the rock. The traveller makes an inci- sion in this wax-covering, and, by applying his mouth to the aperture, sucks out as much honey as he wants. (Deut. xxxii. 13.) They also cover trees in the same manner. HOOD. (See Clothes.) HOPHNI. (See Eli.) HOR. (Num. XX. 22. 25.) A celebrated mountain on the border of Idumea, about half- way between the Dead and Red Seas, where Aaron was buried. (See Seir.) A north- eastern brancli of mount Lel)a- non is also called mount Hor. (Num. xxxiv. 7, 8.) It consti- tuted part of the northern boundary of the land of Israel. HOREB. (Ex. iii. 1.) To understand the relative situa- tion of the interesting group of mountains, to which both Ho- reb and Sinai belong, and the scenes which were witnessed upon them, it is necessary to go into some detail, as it re- 313 HOR spects the face of the coun- try. The peninsula formed by the two branches, in which the gulf called the Red Sea lermi- nalesjconslilutespariofa wild and desolate region. It has been called "a sea of desola- tion." It would seem as if it had once been an ocean of lava, and that, while its waves were literally running moun- tain—high, it was commanded suddenl)' to stand still. The whole of this region is com- posed of bare rocks and cracrgy precipices, among which nar- row defiles and sandy valleys are interspersed. There is little vegetation. Many of the plains are covered with loose flints and pebbles, and others are sandy. The few plants and shrubs that are to be found are such as love a dry sandy soil, or such as contrive to draw nourishment from the fissures of the rocks, or from a thin mixture of clay, which may be found in some parts of the soil. Rain rarely falls in this wilderness, and fountains or springs of water are exceed- ingly rare ; and, when found, the water is generally either brackish orsulphureous,though not unwholesome. In the central part of this peninsula, stands the group of the Sinai mountains, to which freat celebrity has been given j y its connexion with several ' imporiantcircumsiancesinthe ' migration of the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan. This group I is composed almost entirely of franiie, and forms a rocky vvil- ewiess of an irregular, circu- lar snape, intersected by many narrow valleys, and is from thirty to forty miles in diame- ter. It contains the highest mountains of the peninsula, whose shaggy and pointed peaks, and steep and shatter- ed side.s, render it clearly dis- tinguishable from all the rest HOR of the country in view. It H upon this region of the penin- sula that the fertile valleys are found which produce fruit- trees. Water is found in plenty in this district; on which ac- count it is the place of refuge to all the Bedouins when the low country is parched up. Its advantage in this respect may have operated in the selection of the spot for the encampment of the Israelites, who remained here nearly a year; for there seems little doubt that this upper country or wilderness formed exclusively the desert of Sinai, so often mentioned in the account of their wander- ings. It is perhaps impossible to ascertain with distinctness which of the different eleva- tions cornprised in this chain forms the Horeb, where Mo- ses received the call to his great work, or the Si?iai, where the tables of the law were committed to his hands. There has been a good deal of discussion on this" point, into which v;e do not feel it neces- sary to enter, contenting our- selves with an account of the part of the group to which that distinction is restricted by local traditions and religious asso- ciations, and to which the de- scriptions of travellers more particularly refer. The inte- resting part of the Sinai group consists of two adjoiniiig ele- vations, or, perhaps we should say, one mountain with two summits, respectively known as Djebel Mousa (mount Moses) and Djebel Katerin, (mount Catherine;) the former being, in common opinion, Sinai ; and the letter, Horeb. Without attempting to decide thejioint, we must observe that sr.me authorities incline to reverse this arrangpment; consider- ing Djebel Mousa as Horeb, and Djel el Katerin as Sinai; while othePH question whether either of ihc two has any just 314 HOB claim to be considered as Sinai or Horeb. A more elevatad eummit, wiih five peaks, to the westward, called mount Serbal, seems to have been at some early time considered as the " mount of Moses ;'J a com- Erehensive term,implying both iaai and Horeb. A very discerning modern traveller expresses the opinion thai mount Serbal was at one time the chief place of pilgrim- age in the peninsula, and that it was then considered as the mountain where Rloses receiv- ed the tables of the law; though he is equally convinced, from a perusal of the Scriptures, that the Israelites encamped in the upper Sinai, and that either Djebel Mousa or mount St. Catherine is the real Horeb. Between Sinai and Horeb is the valley of El Ledja, in which is the small convent of El Er- bayn, which is in good repair, and atfords a convenient rest- ing place to travellers descend- ing from the barren mountains above. This valley, though narrow and encumbered with blocks of stone rolled down from the mountains, is, upon the whole, very pleasant and agreeable. It presents many objects of veneration, particularly the supposed rock which Moses struck for a supply of water. This lies quite insulated by the Bide of the path, and is about twelve feet in height, of an irregular shape, approaching to a cube. There are some apertures on its surface,through which the water is said to have burst out ; they are for the most part ten or twelve inches long, two or three broad, and not more than from one to two inches deep ; but a few may be as deep as four inches. Most of these fissures are evidently the work of art; but three oi four of the twenty may be na- tural ; and these probably first HOR drew the attention of the monks to the stone. That it is really the rock of Meribah is sin- cerely believed by the present monks of Sinai, as well as by the Bedouins, who put grass into the fissures as offerings to the memory of Moses, in the same manner as they place grass upon the tombs of their saints; because grass is to them the most precious gift of nature, and that upon which tlieir ex- istence depends. They also bring hither their female ca mels', believing that by making the animal cro^nch down before the rock, while they recite some prayers and renew the grass in the fissures of the stone, their camels will be- come fertile, and yield their milk in abundance. That this is not the real rock of Meribah, nor the vale the "valley of Rephidim" ot the Bible, is clear from the fact, that here and elsewhere, in the upper Sinai, perennial springs are so numerous as to suptersede all occasion for a miraculous supply of water. Not far from this is shown a small and apparently natural excavation in a granite rock, resembling a chair, where it is said that Moses often sat. Near this is shown the petrified pot or ket- tle of Moses, as they call it, being a circular projecting knob in a rock, resembling the lid of a tea-kettle in size and shape. The Arabs have often in vain endeavoured to break this rock, supposing it to conceal great treasures. (See Sinai. S^ee Map, pp. 520, 521.) HORIMS. (Deut.ii. 1.22.) A general name for dwellers in caves, and perhaps the same with the Horites. HOKITES. (Gen. xiv. 6.) An ancient and powerful peo- ple, who dwelt in mount Seir. (Gen. xxxvi. 20—30.) HORN. (iSam. ii. 1. 10.) This word is employed in the 315 HOR Old Teslameni as an emblem of power, honour, or glory. (Deut. xxxiii. 17. Job xvi. 15. Luke i. 69.) Hence it is fre- quently employed in prophetic visions, instead of kings and kingdoms. (Dan. vii. 20—24.) Horns were used as vessels for liquids, especially oil and per- fumes, (1 Sam. xvi. I. 1 Kings . 39,) and also for trumpets. (Josh. vi. 8. 13.) The horn Ijeing the chief defence and slrensth of many beasts, to break or cut off the horn of a king or people is to abridge or destroy their power ; and to raise or exalt the horn is to establish or increase power and prosperity. So also among the aborigines of this country a like custom prevailed. The chief of the council which ne- gotiated the treaty with Wil- liam Penn opened the business by placing on his own head a crown with a horn in it, signi- ficant of supreme authority, by which the covenants of the treaty were made binding. Some have supposed that in those passages, Ps. Ixxv. 5. 10, allusion is made to a hollow silver horn, four or five inches in diameter at the root, and rising obliquely from the fore- head, which was worn as an ornament by oriental women, warriors, and distinguished men. (1 Sam. ii. 1.) They are noticed by travel- lers as worn by Abyssinian chiefs, and on the military caps of the sepoys of India. HOR Horns on the Altar. -'See Altar.) HORNET. (Deut. vii. 20.) A very large, strong, and bold species of the wasp, remarka- ble for their irritability, and for the severity of their sting. Hornets were employed as in- struments of the divine judg- ments upon the enemies of Israel. (Comp. Ex. xxiii. 28, and Josh. xxiv. 12.) HORSE. (Gen. xlix. 17.) In the early periods of the world, the labouring beasts were chief- ly oxen and asses, while horses were used by kings and warri- ors, either mounted or harness- ed to chariots. (Ex. xiv. 9. 23. Esth. vi. 8.) The use of horses by the Israelites was discourag- ed. (Deut. xvii. 16. Josh. xi. 6.) The reason is perhaps explain- ed in Isa. xxxi. 1. 3. In Solo- mon's time, however, horses were common among them, and he probably imjiorted tiiem from Syria and Egypt. (lKingsiv.26; x. 26.29. 2Chron. i. 14—17 ; ix. 25.) Horses were consecrated to idol-gods, (2 Kings xxiii. 11,) and are often employed by the prophets, un- der different colours, to denote the character of future dispen- sations, (Zech. i. 8; vi. 2— 6;) and so also are angels repre- sented under the figure of horses, (2Kin£r8 ii. 11 ; vi. 15 — 17;) because of the character- istic strength, fleetness, and courage of that animal. (Job xxxix. 19—25. For a full de- scription of the horse, and illustrative engravings, see Youth's Friend, vol. iii. No. 6, Bible Natural History, and Portfolio of Animals, all by Am. S. S. Union ) HORSE-LEECH. (Prov.xxx. 15.) A well known insect of the water, resembling a worm, and remarkable for its thirst for blood, which is never satis- fied until its body is complete- ly filled. The figure in the above passage may illustrate 016 HOS the insatiable craving of lust, avarice, and cruelty. HOSANNA (Malt. xxi. 9) is used either as a form of blessing or an ascription of praise. Thus, when Hosanna was cried, in the passage just cited, it was as if the people had shouted in ioyful acclamations on every side, Lord, preserve this Son of David ; heap favours and blessings upon him. The same exclamation is supposed to have been used in the proces- sion at the feast of tabernacles. HOSEA, PROPHECY OF, is supposed to have been uttered about seven or eight hundred years before Christ. This pro- phet was a son of Beeri, and lived in Samaria; and if we construe the title of the pro- phecy literally, (Hos. i. 1,) we should infer that his prophecy embraced a period of at least eighty years. It is probable, however, that the work of Ro- sea begins with the second verse. The design of the pro- phecy is to reprove the people of Israel for their heinous sins and gross idolatry, and to warn Judah against falling into the same courses. The divine directions (Hos. i. 2 ; iii. 1) have occasioned much speculation. The gene- ral idea seems to be, that at that time (as at the present day in many eastern countries) it was common to form tempo- rary marriages; during the con- tinuance of which, strict fide- lity and propriety were main- tained on both sides, as when the contract was for a perma- nent union. So that, however revolting it must seem to us, it was not scandalous in the prophet, but might possibly ex- pose and reprove the peculiar iniquity of the Israelites. HOS HE A. 1. (Deut. xxxii. 44.) The same with Joshua. 2. (2 Kinirs xv. 30.) The son t>f Elah, and the last of the kings of Israel. In the ninth 27* HUM yrar of his reian, the Assyrian king, provoke3 by an attempt which Hoshea made to form an alliance with Egypt, and so throw off the Assyrian yoke, marched against Samaria, and, after a siege of three years, took it, and carried the people away into Assyria. (2 Kings xvii. 1—6. Hos. xiii. 16. Mic. i.6.) HOUGH. (Josh. xi. 6. 9.) To disable by cutting the sinews of the ham, (hamstririgs.) HOUR. (Matt. XXV. 13.) A division of time known among us as the twenty-fourth part of a day. One of the earliest divisions of the day was into morning, heat of tlie day, mid- day, and evening; and the night, into first, second, and third watch. The first use of the word hour by the sacred writers occurs, Dan. iii. 6; but the length of the time denoted by it varied with the seasons of the year. The third, sixth, and ninth hours of the day, count- ing from 6 A. M., were espe- cially hours of prayer. H(JUSE. (See Dwellings.) The word house is also used to denote a family, (Gen. xii. 17. 1 Tim. V. 8,) a race, or lineage, (Luke ii. 4,) and property. (1 Kings xiii. 8.) House, in the New Testa- ment, as some suppose, signi- fies the immediate family of the householder ; while houee- hold includes all who dwell under his roof. House of the Rolls, (Ezra vi. 1,) and Treasure House, (Ezra v. 17,) are both expressions sup- posed to refer to the same apartment, and denote the public depository of books. HUMILITY (Prov. xv. 33) is the opposite of pride, and one of the cardinal graces of the renewed heart. It consists in a man's not thinking of him- self more highly than he ou^ht to think; and is urged with 317 HUS preat force upon all who pro- fess to be Christ's disciples. (i Pet. V. 5.) In this, as in all Cither respects, our divine Sa- viour's life furnishes us with a perfect example, (Phil. ii. 5 — 8;) and t^e sacred Jjcriptures abound with promises of grace and favour to the humble^ and threatenings of sorrow and punishment to the proud. HUR. (Ex. xvii. 10.) The on of Caleb, and one of the chief men of the Israelites. (Ex. xxiv. 14.) HUSBAND. (See Mar- riage.) (Matt. i. 16.) A mar- ried man, and, as some derive it, the house-bajuL or one who connects the family and ket^ps It together. A man betrothed, but not married, was called a husband, as the espousals were considered sacred and inviolable. Tlie husbmid is the head of the wife., (Eph. v. 23,) inasmuch as he is the head of the house- hold, (though she is associated with him,) and, as such, he is entitled to the respect and affection of all. HYM I HUSBANDMAN. (John xv. 1.) One whose profession and labour is to cultivate the ground. It is among the most ancient and honourable occu- pations. (Gen. ix. 20. Isa. xxviii. 24—28.) All the Jews , who were not consecrated to I religious offices were agricul- : lurists. The force and appro- i priatenees of the figurative ; uses of this term by the sacred writers are sufficiently obvious I from their connexion. I HUSHAI. (2 Sam. xv. 32.) I An Archite, (Josh. xvi. 2,) and a particular and faithful friend of David. (2Sam. xvi. 16.) I HUSKS (Luke xv. 16) means either shells,— as of peas or I beans,— or the fruit of the ca- rob tree, which is common in Palestine, and is used for food by the poor, and for the fatten- ing of cattle and swine. I HYMENEUS. (2Tim.ii.l7.) This name is mentioned once with Alexander and once with Philetus. He denied the doc- trine of a future resurrection, and was given up to Satan. (1 Tim. i. 20. Comp. 1 Cor.v. 5.) ICO ICE. (S.^e Crystal.) ICHABOD. (lSam.iv.21, 22.) The sonofPhinehas, and grandson of Eli, the high-priest. He was born just after his mo- ther received the sad tidings that her husband and fatheV in-law were dead, and the ark of God taken by the Philis- tines. Such was the effect of these tidings upon her, that she died immediately upon the birth of her child ; giving him the significant nanie Lhabod, or the slory is departing. ICONIUM. (Acts xiii. 51.) A city of ancient Lycaonia, in Asia Minor, at the foot of mount Tauru.s, now called Conia, or Cogni, the capital cf Caramania, and residence IDD of a pasha. It contains at pre sent about 15,000 inhabitants. It was visited by Paul and Barnabas, who preached the gospel there, and were so per- secuted in consequence of it as to be obliged to leare the place. (Acts xiv. 1—6.) Ico- nium is mentioned by several ancient historians. IDDO. (2Chron.ix.29.) In this passage are mentioned the visions of Iddo the seer against Jeroboam, &c.; and in2(;hron. xii. 15, is mentioned the book of Iddo tlie seer concerning genealogies: and again, it is said. (2Chron. xiii. 22,) that the rest of the acts of Abijah, anc' his ways and his sayings, are written in the storv (or com 318 IDO mentary) of the prophet Iddo. These expressions may all I refer to one and the same volume. He was probably a prophet and annalist of some distinction, and is supposed by many to have been the person who was slain by a lion, as re- corded 1 Kings xiii. Several others of the same name are mentioned, of whose history we know nothine. IDLE, (Matt. xii. 36,) in this connexion, means pernicious, false, or calumnious words. IDOL, (I Kings xv. 13,) IDO- LATRY. (Acisxvii. 16.) What- ever receives the worship which is due only to God is an idol. In a figurative sense, the word denotes any thing which draws the affections from God, (Col. iii.5;) and in a restricted sense, it denotes the visilile image or figure to wliich reli- gious worship is paid. (Deut. xxix. 17.) Idolatry consists, (1.) In worshipping, as the true God, Bome other person or thins be- sides Jehovah ; and, (2.) Wor- shipping the true God under some image, as the golden calf. (Ex. xxxii. 4, 5.) When the worship of idols commenced is uncertain. It was prevalent at a very early period of the world; and, as some suppose, was no incon- siderable part of the sreneral corruption which callpd for the judgment of the deluge. (Geri. vi^ 12.) The pagans wor- shipped universal nature, the soul of the world ; ansrels, de- mons, and the souls of departed men,either separate and alone, or in union with some star or other body. They worshipped the heavens, and in them both particular luminaries and con- stellations ; the atmosphere, and in it the meteors and fowls of the air; the earth, and in it Deasts, birds, insects, plants, groves, and hills, tosether with aivers fossils, and fire. They IDO worshipped the water; anO in it the sea and rivers; and in them fishes, serpents, and insects, together with such creatures as live in either ele- ment. They worshipped men, both living and dead ; and in them the faculties and endow- ments of the soul, as well as the several accidents and con- ditions of life. Nay, they wor- shipped the images of animals, even the most hateful ; such as serpents, dragons, crocodiles, &c.; and at last descended so low as to pay a religious re- gard to things inanimate, herbs and plants, and the most offen- sive vegetables. No wonder that the com- mandment which touches this point should so particularly specify the objects which should not be represented in the form of graven ima£es. (Ex. XX. 4.) " Usefulness wasthe common, but it was not the only quality that determined the object of idolatry ; for we may find, that whatever delighted with its transcendent beauty, whatever affrighted with its malignant power, whatever astonished with its uncommon greatness; whatever, in short, was beauti- ful, hurtful, or majestic, be- came a deity, as well as what was profitable for its use. The sun, it was soon perceived, had all these powers and properties united in it: its beauty was glorious to behold ; its motion wonderful to consider ; its heat occasioned different effects, barrenness in some places, and fruilfulness in others; and the immense globe of its light ap- peared highly exalted a'nd rid- ! ing in triumph as it were round { the world. The moon, it was ! seen, supplied the absence of ; the sun by night, gave a frieud- ! ly light to the earth, and be- 1 sides the great variety of its j phases, had a wonderful in- ' fluence over the sea and other 319 IDO humid bodies. The stars were admired for iheir height and ma^niuide, the order of their positions, and celerity of their motions; and thence the peo- ple were persuaded, either that some celestial vigour or other resided in them^ or that the Boulsof their heroes and great men were translated into them when they died ; and upon these and similar presump- tions, they believed all celes- tial l^odios to be deities. The force of fire, the serenity of a ir, the usefulness of water, as well as the terror and dreadfulness of thunder and lightning, gave rise to the consecration of the meteors and elements. The sea, swelling with its proud surface, and roaring with its mighty billows, was such an awful sight, and the earth, be- decked with all its plants, flowers, and fruits, such a lovely one, as might well draw forth a pagan's veneration ; when, for similar motives, viz. their l;cneficial, hurtful, de- lightful, or astonishing i^roper- ties, beasts, birds, fishes, in- sects, and even vegetables themselves, came to be adored. "The pride and pomp of the g^eat, and the abject spirits of the mean, occasioned first the flattery, and then the worship of kings and princes as gods upon earth. Men famous for their adventures and exploits, the founders of nations or ci- ties, or the inventors of useful arts and sciences, were reve- renced while they lived, and, after death, canonized. The prevailing notion of the soul's immortality made them ima- gine, that the spirits of such excellent persons, either im- mediately ascended up into heaven, and settled there in some orb or other, or that they hovered in the air; whence by solemn invocations, and by making somo. statue or image to resemble, they might be IDO prevailed with to come down and inhabit it." Whether the idolatry of image worship originated in Chaldea or in Egypt we have no flata from history to deter- mine; but wherever it had its oricin, the apostle Paul has sufficiently accounted for the grounds and reasons of it.when he says that men professing thernselves to be wise, be- came fools, and changed the glcny of the incorruptible God into an image vtade like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fcnir footed beasts, and creeping things. (Rom. i. 22, 23.) Such is the strong tendency of depraved nature'to fall into this sin that the Israelites, the chosen people of God, were subjected to a twofold re- straint. God was their king, and hence idolatry with them was not only impiety, but trea- son. The positive precepts, and severe punishments with which the Jewish law met every approach to idolatry, and the rigorous prohibition of all intercourse with the idola- trous nations which surround- ed them, show plainly how abominable the sin of idolatry is in the sight of God : so that customs which might excite or entice to idolatrous prac- tices, and which in any other view might seem perfectly in nocentjwere strictly forbidden. (Deut. xii.xiii.) Probably many peculiar provisions of the Jew- ish law, which may seem to us arbitrary or trifling, may have origniated in this very circumstance. Notwithstand- ing all that was done to guard them against it, the people of Israel fell into some of the most cruel and shocking prac- tices of idolatry. Even the sacrifice of children, forbidden as it was under the most se- vere and summary penalties, (Lev. XX. 2,) was very common IDO Jeremiah and Ezekiel both epeak of it as a practice pre- vailing in or near their time. (Jer. vii.31. Ezek. xvi. 21.) The rites of idolatry were generally impure and obscene in tlie highest degree. The priests and the gods were alike the slaves and the pa- trons of the most scandalous and filthy practices; and hence the word whoredom is ofien used as synonymous with idol- atry. Indeed, the present state of the heathen world, as it is represented by our own mis- sionaries, who have seen and heard with their own senses, shows conclusively that de- basement of mind, utter alien- ation of the heart from every thing pure and holy, the gross- est immoralities, and the most licentious practices, are inse- parable from idolatry. Roman Catholics deny the charge of idolatry, and justify their use of images, by saying that they merely serve to re- mind them of the objects represented. They say, that by casting their eyes on the images or pictures of beings, their thoughts are raised to the beings themselves. They assert, however, tliat saints are to be honoured and invocated, and their relics re- spected, and that the images of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and saints, ought to receive due honour and veneration. How far these practices are distinguishable from idolatry this is not the place to intiuire. The history of mankind shows us that those who are accus- tomed to behold allegorical and symbolical figures in their places of religious worship soon forget the invisible object of adoration in the emblem by which it is set forth, and very naturally sink into that super- atilion which is so congenial to the gross concpplions and depraved iiicUuations of man. IMM It is estimated that more than 600,000,000, or about two- thirds of the human family are worshippers of idols. Sometimes idol temples were the repositories of treasure, (Judg. ix. 4,) and were protect- ed by a tower. (Judg. ix. 46.) IDUME.\. (SeeEooM.) IJE-ABARIM. (See Aba- IlLYRICUM. (Rom. xv.l9.> A province north-west of Ma- cedonia, lying alon^the Adri- atic Sea, having Italy and Germany on the north, and Macedonia on the east. Its southern portion was the Dal- matia which Titus visited. (2 Tim. iv. 10.) Taking Jeru- salem as a centre, it will ap- pear that lUyricum was nearly the extreme north-western pro- vince of what was then no small part of the known world. Perhajjs Paul went into Illyri- cum ; but he spealcs here only of having preached the gospel unto its borders. IMAGE. (Gen. i. 26, 27.) We are told that God created man in his own image; and Christ is said to be the image of God. (Col. i. 15. Heb. i. 3.) The term imports a complete and exact likeness, like that which exists between a seal and its impression, when the original is perfectly preserved in the representation. The word is usually employed to denote an object of idolatrous worship. (See Man, Idol.) IMMANUEL. (Isa.vii.l4.) A Hebrew word, signifying "Goii with us," and used as one of the distinctive titles of the Messiah. (See Ahaz, Christ.) IMMORTAL, BIMORTAL. ITY. (1 Cor. XV. 53. 1 Tim. i. 17.) A Slate of being not sub- ject to ileath. It is one of the at' triUites of the Supreme Being. The bodies which we inha- bit while in this world are cor- i ruptiule, exposed to sickness, 331 INC pain, and death ; but the soul can never die, as the Ijody dies. Us very nature is immor- tal. There is a sense in which the stale of being, on which the souls of all men enter at death, is immorial. But the Scriptures speak of the future existence of the righteous as a slate of immortality or eternal life, in distinction from the stale of the wiclied, (Matt. icxv. 46. Rom. ii. 7 ;) and it is obvious that the phrase im- mortal or eternal death, might be employed to express forci- bly the nature of the punish- ment to which the wicked will be doomed in the world to come. IMPUTE. (Rom. V. 13.) By comparing ver. IS of the epis- tle to Philemon, with Rom. iv. 5—13, we shall see the force of this term. The words translated put that on mine account in the former passage, and that which is rendered by the words counted, impute, and imputed, in the other, have a common oriein and meaning. The plain (Christian sees and feels the force of the expres- sion, and though he may be ignorant of technical distinc- tions, yet while he believes on One that justifieth the un- godly, he feels the blessedness of him to whom the Lord will not impute sin. The great principle involved is, that the sinner who accepts Christ is delivered fromthe^uilt,power, and punishment of sin, and is clothed with a righteousness which is not his own, but the eiftofGod through Jesus Christ. His sins are put to the account of another, and another's right- eousness is nut to his account. INCENSE (Ex. XXX. 8) was a compound of frankincense and other gums or spices ; the materials and manufacture of which are particularly pre- scribed, Ex. XXX. 34—36. (See Frankincense.) It was the INH business of the priest to bum it morning and evening, upon an altar s{)ecially erected for this purpose ; and thence call- ed the altar of inceitse. The preparation of it for common use was positively forbidden ; neither could any other com- posiiion be offered as incense on tiiis altar, nor could this bo offered by any but ilie priest. (See Censer. See Biblical ANTiauiTiEs, vol. ii. pp. 46. 49, by Am. S.S.Union.) INCHANTERS,INCHANT • MENTS. (Ex. vii. 11. Deut. xviii. 10.) Inchanlers were persons who pretended to pos- sess the power of charming animals, &c. The practice of inchantment is allied to witchcraft and sorcery ; and both the practice and prac- tisers are decidedly con- demned by God's law. (Deut. xviii. 9—12.) It is unquestion- ably true that persons have sometimes obtained a wonder- ful influence, particularly over serpents of the most deadly species ; instances of which are often stated by eastern travellers. INDIA. (Esth. i. 1 ; viii. 9.) The southern section of the continent of Asia. It is only mentioned as the eastern boun- dary of the dominions of Aha- suerus. INGATHERING, feast op. (See Feasts.) INHERITANCE. (Gen.xxxi. 14.) In the modern use of this word, it denotes the estate to which one succeeds on the death of the present possessor, and who is hence called his heir. In eastern countries,how- ever, the fwriions of children were distributed to them by the father during his lifetime. I Among the Hindoos, the father i is bound to make an equal distribution of his property, whenever his children, in a } tody, apply for it. Hence the I legitimacy of the application INN which the prodigal son and Lis brother made, and which resulted in the father's divid- ing unto Ihem his living. (Luke XV. 1-2.) Tiie word inheritance is also used, in a more general sense, to denote property, or pariiii- pation. (Conip. Ezek. xxxiii. 24, with Acts vii. 5 ) INIQUITY. (Gen. xv. 16.) Whatever is done regardless of the law of God. Sin is ihe iransLTession of the law: ini- quity'is a contempt or disre- gard of the law. (Ps. li. 2. 9; ciii. 10.) To bear ihe iniquity of the congregation (Lev. x 17) is to make that expiation or atciiemeut which is a pre- requisite to their forgiveness. (Isa. liii.fi.) INK, INKHORN. (Jer.xxxvi. 18. Ezeii.ix.2.) Ii is supposed that the common ink of early ages was made of water and pulverized charcoal, or the black of burnt ivory, with the addition of some kind of gum. Other substances were doubt- less used l>oth for writing and colourins matter. The Ro- mans uied a dark purple li- quid, nhich was obtained from a species of fish for this pur- pose. The ink in common use at this day has been known for several centuries in Eu- ropean countries, and is usual- ly made of nutgall3,viiriol, and gum. Ancient ink was more caustic, and less liable to fade or decay. Chinese ink is of ^e same quality. The pro- fessed writers or scribes car- ried with them, as they do at the present day in eastern countries, the implements of their business; and amoue these was an inkhorn. thrust into the -rirdle at thp side. INN. (Luke x. 34.) In the earliest ases, an inn was no- ihmc more than the well or other convenient place where the company of travellers and theif weary beasts reposed ;ns for rest and refreshinent. Al a later period it was the cara- vansary, a very comfortless, temporary enclosure, without nx>ms or doors. Afterwards the inn became what the cara- vansaries of Persia are at the present day,— a place where travellers may buy lodging, food, and fuel. This was per haps such an inn as accom- moidated the poor wounded man, in the beautiful story of the good Samaritan; and it was to the stable or out-build ing of such an in.i that Marv was obliged to resort with the infant Saviour, because the general enrolment had brought so many strangers to the place as to fill the house before they arrived. INSPIRATION (2 Tim. iii. 16) is a supernatural divine influence e.xerted upon the human mind, by means of which the individual is made to know certainly,and to speak truly,whai could not have been so known in the „rdi nary ex- orcise of the faculties, and without any such influence. When this influence is so ex- erted as absolutely to exclude uncertainty and all mixture of error in a declaration of doctrines or facts, it is called a plenary or full inspiration. And the book wrilien under such an influence, though it may contain many things which the author might have known and recorded by the use of his natural faculties, is properly said to be an inspired book Nor is it necessary that the particular style and me- thod of the writer sliould be abandoned. God may have wise purposes to answer in pres^rvine this, while he se- cur<^s, throusrh its agency, an infallible declaration of his will. So that style, manner &c., may be of the author's own choice, provided the fact.« stated and the doctrines INT taught as of divine authority, are stated and taught under an immediate divine influ- ence, without the possibility of error. Aad even if it should appear that the copies of such a book now in the world have suffered from the injuries of time, and the carelessness of transcribers and printers, so that inaccuracies and discre- pancies of unessential iraport- nce might be detected, still if the substance of the book, if the grand system of truth or duty revealed, is evidently, as a whole, the result of such di- vine inspiration, it is to be re- ceived, and may be entirely credited as an inspired book. Theological writers speak of the inspiration of elevation, by whicn the natural faculties are endued with supernatural power, and rise to those sub- lime conceptions of divine things, which their natural force' could not attain ; and also of the inspiration of sug- gestion, by which the truth Is sugsested directly to the mind by" the Spirit of God, and also the language in which it is to be declared to others. Such was the revelation to John in the isle of Patmos. All these various degrees or kinds of inspiration are supposed to occur in our Scriptures. And sometimes they are combined. (See Scripture.) INSTRUI\IENTS OF MU- SIC. (Sf e Mur-'ic.) INTERCESSION, INTER- CESSOR. (Isa.liii. 12; lix.16.) To intercede for another is to appear for him or interpose in his behalf, and to plead fir him. (1 Tim. ii. 1.) It usually implies guilt or oblisation; and the object of the interces- sor is to reconcile or satisfy the offended party, and procure the release and pardon of the offender. It sometimes denotes the reverse of this. (Rom. iti. 2.) IRQ The Spirit is said to make intercession for its. (Rom.viii. 26.) This is to be understood as referring to that peculiar influence of the Spirit upon the heart by which it is taueh', and guided, and enabled to cherish and breathe forth holy desires, which God will gra- ciously accept through the complete and effectual media- tion of Him who ever liveth to make intercession for us. Aa to \hefact of Christ's interces- sion, see Rom. viii. 34. 1 Tim. ii. 5. 1 John ii. 1 ; and the man- ner of it is illustrated. Heb. vii. — X., in which chapters the continued intercession of Christ, and the sacrifice oi himself as the ground of his intercession, are presented to the mind as a most affecting evidence of the nature and effect of sin. IRON. (Prov. xxvii. 17.) Some of the uses of this well known and most valuable metal were probably known at a very early period. (Gen. iv. 22.) We find it mention- ed as the material for tools, (Deut. xxvii. 5. 2 Kings vi. 6 ;) weapons of war, (1 Sam xvii. 7;) furniture, (Deut. iii. 11;) implements of husbandry, (2 Sam. xii. 31. Jer. xxviii. 14 ;) and chariots of war. (Josh, xvii. If), &c. &c.) By northern iron (Jer. xv. 12) probably is intended a species of iron ore or manufacture, remarkable for its iiardness, found in a re- gion bordering on the Euxine Sea, and of course north of Ju- dea. It is naturally supposed, from the connexion, that by the ex- pression, a land whose stones are iron, (Deut. viii. 9,) is in- tended an abundance of iron ore; and a passage of like im- port occurs in the description of the lot of Asher, (Deut.xxxiii. 25,) where the reading miirht be, under thy shoes are iron a7id brass. 324 ISA ISAAC, (Gen. xxi. 3,) the son of Abraham and Sarah, was born A. M. 2108. The origin of the name, which signifies laughter, is given in Gen. xvii. 17; xviii. 12; and xxi. 6. Abraham's laughter was that of joy; Sarah's, that of incredu- lity. Isaac's birth was the sub- ject of many remarkable pro- phecies; and he was made, by express covenant with Abra- ham, the ancestor of the pro- mised Blessiah. (Gen. xxi. 12.) When he had arrived at mature years, his father was required to offer him up in sacrifice; and his conduct on this occa- sion as remarkably illustrates his docility, and submission, and filial confidence, as the course of Abraham did his obedience and faith. (See Abraham.) He married Re- bekah,the daughter of Bethuel, and by her became the father of Jacob and Esau. His pos- sessions were very great, (Cren. xxvi. 12, 13 ;) but his old age was embittered by domestic trials. (Gen. xxvi. 35 ; xxvii.) He died at Hebron, at the ad- vanced age of one hundred and eighty years. (Gen. xxxv. 28, 29.) For a particular his- tory of Isaac, with maps and engravings, see History of Abraham, Story of Isaac, Jacob and his son Joseph, and Stories from the Scrip- tures, all by Am. S.S.Union.) ISAIAH. (2 Kings xx. 1.) Very little is known of the personal history of this emi- nent prophet. We know that lie was the son of Amoz, and tiie Jews say that Amoz was the brother of Amaziah king of Judah. Isaiah lived and prophesied between the year of the world 3164 and 3305 ; for the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, a7id Hezekiah embrace that period, and his prophecy was uttered in their successive reigns. The history of these reigns is in 2 Kings sv.— xx. 28 ISA 2 Chron. xxvi.— xxxii. Some {)assage8 of it are given by saiali, as in ch. vii. viii. xxxvi. — xxxix. Uzziah or Azariah reigned fifty-two years, Jotham and Ahaz each sixteen, and Hezekiah twenty-nine, mak- ing in all one hundred and thirteen: of course Isaiah did not live throughout the whole of their reigns. The period of the four reigns extends from the year of the world 3194 to 3306, being before Christ 810 to 698. The city of Rome was founded in the time of Isaiah, namely, in the year before Christ 753. Isaiah was nearly contem- porary with Hosea, Joel, Amos, and Micah ; and tradition says that he was one of the faithful who were sawn asunder, (Heb. xi. 37,) and that the event hap- pened about 698 years before Christ. There is no evidence, however, as to the time or manner of his death. Prophecy of, is regarded as one of the most complete and sublime of all the prophetical writings. Its reference to the advent, ofiices, and kingdom of the Messiah are so nume- rous and exact as to have ob- tained for its author the title of the evangelical prophet; and the name Isaiah (^the salvation of Jehovah) indicates the same characteristic of tliis sublime book. The first thirty-nine chapters of the prophecy relate to sub- jects and events unconnected with each other, and embrac the period during which th prophet was more actively and openly employed as a minis- ter. The residue of the book relates chiefly to two events, — the end of the Babylonish cap- tivity, and the coming of the Messiah ; the latter of which he seems to have contemplated with a very distinct and ele- vated conception, not only of the circumstances of its com- 225 ISH noencement, but of its progrees, glory, and ultimate lriumi)h. lSHBOSHETH,(2Sam.ii.8,) son and successor of Saul, was persuaded by Abner to go up to Mahanaim, and assume Ihe government, while David reigned at Hebron, (2 Sam. ii. 11;) and a majority of the nation of Israel acknowledged him as king. A severe battle soon after occurred at Gibeon, be- tween the army of David, un- der Joab, and the army of Ishbosheih, under Abner; in which the latter were utterly defeated. Soon after this, Ishbosheth offended Abner, so that he for- sook his interest, and became the ally of David; and at length ishbosheth was assassi- nated at noonday, while he lay on his bed. (2 Sam.iv.5— 7.) ISHI, (Hos. ii. 16.) signifying my husband, and BAALJ, in the same passage, signifying viy Lord, are figiiratively used to denote the contrast lieiween the atfeclions and relations of Israel towards God, at two dif- ferent periods of their history. The latter having been used hi idol worship, the very name was to become obsolete. (Hob. ii. 17.) ISHMAEL. (Gen. xvi. 11.) The son of Abraham by Hagar. Previous to his birth, his mo- ther,being ill-treated by Sarah. fletl from the house, and while In the wilderness was informed by an angel what would be the character of her child, and that his posterity would be in- numerable. The birth of Ish- mael was in a. m. -2091 ; and as Abraham supposed that the promises of God respecting his seed were to be fulfilled in Ishmaet, he nurtured him with inuch care. (Gen. xvii. 18.) When Isaac was weaned, Ishmael was about seventeen years of asre, and having of- fended Sarah by his irealinenl tt her child, she insisted upon ISH it that both he and his mother Hagar should be banished from the family. Hagar probably made up her mind to return to her kindred in Egypt; but when siie had reached the wilderness ufBeer- sheba, her slock of water was exhausted, and the lad, over- come with fatigue and thirst, sunk down, apparently to die. God appeared lor their deliver- ance, directed Hagar to a foun- tain of water, and renewed hit promise to make of him a great nation. They remained in the wilderness, and he sustained himself and his mother by hunting. (Gen. xxi.13— 26.) At length he married an Egyptian woman ; and so rapidly did his progeny multiply, that in a few years afterwards they are sj'H)- ken of as a trading nation. (Gen. xxxvii. 25.) The prophecy that he should be a wild man, or literally a wild f»88 man, or as wild as a wild ass, has been wonderfully verified in the history of the Arabs, who are a branch of his posterity. They are univer- sally known as robbers and pirates ; and all who pass through their country do it in caravans, and with arms. They have never been driven from' their territory, but have maintained their independ ence and peculiarity of man ners and customs up to the present day, thouch they have lived in the midst of influ- ences and events, and have l>een themselves instrumental in their occurrence, I y which the relations of all the other kingdoms of the earth have been essentially modified, if not completely subverted. The wild man still spiH-ns the chains of a foreign con- queror, still waylays the tra- veller by the fountain, and maintains himself, as in the days of old. by violence and plunder, sweepinghis troop ISL of fierce bandits across the path of the merchant ani! the pilgrim. The parcelling of the natives into independent tribes impaired their common strength. No necessity ever summoned them to combine for their mutual defence ; no motives of external advantage could prevail with them to Buspend their domestic feuds; and no leader, till Mohammed arose, seems to have possessed the genius or address to con- centrate their impetuous ener- gies with a view to national aggrandizement. fSHMAELITES. (Gen. xxxvii. 25.) The descendants of Ishmael. The company of Ishmaelites, to whom Joseph was sold, are elsewhere called Midianites. (Gen. xxxvii. 28.) Probably they were Ishmael- ites who dwelt in Midian. It is evident, however, that the two names were sometimes applied to the same people, (Judg. viii. !S. 24,) though we know the descendants of Midian were not Ishmaelites, (for Midian was a son of Abraham by Ke- lurah.) ISLANDS, ISLES, &c. (Isa. xlii. 12.) These words, as used in our version, import either, (1.) A settlement or colony, as distinguished from uninhabit- ed country, or from seas and rivers, (as in Gen. x. 5. Job xxii. 30, and Isa. xlii. 15;)— so at this day, small districts of cultivated and settled coun- try, surrounded by immense wastes, are, in the same jense, called islands ; — or, (2.) Coaat or country adjacent to water or maritime places, (as Lsa. XX. 6, and xxiii. 2. 6, and Ezek.xxvii.7;) or, (3.) Distant lands beyond the sea, or places which were reached by sea, whether coasts or islands, and especially the regions west of Palestine, whether islands or not, (as Isa. xxiv. 15; xl. 15; and xlii. 4. 10. 12;) or, (4.) ITA Islands, properly so called, (a« Esth.x. 1,) where it is express- ly used in distinction from the continent or main land. Isles of thk Gentiles, or Heathen, (Gen. x. 5, Zeph. ii.ll,) mean generally the parts of Europe most known to the ancient Asiatics. ISRAEL. (Gen. xxxv. 10.) The surname of Jacob, sivea to him by the angel at Maha- naim. (Gen. xxxii. 28. Hos, xii. 3.) It signifies the prince that prevails with God. We Mnd it used, however, for the whole race of Jacob's posterity, (1 Cor. x. 18 ;) also for the kingdom of the ten tribes, as distinguished from Judah, (2 Kings xiv. 12;) and again for alTtrue believers, (fsa. xlv. 17. Rom. ix.6; xi.26.) Land of. (See Canaan.) Kingdom of. (See Israel- ites.) ISRAELITES. (Josh. iii. 17.) This was the usual name of the twelve tribes, from the time of their leaving Egypt until the revolt under Jeroboam, whea the ten tribes constituted the kingdom of Israel, and the re- maining two the kingdom ff Judah. (See Hebrews.) ISSACHAR (Gen. xxx. 18) was the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. The prophetical de- scription of him, uttered by his father, (Gen. xlix. 14, 15,) was fulfilled in the fact that the posterity of Issachar were a laborious people, and addicted to rural employments; hardy, and patient to bear the burdens both of labour and war. (Judg. V. 15. 1 Chron. vii. 1—5.) Tribe of, had its portion in one of the most fertile tracts of the country. It was a triangu- lar section on the Jordan, be- tween Zebulon and Ephraim, including the rich valley of Jezreel ; thus fulfilling the pre- diction of his father in this re- spect. (Gen. xlix. 14,15.) ITALY. (Actsxviii.2;ixvii. 327 ITU 1 6. Heb. xiii. 24.) This coun- try, of which Rome was the capital in the days of Christ and his apostles, is too well known to need description. It stretches out into the Medi- terranean Sea, having the Adriatic on the north-east, the Tuscan Sea on the s&uth-west, and France, Switzerland, and Germany on the north. ITHAMAR. (See Eleazar.) ITUREA. (Luke iii. 1.) A province of Syria, which de- rived its name from Jetur, a son of Ishmael, (Gen. xxv. 15. IChron. i. 31,) whose posterity inhabited it. It was south of Trachonitis, beyond Jordan, and probably included Aura- nitis and Batanea. It was overrun by a oarty of the Isra- elites in the' time of Jotham king of Judah, and a vast quantity of spoil taken. (IChr. V. 19. 22.) It is now called Djedour. IVO IVORY. (IKingsx. 18.) The substance of the tusk of the elephant. That which is brought from Ceylon is re- garded as most valuable. It was among the merchandise of Tyre (fizek. xxvii. 15) and Tarshish. (1 Kings x. 22.) So- lomon's throne was built of it, (2 Chron. ix. 17. 21 ;) and so lavishly was it used in archi- tecture of various kinds, and cabinet work, as to justify the expressions we find in Amos iii. 15; vi.4, and Ezek. xxvii. 6. In the last of these passages ivory shrines are meant, used as little images are by many modern sailors for superstitious purposes. The term ivory palaces (Ps. xlv. 8) is supposed to refer either to the country whence the perfume was obtained, or to boxes richly wrought, or inlaid with ivory, in which it was kept. JAB JABBOK. (Gen. xxxii. 22.) A brook rising in the moun- tains south-east of Gilead, and running in a rocky channel, through a deep ravine, about fifly miles westward to the Jor- dan, separating the Amorites from the Ammonites. (Num. xxi. 24.) Jacob crossed it on his return from Mesopotamia. (Gen. xxxii. 22.) It is now called Zerka, (blue river;) and travellers speak of cliffs on either side of five hundred feet perpendicular height, with a breadth, from cliff to cliff, of not more than one hundred feet. In some places the stream is not more than thirty feet wide. JABESH, (1 Sam. xi. 5,) or JABESH-GILEAD, (Juds. xxi. 8,) was situated at the foot of mount Gilead, within the ter- ritory of Manasseh, on a small , brook which is still called I JAB Tabes. In the days of the judges, this place was sacked by the Israelites, and nearly all the inhabitants cut off, be. cause they refused their aid in a war upon the tribe of Benjamin. (Judg. xxi. 10.) Af- terwards it was besieged by the Ammonites, who refused to spare the citizens, unless they would consent to have their right eyes plucked out. (1 Sam. xi. 2.) Having obtained a sus- pension of hostilities for a week, they took advantage of the interval to secure the aid of Saul, who marched an army to their rescue, and surprised and defeated the Ammonitea with great slaughter; a ser- vice for which the inhabitants of the city evinced their grati- tude. (ISam. xxxi. 11, 12. 2 Sam. ii. 5.) JABIN. l.(Josh.xi.l.) King of Hazor, a northern district 323 JAC of Canaan. He attempted, by aformidablealliance,lo oppose the progress of Joshua. He and his allies were terribly defeat- ed in a battle at Merom, the city of Hazor was taken, and Jabin put to death. 2. (Judg. iv. 2.) Another king of the same name and place, who had great wealth and power,and was guilty ofop- S)ressing the children of Israel or twenty years. His army was defeated by Deborah and Barak, and Sisera, his princi- pal general, put to death. JABNEEL, (Josh. xv. 11,) or JABNEH, (2Chron. xxvi. 6,) was a city of the Philistines, situated twelve miles south of Joppa. It was called Jamnia by the Greeks and Romans, and is now called Gebna, or Yebna. JACINTH. (Rev. ix. 17.) A precious stone, of a reddish yellow or hyacinth colour, re- sembling the amethyst. JACOB, (Gen. xxv. 26,) the son of Isaac and Rebekah, and twin brother to Esau, received his name, which signifies sup- pCanter, from a circumstance which occurred at his birth. (Gen. xxv.) When these bro- thers grew up, Esau devoted himself to hunting, and often gratified his aged father with savoury meat which he pre- pared from the fruits of the chase. By this means he be- came v ry much the favourite oflsaac; while Jacob who was a plain, domestic man, was no less the favourite of his mother. (Gen. xxv. 27.) Isaac, appre- hending that his end was drawing near, was desirous, before his departure, of pro- nouncing a solemn, paternal benediction on his eldest son ; and that his mind might be excited to the lively exercise of affection, he requested Esau to go out to the field and take some venison, and make him savoury meat, such as he loved, 23* JAC and bring it to him, that he might eat and bless him before he died. Before this time, Ja- cob had, for a mess of pottage, purchased from Esau his birth- right,which included the bless- ing now about to be given. (Gen. xxv. 34.) Rebekah, having overheard Isaac's re- quest to Esau, and no doubt being acquainted with the cir- cumstance of the sale of the birthright, immediately con- ceived a plan of securing the patriarchal blessing, which was prophetic in its nature, for her favourite; for, while Esau vveus in the pursuit of venison in the field, she induced Jacob to personate his brother, and to carry to his father savoury meat, prepared by herself from a tender kid ; and as Isaac's eyes were so dim that he weis unable to distinguish between his sons by their appearance, all that was necessary was to guard against detection, in case he should be led to feel the hands and face of Jacob ; for Esau l^eing very hairy, and Jacob smooth, it readily occur- red to the latter that his father might resort to this method of identifying him. To prevent detection in this way, Rebekah covered the neck and hands of Jacob with the skin of the kid. Thus prepared, he ven- tured into his father's pre- sence, and by means of lies and fraud obtained the chief blessing, which was intended for the first-born. When Esau returned, the deception was rendered manifest ; but Isaac, though deeply distressed on account of his mistake, and importunately and with tears entreated by Esau, would not consent to change any thing which had gone out of his mouth ; and Esau received, in- deed, a benediction, but not that of the first-born, which was already given to Jacob. By this fraud and injury, the 329 JAC enmity of Esau to his brother was excited to the highest de- gree, (Gen. xxvii. 41 ;) and he threatened to take away his life, as soon as his father's funeral should be over. Rebe- kah, hearing of these threats, persuaded Isaac to send Jacob away to Haran, to her brother Laban, until his brother's an- ger should subside. Accord- ingly, Jacob having again re- ceived his father's blessing, and a charge not to take "a wife of the'daughters of Ca- naan, as Esau had done, to the sore grief of his parents, set off on his journey to Padan-aram. CGen. xxviii.5.) As he journey- ed, he came to a certain place where he resolved to lodge; and taking some stones of the place for a pillow, he lay down to sleep. As he slept God made known to him, in a remarka- ble dream, that his posterity should be very numerous ; that they should one day possess the soil on which he was then reposing ; that he should be personally protected and pros- Siered; and that in him all the amilies of the earth should be blessed. This place was after- wards called Bethel. (Gen. xxvii. xxviii.) When Jacob came near to the residence of his mother's kindred, he saw in the field a well, where were three flocks of sheep, and their shep- herds with them ; and on in- quiry, he found that they were of Haran, and that Eachel, the daughter of Laban, was then approaching. The meeting be- tween Jacob and the young and beautiful shepherdess, his cousin, made an impression on his heart which was indeli- He. Soon after tiie young man was domesticated in theTiouse of Laban, (for Nahor, though living, seems to have been superannuated,) he made pro- posals to Laban to take Kachel in marriage, promis- JAC ing to serve seven years for her. But as he had been guilty of a gross deception towards his father, to the in- jury of his only brother, he hio)self now became the dupe of a designing and unjust rela- tive. Instead of his belovea Rachel, Leah, her elder sister, was given to him deceptively ; and when he remonstrated with his father-in-law, he was told that the custom of the country required that the old- est should be disposed of in marriage before a younger sis- ter : but it was proposed, that if he would serve as much longer, he should still have Rachel. It is not to be under- stood that he did not receive her until the seven years were ended: a careful attention to the history will show, that he must have received Rachel immediately, and served for her afterwards. With each of his daughters Laban gave a maid, both of whom became the wives of Jacob, of the se- condary or inferior kind. (Gen. xxix.) From all these there were born to Jacob while he sojourn- ed in Mesopotamia, eleven sons and one daughter. Of these, Joseph only was the son of Rachel ; Benjamin, her other son, having been born near Bethlehem. (Gen. xxxv. 18.) Avarice seems to have been the ruling passion with Laban ; for the gratification of which, he seemed to be willing to sacrifice even the comfort of his own children and to take every advantage of a young and inexperienced kinsman. Continually he seems to have been studying and contriving some scheme by which he might obtain the services of Jacob for less than their value; but the provi- dence of God prevented him from eventually injuring his servant, with whom he had 230 JAC entered into covenant at Beth- 1 el. Whatever plan of wages | Laban would fix on, the Lord overruled it for the benefit of Jacob. (Gen. xxx. 26—43.) But at length he resolved to return to "his own country, from which he had been so long an exile. And lest his father-in-law should hinder his purpose, he communicated his design to his own family ; but took" the opportunity, when Laban was absent, to set off with his wives and children, and all his cattle, and all his goods, to go to Isaac his father, in the land of Canaan, who still continued to live, beyond his own and the hopes of all his friends. This important step, however, was not taken without the direction of his covenant-keeping God. On the third day after Jacob's depart- ure, Laban received intelli- gence of his flight, and he im- mediately pursued after him with a company of men, and on the seventh day overtook him in the mount Gilead. There can be no doubt that Laban'? intentions were hos- tile ; but on the night preced- ing his coming up with Jacob, he received an admonition from the Lord, in a dream, not to attempt any thing against him. After a warm expostula- tion on both sides, they agreed to part in peace; and accord- ingly a solemn covenant was entered into between them ; as a sign of which, they piled up a heap of stones, on which they ate together in token of friendship,"and agreeably to a custom prevalent in many an- cient nations. The mount on which this transaction occur- red received its name, Gilead, from the heap of stones set up for this witness. (Gen. xxxi. 47, 48.) Soon after Jacob was reliev- ed from all fear from Laban, and had the pleasing prospect JAC of speedily coming to the end of his journey, new fears and troubles arose. The danger which now threatened him was indeed appalling ; his brother Esau was on his way to meet him, accompanied by four hundred men. No other than a hostile attack could be meditated, as he supposed, when he saw his offended brother approach with such an army, against a company of helpless women and child- ren. In this extremity, Jacob had no other resource but to look to Heaven for help. Ever sinceGod had revealed himself to him at Bethel, he had made Him his confidence and refuge in all his troubles. Now, there- fore, he cried to Him in his dis- tress. (Gen. xxxii. 9. 12.) Having thus committed his cause by fervent prayer to the Almighty, he did not think it unnecessary to make use of the most probable means to avert the threatening evil ; and therefore he sent messengers to meet his brother with a va- luable present from his flocks and herds, in separate droves. In that night Jacob took his two wives, and his two wo- men servants, and his eleven sons, and passed over the ford Jabbok ; and having sent them over this stream, to- gether with all his properly, he remained alone on the op posite side. And here a very extraordinary scene occurred, which is recorded at length. Gen. xxxii. 24—30 ; and on this occasion Jacob's name was changed to Israel. Esau now approached, but not as an enemy. There was revived in his bosom a strong feeling of fraternal affection; so that when he saw Jacob, he ran to meet him, and embraced him, and they wept. Thus mar vellously did God provide fot the safety and comfort of his servant. Esau inquired kindly 331 JAC c( ncerning his brother's faml- 1; , who came forward succes- sively, and paid their respects to him : and he would have declined receiving the present which had been sent lorward to him, but Jacob insisted on his acceptance of it, and he took it. After this interview, Esau returned to mount Seir, and Jacob journeyed to Suc- coth, where he made booths for his cattle : from which circum- etance, the place received its name, as the word succoth sig- nifies booths. But he seems only to have sojourned here for a short time; probably to give rest to the women and children, and to the flocks and herds, which had now been driven a 1 ng distance, without much cessation. But his jour- ney was not terminated until he came to Shalem, a city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, where he bought a parcel of ground of the children of Hamor, for a hundred pieces of money, and erected there an altar, and called it El- Elohe-Israel, that is, God, the God of Israel. (Gen. xxxiii.) But although Jacob seems to have intended this as his place of permanent residence, yet events occurred which render- ed it expedient for him to re- move to another part of the country. (Gen. xixiv. See Dinah.) Jacob was greatly grieved at the cruel and treacherous con- duct cf his sons in the affair of Dinah, and foresaw that it would render him and his family odious to all the people in the neighbourhood, so as to expose him to be slain with all his house. The same invisible power, however, which preserved him from the hostility of Laban and his brother, now also shielded him from the resentment of the Canaanites, so that they were not interrupted nor pur- JAC sued in their journey ; for t?ie terror of God uas upon the cities that uere round about thein, and they did notmirsue after the sons of Jacob. During this journey, Jacob purged his house from idolatry, and puri- fied them by some ceremony^ which has commonly been sup- posed to have been by washing their bodies in water; for they were commanded to be clean^ and change their garments. (Gen. XXXV. 2.) He now arrived at Bethel, where,in conformity with vow» and the divine sanction, ha built an altar, which he called El-Bethel, the God of Bethel. Here also God appeared unto Jacob again, and blessed him; and, under the name of God Almighty, renewed the pro- mise respecting the multipli- cation of his seed, and the possession of the land of Ca- naan. But the domestic troubles of this good man were far from being ended. He was now called to endure a bereave- ment of the most afflicting kind which could have befal- len him. Having completed his pilgrimage to Bethel, he was on his way to Ephratah, and had come near to the place, when Rachel died, soon after giving birth to a second son, whom, with her expiring breath, she named Benoni ; but his father called him Ben- jamin. After the burial of his wife, Jacob continued his jour- ney until he came to a place beyond the tower of Edar, where he spread his tent, and fixed his abode ; but dom.estic troubles were still allotted to him ; for while resident here, his oldest son Reuben acted in a manner so base and dis- honourable, that the feelings of his father must have been deeply wounded. At length, pursuing his way, he came to i Mamre, which had been the 332 JAC favourite residence of Abra- ham, and from which Isaac was never absent for any considerable time, until the day of his death. Tliis peace- able and pious patriarch was still alive, though at a very advanced age; but soon after Jacob's arrival, he died, and teas gathered unto his people, being old and full of days: and his sons Esau and Jacob buried him in the cave of Machpelah, where probably were the ashes of his father and his mother. Soon after this, the affecting scenes open, in which Joseph took so con- spicuous a part, and which exhibit the still heavier trials of Jacob, and the wonderful dealings of a covenant God towards him and his house. (Gen. xxxvii. — xlv.) These events led to his removal to Egypt, (Gen. xlvi.,) where, in the land of Goshen, he led a Jjrosperous and tranquil life or seventeen years, and then, after pronouncing a remarka- ble prophetic blessing on the infant children of Joseph, (Gen. xlviil. 8. 22,) he died, a. m. 2616, aged one hundred and forty- Beven years ; and, according to his dying request, his remains were carried up, attended by the chief officers and nobility of Egypt, to Canaan, and bu- ried "in the family vault at Machpelah. (Gen. 1. 13. For a full history of Jacob and his family, see Jacob and his BON Joseph, Story of Isaac, History of the Patriarchs, History op Joseph, Union Questions, vol. iii., and Teacher's Assistant in the use of that vol., all by the Am. S. S. Union.) The terms Jacob and the seed nr children of Jacob are often applied to the body of true believers generally. (Deut. xxxiii. 10. Ps.xiv. 7; xxii. 23; cv. 6 ; cxxxv. 4. Isa. xiv. I ; xliv. 2. Mic. vii. 20.) JAD Jacob's Well. (See She chem.) JADDUA, (Neh. xii. 11,) or JADDUS, the son of Jonathan, hi|h-priest of the Jews, who officiated a considerable time after the captivity, and is be- lieved to be tlie same who lived in the time of Alexander the Great. Concerning him, Josephus relates this remarka- ble story : that Alexander hav- ing sent to him for provisions for his army while besieging Tyre, he excused himself on the ground that he had taken an oath of fidelity to Darius, king of Persia. The impetu- ous conqueror was highly pro- voked, and vowed vengeance against the Jews. According- ly, as soon as Tyre was sub- dued, he put his army in motion towards Jerusalem ; but before he reached the place, Jaddus and the other priests, clothed in their pontifical robes, and a multitude of the principal people, all dressed in white garments, met him: on which Alexander bowed himself to the ground, and seemed to worship the high- priest, which conduct filled all his followers with amaze- ment. And Parmenio, request- ing an explanation of this extraordinary behaviour, was informed, that before he left Macedonia, he had seen in a dream the appearance of the person now before him, who promised him the empire of the world, and that his adora- tion was not addressed to the man, but to the deity whose sacred name he bore on his forehead. Whatever truth there may be in this story, we know that Alexander, instead of in- flicting punishment on the Jews, granted them great im- munitfes, especially exemp- tion from taxation on every seventh or sabbatical year, and took many of them into his own service : and when he 333 JAH built the city of Alexandria, in Egypt, he invited muliiiudes ofthis nation to settle there ; and put them, in regard to privileges, on a level with his own Macedonians. JAEL. (Judg. iv. 17.) The wife of Heber the Kenite. After the defeat of Jabin's army by Deborah and Barak, Sisera, the general, fled towards the lent of Jacl. It was not unusual for the women to have a tent eeparate from the men, as in Sarah's case, (Gen. xxiv. (57,) and Leah's. (Gen. xxxi. 33.) This was regarded as a place of security ; for then, as now, among the Arabs, a stranger would" not venture into the women's tent unasked. Jael invited him in, and concealed him. Fatigued and thirsty, he asked for water, and she gave him milk, (see Butter,) ^s some suppose, to produce sleep the sooner. (Judg. v. 25.) After instructing Jael to stand at the door of the tent, and to deny that he was within, if any one should inquire for him, he fell into a sound sleep. She then took a tent-pin, and with a hammer drove it through his temples into the ground. Un- natural and hol-rid as this act seems, we find that in the song of triumph, which was afterwards uttered by De- borah andvBarak, the tragical circumstances are minutely related, and Jael is called blessed above wotnen. (Judg. V. 24—27.) And we are to sup- pose that she was employed, under divine direction, as a mere instrument for accom- plishing God's purposes in the deliverance of Israel from op. pression. JAH. (Ps. Ixviii. 4.) A con- traction of the word Jehovah, and imports the attribute of self-existence. It is part of the compound words Adonijah iGod 13 my Lord) and Halle- lujah (JPraise the Lord.) JAM JAhAZ, (Num. \xi. 23,) or JAHAZA, (Josh. xiii. 18,) or JAHAZAH, (Jer. xlviii.2l,) or JAHZAH. (IChron. vi.78.) A city on the northern frontier of the Moabiies, in the vicinity of which, Moses defeated the army of Sihon, on his refusal to permit him to pass through it peaceably. JAIR. 1. (Num. xxxii. 41.) A son of Manasseh, who dis- possessed the Amorites, and took several small towns ; hence called Havath-jair. (Judg. X. 4.) 2. (Judg. X. 3.) A native of Gilead, and probably a de- scendant of the foregomg. For twenty-two years he was a judge in Israel ; and he had thirty sons, all of whom, it is supposed from the language of the sacred historian, {they rode on thirty ass-colts,) were deputy judges, and rode from town to town, administering justice. (See Havath-jair.) The fact that they succeeded to the paternal inheritance furnishes some evidence of their good character and ha- bits. JAIRUS. (Mark V. 22.) An officer of the Jewish church, who applied to Christ to restore to life his daughter, who was at the point of death when he left home. He evinced very strong faith. Christ with his disciples went to the ruler's house, and his daughter was restored. (See Susan Ell- maker, p. 80, \ry Am. S. S. Union.) JAMES. 1. (Matt. iv. 21.) A son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother of John the Evan- gelist. He was present at se- veral of the most interesting scenes in our Saviour's life, and was put to death by Herod, A. D. 42—44, (Acts xii. 2;) thus fulfilling the prediction of our Saviourconcerning him. (Luke xxi. 16) 2. (Mark xv. 40.) A sou oi JAM Cleophas (or Alpheus) and Mary, called (either in refer- ence lo his years or stature) James the less. This James is firobably iiRended in Gal. i. 9, by the Lord's brother. (See rIso Matt. a\\\. 55. Mark vi. 3.) That he was first cousin to our Savi'Uir in the flesh we know, for his mother was sis- ter to Christ's mother, (Jv>hn xix. 25;) and the term brother was often applied to near kfn- dred. (Gen.xiii.8. 2Sam. i.-:6. Acts vii. 25, 26; ix. 17.) Some have conjectured, that after Joseph's death, Alpheus mar- ried nis widow, and their oft- sprini; was James the Less; hence called the Lird's bro- ther; but there is no evidence to support 1 he opinion. James the Less is mentioned with peculiar distinction, Acs xii. 17; XV. 13; xxi. 18. 1 Cor. xv. 7. Gal. i. 19. and ii. 9. 12. He resided at Jerusalem during the latxiurs i>f the apostles ; and was present at the apos- tolic council at Jerusalem, where he seems to have pre- sided ; as he was the last lo give his j id^menl, in which all the ither members of the council ac(iuie«ced. (Acts xv. 13—19.) He was put lo death in the year 62; and tradition says that he was thrown by the Jews from the haltlements of the temple, and then de- ■patchel with a fuller's club, while on his knees, and in the act of praying for his murder- ers. Epi.stlb of, was written by Jam "S the \°ss (see prerei ing arlirle) abo t the year 61 or 62. It was not addressed to any particular church, but to the whole Jewish nation, —the twelve tribes srattered abroad, (ch. i. 1,) believers and unbelievers, (ch. iv. I— 10);— and hence it is called a gene- ral or catholic ei)i.ward8 God, and fai'h in the rejected Messiah. It is remarkable, that the name of our blessed Lord occurs but twice in this epistle, (ch. i. I ; ii. I,) and that it is without the usual apostolical salutation and be- nediction. JANNES AND JA31BRES. (2 Tim. iii. 8.) Two famous magicians of Esypt, who are supposed to have used their art to deceive Pharaoh. (Ex. vii. 9—13.) JAPHETH. (Gen. v. 32.) The eldest 8ranch of the prophecT, he (God) sliall du-ell in the tents lyf Shein, it was fulfilled when the divin** pres'Mice was manifested in the talieniacle and tern 'lie; or if we rend, h« (Japhelh) shall ''well in the ten's '^ Shem, it w 13 fulfilled, literally wlien the Greeljs auii Romans (descen l"d fruu) Ja- phelh) subdued Juden, the in- nerilanceofSliein : and fiirura- tivply, when the d''S'-eiMlanta of Japheth (the Gentiirs) re- ceived the gospel, wliii h the Jews, who were "f the seed of Sh'^m, rf'jected Jaftheth is often mentioned in the early histories of Greece. JAV under the name of Japetus, as the ancestor of that nation. JAPHO. (SeeJoppA.) JASON. (Acts xvii. 5.) A resident of Thessalonica, and perhaps a relative of Paul. (Rom.ix.3. Comp.xvi.21.) At any rate, Paul lodged at his hoiase when he visited that city. The apostle's plain scrip- tural preaching a few Sab- baths (Acts xvii. 2, 3) result- ed in the conversion of a great multitude of the citizens, and in the excitement and opposi- tion of the unbelieving Jews, who gathered a mob from among the idle and worthless of the place, and attacked Jason's house, in order to seize the apostle; but not finding the man they sought, and still determined to vent their rage on somebody, they laid violent hands on Jason and some friends who were with him, and dragged them before the police, and chareed them with treason, because'they said that there is another king, (besides Caesar,) one Jesus. (Lukexxiii. 2. John xix. 12.) However, as there was probably no evi- dence to support the charge, they gave some sort of security, either for their own future ap- pearance or good conductjor for the appearance of the apostle, and were then discharged. JASPER. (Rev. iv. 3.) A precious sione, usually regard- ed as of the quartz species. It is obtained chiefly from Per- sia, the Indies, Syria, &c., and is chiefly used for vases, watch- seals, &c. Its colours are beau- tifully variegated and it is susceptible of a fine polish. The red jasper is found in Saueiis, near Boston, Mass. JAV AN. (Gen. x. 2.) The fourth son of Japheth, and the ancestor of the Grecians or lonians. Hence the word Ja- xan, in the Old Testament, JEA denotes Greece, or the Greeks. (Isa. Ixvi. 19. Ezek. xxvii. 13.) JAVELIN. (See Arms.) JAZER, (Josh. xxi. 39,) or JAAZER. (Num. xxi. 32.) A city of the Ammonites, on the river Jabbok, the ruins of which are still visible about fifteen miles from Heshbon. Sea of. (Jer.xlviii.32.) Pro- bably a lake existing in an- cient times near the city of Jazer. A body of water is now to be seen near thd city, out of which the Debir flows. JEALOUSY. (2 Cor. xi. 2.) It is most frequently used to denote a suspicion of conjugal infidelity. It is sometimes used for anger, or indignation, (Ps. Ixxix. 5. 1 Cor. x. 22,) or an intense interest for the honour and prosperity of another. (Zech. i. 14; viii. 2.) When God is said to be a jealous Ood, or to be moved to jealotcsy, or when the still stronger expression is used, Jehovah, whose name is Jea- lous, (Ex. xxxiv. 14,) we are to understand this language as employed to illustrate, rather than to represent, the emotions of theDivmemind. The same causes operating upon the human mind, would produce what we call anger,jealousy,re- pentance, grief, &c.; and there- fore, when these emotions are ascribed to the mind of God, this language is used because such emotions can be repre sented to us by no other. Thus God is represented as a husband, related to his church by a marriage cove- nant that binds her to be wholly for him, and not for another. The more sincere and constant the love, the more sensitive is the heart to the approach of a rival : and the thought of such affection being alienated or corrupted, fills the soul with grief and indignation. So God commends 336 JEA the purity, the fervency, and the sincerity of his love to liis church, by the most terrific expressions oi jealousy. The varions significations of the word jealoust/ are denoted usually by its connexion. It is one of'ihe strongest passions of our nature. (.Pfov. vi. 34. Sol. Song viii.6.) The IMAGE OF JEALOUSY (Ezek. viii. 3. 5) is the same with Tammuz, in ver. 14. (See Tammuz.) Jealous-s-offering. (Num. V. 13.) The Jewish law con- tained a singular provision for the trial of the crime of adultery. A man who was jealous of his wife, without any actual evidence of her infidelity, was required to bring her to the priest, with an offering; and when they came to the presence of the Lord, a part of the water of the temple was taken, with cer- tain ceremonies,and presented to the woman to drink ; she at the same time holding the offering in her hand. Before drinking the water, the most bitter curses were imprecated upon her; and if she was guilty, the water was to be- come the cause of terrible bo- dily diseases. This imprecation-water, cr water of curses, is not unlike the ordeal of later ages; and we are told that among the savages of western Africa, the custom is to make the suspect- ed wife drink poison ; in which case, innocence can be pro- tected only by a miracle ; but fn the administration of the Jewish law, there was nothing In the ceremony which could harm the accused person,with- out the direct judgment of God In the infliction of a particu- lar and very peculiar disease; and still the ceremony was so Bolemn and imposing, that a Jewish woman must have had the most unparalleled effront- JEH ery to have gone through it without betraying guilt, if it existed. JEBUS. (Judg. xix. 10.) The Jebusite is mentioned among the descendants of Canaan the son of Ham, (Gen. x. 16,) and there was a warlike race call- ed Jebusites, inhabiting the mountainous country around Jerusalem, and keeping pos- session of it, (Josh. XV. 63,) until it was wrested from them by David, and made the capital of Judea. (1 Chron. xi. 4—8. See Jerusalem.) The Jebusites were probably permitted to remain on the ground after their conquest. (2 Sam. xxiv, 16. 24.) It is supposed they were dispossessed for a season by Joshua, (Josh*, x. 23. 40 ; xii. 10,) and afterwards regained some districts, while the Isra- elites possessed others. (Comp. Josh. XV. 63. 1 Sam. xvii. 54. 2 Sam. V. 6.) JECONIAH. (See Jehoia- CHIN.) JEDUTHUN. (1 Chron. xvi. 38.) An eminent master of the temple music, to whom several of the psalms are in- scribed, (see Ps, xxxix. Ixii. Ixxvii. &c.,) or, as some sup- pose, were written by him. JEHOAHAZ. l.(2Kingsxiii. 1.) Son and successor of Jehu king of Israel, whose reign was disastrous to the kingdom to such a degree, that his army was reduced to a mere nomi- nal existence ; and the kings of Syria (Hazael and Benha- dad) are said to have destroyed them, and to have made them like the dust of the threshing floor. (2Kingsxiii.7.) Beforo death, however, he was brought to reflect and humble himself before God, on account of the calamities with which his sub- jects were visited ; and God was pleased to raise up for them a deliverer in the person of Joash, the son and succes- sor of Jehoahaz. J£H 2. (2 Kings xxiii. 30.) Son and successor of Josiah king of Judah. He is called Shal- lum, 1 Chron. iii. 15. Jer. xxii. 11. He was ilie fourth son, and of course not the riahiful heir to the crown ; but his father, being mortally wounded in the battle of Megiddo, the people immediately placed Jehoahaz on the throne. This irregular step, taken without consulting him, offended the king of Egypt ; and before he had reigned four months, he ma- naged to get Jehoahaz into his power at Riblah, in Syria, whence he sent him, a prison- er, loaded with chains, into Egypt, and there he died, (Jer. xxii. 11, 12;) and his brother, Jehoiakim, became king in hifl stead. (2 Kings xxiii. 29. 35.) 3. (2 Chron. xxi. 17.) The same with Ahaziah and Aza- riah. (Comp. 2Chron. xxi. 17; xxii. 1.6.8,9.) JEHOASH. (See Joash.) JEH0IACHIN,(2Kings xxi v. 8,) or CONIAH, (Jer. xxii. 24,) or JECONIAH, (1 Chron. iii. 17,) or JECONIAS, (Matt. i. 12,) son and successor of Je- hoiakim king of Judah. It is supposed by some that when he was only eight years old he was associated with his father in the administration of the government. This suppo- sition is adopted in order to reconcile the apparent incon- sistency of 2Kingsxxiv. 8, and 2 Chron. xxxvi. 9; but it seems hardly necessary to resort to such means to account for a very natural error or omis- sion of a trans --riber, especial- ly in an immaterial chronolo- gical fact of such remote date. The reign of Jehoiachin ter- minated at the end of three months ; at which lime, the city of Jerusalem was besieged by Nel uchadnezzar, the king 01 Babylm, in the eighth year of his reign, (comp. 2 Kings JEH xxiv. 12, and xxv. 1 ;) and the king and his family, and the principal part of the nation, with the royal treasures and the temple furniture, were car- ried away to Babylon. The wickedness of this king is described in very strong language by the prophet Jere- miah. (Jer. xxii. 24—30.) The expre^on, however, in Jer. xxii. 30, is not to be con- strued literally. (I Chron. iii. 17, 18. Matt. i. 12.) Write this man childless might as well read. He shall have no succes- sor or heir, or Notie of his seed shall prosper. (See Life of Jeremiah, ch. viii., and Eli- SAMA, pp. 64—66. both by Am. S. S. Union.) JEHOIADA. (2Kingsxi.4.) A high-priest of the Jews, and the husband of Jehosheba. (See Athaliah.) His administra- tion was so auspicious to the civil and reliciotis interests of the nation, (2"King8 xii. 2 Chr. xxiii. 16,) that when he died, at the advanced age of one hundred and thirty years, he was buried in the royal sepul- chres at Jerusalem. (2 Chron. xxiv. Ifj.) JEHOIAKIM. (2 Kings xxiii. 36.) Eldest son of Josiah, and the brother and successor of Jehoahaz king of Judah. His original name was Eliakim: but it was changed by order ol the king of Egypt, (2 K'ngs xxiii. 34,) who put him on the ihrone. The iniquity of his reign is strongly depicted by Ihe historian and prophet, [2Kingsxxiv.4. 2Chron. xxxvi. 8. Jer. xxii. xxvi. xxxvi.;) and \\'.s end, as Jewish historians inform us, was in strict accord- snce with the prediction con- cerning him. For the first four years of his reign, Jehoiakim was subject to t1ie king of Eg^pt, and paid an enormous iriliuie. Then he became tributary for three years to Nebuchadnezzar king JEH of Babylon, (2 Kings xxlv. 1,) who at first bound him with chains to carry him to Baby- lon, (2 Chron xxxvi. 6. Dan. i. 2,) but afterwards set him at liberty, and left him at Jeru- salem to reign as a tributary prince. The whole time of his rei^n was eleven years. The expression, Jer. xxxvi. 30, is not to be taken strictly ; and yet, as the reign of Jehoia- chin was for only thirteen weeks, Jehoiakim may be said to have been compara- tively without a successor. He scarcely sat down upon the throne before he was deposed. The same explanation applies to2Kings xxiii.34, where Eli- akim is said to have succeeded his father Josiah ; whereas, the rei^n of Jehoahaz intervened. This was so short, however, as not to be reckoned in the suc- cession. (See Eltsama, ch.iii. and iv., by Am. S. S. Union.) JEHONADAB. (SeeEE- CHABITES.) J E H O R A M, or JORAM, (2King3 viii. 16. 21,) was the son and successor of Jehosha- phat kin^ of Judah. When he wsis thirty-two years of age he was associated with his father in the government of the kingdom. (2Kings viii. 17. 2 Chron. xxi. 5.) At the end of four years, his father died, and he became sole king. One of the first acts of his govern- ment was to put to death his Bix brothers and several of the chief men of the kingdom. (2 Chron. xxi. 4.) To punish him for this and other abomi- nations of his rei^n, (2 Chron. xxi. 11 — 13,) the Edomites,who had long been subject to the throne of Judah, revolted, and secured their independence. (2 Chron. xxi. S— 10.) One of hisown cities also revolted, and about the same time he receiv- ed a writing from Elijah, or, as some suppose, Elisha, admo- nishing him of the dreadful ca- JEH lamities which he was bring ing on himself by his wicked conduct. In due lime these calamities came upon him and his kingdom. Their territory was overrun with enemies; the king's palace was plundered, and the royal family, except the youngest son, made prison- ers. The king himself was smitten with a terrible and incurable disease, which car- ried him to the grave, unla- mented; and he was buried without royal honours. (2Chr. xxi. 14—20.) JEHOSHAPHAT, (1 Kings XV. 24,) or JOSAPHAT, (Matt, i. 8,) was the son and succes- sor of Asa king of Judah. He is called king of Israel (2Chr. xxi. 2) possibly because his kingdom was a part of the ancient kingdom of Israel, but probably by mistake; Israel being written for Judah. He was a prince of distinguished piety, and his reign, which lasted twenty-five years, was powerful and prosperous. This remarkable commendation is given Jehoshaphat by the sa- cred historian, that the more his riches and honour increas- ed, the more his heart was lifted up in the ways of the Lord. (2 Chron. xvii. 5, 6.) Among other evidences of his piety and benevolence, we are told that he caused the altars and places of idolatry to be destroyed, a knowledge of the law to be diffused throughout the kingdom, and the places of judicial and ecclesiastical authority to be filled by the wisest and best men of the land. (2 Chron. xvii. 6—9; xix. 5 — 11.) His sin in form- ing a league with Ahab, con- trary to the counsel of Mica- iah, against Ramoth-gilead, (2Chron. xviii.) was severely censured by Jehu, (2 Chron. xix. 2,) and had nearly cost him his life. (2 Chron. xviii. 31.) 339 JEH A few years after this, the Kingdom of Judah was invaded by a confederacy of Edomiles, Moabites, and oiliers. They collected their forces at Enge- di, and threatened to over- throw the kingdom. Jehosha- phat proclaimed a fast; and the people came from all parts of the kingdom, men, women, and children, up to Jerusalem ; and being assembled in one place, the king himself made supplication to Grod for help m their extremity. His re- markable prayer is recorded, 2Chron. xx. 6—12; and while he was yet speaking, his pray- er wais answered, and a certain and easy victory was promised. On the following day, the army of Judah went forth to meet the enemy, preceded by a compa- ny of singers, who praised the name of the Lord. The vast army of his enemies were pa- nic-struck, and fell into irre- coverable confusion ; and in- stead of facing their adver- saries, turned their swords against each other, until they were utterly routed and over- thrown; so that Jehoshaphat and his men had no occasion to engage in the conflict. And such abundance of spoil re- mained in the camp, that the men of Judah were employed three days in coUectmg it. (2Chron. XX. 14— 27.) Still later in his life, Jeho- shaphat connected himself with Ahaziah, son and succes- sor of Ahab king of Israel, in a naval expedition ; but this alliance with a wicked king turned out disastrously, as had been predicted by Eliezer,the son of Dodavah ; for while the fleet lay at Ezion-geber, it was utterly destroyed by a vio- lent storm. (2 Chron. xx. 35. See Ahaziah.) Again he involved himself iu an alliance with Jehoram, the second son of Ahab, and also with the Edoraites, for JEH the purpose of invading the land of Moab ; but while they attempted to make their way through the wilderness, their water failed, and the whole army must have perished with thirst, had not a miraculous supply been granted in answer to the prayers of Elisha, who accompanied the army. (9 Kings iii. 6 — 20.) Jehoshaphat left seven sons, one of whom (Jehoram) succeeded him. Valley of Jehoshaphat. (Joel iii. 2. 12.) A narrow glen running north and south, between Jerusalem and the mount ofOlives, through which flows the brook Cedron. This valley is supposed to be meant by the king's dale, (Gen. xiv. 17. 2 Sam. xviii. 18;) and its name to be derived either from the burial of king Jehosha- phat, or for the great victory ne obtained there over the Moabites and their allies. (2 Chron. xx. 25.) This valley, it is supposed by the Moham- medans, (from the passage first above cited,) will be the scene of the final judgment. The better opinion is, however, that the prophetic language in this connexion refers to the event of the general judgment, and not to the place ; the meaning of the word Jehosha- phat being judg7nent of God. (For a beautiful lithographic view of this valley, and a minute description of scenery, localities, &c., see Views op Palestine, pp. 10—12 ; Selu- MiEL, pp. 111—114; and Map OF Jerusalem, accompanying the same, all by Am. S. & Union.) JEHOVAH. (Ex. vi. 3.) A title of the Supreme Being, indicative of the attribute of self-existence. It is similar in import to the title, I am, (Ex. iii. 14,) and denotes not only self-existence, but perfect independence, eternity, and immutability. (SeeJAH.GoD.) 340 JEH JEHU, 1, (lKingsxvi.7,) was the son of Hanani the seer, with whom Asa was so much enraged as to cast him into prison. (2 Chron. xvi. 7— 15.) He was appointed to carry a message to Baasha from God, threatening to visit upon him the most "fearful judgments. He was afterwards employed en a similar errand to Jeho- ehaphat. (2 Chron. xix. 1, 2.) 2. (1 Kings xix. 16. Comp. 2 Kings ix. 2.) The son of Nimshi, and grandson of Jeho- shaphat, was selected by God to reign over Israel, and to be the instrument of executing his judgments on the house of Ahab. (1 Kings xix.l7. 2 Kings ix. 1—10.) In executing this commission, he commenced with the reigning king, Joram, who was then lying ill at Jez- reel. Having been proclaimed king by a few adherents who were with him at Ramoth-gi- lead, he proceeded towards Jezreel. Upon his approach within sight of that place, Jo- ram despatched two or three messengers to ascertain his design; and finding they did not return, he went out him- self to meet him. It happened that they met on the ground ef Naboth the Jezreelite, (1 Kings xxi. 1—24 ;) and Jehu at once charged him with his gross iniquities, and immedi- ately shot him dead in his ehariot. (Comp. 1 Kings xxi. 19, and 2 Kings ix. 25.) " Jehu rode on to Jezreel, and as he was passing in at the gate, the wicked Jezebel, who had prepared herself for the occa- sion, and was looking out at a window, said something in al- lusion to what had happened to Ahab. Jehu called to two or three persons who were at the same window to throw her down, which they did ; and as Bhs struck the ground, her blood flew out upon the wall, and upon the horses, and her 29* JEH body was actually trodden un- der foot. Jehu's party then went into the city, and dined; and after dinner, he ordered his attendants to go and bury the cursed woman, as this re- spect might be due to a king's daughter; and when they came 10 the place, nothing could be found of her but the skull, the feet, and a part of the hands. The dogs had consumed the residue, in fulfilment of the prophecy. (1 Kings xxi. 23. 2Kingsix. S2-37.) Jehu then proceeded to ex- terminate the family of Ahab. He addressed letters to those who had the care of his sons, (no less than seventy in num- ber,) and proposed to them to select the fittest of them, and place him on the throne of his father. This they declined to do, (through fear of Jehu,) but promised to do any thing else that might be required. Ac- cordingly, Jehu directed them to bring to him the heads of Ahab's sons the next day at Jezreel ; and they were sent in two baskets. He directed them to be emptied out in two heaps, at the gate of the city, and to remain there over night. The next mornino; he ordered a general slaughter of all Ahab's family and adherents in the town of Jezreel. He then set out for Samaria, and meeting on his way a party of forty-two persons, all the fa- mily of Ahaziel, (a branch of Ahab's house,) he seized and slew them. But the most revolting of these deeds of blood remains to be told. When he arrived at Samaria, and had cut oflf every branch of the house of Ahab that he could find, (2 Kings x. 17,) he ordered a general con- vention of all the worshippers of Baal throughout the land, and made every arrangement as if he would have an united universal act of ho- ail JEP mage to the false god ; and so strict were his orders that no worshipper of Baal could ab- sent himself but upon pain of death. They assembled ; and we are told that not a man was absent. Each of the wor- shippers was furnished with a geculiar dress, that they might e distinguished from all others ; and when the assem- bly was convened, Jehu took pains to exclude every indivi- dual except the worshippers of Baal. As soon as they com- menced their worship, Jehu appointed a detachment of eighty men to go in among the assembled idolaters, and put every one of them to death ; and, to ensure the execution of his orders, he ordained, that if a single worshipper escaped, the life of him who suffered the escape should be forfeited. But there was no escape; every individual was put to the sword ; the image of Baal was broken down and destroyed ; and the temple was made the receptacle of offal and filth, in contempt and abhorrence of the idolatry which had been practised there; and every trace of Baal's worship was blotted out of Israel. This dreadful extermination of the house of Ahab, and of the idolatrous worship which he sanctioned, was in accord- ance with the divine com- mand, and received the divine approbation. (2 Kings x. 30.) Jehu himself, however, was ambitious and tyrannical, and fell into idolatrous practices. (2 Kings X. 31.) His reign lasted twenty-eight years ; and he was succeeded by his son Jeho- ahaz. (For a full and inte- resting account of Jehu, and the various incidents of his life,see Life of Elisha, ch.x.) JEPHTHAH, (Judg. xi. 1,) one of the judges of Israel, was the illegitimate son of Gilead ; and this fact made hun so JEP odious to the other children of the family that they banish- ed him from the house, and he took up his residence in the land of Tob, a district of Syria not far from Gilead, and pro bably the same with Ish-tob. (2 Sam. X. 8.) Here, it is sup- posed, he became the head of a marauding paity; and when a war broke out between the children of Israel and the Ammonites, he probably sig nalized himself for courage and enterprise. This led the Israelites to seek his aid as their commander-in-ctiief; and though he objected at first, on the ground of their ill usage of him, yet, tfpon their solemn covenant to regard him as their leader, in case they suc- ceeded against the Ammon- ites, he took command of their army. After some preliminary negotiations with the Ammon- ites, in which the question of the right to the country is dis- cussed with great force and ingenuity, and finding every attempt to conciliate them abortive, the two armies met; the Ammonites were defeated with great loss of life, and their coun'rv scoured by the Israelites. On the eve of the battle, Jephthah made a vow, that if he obtained the victory, he would devote to God whatever should come forth from hia house to meet him on his re- turn home. This turned out to be his daughter, an only child, who welcomed his re- turn with music and dancing. Jephthah was greatly afflicted by this occurrence; but his daughter cheerfully consented to the performance of his vow, which took place at the expi- ration of two months ; and the commemoration of the event by the daughters of Israel was renuired by a public ordinance. Whether .^ephthah actually offered up his daughter for a JEP mimt-olferinff, is a question of great difficulty, and continues to be mucli disputed. Tliose who maintain the negative al- lege, that by translating the Hebrew prefix or, rendered and in our version, all diffi- culty will be removed. His vow will then read, 'shall surely be the Lord's, or, I will offer a burnt-offering ;' and not unfrequently itie sense re- quires that the Hebrew should be thus rendered. Moreover, when Jephthah made this vow, he could not have intended to insult the Lord by promising a sacrifice against which he had expressed "the utmost abhor- rence, (Lev. XX. 2—5. Deut. ai. 31,) especially as it is re- corded that the" Spirit of the Lord was upon him when he uttered his vow. Suppose a do^ had come out of the house of Jephthah, can any one sup- pose that he would have offer- ed this unclean animal as a burnt-offering to the Lord? And why then should we sup- pose that he would offer a numan sacrifice, which would have been so much more abo- minable ; and, in all such cases, the law allowed the right of redemption, for a email sum of money. It is, moreover, argued that no men- tion is made of any bloody sa- crifice of the young woman. But merely that he did with her according to his vow which he had voiced ; and she knew no man; which last words seem to convey, not obscurely, the idea that Jephthah devoted his daughter to the Lord, by consecrating her to a life of celibacy. And it should not be forgotten, that in the epistle to the Hebrews, (ch. xi.,) Jeph- thah is placed among the wor- thies who were distinguished for their faith. Now can we suppose that such a man would be guilty of the crime of sa- crificing his own daughter? lEP (Comp.Heb.xi.32,with2Sam. xii. 9. 1 Kings xi. 5. 7.) It is suggested whether the insertion of Jephthah's name in this pas- sage is conclusive evidence of his piety. That he was distin- guished for one kind of faith is evident; but was it saving faith 7 (1 Cor. xiii. 2.) Those, on the other hand, who receive the common read- ing of this passage, and follow the obvious meaning, reason in the following manner: That upon every fair principle of construction, it must be admit- ted, that Jephthah's vow was single, and that hedid actually bind himself, by this solemn bond, to offer as a burnt-offer- ing to the Lord whatever should first come forth from his house to meet him on his return. That the time in which Jephthah lived was one of gross ignorance and idolatry, (Judg. X. 6 ;) that a pious man might have felt himself bound by the obligation of a vow, in making which he had none but a pious intention ; that the law of re- deeming devoted persons and things for money did not apply to the case of such a vow ; that Jephthah's excessive grief on seeing his daughter come forth to meet him, can only be ac- counted for on the supposition that he considered her devoted to death; that the mourning for the daughter of Jephthah for four days in the year can be reconciled only with the opinion that she was offered up as a burnt-offering ; and that there is no law or prece- dent to authorize the opinion that to devote her to perpetual celibacy was not an offence to God of equal enormity with that of sacrificing her as a burnt-offering. It seems the difficulties which attend this construction of the passage are less than those which attend the other; and it has been well remarked, that if it was 343 JER perfectly clear that Jephthah sacrificed his daughter, there is not the least evidence that his conduct was sanctioned by God. He was a superstitious and ill-instructed man, and, like Samson, an instrument of God's power rather than an example of his grace. The Ephraimiies, who had not been invited to lake part in the war against the Am- monites, quarrelled with Jeph- thah, and in a battle with the Gileadites, were defeated; and the latter, seizing the fords of Jordan, slew every Eijhraimite who attempted to escape by crossing the river; and the method employed to ascertain whether they belonged to Ephraim was, to cause them to pronounce the word 'shib- boleth,' which they sounded 'sibboleth ;' for, it seems, that by this time a difference in the manner of pronouncing at least one Hebrew letter had arisen between the inhabitants on the different sides of Jordan. On this occasion, 42,000 men of Ephraim were slain ; which was a just punishment for commencing a war with so small a provocation. (Judg. JEREMIAH, or JEREMY, (Matt. ii. 17,) or JEREMIAS, (Matt. xvi. 14,) one of the chief of the Hebrew prophets, was the son of Hilkiah, and of the sacerdotal race. (Comp. Jer. i. 1, and Josh. xxi. 18.) He was very young when he was called to the prophetic office, and on that account declined it, (Jer. i. 6 ;) but God promised him grace and strength suffi- cient for his work; and for lorty-two years he persisted in this arduous service, with un- wearied dilicence and fidelity, in the midst of the severest trials and persecutions. During all this time, Jerusa- lem was in a most distracted and deplorable condition, and JER the prophet was calumniated, imprisoned, and often in dan ger of death. But no ill treat- ment or threatenings could deter liim from denouncing the judgments of God, which were coming upon the nation and that devoted city. His exhortation to the king and rulers was to submit at once to the arms of Nebuchadnez- zar, for by that means they would preserve their lives; but he assured them, as a message received from God, that their continued resistance would have no other eflTect than to bring certain and dreadful destruction upon Je- rusalem and on themselves. At this time, Jerusalem swarm- ed with false prophets, who contradicted the words of Jere- miah, and flattered the king and his courtiers that God would rescue them from the impending danger; and after the city was taken, and part of the people carried away to Babylon, these prophets confi- dently predicted a speedy re- turn. On the other hand, Jere- miah sent word to the captives that the time of their captivity would be long, and that their best course was to build houses and plant vineyards in the land to which they were car- ried, and to pray for the peace of the country in which they resided. Indeed, he expressly foretold that the captivity would endure for seventy years ; which duration, he in- timated, was to make up for the sabbatical years which they had neglected to observe. He also foretold the deliver- ance of the people, and their return to their own country. Towards the close of his lift, he was carried into Egypt against his will, by the Jews who remained in Judea after tlie murder of Gedaliah. On this occasion, he was requested by Johanan and his followers JER to inquire of the Lord whether they should flee into Egypt: in answer, after accusing them of hypocrisy, he warned them in the most solemn manner, from the Lord, not to go down to Egypt; but they disre- garded the commandment of God, and went, and took Jere- miah forcibly along with them, where, in all probability, he died, some think, as a mar- tyr. For the reference to Jere- my in Matt, xxvii. 9, see Zech. xi. 12, 13. (See the Life and Prophecies of Jeremiah, and Elisama, ch. iii.— vi., both by Am. S. S. Union.) Prophecy of, is the twenty- fourth book of the Old Testa- ment and the ninth prophet- ical book in chronological order. It embraces a period of upwards of forty years, be- tween B. c. 628 and b. c. 586. Jeremiah entered upon the of- fice of a prophet in the thir- teenth year of the reign of Josiah, (Jer. i. 2;) and his prophecy relates to the judg- ments that were to come uiwn the people for their gross idol- atry and corruption ; to the re- storation which awaited them, whenever they would repent of their sins, and forsake them ; and to the future glory which would arise on the church of God, and on such as were steadfast in his service ; when the Desire of nations should come, and all flesh should see the salvation of God. The just and natural order of this book is as follows : 1. The prophecies uttered in Josiah's reign, ch. i.— xii. 2. In JehoTakim'SjCh. xiii. xx. xxii. xxiii. xxxv. xxxvi. xlv. — xlviii. xlix. 1—33. 3. In Zedekiah's, ch. xxi. xxiv. xxvii. — xxxiv. xxxvii. — xxxix. xlix. 34—39; 1. li. 4. In Gedaliah's, ch. xl.— xliv. This arrangement of the matter will make the book JER much more intelligible to the reader. The fifty-second chapter, which seems to have been compiled from the latter part of the second book of Kings, was probably added to the book by Ezra ; and seems de- signed partly as an illustration ofthe accomplishment of Jere- miah's prophecies respecting Zedekiah, and partly as an introduction to the Lamenta- tions. Lamentations op,(the book immediately succeeding the prophecy,) are a series of ele- gies written in view of the dreadful calamities which the city of Jerusalem, and the Jew- ish nation generally, were to suffer for their continued re- bellion against God ; and these events are described as if they were actually accomplished. The lamentations of Jeremiah have been regarded by distin- guished critics as the most per- fect and regular elegiac com- position in the world. One would think that every letter was written with a tear, and every word with the anguish of a broken heart, by one who never breathed but in a sighj nor spoke but in a groan. (See Life and Prophecies op Je- remiah, pp. 75—78, by Am. S. S. Union.) Mr. Fisk, an American mis- sionary, who was at Damascus in 1823, visited a place near the gate of that city, where it is said Jeremiah wrote this book. It is a natural cave, over which the rock rises forty or fifty feet perpendicularly; and its whole appearance be- tokens a fit place for such me- lancholy musings. The travel- ler sat down in the cave, and read Jer. ix. 1—8 ; and a more exact description of the present character and conduct of the people of Jerusalem could not be written. JEKICHO, (Num. xxii. 1,) ai5 JER one of the oldest cities in the Holy Land, was situpled >n the tribe of Benjainin.aboui twenty miles from Jerusalem, and two from the river Jordan. This, or some place in its vicinity, is called the city of palm trees, (Deut. xxxiv.3;) perhaps Horn the abundant growth of the Kalm tree in that neiphbour- ood. Tlie word Jeiicho may be from Jerah, the moon ; and the worship of the moon may have prevailed there. This city, which was next in size to Jerusalem, was besieged and subdued by the Israelites im- mediately after the passage of the Jordan. The siege w-as conducted under the divine di- rection ; and, at a given signal, by the irrmediate interj:)osiiion of miraculous power, the walls fell dat to the earth, probably destroying many lives, and throwins; the citizens into uni- versal consternation. The Is- raelites marched directly to the heart of the city, and in obedience to the express com- mand nf God, they put to death every living creature, except Rahab and her family, and the two men sent as spies from the camp of Israel, (Josh. ii. 1, 2,) whom she had concealed. The city itself was then set on fire, every thing in ii,except the ves- sels of gohl, silver, brass, and iron, which were previously re- moved, was burnt to ashes, and the very site of it was cuised. (Comp. Josh. vi. 26. I Kings xvi. 34.) A city was rebuilt on or near this spot, which is afterwards mentioned (2 Sam. x. 5) as con- taining a school of the prophets, (2 Kings ii. 5,) and as being the residence of Elisha (2 Kings ii. 18) and Zaccheus. (Luke xix. 1—10.) It was in the vicinity of this place that a miraculous change was effected by Elisha in the taste of the waters of a particular spring, and that the two blind men^were miracu- JER lously restored by our Saviour (Matt. XX. 29—34.) Under the Romans, Jericho was a royal residence, and Herod the Great died there. It was more thun once laid waste, and rebuilt, after He- rod's day ; and there is now a miserable hamlet, called iZiAa, or Rah, situated on the ruins of the ancient city, (or, as some think, three or four miles east of it,) which a modern travel, ler describes as a poor, dirty village of the Arabs. There are perhaps fifty houses, of rou^h stone, with roofs of bushes and mud, and the population, two hundred or three hundred in number, is entirely Mohammedan. The road from Jerusalem to Jericho lies through what is called the wilderness of Jericho, and is described by modern travellers as the most dangerous and for- bidding about Palestine. As lately as 1820, an English tra- veller. Sir Frederick Henni- ker, was attacked on this road by the Arabs, with fire-arms who left him naked and se- verely wounded. (Lukex.30.) Messrs. Fisk and King, American missionaries, were at Jericho in June, 1823. They confirm the accounts of other travellers, and mention parti- cularly the mountain Quar- rantania, where tradition says Christ fasted, and from the base of which rises a fountain whose waters were the subject of Elisha's miracle. (2King8 ii. 1^22.) This is the river, or water of Jericho, referrea to, Josh. xvi. 1. (See Omar, » pp. 137—142, by the Am. S. & Union.) JfLAiNS OF, (Josh. iv. 13,) de- note that tract of country lying between the city and river Jordan., down to the Dead Sea. (See Life of Elisha, ch. ii., by Am. S. S. Union,"* JEROBOAM, 1. (1 Kings xi. 26,) the son of Nebat, is distil*. 346 JER ruished as the man who made Israel to sin. He was evidently a biild, ambitious, unprincipled man; and having received from the prophet Ahijah a most sin- gular intimation that the king- dom of Solomon was to be divided, and he was to become the head of the ten tril)PS, he perhaps made the fact known, or look some means to bring about the event. At any ratp\ SolomoQ was alarmed, and look measures to apprehend Jeroboam, who fled to Egypt, and remained there till Solo- mon's death. Rehoboam his eon succeeded him; and had already m de himself so unpo- pular with ten of the tribes, that they had withdrawn from his interest, and were found by Jerotxiam, on his retur:<, ready to receive him as their king. He fixed his residence at She- chem, which, with other cities, he f.)itified for the furtherance of his plans. Fearing that if the revolted tribes should go up to the so- lemn national feasts at Jerusa- lem, they would be persuaded to return to their allegiance, and forgetting his obligations to God and his dependence on him, (1 Kings xi. 14—39.) he caused two golden calves to be erected ; one at Dan, and the ether at Bethel, the extremi- ties of his dominions, and caused a proclaniation to be made, requiring the worship of these idols. (1 Kings xii. 2i6 —33.) Jeroboam, having set up the idols, assembled tlie people at the f">imer place, to engaure in the .solemn worship of ihem; and to show his zeal for the service, he officiated at the altar Ivimself. But while he was th'^s occupied, a prophet from the land of Judah appear- ed in the inidst of the ass'^m- biy, and in the hearing of all thn people, uttered a "predic- liori, that a man by the name JER of Josiah should arise, and de- stroy that altar, and should burn upon it the bones of the priests; and to confirm his au- thority, he gave this sign, that the altar should immediately "be broken in pieces, and the ashes upon it be poured out; and it was so. Jeroooani, great- ly provoked by his bold intei- ference, put forth his hand to seize the prophet; but in a mnnienl it was stiffened, bo that he could not draw it in- Intimidated by this miracu- lous judgment, and convinced that the man was indeed a prophet of the Lord, he begged that he would intercede for him, that his ;irm might be re- stored; which was done accord- ii:ply. Jeroboam, however, was not reformed by this divine message and double miracle, but continued to cause Israel to sin, in worshipping the calves which he had srt up. His son was taken sick, and he in- sirocteil his wife to dissuise herself and go to Ahijah, who was now blind with au;e, and consult him as to the event of the disease. The prophet waa forewarned of her approach ; and as soon as he heard her footsteps, he called her by name, and then recoimled the sins of Jeroboam, and i^re licted the disgrace, and ruin and utter extirpation of his whole familv, and also the captivity and flispersiou of the people of Israel. Hp also u»lil hor that the child should die, and that the nation should mourn for him as the only individual of the house of their kins who should come to a peaceful end ; and also as one who, in the midst of all the idolatry and wickedness of the times, had some i)ious emotion.s, even in the house of Jemboam. As she entered the dotir of iier house, the child died. (1 Kinrs xiv.l7.) Jeroboam reigned in Israel twenty-two years, and was JER succeeded by his son Nadab. During his life, there were almost unceasing wars be- tween him and the house of David ; and history records not more destructive wars ; for in one conflict, the Israelites lost no less than 500,000 men. 2. (2Kingsxiv. 23— 29,) the son of Joash, and great-grand- son of Jehu, reigned forty-one years, and followed the former Jeroboam in his idolatrous ■worship. The Lord, however, by him, according to the pre- dictions of the prophet Jonah, raised the kingdom of the ten tribes to its greatest splen- dour. All the countries on the east of Jordan he reduced. It appears from the writings of Hosea and Amos, that idleness, effeminacy, pride, oppression, injustice, idolatry, and luxury, greatly prevailed in his reign. (Amos ii. 6—16; v. vi.) Nor was it long after his death, before the Lord, according to j the predictions of Amos, cut] off his family with the sword. ] (2 Kings XV. 10. Hos. i. 1, &c. ) JERUB-BAAL. (See Gide- on.) JERUSALEM. (Josh, xviii. 28.) The capital of the king- dom of Judah, and the scene of the most extraordinary events which occur in the annals of; the human race; events, in i which men and angels have i and must for ever have the deepest interest. This was the place selected by the Almighty | for his dwelling, and here his glory was rendered visible. I This was the "perfection of, beauty," and the "glory of all ' lands." Here David sat, and tuned his harp, and sung the praises of Jehovah. Hither the tribes came up to worship. I Here enraptured prophets saw bright visions of the world above, and received messages from on high for guilty man. I Here our Lord and Saviour i came in the form of a servant, I JER and groaned, and wept, and poured out his soul unto death, to redeem us from sin, and save us from the pains of hell. Here, too, the wrath of an incensed God has been pnured out upon his chosen people, and has laid waste his heritage. It was probably once called -Sa^em, ((jen. xiv.18. Ps. Ixxvi. 2. Heb. vii. 1,2,) and in the days of Abraham was the abode of Melchizedek. When the Israelites took possession of the promised land, they found this stronghold in the possession of the Jebusites, (see Jebus,) and it was by them called Jebus, (Judg. xix. 10,) or Jebusi. (Josh, xviii. 28.) Perhaps the more modern name of the city may be com- pounded of these two, with a little modification for the sake of sound. We have called it a strong- hold,and so indeed it was, even in its earlier days. (2 Sam. v. 6—8. 1 Chron. xi. 4-6.) The whole foundation was of rock, with steep ascents on three sides. Then it was nearly sur- rounded by a deep valley, which was again embosomed with hills. This natural position of the city furnishes some of the beautiful illustrations of the Bible. (Ps. xlviii. 2. 13; cxxv. 1, 2.) The ancient Salem was Krobably built upon Acra and loriah, the eastern and west- ern hills. When the Jebusites became masters of it, they erected a fortress in the south- ern quarter of the city, which was afterwards called mount Zion, but to which they gave the name of their ancestor, Jebus ; and although the Isra- elites, under Joshua, took pos- session of the circumjacent territory, (Josh, xviii. 28,) the Jebusites still held this fortress, or upper town, until the time of David, who wrested it from them, CiSam. v. 7—9,) aud JER Ihnn removed his court from Hebron to Jerusalem, which was thenceforward known as the city of David. (2 Sam. vi. 10. 12. 1 Kings viii. 1.) As the city was on the boundary line between the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, it is sometimes spoken of as the possession of each. Upon this eminence,Solomon erected the temple, or place of worship for the whole Jew- ish nation, and also a palace for himself, called the house of the forest of Lebanon, on ac- count of the multitude of cedars from that mountain employed in the construction of it,(lKings vii. 2 ; X. 17 ;) and in his reign the city became renowned for its commercial enterprise, (1 Kings X. 22,) its boundless wealth, (1 Kings x. 14—29,) and especially for the enjoy- ment of the peculiar presence and favour of the Almighty. (Ps. ii. 6; XV. 1; Ixxiv. 2.) This eminence it maintained for nearly five hundred years, when it was destroyed by Ne- buchadnezzar. Then it lay in ruins seventy years, while the Jews were in captivity; after which it was restored in some degree to its former im- portance, and so remained for nearly six hundred years, when it was finally destroyed by Titus, a. d. 70. In the reign of Adrian, the city was partly rebuilt, under the name of .^lia. After being transformed into a pagan city, Helena, the mother of Consiantine, over- threw its monuments of idola- try, and erected over the sup- posed site of the sepulchre of Christ a magnificent church, which included as many of the scenes of our Saviour's suffer- ings as superstition and tradi- tion could conveniently crowd into one spot. The emperor Julian, in the true spirit of an apostate, de- signing to give the lie to pro- JER fhecy, assembled the Jews at erusalem, and endeavoured in vain to rebuild the temple. In this attempt he was frus- trated by an earthquake, and fiery eruptions from the earth, which totally destroyed the work, consumed the materials which had been collected, and killed a great number of the workmen. Jerusalem continued in the power of the eastern emperors till the reien of the caliph Omar, the third in succession from Mohammed, who reduced it under his subjection. This Omar was afterwards assassi- nated in Jerusalem, in 643. The Saracens continued mas- ters of Jerusalem till the year 1099, when it was taken by the crusaders, under Godfrey of Bouillon. They founded a new kingdom, of which Jeru- salem was the capital, and which lasted eighty -eight years, under nine kings. At last this kingdom was utterly ruined by Saladin ; and though the Christians once more ob- tained possession of the city, they were again obliged to re- linquish it. In 1217, the Sara- cens were expelled by the Turks, who have ever since continued in possession of it. Seventeen times has Jerusa- lem been taken and pillaged ; millions of men have been slaughtered within its walls. No other city has experienced such a fate. This protracted and almost supernatural pun- ishment, betokens unexampled guilt. The present political state of Jerusalem is perhaps as low as it has been at any time while under the dominion of the Turks. It has not even the honour of ranking as a provincial capital, and enjoys none of the immunities pecu- liar to the other holy cities of Islamism. It is included with- I in the pashalic of Damascus, JER JER ^^"^^^^^^^^ JER JBB 1 Castle of Hippicus. 2 Gate of the gardens. 3 Tomb of high-priest John. 4 Bridge between temple and city. 5 Supposed site of the Xistus. 6 Castle of Antonia. a Jaffa gate. b Zion gate. e St.' Stephen's gate. d Damascus gate. e Pool of Bethesda. f Pool of Si loam. g Fountain of the virgin. h Garden of Gethsemane. »■ Monuments of Absalom and Zechariah. k Village of Silor. I Mount of Corruption. m Jaffa road. n Bethlehem road. o Road to Bethphage and Bethany. iThe line with black squares ■■ ■ ■ upon it shows the course of the wall in our Saviour's time. The zig-zag line vx^vx^ shows the extent ol the wali built by Agrippa, after Christ's death. The dotted line shows the present wall. The square on the eastern side represents the site of the ancient temple, now occupied by the mosque of Omar. 351 JER and is governed by a deputy appointed from thence. No deference is created by the peculiar sanctity of the place, (except in the minds of Chris- tians,) as is done by that of the Arabian cities of Mecca and Medina; for, while a go- vernor of either of these is honoured by distinguished pri- vileges, the governor of Jerusa- lem ranks only as a magistrate of a provincial town. The force usually kept in Jerusalem consists of about a thousand soldiers, including horse and foot, armed and equipped in the common Turk- ish fashion, and composed of Turks, Arabs, and Albanians. These are stated to be suffi- cient to repel any attack from the armies of the country, but could offer no eflfectual resist- ance to European troops. The site of^the city of Jeru- salem has never been called in question. The associations with it have been permanent and uninterrupted, and seem designed to connect the great eras in the history of the church of the Redeemer, to b& an everlasting monument of the truth and faithfulness of the God of Jacob. There have been many changes in its form and ap- pearance ; the most important of which we proceed to state, and to illustrate them by a map, which is prepared from the best materials that the journals of travellers supply, down to the year 1836. The ciiy of Jerusalem stands in 31° 50' north latitude, and 35° 20' east longitude, from Greenwich. It is thirty-four miles south-easterly from Jaffa, (Joppa,) its port, and one hun- dred and twenty miles south- vvestwardly from Damascus. It has the valley of Jehosha- phat, or Kedron, on the east, and the valley of Hinnom on the south and west. JER Mount Moriah is now on a level with other parts of the city, and is occupied by the mosque of Omar, which stands probably very near, if not on the very site of the temple of Solomon. So sacred is this edifice in the view of the Turks, that no Christian is permitted to place his foot even within the spacious en- closure which surrounds it. Although the elevation of this mountain has disappeared, its position is beyond controversy. To prepare it for the vast structure of the temple, Solo- mon enclosed the mountain by a stupendous wall, of an average perpendicular height of five hundred feet ; filling up the intervening space between the wall and the mountain, so as to form a spacious and level area for the temple and ita extensive courts. At the north- western angle of this area was a magnificent tower, which was called by Herod the tower ofAntonia, in honour of Mark Antony. Mount Zion was south-west of Moriah; and its present position and elevation corre- spond very exactly with the most ancient records. It is impossible,aftersomany desolations as the city has suf- fered, to trace the boundaries of this mountain. There is, however, a rise of ground be- tween Zion and Moriah, which corresponds so entirely to the east part of A era, as described by ancient historians, as to leave no doubt that it formed a portion of it. The Jews at present call the whole hill Zion. Acra (so called from a Greek word, signifying high) is some- times called th'e loicer city, as mount Zion was called tfie upper city. It was north of mount Zion, from which it was separated by the valley of the cheesemongers. A town was JER onco erected on a peak of Acra, which overlooked the temple. After standing about twenty-five years, it was de- molished, and the mountain reduced to a level with the adjoining districts. Bezetha, or the 7iew city, was a spacious suburb, stretching northward from mount Moriah, which was not taken within the city proper until nearly fifty years after the crucifix- ion. It embraces what is sup- posed to have been the scene of that wonderful event. The modern city of Jerusa- lem is chiefly built on mount Moriah, and derives its princi- pal support from the visits uf pilgrims. The different ac- counts, given by travellers, of the appearance of the city, may be accounted for in part by the direction in which it is approached. From the north, it appears to the best advan- tage; and from the west, to the least. It is about two miles and a half in circuit, and con- tains a population variously estimated from 15,000 to 50,000. The most accurate estimate we have seen places it at 20,000. It will be observed that the map presents the city in three diflerent aspects. marks the present boundary of the city, wr*,vw the wall built by Agrippa. ■ 1 ■ H what was the city at the time of the crucifixion. At present, the south wall passes over mount Zion, near Its summit, so that a great part of the city is without the walls. South of mount Zion is the deep valley of the son of Hin- nom ; the same valley, turning north, bounds Zion likewise on the west. Moriah has on the east the deep valley of Cedron. On the south of it, without the city, is a little elevation,which IS marked on D'Anville's map 30* JER ' as Ophel ; thence the descent j is Sleep, till we come to the I fountain of Siloah. The val- j leys north and west of Moriah j at present are not very deep. , Calvai7 was perhaps only a small elevation on a greater hill, which is now the north- west part of the city ; but the name is now given to the whole hill. Bezetha is sepa- rated from Calvary by a wide valley ; and east of Calvary is the dividing valley between Moriah and Bezetha, in which is the pool of Bethesda. We have viewed Jerusa- lem, says a Christian traveller, from different stations, have walked around it and within it, and have stood on the mount of Olives, with Josephus' de- scription of it in our hands, trying to discover the hills and valleys, as laid down 3y him near eighteen hundred years ago ; and after all our research, we compare Jerusalem to a beautiful person, whom we have not seen for many years, and who has passed through a great variety of changes and misfortunes, which have caus- ed the rose on her cheeks to fade, her flesh to consume away, and her skin to become dry and withered, and have covered her face with the wrinkles of age ; but who still retains some general features, by which we recognise her as the person who used to be the deliglu of the circle in which she moved. Such is the pre- sent appearance of the Holy City, which was once the per- fection of beauty, the joy of the jchole earth. Jerusalem, as to general form may be called a square, or rather a rhomboid ; the north- east and south-west angles are acute, and the north-west and south-east are obtuse. The east wall is nearly straight the whole length. On the north and south sides,the wall makes 353 JER a bend outwardly, and on the west side it makes an inward bend ; eo that it would not be very inaccurate to call the city a heptagon. There are likewise many little irregu- larities in the wall. Near the bend on the west side is Jaffa gate, called also the gate of Bethlehem and the Pilgrim's gate, and Bab el Khaleel, (trie gate of the Be- loved, i. e. Abraham.) On the south side is the gate of Zion, called also the gate of David. On the east side, near the pool of Bethesda, is the gate of Stephen, called likewise the Sheep gate, and the eate of the \ irgin Mary. On the west side, between Calvary and Be- zetha,is Damascus gate. These From the north- west comer to JaflFa ^te to south-west corner • to Zion gate to the bend in the south wall to the Dung gate to the south-east comer to the Golden gate tn St. Stephen's gate • to north-east corner • to Herod's gate • to the bend to Damascus gate to north-west corner - The total is 4279 paces : and allowing five paces to a rod, this gives eight hundred and fifty-six rods, or about two miles and two thirds, for the circumference of the city. Maundrell measured the city, and judged it to be two miles and a half in circumference. According to Josephus, it was thirty-three furlongs, or eight miles, in circumference before Titus destroyed it. Mount Zion was then included ; and the city seems, from his descrip- tion, to have extended further north than it does now. The wall of the city is high, but not thick. From counting the rows of stones, the heightj'in differ- ent places, is supposed to be forty, fifty, and perhaps sixty feet. There is a castle, with two JER four are the principal gatei of the city, and are always open from morning till sunset. There are two other small gates, which are opened only occasionally. One is on the south side, a little west of mountMoriah. Maundrell calls it the Dung gale. The other, which Maundrell callsHerod's gale, is on the west side, and goes out from Bezetha. On the east side of Moriah is a se- venth gate, or rather a place where there was one when the Christians possessed the city • for it is now completely walled up. Maundrell calls this the Golden gate. The measure of the city by paces gives the following re- sult: 300 j 768we.t.ide. 195^ ""H 1149 south iide. 244 415J 353) 230 V 943 east side. 360) 350< ^U419 north ilde. 660^ towers, on the west Bide, a little south of Jaffa gate, to which travellers have given the name of the Pisan's tower. For a little distance, near the north-east corner, there is a trench without the wall, but now nearly filled up. The Jews occupy a much smaller part of the city than the. Turks and Arabs. The Armenians live in and around their convent on mount Zion ; the Greeks and Catholics have their convents and houses en mount Calvary. The Turks and Arabs occupy Bezetha^ and all the eastern part oi the city, and have scattered dwellings in every quarter. The Jews live in the dust, be- tween Zion and Moriah. The whole area of the ancient Jew- JER ish temple on Moriah, which now encloses the mosque of Omar, is walled in, and, as was before observed, none but Mussulmans are allowed to enter it on pain of death, though this rule seems to have been lately relaxed in some degree. In and near it are four minarets. There are two others on Bezeiha, one on Acra, one on Zion, and two on Calvary. The Jews have a number of synagogues, all connected to- gether, in the quarter where they live. The church of the Holy Sepulchre stands on Cal- vary. This is an edifice dis- tinguished for its size and mas- siveness. It forms altogether a block of one hundred and sixty feet long and one hundred wide ; and includes what are called the chapel of the cruci- fixion, the church of the sepul- chre, seven small chapels, a monastery and cloisters. The traditions with which the va- rious apartments are associated are scarcely worthy to be pre- served, and yet iLe votaries of superstition have contrived to group and connect them in such a manner as to excite strong and probably salutary emotions in the mind of the reflecting visiter. The Catho- lics have one convent on the same mountain. The Greeks have twelve here,and one near Ziongate. The Armenians have three convents on mount Zion, a large one and a small one in the city, and another a little without Zion gale, where, it is believed,slood the house of Cai- aphas,whereJesus was arraign- ea,and wherePeterdenied him. The Copts, Syrians, and Abys- sinians have also each a small convent. The houses are of stone, most of them low and irregular, with flat roofs or ter- races, ia the middle of which usually rises a small dome. The windows are small, and JES those towards the street have usually strong iron grates for defence, and then fine wooden grates to prevent the women from being seen by those who pass. The streets are narrow, and most of them irregular. There are but few gardens in the city. Jerusalem is seen to best advantage from mount Olivet. The substance of the forego- ing account of modern Jerusa- lem is abridged from the jour- nal of Messrs. Fisk and King, American missionaries, who were resident there in 1623; and its accuracy is confirmed by the descriptions of travel- lers who have visited it more recently. (For a more minute history and description of the city, see Destruction of Jerusalem, ch. vi. xiv. ; Elisama, ch. viii. —X. ; Omar, ch. iv. viii. ; and Selumiel, pp. 49—52. 150—174. 195—210, all by Am. S.S.Union. See also Map of Jerusalem, published in connexion with Selumiel, which corresponds in its principal outlines to the foregoing article.) Jerusalem, kevt, (Rev. xxL 2,) is a term empljyed meta- phorically to represent the spi- ritual church. The ancient Jews regarded the taberna- cle, the temple, and Jeru- salem uself, as descending directly from God ; and ^hey suppose that there is a spirit- ual tabernacle, temple, and city corresponding with them. (Comp. Gal. iv. 26. 2Fet. iii. 10—13. Rev. xxi.) Jerusalem of old was the city of God; and Jerusalem above is called the city of the living God, or heavenly Jerusalem. (Heb. xii. 22. Rev. iii. 12.) JESHURUN. (Deut. xxxIL 15.) A significant name, c'e- scriptive of the Israelitish com- munity, and implying either their general uprightness, or the peculiar manifestation of JEW God's presence which ihey had enjoyed, and which agirra- vated the guilt of their rebel- lion. Il is sometimes used as A term of fondness, and may 06 rendered the beloved one, or the object of God's special delight, as Benjamin was. (Deut. xxxiii. 12.) It is syno- nymous with Israel. (Isa. xliv. 2.) JESSE. (lChron.ii.l3.) The on of Obed, and father of Da- vid. Hence he is called the root of David, and the ancestor ofthe Mes.siah. (Isa. xi. 1. 10.) Christ describes himself as the root and the offsjiring of David, (Rev. V. 5 ; xxii. 16,) in refer- ence to his twofold nature ; in one of which, he was the crea- torand source of all being, (John i. 3,) and in the other, he was born of a woman of a descend- ant of the family of David. (Matt. i. 5—16.) JESUS. (Matt. i. 21.) This term, in its original, imports the office of a Saviour, or one sent to save. It occurs only in the New Testament; and though it is not exclusively applied to Christ, it should be ; for in Acts vii. 45. Col. iv. 11, and Heb. iv. 8, Joshua, and not Jesus, is the proper ren- dering. In the evangelical history, ^ur Saviour is designated by the name of Christ alone, in nearly three hundred passages; by the name of Jesus Christ, or Christ Jesus, less than one hundred times; and by the name ofthe Lord Jesus Christ, less than fifty. (See Christ Tesus.) JETHRO. (Ex. iii. 1.) A f)riest or prince of Midian,and ather-:n-law of Moses. He is called Raguel, Num. x. 29, and Reuel, Ex. ii. 18; and was pro- oably known by either name. [t is highly probable,too,that he was a descendant of Abraham, ''Gen. XXV. 2 ;) but what was >he nature of bis office as JEW priest, (or prince, as some say it should be rendered,) we know not. (See Life of Mo- ses, pp. 36—41, by Am. S. S. Union.) JEWELS. (Gen. xxiv. 53.) This term is applied to orna ments, made of the precious metals, and used to adorn the person. We find them among the presents which the servants of Abraham made to Rebekah and her family when they sought her in marriage for Isaac. (Isa. Ixi. 10.) It is pro- bable that much skill was at- tained, at a very early period, in the manufacture of metal ornaments ; such as chains, bracelets, ear-rings, &c. (Num xxxi. 50. Ezek. xvi. 12. Hos. ii. 13.) The word is figuratively used to denote any thing peculiarly precious ; as, the chosen peo- ple of God, (Mai. iii. 17,) or wisdom. (Prov. xx. 15.) JEWRY. (Luke xxiii. 5.) The same with Judea. (Dan. V. 13.) JEWS. (2 Kings xvi. 6.) The word first occurs in this passage, and denotes the Ju- oeans, or men of Judah, in contradistinction from the se- ceding ten tribes who retained the name of Israel. The name Israelites was applied to the twelve tribes, or descendants of Jacob, (Israel,) as a body; but after the separation of the tribes, the above distinction obtained until the Babylonish captivity, which terminated the existence of the kingdom of Judah ; and thenceforward, until the present day, the de- scendants of Jacob are called Jews, and constitute one of the two classes into which the whole human family is fre- quently divided, viz. Jews and Gentiles. (Rom. ii. 9, 10. See Hebrews.) Since the over- throw of their government, and the final destruction of their city, the Jews have been set JEZ up on high as a visible, incon- trovertible, and overwhelming evidence of the truth and faith- fulness of Jehovah. So long as they were the objects of his regard, no weapon formed against them could prosper; but when they became the objects of his displeasure, on account of their sins and re- bellions, no plan or efifort for their restoration succeeds, or will succeed, until the set time to favour them shall come. Their return to the rest and privileges of God's people will be as life from the dead. (Rom. xi. 15. 25—28. For a particular account of the calamities of this nation, from century to century, and the connexion of their wonderful history with prophecy, see The Bible is True, ch. iv. v., by Am. S. S. Union.) The number of Jews in the world is estimated at from three to six millions. Of these, there are reckoned in Europe, 2,000,000; Asia, 700,000; Africa, 500,000. The largest numbers are in Russia and Poland. The number of Jews in the United States is computed at from 6,000 to 15,000. JEZEBEL, (1 Kings xvi. 31,) the wife of Ahab king of Israel, was the daughter of a Zidonian king, and of course educated in the idolatrous practices of her native country. It is charged upon Ahab as a sin of the deepest die, that he should connect himself with such a woman. She introduced the worship of Baal and other idols, maintaining four hun- dred idolatrous priests at her own expense, while Ahab maintained four hundred and fifty more. (1 Kings xviii. 19.) This wicked woman once resolved on the extermina- tion of all the prophets of God. Obadiah, who weis a pi- ous man, and principal officer of Ahab's household, rescued JEZ one hundred of them at one time from her grasp, and supplied them with bread and water while they were concealed in caves. (1 Kings xviii. 3, 4. 13.) Soon after this, Elijah caused the four hundred and fifty priests of Baal, sup- ported by Ahab, to be put to death. For this proceeding, Jezebel threatened to take the life of Elijah, but her purpose was frustrated. Soon after- wards, she planned and per- petrated the murder of Na- both. And by using the king's name and authority with the leading men of Jezreel, she secured their co-operation in the flagrant crime, cl Kings xxi. 1-13.) The doom of this impious woman was predicted by Eli- jah, and was in due time visit- ed upon her to the very letter. (See Jehu, Ahab.) In Rev. ii. 20, there is an allusion to this history; but whether the word Jezebel is there used as the name of a person then living, and resem- bling in character Jezebel of old, or whether it is only used proverbially, as it is in modern times, to denote a cunning, wicked, deceitful, abandoned woman, is not certain. JEZREEL. (Josh. xix. 18.) A royal city within the bounds of Manasseh, in the valley of Jezreel, where the tidings of Saul's death, in the battle at Gilboa, were first announced, (2 Sam. iv. 4,) and where his son Ishbosheth reigned after his father's death. (2 Sam. ii. 9.) It is worthy of remark, that the fountain in Jezreel, where the Israelites encamped before the battle of Gilboa, (ISam xxix. 1,) was the very spot where the crusaders encamp- ed in 1183, when on the eve of a battle with Saladin. Ahab and Joram resided at Jezreel, (1 Kings xviii. 45. 2 Kings ix. 15;) and Jezebei and Joram 357 JEZ were slain there by Jehu. (2 Kings ix.ai— 33.) There was also a city in Judah uf this name. (Josh. xv. 56) Valley of. (Josh. xvii. 16.) An extensive valley, (1 .Sam. xxxi. 7,) called by the Greeks Esdraelon, stretching south and souih-wesl from mount Tabor and Nazareth, and re- markable for its beauty and fertility. It was the scene of many battles. Among them, one between Deborah and Ba- rak and .Siscra, the command- er of the Syrians, (Judg. iv. 14,) one between Ahab and the Sy- rians, (comp. 1 Sam. xxix. I. 1 Kings XX. 26,) another be- tween Saul and thePhilistines, (I Sam xxix. 1,) and another between Gideon and the Midi- anites. (Judg. vi. 33.) This plain is computed by modern travellers to be at least fifteen miles square, and con- tains five miserable villages, with scarcely a moving inha- bitant. One of them speaks of it as a chosen place for bat- tles and military operations in every age, Irom the lime of Barak Co that of Bonaparte; Jew, Gentiles. Egyptians, Sa- racens, Christian crusaders, and antichristian Frenchmen, Persians, Druses, Turks, and Arabs. Warriors out of every nation which is under heaven have pitched their tents upon the plains of Esdraelon, and have beheld the various ban- ners of their nation wet with the dews of Tabor and Her- mon. The soil is extremely rich ; and in every direction are the most picturesque views. The hills of Nazareth to the north ; those of Samaria to the south ; to the east the mountains of Tabor and Hermon ; and Car- mel to the south-west. " About four o'clock in the afternoon," says a traveller, " we arrived at the village of Gennyn, which is situated at the entrance of JOA one of the numerous valefl which lead out of the plain of Esdraelon to the mountainous regions of Lphraim." '* From the window of the khan where we are lodging we have a clear view of^ihe tract over which the prophet Elijah must have passed, when he girded up his loins and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel. But, in the present day, no chariots of Ahab or of Sisera are to be seen ; not even a single wheel-carriage of any description whatever.'' The plain opens about three miles from Nazareth, on the way to Jerusalem. Mr. Fisk, an American mis- sionary, was there in the au- tumn of IS':^, and confirms the preceding account of the size, position, &c. of Esdraehn. So rich and fertile is the soil, that he thinks the piain, though less than fifteen miles square, would suf>porl thirty or forty villages, ot 2000 or 3000 souls each. (See Omar, p. 118, by Am. S. S. Union.) JOAB (2 Sam. ii. IS) was the nephew of David, and the com- mander-in-chief of his army. (IChron ii. 16; xi.6.) He wag evidently a valiant man, but ambitious and revengeful. To revenge the death of his bro- ther Asahel, whom Abner had killed in self-defence, (2 Sam. ii. 23,) he treacherously assas- sinated this distinguished ge- neral. (2 Sam. iii'.' 27 ) He brought about a reconciUalion between Absalom and his fa- ther, after the murder of Am- non ; but when Absalom re- belled, Joab adhered to his master; and under his gene- ralship, the troops of David, though much inferior in num- ber, obtained a complete vic- tory over the army v.hich had been collected by this aban- doned and infaiuaten young man ; and, contrary to the ex- press orders of David, he put 35d JOA hirn to death with his own } hand, as he hung suspended from the oak tree. (-iSam. xviii. 14.) After this event, David promotefi Arnasa to be his gene- ral in -chief, bv which Joab was deeply otfenJed, and secretly resolved on the death of his rival ; and took the first oppor- tunity of assassinating him, as t hehaddone Abiier. (2Sain.xx. ' 10.) David, after this, seems [ to have taken him agairj into i favour. (iSam. xxiv.2.) When j David the king had t-ecome \ old, however, Joab combined with Abiathar the priest, and others, to set Adonijah on the throne, in defiance of the will of David, who had, by divine direction, resolved lo make Solomon king. (I Kings ii.26.) The plot was seasonably de- featert, and Solomon was proclaimed king the same day. But Joab now seemed to David stieviile'itly an object of the divine displeasure, that he solemnly charged .Solomon to punish him for all liis enor- moup crimes, and especially for the murder of two valiant men, bimerihan hims' lf,Abner and A nasa. Joab, conscious that his life was forfeited, flou!.'ht an asylum at the horns of the altar, which position he absolutely refused to relin- quish; and Benaiah, now ad- vanced 10 be the captain of the host, slew him by iho altar, agreeably l'> the command of the young king. He was buried •'n his nwn house, in the wil- derness. (1 Kint!s ii. 5—34.) JOANNA (Luke viii. 3) is meniioiud as the wife of Chu- za, Horod's steward, or head- servant. She eeems to have been the subject of some mira- culjus cure by Christ, h>»ni she f i'.t f Ahazialt, king of Judah. Je- JOA hosheba, (or Jehoshabeath, 2 Chron. xxii. 11,) the wife of Jehoiada the high-priest, hia aunt, preserved him from the murderous desigiis of Athali- ah, his grand-niolher, when he was but a year old, and ke[ii him hid six years in a chamber belonging to ihetem- Cle. (See Athaliah.) When e was seven years of age, JehoiaJa entered into a solemn covenant with Azariah and others, to set up young Joash for their sovereign, and de- throne the wicked Athaliah. After preparing matters in the kint;dom, and bringing the Le- vites, and such others iis they could trust, to Jerusalem, tliey crowned him in the court of the ti-mple with great solemni- ty. (2Kingsxi.) Joash behaved himself well white Jehoiada the lii?h-prieel lived and was his guide; but no sooner waa this good man removed, than he beijan to listen to the coun- sels of his wicked courtiers. The worship of God fell into neglect, and idolatry prevail- ed. Zechariah the priest, soa of Jehoiada, warneil him of his sin and danger; but as a reward of his fidelity, he was, by order of Joash, stoned to deatii, between the {»orch and the altar. When dying, he assured them thai God would avenge his death. (2 Chron. xxiv.SO— 22.) Towhich event our Saviour is supposed oy some to refer, Matt, xxiii. So. Hazael invaded ilie kingdom; but Joiish, w ith a large sum of money, including all the trea- sures and furniture of the tem- ple and jialace, redeemed his capital from plunder. (2Ki;.ga xii. id) After siiffrring other iiijuries from liie Syrian.^, and after bein^ loaded' with igno- miny, hf- was murdered by his own servants, after a reign of foriy-iiie years. (2Chron. xxiv. 24-27) 2. (2 Kings xwi. 9-) Son an4 399 JOB successor of Jehoahaz king of Israel, and grandson of Jehu, was for two or three years asso- ciated with his father in the government ; and he reigned alone, after his father's death, fourteen years. He was a wicked prince, though he was successful in three campaigns against the Syrians, and recovered the cities which they took from his father, according to the predic- tion of Elisha. (2 Kings xiii. 15—25.) He was also signally successful in a war with Ama- ziah king of Judah, (see Ama- ziAH ;) soon after the termina- tion (if which, he died. (2 Kings xiv. 12—16.) JOB. (Job i. 1.) A man of singular piety and more singu- lar trials, who is supposed to have lived in Idumea at a very early period of the world. Some have supposed that he was the same with Jobab, (1 Chron. i. 44,) great-grandson of Esau; but others place him before Abraham's time. Book of. Considerable dif- ference of opinion has prevail- ed as to the date and author of the book of Job. It is evidently of great antiquity, (probably earlier than the timeof Moses,) and its genuineness appears from Ezek. xiv. 14, and James V. 11. From the whole current of tradition, and from the cha- racter, style, and contents of the book itself, the prevailing opinion is, that the book was written by Job himself, or by one of his contemporaries. It presents some of the, most im- portant evangelical doctrines of the Christian religion, in a very distinct and forcible man- ner. Perhaps no portion of the Holy Scriptures has suffered more by the modern division into chapters, than Job. The following arrangement of the book is prepared by a learned critic, and will be found of JOB great use to the student m preserving the connexion of the subject. L Job's character and trials, ch. i. — iii. II. First series of conversa tions, or controversies, vi^.. Eliphaz's address, iv. v. Job's answer, vi. vii. Bildad's address, viii. Job's answer, ix. x. Zophar's address, xi. Job's answer, xii.— xiv. III. Second series of contro- versy : — Eliphaz's address, xv. Job's answer, xvi. xvii. Bildad's address, xviii. Job's answer, xix. Zophar's address, xx. Job's answer, xxi. IV. Third series of coatro versy : Eliphaz's address, xxij. Job's answer, xxiii. xxiv. Bildad's address, xxv. Job's answer, xxvi.— xxxi. V. Elihu's four speeches to Job, xxxii.— xxxvii. VI. Jehovah's first and second address to Job, xxxviii.— xli. VII. Humiliation of Job, and his final prosperity, xlii. (See Evening Recreations, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. iii. pp. 10-21.) JOCHEBED. (Ex. vi. 20,) the mother of^ Aaron, Moses, and Miriam, was the wife and auntof Amram, and the daugh- ofLevi. (Num. xxvi. 59.) JOEL, PROPHECY OF, is the twenty-nimh book of the Old Testament, and the fifth of the prophetic books in chronolo- gical order. It is supposed to Rave been uttered in the reign of Ahaz, and the author to have been contemporary with Isaiah, between b. c. 810 and 700. It contains a remarkable prediction of the effusion of the Holy Spirit, which is sup- posed to haive been fulfilled on the day of Pentecost The burden of the prophecy of Joel is the dreadful temporal judg- 360 JOH ments which were to come upon the Jews, and which he figuratively describes aa al- ready present. In view of these, the people are exhorted to repent and humble them- selves before God, that they may obtain forgiveness and find grace in the day of his merciful visitation. JOHN, THE BAPTIST. (Matt. iii. 1.) The prophet and fore- runner of our Saviour, and the Eiias of the New Testa- ment. He was the son of Za- charias, the aged priest, and Elisabeth, (Lulce i. 13,) and was born about six months before Christ. His birth and work were predicted by tiie angel Gabriel, (Luke i. 5—15.) and by Isaiah (Isa. xl. 3) and Malachi. (.^lal. iv. 5.) He grew up in solitude ; and, when about thirly years of age, began to preach in the wilderness of Judea, and to call men to re- pentance and reformation. By divine direction, he baptized all who came unto him con- fessing their sins, with the baptism of repentance, (Luke iii. 3;) and many supposed he might be the Christ. (John i. 19—28.) His manner of life was solitary, and even austere ; for he seems to have shunned the habitations of men, and to have subsisted on locusts and wild honey; while his dress ivas made of the coarse hair of camels, and a leathern gir- dle was about his loins. John, moreover, announced to the Jews the near approach of the Messiah's kingdom, called tlie kingdom of heaven. (Matt. iii. 2.) Multitudes flocked to hear him, and to be baptized of him, from every part of the land ; and among the rest came Jesus of Nazareth, and applied for bap- tism. John at first hesitated, on account of the dignity of the person and his own unworthi- ness: but when Jesus told him that il was necessary, John 31 JOH acquiesced; and while this solemn ceremony was in the course of performance, hea« ven was opened, and the Holy (jhost descended on him in the likeness of a dove, and a voice was heard from heaven, say- ing, T/iis is 7ny beloved Soti, in xchom I am well pleased. (Malt. iii. 17.) By this, John knew most certainly that Je- sus of Nazareth was the Mes- siah ; and, indeed, before he saw this sign from heaven, he knew that the Lamb of God wlio takeih away the sin of the world was present, and pointed him out to his own discipips, and announced to the people that he was in their midst. (John i. 26) John was a man of profound humility; and, al- though he foresaw that his fame would be eclipsed by the coming of Christ, as the bright- ness of the morning star is dim- med by the rising of the sun; yet he rejoiced sincerely in the event, saying. He must iti- crease, but I 7>iust decrease. The testimony of John to the divine nature and offices of the Redeemer is full and distinct. (John i. 29; iii. 28-32.) The message he sent by his disci- ples while he was in prison, was for their sakes, and not for his own. (Matt. xi. 1—6.) The preachingof John seems tohave been of a very awakening and alarming kind, and to have produced a lively impression on the minds of his hearers* but with most it was but tem- porary. They rejoiced in hig light for a season. Among the hearers of John was Herod, the tetrarch of Galilee. This wicked prince not only heard him, but heard him with da- light, and reformed his con- duct in many points in conse- quence of his solemn warn- ings, (Mark vi. 20;) but there was one sin which he would not relinquish. He had put away his own wife, and had married 361 JOH Ilerodias, the wife of his bro- ther Philip, he lieing alive. For this iniquity, John faithful- ly reproved the telrarch, by which hewassomuchoflended that he would have killed the preacher, had he not feared an insurrection of the people; for all men held John to be a prophet. (Matt.xiv.o.) He went so far, however, as to shut him up in prison. Theresenlmentof Herodias was still stronger and more implacable towards the man who had dared to reprove her sin. She therefore watched for some opportunity to wreak her vengeance on this excel- lent man. And it was not long before an occasion such as she desired offered itself; for on Herod's birthday, when all the principal men of the country were feasting with him, the daughter of Herodias came in, and danced so gracefidly be- fore the company, that Herod was charmed beyond measure, and declared with an oath that he would give her whatever she asked, even to the half of his kingdom. She immediately went to' her mother, to get her advice what she should ask ; who told her to request the head of John the Baptist,which she accordingly did; and He- rod, whose resentment against him seems to have subsided, was exceedingly sorry; but out of regard to his oath, as he 6aid, and respect for his com- pany, he sent to the prison and caused John to be behead- ed; and his head was brought in a dish and presented to the young dancer, who immediate- ly gave it to her mother. Thus terminated the life of one, con- cerning whom our Lord declar- ed, that of those born of women a greater had not appeared. (Matt. xi. 11.) He also declared, that he was the Elijah predict- ed in the Scriptures; that is, a prophet who greatly resem- bled Elijah, and who came in JOH his power and spirit. John, indee.1, in answer to the ques- tions proposed by the deputa- tion from Jerusalem, asserted that he was not Elijah: but this was spoken in relation to the opinion entertained by the Scribes and Pharisees, that Elijah would come in person. (For a full account of this indi- vidual, with illustrative maps, see John the Baptist, by Aid. S. S. Union.) John's Baptism, (Acts xix. 3, — Baptism of John, Matt. xxi.25,) is in this passage taken for his whole ministry, because this was a prominent branch of it. What the baptism of John was is a subject of con- troversy. The word s of our Sa- viour, recorded in Matt, xxviii. 19, are allowed to be the foun- dation of this ordinance, to be administered in the Christian church ; yet various opinions have teen entertained respect- ing its origin. Whilst some maintain that it was never practised before the mission of John the Baptist, others affirm that we ought to look for its origin amon"gthe ancient cere- moliies of the Jews. We may be allowed to remark, that as the baptism of Christ differed from that of John, at least in the form of expression, so both differed perhaps still more, from the washings which were called baptisms'by the Jews. Some maintain, however, that a ceremony prevailed at ^ho initiation of proselytes intotho Jewish church, which bore a striking resemblance to bap- tism, and which might induce our Saviour to adopt it. If baptism had been altogether unknown to theJews, say they, would they not have contem- plated John's conduct with that astonishment which novel tyal- vvaysexcites'? Whileiheywere so far from expressing any sur- prise, that they spoke of*^ bap- tism as a fam'iliar rite when 362 JOH they said to him, IVfci/ bap- tizest thou, then, if thou art neither Christ nor Elias 7 (John 1. 25.) But it is not diffi- cult to trace the source of their ideas about baptism ; for not only was jMoses commanded to wash Aaron and his sons at their consecration, but no per- son who had contracted cere- monial impurity was admitted into the sanctuary till it was removed by washing; and so of furnilure,&c. (Mark vii.4.) The conduct of Christ, in the insti- tution of the supper, also cor- responds to his conduct on this occasion ; for as the Jews concluded their passover by giving to every person a piece of bread and a cup of wine, so Christ, though he set aside, as the natureol his office required, the rites enjoined by Moses in that ordinance which he had been then commemorating, yet retained the bread and cup added by the Jews. JOHN, THE EVANGELIST, was the son of Zebedee and Salome, and was probably born at Beihsaida, and was a companion of Peter, Andrew, and Philip, who were all of Beihsaida. (Matt. iv. 18. 21.) His parents were probably in comfortable circumstances. (Mark i. 20. John xix. 27.) He was an adherent, and, as some think, a cousin of John the Baptist; and when Christ came, he readily followed him. When they first met, he spent several hours with him, and afterwards obeyej his call. (Matt. iv. 21.) It is supposed that John abode at Jerusalem, and took care of tlie mother of Jesus until her decease, as that was the last request of his Lord and Master. After the death of the apostle Paul, John preached in Asia Minor; and was banished to Fatiilos, in the Egean Sea, where he wrote theRevelat ion. lEev. i, 9.) He returned from JOH his exile, laboured in the gos- pel at Ephesus, and died" at the age of ninety, in the reign of Trajan. Jerome tells us, that when John was too in- firm to converse correctly, he was continually repealing the words, Little children, lots one another; and when asked why he always repeated this sen- tence only, lie replied, " Be- cause it is the commandment of the Lord, and if this is done it is enough." John was, in many respects, the most interesting of the apos- tles in his personal character. Among the earliest disciples of the Lol-d, he was distinguished not only by marks of the pe- culiar regard and confidence of his Master, but by a bold and unwavering attachment to his cause. Antiquity attri- butes to him great loveliness of temper and nigh personal attractions ; traits of character which, connected with his youth and relationship to the Redeem-er, and his constancy of affection, may well account for his being so much beloved. It is supposed by some that he had some prominent defects of natural character, and es- pecially that he was inclined to harshness and selfishness; (Mark ix. 3S ; x. 35. Luke ix. 54. Comp. ]\Iatt. xx. 20.) We know that those sub- lime qualities of love, meek- ness, and humility, which afterwards distinguished him, were the fruits of the Spi rit, by wliich he was rege- nerated and sanctified, and made peculiarly dear to the Redeemer. (John xiii.23; xix. 2G ; XX, 2 ; xxi. 7.) John was of an ardent temperament, as appears by the frequent dis- play of zeal and devotednesa to the cause he had espoused Sometimes, indeed, he was impetuous ; but, on the other hand, we find him foremost iu action and fearless in danger. JOH Hia character is finely con- trasted with that of his bold and forward associate, Peter; for while he who was counted a rock shrunk away from his post and denfed his Master, the amiable John was firm and undaunted ; nor did he forsake his Lord even at the cross, but stood by him, and amid all the violence and dismay of that dreadful hour, received his last message, and bore witness to the minutest events that oc- curred. After the resurrection, John was first, with Peter, in an- nouncing the gospel. His bold and zealous conduct on this occasion is worthy of admira- tion; and to the end of his long life, he was distinguished by "the ardour and affection with which he served his be- loved Lord. (For a full history of John the Evangelist, with illustrative maps and cuts, see Beloved Disciple, by Am. S. S. Union.) JOHN, GOSPEL OF, is the fourth book of the New Testa- ment. It is supposed by many to have been w^ritten about the year 69 ; but there are some powerful reasons to believe that it was written as late as 9^. It was published in Asia. The particular design of it is expressed by the author to be, that those to whom it w'as writ- ten rnieht believe that Jesus is the Christ the Son of God, and that believing they might have life through his name. (John XX. 31.) Hence the sub- iects and discoursesof this book have special relation to our Lord's character and offices, and are evidently intended to establish his nature, authority, and doctrines, as divine. He probably had the other gospels Defore him, or was familiar with their general contents. This fact affords substantial evidence of the genuineness of the'?e writings, and also JOH accounts for the omission of many important occurrences which are particularly stated by the other evangelists. This gospel is divided into twenty -one chapters; and among the leading subjects are:— A plain declaration of tlie Eedeemer's Godhead, (ch. i. 1-5; iv. 14; v. 17,18-23; X. 18. 30 ;) the nature and necessity of regeneration and redemption, (iii. 3—21;) the security of the people of God, ix. ;) the resurrection of the dead, (xi. ;) the descent of the Holy Spirit, (xvi.;) and the blessed relation of Christ and his true disciples, (xvii.) This whole gospel abounds with the most sublime and mysterious truths of our holy religion, expressed with great simplicity, and with the utmost zeal, affection, and veneration for the Divine author and finisher of our faith. (The first and second volumes of Union Questions, by Am. S.S.Union, embrace the gospel by John.) Epistles of, are three in number, and make the twenty- ty-third, twenty-fourth, and twenty-fifth books of the New Testament. The first has al- ways been attributed to John, though his name is neither prefixed nor subscribed. It has been supposed to be intro- ductory, or a kind of dedication of the gospel. It was written not far from a. d. 70. Some have assigned to all three of these epistles a date as late as A. D. % or 97. It is addressed to Christians generally, and might more properly be called a discourse or treatise, though some have thought it was de- signed particularly for the church at Ephesus. The lead- ing objects of it are, to establish Clirisiians in the faith of those things to which the author and his fellow-labourers had test! fied as eye-witnesses, and to instruct them in the mysteries 364 JOH of redeeming love, anu in the principles and duties which the religion of Christ enjoins, and to Uirnish them with cer- tain signsjor criteria,hj which to determine the genuineness of their faith. The second epistle is ad- dressed to the elect (excel- lent, eminent, &c.) ladf/ and her children. The elect lady is supposed to have been some honourable woman, distin- guished for piety, and well known in the churches as a disciple of Christ. Some, how- ever, have thought some parii- cular church and its members might be denoted. Those who adopt tlie latier opinion apply the term to the church at Jeru- salem, and the term elect sister (v. 13) to the church at Ephe- sus. These conjectures, how- ever, have generally yielded to the more natural conclusion that some eminently hospita- ble and pious woman and her sister, of lihe spirit, are de- noted. The title o( elder, which the author assumes, was proba- bly one of honourable distinc- tion in the primitive church, and indicative of the apostle's office or of his great age ; then not far from one hundred years, as it is supposed. The sub- stance of this letter is an ex- hortation to continual obedi- ence, and an admonition against deceivers, especially against a new form of error, that Christ was a man in ap- pearance only, and not in re- ality, and therefore his suffer- ings and death were not real. P^' Tlie third epistle, which is addressed to Gains, or Caius, a private individual, and is com- mendatory of his piety, was written about the same time with the others. There are at least five cersons of this name mentioned in the Scriptures, but nothing is now known of their respective residence, nor of the other persons to whom 31* JOK allusion is made in the course of this short letter. JOHN, {suniamed, or called also, MAUK,) (Acts xii. 12,) was a nephew cr, some think, a cousin of Barnabas, (Col. iv. 10,) and is often mentioned as the companion of the apostles. (Acts xii. 25; xv. 39. 2 Tim. iv. 11. Philem. 24.) His mother was the Mary at whose house the apostles and first Christians usually met. (Acts xii. 12—16.) The same name (Marcus) is applied (1 Pet. v. 13) to an individual who is called by that apostle his son, (in the Lord.) It is doubtful by which of the^e persons the gospel (by T>Iark) was written, if, indeed, it was written by either. Many modern critics of deserved ce- lebrity consider all these pas- sages as relating to one and the same individual, and that to be the evangelist Mark. JOKNEAM "(Josh. xii. 22) was a city of Zebulon. (Josh, xxi. 34.) It was situated south of Ptolemais, near the bay, and is called of Carmel, because it was at the foot of that moun- tain. JOKTHEEL. (2 Kings xiv. 7.) The name given by Ama- ziah to Selah, or the modera Petra. It was the capital of Idumea, and one of the most magnificent of the ancient ci- ties. It was situated near the base of mount Hor, about three days' journey from Jericho,and the same distance from mount Sinai; and must be regarded as the most singular spot in all Arabia, perhaps in the whole eastern world. Its remarkable character and history, which have been but recently dis- closed, ai d its close connexion with prophecy, require a more extended article than would otherwise be siven to it. " This city "appears to have been coeval with the birth of commerce ; and there is indu- bitable evidence that it was 365 JOK a flouris'ijng emporium seven- teen centuries before the Chris- tian era. It was the point to which all the tratle of northern Arabia originally tended; and where the first merchants of the earth stored the precious commodities of the east. "With the decline and fall of the Roman power in the east, the name of Petra almost vanishes from the page of his- ory. About the period of the crusades, it was held in such esteem by the sultans of Egypt, •)n account of its great strength, that they made It the deposi- tory of their choicest treasures; and, in the course of these reli- gious wars, its possession was strenuously contested by the Turlis and Christians, who re- garded it as the key that open- ed the gates of Palestine. From that time it was known only as the seat of a Latin bishop. Its once crowded marts ceased to be the emporium of nations. The obscurity of nearly a thou- sand years covered its ruins. The very place where it stood became a subject of contro- versy. " The accounts of recent tra- vellers, who have discovered the ruins of this great city, tell MS of the utter desolation which now reigns over those once celebrated regions, described by an inspired" pen as the fat- ness of the earth. It is scarcely possible, they say, to imagine now a wilderness so dreary and desolate could ever have been adorned with walled cities, or inhabited for ages by a powerful and opulent people. Tne aspect of the surrounding country is singularly wild and fantastic. On one side stretches an immense desert of shifting sands, whose surface is covered with black flints, and broken by hillocks into innumeraljle undulations ; on the other are rugged and insulated preci- pices, among which rises JOK mount Hor, with its dark sum- mits, and near it lies the an- cient Petra, in a plain or hollow of unequal surface, (Wady Mousa,) enclosed on all sides with a vast amphi- theatre of rocks. " The entrance to this cele- brated metropolis is from the east, through a deep ravine called El Syk; and it is not easy to conceive any thing more awful or sublime than such an approach. The width in general is not more than sufficient for the passage of two horsemen abreast ; through the bottom winds the stream that watered the city. As this rivulet must have been of great importance to the inhabitants, they seem to have bestowed much pains in protecting and regulating its course. The channel ap- pears to have been covered by a stone pavement, vestiges of which still remain ; and,'in se- veral places, walls were con- structed to give the current a proper direction, and prevent It from running to waste. Se- veral grooves or beds branched ofF as the river descended, in order to convey a supply to the gardens and higher parts of the city. On either hand of the ravine rises a wall of per- pendicular rocks, varying Irom four hundred to seven hundred feet in height, which often overhang to s'uch a degree that, without their absolutely meet- ing, the sky is intercepted; scarcely leaving more light than in a cavern, for a hun dred yards together. The sides of this romantic chasm, fron: which several small stream- lets issue, are clothed with the tamarisk, the wild fig, the ole- ander, and the caper plant, which sometimes hang down from the clitfs and crevices in beautiful festoons, or grow about the path with a luxuri ance that almost ol)Structs the JOK passage. Near the entrance of the pass a bold arch is thrown across it at a great height. Whether this was the fragment of an aqueduct, or part of a road formerly con- necting the opposite clitfs, the travellers had no opportunity of examining ; but its appear- ance, as they passed under it, was terrific ; hanging over their heads between two rug- ged masses, apparently inac- cessible. Without changing much its general direction, this naturafdefile presents so many windings in its course, that the eye sometimes cannot penetrate beyond a few paces forward, and is often puzzled to distinguish in what direction the passage will open. For nearly two miles its sides con- tinue to increase in height as the path descends. The soli- tude is disturbed by the in- cessant screaming of eagles, hawks, owls, and ravens, soar- ing above in considerable numbers ; apparently amazed at strangers invading their lonely habitation. At every Btep the scenery discovers new and mo eremarlcable features; a stronger light begins to break through the" sombre perspec- tive ;\mtil at length the ruins of the city burst on the view of the astonished traveller in their full grandeur; shut in on every side by barren, cracrgy precipices, from which nume- rous recesses and narrow valleys branch out in all directions. " The entire face of the clitfs and sides of the moun- tains are covered with an endless variety of excavated tombs, private dwellings, and public buildings; presenting altogether a spe^ctacle to which nothing perhaps is analogous in any other part of the world. • It is impossible,' says a travel- ler, ' to give the reader an idea of the singular efifecl of rocks JOK tinted with the most extraordi- nary hues, whose summits pre- sent nature in her most savage and romantic form ; while their bases are worked out in all the symmetry and regularity of an, with colonnades, and pediments, and ranges of corri- dors, adhering to the perpen- dicular surface.' The inner and wider extremity of the circuitous defile by which the city is approached is sculptur- ed and excavated in a singular manner; and these become more frequent on both sides, until at last it has the appear- ance of a continued street of tombs. " About, half-way through there is a single spot, abrupt and precipitous, where the area of this natural chasm spreads a little, and sweeps into an irregular circle. This had been chosen for the site of the most elaborate, if not the most extensive, of all these architectural monuments. The natives gave it the name of Kazr Faraoun, the castle or palace of Pharaoh, though it resembled more the sepulchre than the residence of a prince On its summit was placed a large vase, once furnished apparently with handles of metal, and supposed by the Arabs to be filled with coins; hence they denominated this mysterious' urn the Treasury of Pharaoh. Its height anil position have most probably baffled every approach of ava- rice or curiosity; from above it is rendered as inaccessible by the bold projection of the rough rocks, as it is from below by the smoothness of the po- lished surface. The front of the mausoleum itself risps in seve- ral stories to the height of sixty or seventy feet; ornamented with columns.rich friezes.pedi- ments, and large figures ol horses and men-^" The interior consists of a chamber sixteen 367 JOK paces square and about twen- ty-five feet high ; the walls and roof are quite smooth, and without the smallest deco- ration. The surprising effect of the whole is heightened by the situation and the strangeness of the approach. Half seen at first through the dim and nar- row opening, columns, statues, and cornices gradually appear as if fresh from the chisel, without the tints or weaiher- stains of age, and executed in stone of a pale rose colour. This splendid architectural elevation has been so con- trived that a statue, perhaps of Victory, with expanded wings, just fills the centre of tne aperture in front, which, being closed below by the ledges of the rocks folding over each other, gives to the figure the appearance of being sus- pended in the air at a consi- derable height ; the ruggedness of the cliffs'beneath setting off the sculpture to the greatest advantage. No part of this stupendous temple is built, the whole being hewn from the solid rock; and its minutest embellishments, wherever the hand of man has not purposely effaced them, are so perfect, that it may be doubted whe- ther any work of the ancients, except perhaps some on the banks of the Nile, has survived with so little injury from the lapse of time. There is scarce- ly a building in England of forty years' standing so fresh and well preserved in its architectural decorations as the Kazr Faraoun, which Burckhardt represents as one of the most elegant remains of antiquity he had found in Syria. "The ruins of the city itself open on the view with singu- lar effect, after winding two or Inree miles through the dark ravine. Tombs present them- selves not only fn every ave- JOK nue within it, and on every precipice that surrounds it, but even intermixed almost pro- miscuously with its public and domestic edifices ; so that Petra has been truly denominated one vast necropolis, or cittj of the dead. It contains above two hundred and fifty sepul- clires, which are occasionally excavated in tiers, one above the other ; and in places where the side of the cliff is so per- pendicular that it seems im- possible to approach the upper- most,no access whatever being visible. There are besides nu- merous mausoleums of colossal dimensions, and in a state of wonderful preservation. Near the west end of the wady are the remains of a stately edifice, the Kazr Benit Faraoun, or palace of Pharaoh's daughter, of which only a part of the wall is left standing. Towards the middle of the valley, on the south side, are two large truncated pyramids, and a theatre, with complete rows of benches, capable of contain- ing above 3000 spectators, all cut out of the solid rock. The ground is covered with heaps of hewn stones, foundations of buildings, fragments of pil- lars, and "vestiges of paved streets,— the sad memorials of departed greatness. On the left bank of the river is a rising ground, extending west- ward' for about three-quarters of a mile, entirely strewn with similar relics. On the right bank, where the ground is more elevated, ruins of the same description are to be seen. In the eastern cliff there are upwards of fifty separate sepulchres close to each other. There are also the remains of a palace and several tern pies ; grottoes in vast numbers, not sepulchral; niches, some- times excavated to the height of thirty feet, with altars foi votive offerings, or with pyra* JOK mids, columns, and obelisks; horizontal grooves, for the con- veyance of water, cut along the face of the rock, and even across the architectural parts of some of the excavations; dwellings scooped out, of large dimensions, in one of which is a single chamber sixty feet in length and of a proportional breadth ; many other habita- tions of inferior note, particu- larly numerous in one recess of the city, the steep sides of which contain a sort of exca- vated suburb, accessible only by flights of steps chiselled out of the rock. In short, the outer surface of the strong girdle that encircles the place is hollowed out into innumerable artificial chambers of different dimen- eions, whose entrances are va- riously, richly, and often fan- tastically decorated with every order of architecture; showing how the pride and labour of art has tried to vie with the Bublimii.y of nature. The effect of the whole in heightened by the appearance of mount Hor, lowering above this city of sepulchres, and perforated al- most to the top with natural caverns and excavations for the dead. " The immense number of these stupendous ruins corro- borates the accounts given, both by sacred and profane writers, of the kings of Pelra, their courtly grandeur, and their ancient and long con- tinued royally. Great must have been the opulence of a capital that could dedicate such monuments to the me- mory of its rulers. Its magni- f.cence can only be explained by a reference to the immense trade of which it was the com- mon centre from the dawn of civilization. " These magnificent remains can now be regarded only as the grave of Idumea, in which its former wealtli and splen- JON dour lie interred. The state of desolation into which it haa long fallen is not only the work of time but the ful- filment of prophecy, which foretold that wisdom and un- derstanding should perish out of mount Seir; that Edom should be a wilderness; us cities a perpetual waste, the abode of every unclean beast. (Isa. xxxiv. 5. 10. 17.) Nowhere is there a more striking and visible demonstration of the tnuh of these divine predic- tions than among the fallen columns and deserted palaces of Petra. The dwellers in the clefts of the rocks are brought low ; the princes of Edom are as nothing; its eigliteen cities are swept away, o~r reduced to empty chambers and naked walls; and the territory of the descendants of Esau affords as miraculous a proof of the inspi- ration of Scripture history aa the fate of the children of Israel." JONADAB. (See Rechab- ITES) JONAH, (2 Kings xiv. 25,) or JONAS, (Matt. xii. 39,40,) was the son of Amit:ai,and was born at Gath-hepher. The only his- tory we have of him is given us in connexion with iiis pro- phecy. It seems he was com- missioned by Gud to go to the great city of Nineveh, and reprove the people for their abominable iniquities. Instead of doing this, he fled in the opposite direction to Joppa, and thence sailed for Tarshish. On the voyage they were over- takenbya violent storm,vvhich threatened their destruction. They lightened the ship by throwing overpartof the cargo, and betook themselves to pray- er. Jonah was asleep ; but the captain awoke him, and be- sought him to intercede for their deliverance. Under the superstitious (though in this case correct) impression that 369 JON such calamities were to be regarded as tiie visitation of God upon one or more particu- lar indiviiluals, and that the lot would determine who they were, they cast lots to see on whose account tlie present judgment was sent. The re- sult of the lot sliowed that Jonah was the ill-fated man. They earnestly begged him to tell them all his history, and what he had done to bring this distress upon the ship." He gave them a history of himself, and why he had taken the voyage. And upon thfir in- quiring what they should do with him to rid the ship of his presence, and so save them- selves from destruction on his account, he proposed that they should throw him overboard. This they were very reluctant to do, and made all possible eifort to bring the sliip to land, but in vain. And so, afier solemnly appealing to God for their justification In the act, they cast the prophet over- board ; and then the storm ceased, and they were deliver- ed from their danger. God had provided means, however, for the prophet's pre- servation. He was swallowed by a fish, within whose body he remained for three days and three nighls, when he was thrown forth'upon the shore. However extraordinary this event may appear, it is cer- tainly not more exlraonlinary nor more contrary to all hu- man experience and reason, than the events recorded in Matt. xiv. 25, and xvii. 27. They are all alike the result of Omnipotence. The supposi- tion that a boat is intended by the belly or bowels of the fish, (Jonah i. 17,) is entirely gratu- itous, and utterly inconsistent with the account which Jonah gives us : llie waters compass- ed me about, even to the soul : the depth closed me round JON about the weeds were wrapped abotd my head. I icent down to the bottoiyis of the mouri' tains ; the earth with her bars icas about me for ever: yet hast thou brought up my life frmn corrupliuii, O Lord my God. (Jonah ii. 5, 6.) Of what conveyance would these ex- pressions be used, unless such a one as some monster of the deep might afford 1 The par- ticular species of fish is not stated in the sacred history; and though in a reference to the event recorded, (Matt. xii. 40.) a whale is mentioned, the original word there translated w/iale signifies any large fish. After the fish had thrown him out upon ihesliore,he was again directed to carry the message of the Lord to Nineveh ; and he went and proclaimed the purpose of God to destroy that mighty city in forty days. His prediction was believed; and the whole people, of every class and age, clothed themselves in sackcloth, and devoted them selvestoactsof penitence. Man and beast, herd and flock, ab- stained from food and drink, until God was pleased to sus pend the threatened judgment. This was very irritating to Jo nah, who was afraid he should be regarded and treated as a false prophet ; and indeed this was the very reason of his attempted flight to Tarshish. (Jonah iv. 2.) He was so much disappointed and vexed as to pray that God would take away his life; but God reproved his inhumanity liy a eignifican; miracle, and showed him the unreasonableness of his com- plaints,though with what effect we are not told. This incident in the life of Jonah was alluded to by our Saviour in a conversation with the scribesand Pharisees, (Mat. xii. 39—41,) in which he signi- fies to them that he should Id like manner be three days and 370 I JON .hree nishts in the heart or bowels of the earth. Of course whatever credit was or should have been given by the Nine- vites to the preaching of Jonas, on the ground of his having been three days and three nights in the bowels of a fish, and having then been thrown out alive oh the land, the like credit should the Jews give him, as he would in like man- ner be three days and three nights in the earth, and would then rise alive. If the Nine- vites repented at the preaching of Jonas, whose divine com- mission was attested by this sign, viz. his deliverance from the body of the fish; how great mtist be the condemna- tion of the Jews if they repent- ed not at the preaching of Christ, (so much greater than Jonas,) whose divine commis- sion was attested by a much greater sign, viz. his resurrec- tion from the dead. Jonah, prophecy of, is the thirty-second book of the Old Testament, and the ninth in the chronological order of the prophecies. The time at which it was uttered is uncer- tain. His prophecy respecting Jeroboam (2Kings xiv. 25) is not extant, but is supposed to have been uttered in the reign of Jehoahaz, the grandfather of Jeroboam. (Comp. 2Kings xiii. 3—7 with 2 Kings xiv. 26.) So that though he misrhi be contemporary with Hosea, Amos, and Isaiah, he must have prophesied at an earlier period than thai at which either of the prophecies now extant was uttered. We are safe perhaps in placing it be- tween B. c. 8.56 and 784. It respects the destruction of the city of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian empire, which (iod threatened, unless they would repent and turn to him ; and it is at once a wonderful record of God's long-suiTer- JOP ing and forbearance, and an abundant proof that he has no pleasure in the death of the wicked. JONATHAN (1 Sam. xiv. 1) was the son of Saul, and distin- guished for piety and valour. He and his armour-hearer, being encouraged by an intimation from God, attacked a Philis- tine garrison,slew twenty men, and put the garrison to flight. Having ignorantly violated a decree of his father, (ihe king,) that no man should stop, on pain of death, in the pursuit of the enemy, to taste of food, the people " interposed and saved him from the penalty which his father was ready to inflict. (1 Sam. xiv. 37—15.) After David's defeat of the giant, Jonathan became ac- quainted with him, and their friendship fur each other was so remarkable as to be minute ly described by the sacred his- torian. (1 Sam.xviii.1-4; xix. 2.) The opportunity to show their friendship for each other was greatly extended by the bitter and relentless hostility of Saul to David. (1 Sam. xix. XX., &c.) Jonathan fell with his father and two brothers in the battle of Gilboa. The la- mentation of David for his friend (2 Sam. i. 17—27) is just- ly regarded as inimitably pa- thetic and beautiful; and his treatment of Meph i bosh eth , Jo- nalhan's son, shows the sin- cerity and strength of his aflfection for the father. (2 Sam. ix.) JOPPA, (Greek, 2Chron. ii. 16,) or JAPHO, {Hebrew, io9h. xix. 46,) or JAFFA or YAFFA, as it is now called, is one of the oldest towns of Asia, situ- ated on a sandy promontory, jutting out from the eastern coast of the ftlediterranean, between Cesarea and Gaza, and thirty or forty milfis north- west of Jerusalem. Three of its sides are Vtashed by the 371 JOR sea. It was, and still is, the principal seaporl of the land of Judea, and of course of ereat commercial importance, (2 Chron. ii. 16. Ezra iii. 7. Jonah i. 3 ;) but its harbour is bad, and ships generally an- chor a mile from the town. Several interesting incidents in Peter's life occurred here. (Acts ix. and x.) It was also a prominent place in the history of the crusaders, and ia the Egyptian campaign of Bonaparte. The modern city is surrounded by a wall twelve or fourteen feet high, and contains from 4000 to 5000 inhabitants, chiefly Turks and Arabs, and perhaps six hun- dred nominal Christians. Messrs. Fisk and King, Ame- rican missionarieSjlodged there in the spring of 1823, and in the house occupied by the Bri- tish vice-consul, which stands on or near the spot where tra- dition says Simon the tanner lived. (Acts ix. 43. See Selu- MiEL, pp. 15, 16, by Am. S. S. Union.) JORAM. (2Kin2Sviii.l6,)or JEHOKAM, (2 Kings iii. I,) successor to Ahaziah, king of Israel, was the second son of Ahab. Though he put away the worship of Baal, he was still a very wicked king. (2Kingsiii.3.) After the death of Ahab, the king of Moab re- fused to pay the annual tribute to the king of Israel, which he had been 'accustomed to pay ; and Joram determined for this cause to wage war with him. He secured the aid of Jehoshaphat king of Judah, and they went up through Edom, whose king also joined the expedition. After seven days' march, they found themselves likely to be cut oft' by a severe drought. In this extremhy, they be- sought the help of Elisha the prophet, who had followed the army, (probably under a divine influence.) Elisha at first re- JOR ferred him to the gods of Ahab, his father, and his mother, Je zebel, for succour; but finally, for the sake of Jehoshaphat, he consented to interpose for their relief, and received a command from God to make the valley full of ditches This was done, and then, without wind or rain, at a particular hour of the next morning, water came, not from the springs, into which they dug, but from Edom, and sui> plied the army and the country with an abundance of water. (2 Kings iii. 20. Comp. Ex. xvii. 5, 6.) The Moabites had in the meantime assembled their forces, and were ready for bat- tle on the border of their land, when they saw the streams of water at a distance, appa- rently red as blood. This appearance might have been occasioned by the reflection of the sun's rays, or perhaps by the soil through which the water flowed. At any rate, the Moabites flattered themselves that the army of Israel and its allies had fallen out by the way, and had fought a despe- rate battle among themselves. Encouraged by this conjecture, they hastened to fall on them ; but when they came to the camp of Israel, they were met by the full strength of the allied army, and were defeated with great slaughter. The king of Moab tried to the utmost to rally his forces, but did not succeed; and his kingdom was completely desolated by the enemy. Joram was at last wounded at the siege of Ramoth-gilead, and was lying ill at 'ezreel. Jehu being sent thither as an instrument of God's vengeance upon the wicked house of Ahab, Joram went out to meet him, and was shot dead in his cha- riot, and his body was thrown out into the field of Nabotb 372 JOR the Jezreeliie, according to the prediction. (1 Kings xxi. 18— 29. For ail inieresiing sketch of the life of Joram, see Life OF Elisha, ch. iii., by Am. S.S. Usion.) JORDAN, 1. River, (Josh. i. 11,) someiinies called simply THE RIVER, (Gen. xxxi. 21,) was the eastern boundary of Judea. Tlie name Jordan \3 compounded ofJor, or Yar,and Dan, (the riverof Dan,) because its rise was in the vicinity of Dan. It rises at the fool of mount Lebanon, in the little lake Piiiala, and, having run southerly, under ground, some miles, to Cesarea Philippi, it creaks out, and, receiving two or three considerable streams, it passes on fifteen miles far- ther south, where it expands into the marshy lake Merom, now Houle, (see Mekom ;) a flhort distance south of which is a stone bridge, called the bridge of the sons of Jacob, in allusion toGen.xxxii. 10. After running about twelve miles from lake Merom, the Jordan passes through the midst of the sea of Tiberias, in a current by itself, and thence onward to the Dead Sea, into which it emp- ties. It probably continued its course to the Red Sea, through the valleys of mount Seir, until it was checked by the convul- sions attending the overthrow of Sodom and" Gomorrah, and the filling up of the valley with sand, &c. The whole course of the river is computed at one hundred and fifty or one hundred and sixty miles, but in a direct line does not exceed ninety or one hundred miles. The ordinary breadth of the Jordan, opposite Jericho, and near where the Israelites are supposed to have crossed, 13 said by travellers to be sixty feet, about six or seven feet deep, and with a current so strong as to be resisted with great difficulty. It has, how- 32 JOR ever, two banks o i each side The first, or inner one, is that of the river in its natural state and the second, or outer one, about the eighth of a mile dis- tant, is its bank when it over- flows. This overflowing is oc- casioned by the melting of the snow on Lebanon and Hermon, in March and April, which was the timeof the Jewish harvest. (Josh. iii. 15. 1 Chron. xii. 15.) It was at this season when the Jordan was at its height, that the passage of the Israelites took place ; and hence the miracle, on that occasion, was the more stupendous. At the point of their passage, the pilgrims now collect "for the purpose of bathing. The an- nual procession for this purpose takes place soon after Easter. Multitudes of pilgrims, under the protection of the governor of Jerusalem and his guards, visit this spot, plunge into the stream, and, taking a bottle of water with them, return to Jerusalem. For this privilege, each pilgrim pays a tax to the Turkish government. Where the Jordan leaves the sea of Tiberias, (near the ruins of Tarichea,) it is one hundred and twenty feet across, but fordable by horses; and its course for several miles is through a deep, rich valley, shaded with thick groves, which, from its beauty and feniliiy, is called l/ie pride of Jordan. (Zech.xi.3.) The Jor- dan is said to be the only river of Judea that continues to flow the year round. The space between the natural bank and the freshet mark is marshy, and abounds with tall grass, reeds, willows, and shrubs, af- fording hiding places for wild beasts ; whence they were dri- ven by the rising of the waters (called the sicelling tf Jordan, Jer. xlix. 19; 1. 44,) to seek food for their famishing bodies. Hence the allusion of Jeremi- 373 JOS ah, above cited. There were several fording places in the river ; one of which {the fords of Jordan) was seized by Ehud to intercept the Moab- ites. (Judg. iii. 28.) The vafley of the Jordan is from four to six (and some say ten) miles wide, and the ave- rage breadth of the current, as given by different travellers, varies from sixty to one hun- dred feet. It is, however, very rapid, and roils a vast body of water into the Dead Sea. The waters of the Jordan are turbid, but when drawn o:f become clear and bright, pleasant to the taste, and^re- niarkable for the length of lime during which they will retain their freshness. 2. The plain op Jordan, (2Chron. iv. 17,) or the region BOUND ABOUT JORDAN, (Malt. iii. 5,) or the plain south of CiNNEROTH, (Josh. xi. 2,) or simply THE PLAIN, (2 Kings XXV. 4,) is, strictly speaking, so much of the country as bor- ders on the Jordan, between Tiberias and the Dead Sea. The modern name of the lower portion of this valley is El Ghor. The first of the above names was sometimes applied to ibe whole extent of country watered by the Jordan, from the foot of Lei lanon to the wil derness of Paran. For the most part, this place is a barren waste, hoi and un- ■wholesome, inhabited only by Bedouins, and by them only in the cold season. (See PJven- iNG Recreations, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. ii. pp. 17—23.) JOSEPH, (Gen. xxx.24,) son of Jacob and Rachel, was born in Mesopotamia, a. m. 2256. He and his brother Benjamin were the children of Jacob's old age; and his fondness for Joseph particularly seems to have been the source of much of his trouble. When Joseph was about se- JOS venteen years of age, he gave offence to his brethren, and was cruelly sold by mem to a com.pany of trading Ishma- elites, who carried him into Egypt, where he became the property of Potiphar, captain of the royal guard. Perceiving that the young man had extra- ordinary wisdom and purity- of character, and that his pre- sence brought with it a bless- ing upon the whole household. Potiphar at once advanced Joseph to the highest trust. In this situation, he was falsely charged by Potiphar's wife with the grossest offence, and was for this cause cast into prison. Here again ho won the confidence of all around him by his upright and amia- ble conduct, and'was entrusted with the principal care of the other prisoners. Among those confined with Joseph were two persons who had held the offices of but- ler and baker in the king's household, and who for some offence against the king, were cast into prison. These two men had each a remarkable dream, which Joseph inter- preted to mean that the but- ler should be restored to his place in the court, and the baker should be hung. And the event was according to this interpretation. Two years after this, Pharaoh had a significant dream, and after trying in vain to obtain an interpretation of it from the magicians and wise men of Egypt, the butler told him of Joseph, and related what had taken place in prison. Joseph was immediately sent for ; and after hearing the dream, in- terpreted it to signify the approach of a seven years' famine immediately succeed- ing the same period of plenty, and, at the same time, he re commended to the king th« appointmeal of a suitable per 374 JOS ion to make provision for the season of want, by laying by ono fifth of the annual pro- duce of the lind during the season of plenty. The sugges- tion was adopted, and Joseph was forthwith api^oinled to this important and responsible post, and so became, at thirty years of aue, second only to the king in dignity and au- thority. " He also married tlie daughter of one of the priests or princes of Eeypl, and had two children, Manasseh and Ephraim. When the seven years of famine came, it spread dis- tress through all the countries around Egypt, in which no provision had been made; and among them was the land of Canaan, where Joseph's father and brethren still lived. It was soon known abroad that provi- sions were to be had in Egypt, and ten of Jacob's sons went down thither to obtain a sup- ply, leavingBenjamin at home, ashis father feared some mis- chief might befall him if he should go with them. It was necessary for appli- cants to appear personally be- fore the governor and procure an order ] and so the sons of Ja- cob went in before Joseph and made known their errand. In- stead of receiving the expected order, they were charged with being spies, and with" having come thither for an evil pur- pose. This they denied, de- claring briefly the history of the family, and the honesty of their purpose. After a series of expedients which were de- signed to awaken their con- sciences and lead tSiem to re- pent of their sin, J>seph dis- closed himself to his brethren, and immediately made the most liberal arrangements for the removal of his aged father and the whole family to Egypt, and their comfortable settle- JOS ment in a province by them- selves. Joseph's political forecast and integrity were displayed when, in the sixth year of the fam.ine, the Egyptians were obliged to sell their lands, and even themselves, to pay for the corn they bou-rht. (Gen. xlvii. 1— ii.) At the death of Jacob, seven teen years after his removal to Egypt, Joseph was present and 'received the patriarch's prophetic blessing. (Gen. xlix. 22 — 26.) His treatment of his brethren after their father died illustrates his kindness and generosity. (Gen. 1. 15—21.) Fifty-four years passed away, and he already saw his poste- rity to the third and fourth generation. When at the age of one hundred and ten years, he died, leaving it in charge with his countrymen to take his bones with them, when they should leave Egypt ; an event of which he doubtless had divine intimation. (See Jacob, Hebrews. See also for maps and other illustra- tions in great variety, Life op Jacob and his son Joseph, by Am. S. S. Union.) 2. Joseph of Arimathea. (Matt.xxvii.57.59.) A wealthy citizen, probably residing in the vicinity of Jerusalem, and a man of eminent wisdom and piety. (Mark xv. 43. Luke xxiii. 51.) He was a disci- ple of Christ, though he did not appear openly as such. (John xix. 3S.) It is said that the Jews, as a mark of ignominy, did not allow the bodies of those exe- cuted as malefactors to be de- posited in the tombs of their fathers, except the flesh had been previously consumed. It was to prevent this use of the body of Christ, that Joseph so early asked leave to remove it and place it in his own tomb 375 JOS 3. (Matt. i. IS.) The husband of Mary, the mother of Christ, was by occupation a carpen- ter, (Matt xiii. 5.5 ;) at which trade some have supposed (though without warrant) our Lord himseif laboured until he entered on his public ministry. (Mark vi. 3.) Joseph is called ajust man, (INlait. i. 19 ;) which, in this con- jQexion, may imply his kind- ness and tenderness, as well as his integrity, which is its usual import. He was inform- ed by an angel that Mary was to be the rnother of the pro- mised Messiah,and had accom- panied her to Bethlehem to be registered in the lax-books, according to the law of the country, when Christ was born. When the babe was forty days old, Joseph and his wife went with him to Jerusalem, in ob- servance of the law of Mo- ses, and when about return- ing home to Bethlehem, he was divinely admonished to go into Egypt, for Herod the king was resolved to destroy the infant Redeemer, if he could get him into his power. After the death of Herod, they set out again for home ; but appre- hensive that the kind's suc- cessor, Archelaus, might be equally cruel, they thought it safer to go ijito Galilee ; and they took up their abode at Nazareth. When Jesus was twelve years of age, Joseph and Mary look him with them when they went up to Jerusa- lem to celebrate the feast of the passo ver ; and afier that we find nothing more of Joseph in the sacred history. It is generally supposed he died before Christ began his public ministry, as he is not mention- ed with JMary, and as Christ commended her to the care of one of the disciples. (John xix. 25—27.) JOSES (Mark xv. 40) was the sen of Alpheus, or Cleo- JOS pas as he is called, John xix 25, and brother of James the less. (See James.) JOSHUA (Josh. i. 1) was the son of Nun. and is called the riiinister of Moses (Ex. xxiv.13) from the lact that he assisted him in the execution of his office. The original name was Oshea, (Num. xiii. 8;) and he is also called Hoshea. (Deut. xxxii. 44.) Joshua is a con- traction of Jehoshua. (Num. xiii. 16;) and Jeshra. or Jesus, is the Greek mode of writing Joshua, as in Acts vii. 45, and Heb. iv. S ; in which passages, the Hebrew word Joshua ou^ht to have been re- tained. Joshua is introduced to us at the lime the Israelites were about to contend with the Amalekites at Rephidim. He was appointed by Moses to command the forces of Israel on that occasion. (Ex. xvii.9.) He was then about forty-four years of age, though considered a young man. (Ex. xxxiii. 11.) In prospect of the death of B'loses, Joshua was set apart to succeed him, as the leader and deliverer of God's chosen peo- ple. (Num.xxvii.16— 18. Deut. xxxi. 7—14; xxxiv. 9.) And at the age of eighiy-fuur, (a. m. 2553,) he passed over the Jor- dan, at the head of the hosts of Israel, and entered the land of promise. Then commenced a series of wars with the Ca- naanites, in which Joshua and the people of Israel were mere- ly the instruments of God's righteous judgments on thase wicked nations, the cup of whose iniquity was now com- pletely full, and whose impi- ous and abominable deeds loudly cried to heaven for di- vine ven.geance. Jericho, the city nearest to them, and the one first attacked, was sub- dued without a contest. It was expressly forbidden to the Is- raelites to touch the spoil of this oily ; for it was utterly 376 JOS devoted to destruction, with all its wealth. But Achan coveted and took part of the spoil, and concealed it in his tent. In consequence of this act, the host of Israel were unsuccessful in their first at- tempt on Ai, and great distress and discouragement seized the whole multitude; and even Jo- shua lay all night upon the ground in mourning and sup- plication, for now the Israel- ites, being once repulsed with loss, appeared no longer to be invincible. (Josh. viiTG.) The crime of Achan was brought to light by recourse to the lot, and he and all his family suf- fered an exemplary punish- ment. (See Achan.) The (jibeouites, who lived near, fearing that destruction was at hand, made use of a stralajem to preserve their lives and their city. They sent messengers to Joshua, who were to pretend that they came from a very remote people; and to confirm their story, they showed that their bread was mouldy ; their wine bottles of skin, old and patched ; and their shoes and garments very much worn. On this occasion, Joshua neglected to apply to the Lord for direction; and, deceived by the false appear- ances above mentioned, en- tered into a solemn league with the Gibeoniies, which, although obtained by fraud, he did not think it expedient to break. The other cities of Canaan, with their kin^s, now entered into a formidable com- bination utterly to destroy the Gibeonites, because they had made peace with Joshua ; and a mighty army, led on by many kings, were actually drawing near to Gibeah, when they, in all haste, sent messengers to Joshua to come instantly to their relief. He did not delay to comply; and marched all night, as well as day, and im- 32* JOS. mediately attacked and de- feated this mighty arrny ; and the day not bei'ng sufficient for the pursuit and destruction of the Canaanites, Joshua com- manded the sun and moon to stand still, which they did for the period of one whole day, by which means he was able utterly to destroy those whom God had devoted to death. This was indeed a stupendous miracle, but required only the power that creates the hea- venly bodies, and maintains them in their orbits. (Josh, ix. X.) Joshua was employed about sixteen years in the conquest of Canaan ; after which, the men of war belonging to the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, were permitted to return to their families, and to the inherit- ance which Moses had given them on the other side oY Jor- dan, where the land of the Amorites had been, at their own request, assigned to them. (Josh, xxii.) OT those who came out of Egypt in adult age not one survived to enter Canaan, but Joshua and Caleb, according to the word of the Lord. "When the war was termi- nated, Joshua lived in retire- ment and peace, in a posses- sion which the children of Israel assigned him in Tim- nath-serah, of mount Ephraim. (Josh. xix. 50.) When he found that his end was approaching, he assembled the Israelites, rehearsed to them the history of the providence of God to- wards them, and finally put it to them to choose that day, whether or not they would serve the Lord, professing his full purpose to continue in the service of God as long as he lived. (Josh, xxiv, 15.) Joshua died at the age of one hun- dred and ten years, (Josh. xxiv. 29;) having been a witness of 377 JOS more of the wonderful works of God than any man who ever lived, except perhaps his com- panion Caleb. 2. (Zech. vi. 11.) Was the high-priest of the Jews when they returned from Babylon. He assisted Zerubbabel in re- building the temple. (Ezra v. 1, 2. Hag. i. 1 ; ii. 4.) Zecha- riah saw him represented as standing Ijefore the Lord in filthy garments, and Satan standing at his right hand to accuse and resist him ; but an angel rebuked the devil, and arrayed Joshua in other rai- ment. (Zech. iii. 1—4.) Not long after, Zechariah was di- rected to make a golden crown for him. (Zech vi. 10—14.) Book of, is the sixth in the arrangement of the books of the CJld Testament. It em- braces the period between b. c. 1451 and 1425, and is a histo- ry of the Israelites, under the government of Joshua, the suc- cessor of Moses. It is supposed to have been written by Joshua, (except the last five versps,)and it records the accomplishment of God's promises to his people, and his judgments upon the idolatrous nations of Canaan. The conquest of the promised land is related, ch. i. — xi. ; the division of it among the tribes, dfa. xii. — xxii.; and the coun- sels and death of Joshua, ch. xxiii. xxiv. It has been remarked, that the book of Joshua bears the same relation to the Penta- teuch, or five books of Moses, as the Acts of the Apostles bears to the four gospels. The Penta- teuch contains a history of the acts of the great Jewish legis- lation under the immediate authority and direction of God, and the laws on which his ancient church should be esta- blished ; and the book of Jo- shua shows us the end of these laws, and how the church was established in Canaan. The JOS analogy between this and the relation of Acts to the Gospels, is sufficiently obvious. (For an analysis of this book, see Union Questions, vol. iv. less. XXV.— xl., with Teacher's A.*;- sisTANT in the use of the same, both by Am. .S.S. Union.) JOSIAH, (2 Kings xxi. 24,) the son and successor of Amon king of Judah, began to reign when he was but" eight years of age, and was reniarkable for his integrity and piety. He gradually abolished the idola- trous customs of liis predeces- sors, (2Chron. xxxiv. 3;) and, in the eighteenth year of his reign, began a thorough repair of the ternple. In the" progress of this work, Hilkiah the high- priest, found a complete co'py of the law of Moses; a rare treasure in those days of dege- neracy and corruption, wlfen God and his institutions were forsaken and contemned on every side. Josiah himself was but imperfectly acc^uaint- ed with its contents until they were read to him by one of his officers ; and then he was overwhelmed with grief to find how far they and their fathers had departed from the right way. He, however, humbled himself before God, and re- ceived the most precious pro- mises of the divine favour. (2Chron. xxxiv. 2<3— 28.) He then assembled the people, and published the law in their hearing; and they all united with the king in a' .solemn vow of obedience. After this, he utterly destroyed every vestige of idolatry, both images and temples, and then, by divine command, caused the feast of the passover to be celebrated with unusual solemnity. (2 Chr. XXXV. 3—18.) This pious king seems to have been, accessary to his own premature death ; for the king of Egypt, who was march ing with a great army against JOS the king of Assyria, assured him that he entertained no hostile design against him or his kingdom, and entreated nim nol'to interfere with him in his contest with the king of Assyria; and, to influence Jo- siah, Necho pretended to have received a conimunication from heaven, by which the kin^ of Judali was expressly forbidden to meddle with him in his expedition. But Josiah, thinking it a dangerous prece- dent to permit a Targe army to march through his territories, or, more probably, being in league with the king of Assy- ria, he could not consistently comply with the demand of the king of Egypt; and even if he wislied to'reniain entirely neutral in the war, he could not allow one of the contending Earties a free passage through is territoiy, vviihoui forfeiting his neutrality. Whatever might have been the motive, Josfah attempted to oppose the Egyp- tian army, and a battle was fought at Blegiddo, in which he was mortally wounded, and was carried out of the field in his carriage, and brought to Jerusalem, where he died, and was buried in one of the sepul- chres of his fathers. No king, perhaps, was ever more de- servedly beloved : and cer- tainly we know of none who was more sincerely and ten- derly bewailed by his people. Indeed, his death was the end of prosperity to the kingdom of Judah. Jeremiah the pro- phet was greatly affected by it, and composed an elegy on the occasion, (•2Chron. xxxv. 25 ;) and all those accustomed to celebrate in song the worth and achievements of men of great eminence, both men and women, mourned for Josiah for ages after his death. Indeed, the mourning was such as to become proverbial. (Zech. xii. II.) He was only thirty-nine JOU years ofage when he died. (See Necho. SeealsoELisAMA,pp. 3G-41, by Am. S. S- Union.) JOT, (Malt. v. IS.) or Yon, (in Greek Iota.) This is the name of the letter i in the ori- ginal language in which it is used, and' tills letter in that language is the least of all the letters of the alphabet, being shaped not unlike our comma, ( % ). It was proverbially used by the Hebrews to signify the least thing imaginaljle ; and hence the text expresses the idea that not the least require- ment of the commandments of God shall in any wise be dispensed with ; they shall all stand to the very letter. JOTHAM. 1. (Judg. ix. 5.) The youngest son of Jerubbaal, or Gideon, the only one who escaped from the massacre at Ophrah; and this he did by concealing himself. (See Aei- MELECH.) 2. (2Kingsxv.32.) The son and successor of Uzziah, or Azariah, kingofJudah. He ac- tually reigned forty-one years, being associated with his fa- ther for twenty-five years be- fore his death. " His sole admi- nistration of the government was only for sixteen years. (Comp. 2 Kings xv. 30. 32, 33.) His example was holy ; his reign was peaceful and pros- perous, and of course benefi- cial to the kiiiEfdom. (2 Chron, xxvii. 2—6.) JOUKNEYINGS of Israel. (Num. ix. 20.) The habitation of the Hebrews, in Egypt, was in Goshen, which is "supposed to have extended from a point above Cairo to the fllediterra- nean, including the land on both sides of~ the eastern branch, by which the Nile discharged its waters ; and bounded on the east by the wilderness, and on the south by the mountains which sepa- rate the waters of the Red Sea from those of the Nile. Their 379 JOU journeyiDgs commenced on the fifieenth day of ihe first month, (about the middle of our April.) Their first journey was from Rameses, ten miles north-weatof Suez.toSuccolh ; which last, (as the name sig- nifies booths,) was probably nothing more than a conve- nient encampment. The dis- tance between these two places is estimated at thirty miles. Their course must have been a little north of east, to pass round the end of a mountain which stood in their way. From Succolh to Etham, in the edge of the wilderness, was a long march, the stages being at least sixty miles apart; but they were flying from an ene- my, and there was not one sick or feeble among them, and their God bore them as on eagles' wings, so that it is not inipossiblelhai they pass- ed over this distance in twen- ty-four hours. Tiie distance to the Arabian Gulf may, how- ever, have been twelve or fif- teen miles less, anciently,than at present, as there are clear indications that the water has receded about that distance. Now they received an order from God to change their course, and, instead ot' going eastward in the wilderness, in a direct line, to turn southward and pass along the coast of the Red Sea, keeping it on their left, and the mountains alrea- dy mentioned on their right. Pursuing this route for about thirty-two miles from Etham, which was formerly on the northern point of the Arabian Gulf, or twenty miles south of Suez, now occupying the land at the end of one arm of the Red Sea, they arrived at a place where there seems to have been a gap or opening in the mountains towards Egypt, and a creek or estuary which obstructed their further pro- gress to the south. Here at JOU Migdol, over against Baal Ze- phon, and ne'ar Pihahiroth^ when enclosed on every side but one, they were overtaken by the chariots and horsemen of Pharaoh, and must have been utterly destroyed, had not God miraculously interposed, and opened for them a passage through the sea; and still the Egyptian host would soon have overtaken them, but they were overwhelmed by the sudden reflux of the waters to their former channel. Niebuhr and some other learned men have declared in favour of Suez a3 the place of their passage ; but to this there are two weighty objections. In the first place, there was nothing here to shut up or entangle them, so as to need a miraculous dividing of the waters; they might have marched around as easily as through this extreme end of the gulf; but, in the next place, the "channel here is not wide enough to admit of the suppo- sitiiin that the whole Egyptian army, marching in file could have been drowned by the re- turn of the waters. Bryant, Bruce, and Burckhardt have nearly agreed, that the place called Clysma, twenty miles south of Suez, and by the Ara- bians, Has Musa, the Cape of Moses, must have been the place where this great event occurred. Having crossed the gulf, they went forward into the wilderness, a journey of three days, and came to MaraJt, whose bitter waters were mi- raculously rendered sweet, for their use. Marah corresponds with the well now called Ilawara, v.-hose waters are bitter. The next journey was to Elim, " where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees." This place, as Niebuhr and Burk- hardt agree, is now called Wadij Gharendel. about tea 380 JOU miles from ITawara. There is at this place now a copious epring, and water may be ob- tained any where around by digging for il; so that we need not expect to find the precise numberof wells which existed in the lime of Moses. Hiiherio their march was parallel lo tiie sea, and at no great dis- tance from it ; but now the coast changes from south-east to south, \nd the straii^'hi course to Sinai leaves it more to the right. From Elim, tiiey journeyed throuiih Dophkah and Alush to Rephidim, where water was first obtained ty emiting a rock with the rod of Moses; and here the Israelites were first attacked by their implacable enemies, the Ama- lekites. (Ex. xvii. 3— S. I Sam. XV.2.) Their next encampment was in the desert of Sinai, wh«re they remained eleven months, having spent between two and three months in com- ing from E^ypt to this place. Here they received the laws and insiitutions of Jehovah; and here the tabernacle was erected and consecrated, and the whole ceremonial service enacted. On the twentieth day of the second month of the second year, the pillar of cloud and fire arose from the taber- nacle, where it had rested for some time, and by its course led them into the wilderness of Paran, called the great and terrible icilJcrness. (Num. x. 12.) When they came to Kib- roth Hattaavah, they provoked God to destroy many of them for their inordinate lusting, and for their ungrateful re- bellion. (Num. xiT34.) This place is also called Taberah ; both names being deri veil from the fearful destruction of the people which occurred here. From this place, where they remained long, they march- e A late traveller among the Bloors says it is common to see a man of authority marching along with a large brass key on his shoulder. One corner of a kerchief is tied to the cir- cular part, and hangs down in front; and by this the key is balanced as it rests on the shoulder. This fact forcibly illustrates Isa. xxii. 22. KID, (Judg. xiv. 6,) or the young of the goat, was among tiie luxuries of the ancients, (Gen. xxvii. 9; xxxviii. 17, Judg. vi. 19. 1 Sam. xvi. 2n,) and is now esteemed a great delicacy by eastern nations an food. Kids were among the sacrificial offerings. (Num. vii. 11-87.) KIDRON, (1 Kings ii. 37,) or CEDRON. (John xviii. 1.) A brook running through the val- ley which se) Tarates Jerusalem from the mount of Olives, and forming the eastern boundary of the ancient and modern city. About nine months in the year the channel of the brook is dry. It is on an average nine feet in width. When swollen by the rains, the current is deep and rapid. It empties into the Dead Sea. (See Selumiel, pp. 129-135, by Am. S. S. UnioB.) KIN KTNE ((ien. xli. 2) is | used by ihe sacred writers as i the plural of cow. The word | is used figuratively by the pro- 1 phet,concerning the Israelites, to describe the feebleness, idle- 1 ness, and luxury which cha- ! racierized them. They were : like the fallings of Bashan, i feeding carelessly and secure- j ly in rich pastures, only to prepare them for the slaughter. ' (Ezek. xxxix. 18.) | KING. (Gen. xiv. IS.) The \ title of a ruler. It is applied in Scripture to the chief^ of a tribe or to the ruler of a single town or city; and, of course, we need not be surprised at the number who were often defeated in a single campaign. (Josh. xii. 24. Judg. i. 7. IKings XX. 1. 16.) This "fact also ex- 61ains Gen. xxxvi. 31, and eut. xxxiii. 5. The title is applied to Jehovah and to our blessed Saviour. (ITim. i. 17; vi. 15.) The ceremony of coro- nation is described 2 Kings xi. 12. (See Anoint, Hebrews.) KINGDOM. (Luke xii. 32.) The precise import of this term can usually be determined by its connexion. In the New Testament, it generally de- notes either the spiritual reign of Christ over the hearts of individuals or over his church collectively. (John xviii. 36.) Kingdom of God, (1 Cor. XV. 50,) Kingdom of Heaven. (Matt. iii. 2.) These terms sometimes denote the state of glory beyond the grave. (2 Pet. 1. 11.) More generally, they denote tne gospel dispensation under the government of the Messiah, in distinction from the typical kingdom of the Jews. (Matt. iii. 2; xxi. 43; XXV. 1. Luke X. 9. 11.) And sometimes they signify the gos- pel exerting a reigning power over the hearts and minds of men. (Luke xvii. 21. John iii. 3.5. Rom. xiv. 17.) KINGS, BOOKS OF. (1 Chron. 33* KIN ix.l.) Theeleventhand twelfth books of the Bible are call- ed the first and second books of Kmgs. In old versions, the books of Samuel and Kings are called the four books of Kings ; and hence the titles of these books in our Bibles is, the first book of Sa- muel, otherwise called Ihefi.rst book of Kings, and the first book of Kings, othericise called the third book of Kiiigs. The four books contain the history of the Jewish nation under the kings of Israel and Judah. The first two are called Samuel, because that prophet com- menced them, and wrote the first twenty -four chapters. Na- than and Gad finished them. (1 Chron. xxix. 29.) These embrace a period of about one hundred and twenty years,viz. from the birth of Samuel to the close of the reign of David. The first book contains an ac- count of Eli and his sons ; of Samuel, as prophet and judge ; and of Saul, the first king of Israel. The second book re- cords the prosperity of David's kingdom, his sin, and suffer- ings, and his restoration to the throne and to the favour of God. The third and fourth books, supDosed to have been compiled "by Ezra from the public records, embrace a pe- riod of about four hundred and twenty-five years, viz. from the commencement of Solomon's reign to the destruction of Je- rusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Of these, the former gives us an accountof the building and dedication of the temple, the reign of Solomon, the division of The nation, the fall of the glory of Israel, and the extra- ordinary ministry of the pro- phet Elijah. Tlie latter continues the his- tory of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, inreriniugled, till they were both destroyed, and the people carried into capti- KIN vity. It informs us of the trans- lation of Elijah, the ministry of Elisha, and the desiriiction of Jeixisalem. The following catalogue of the successive kings may be regarded as approximating to correct chronology : Of the ichole nation. Began to reign. Reigned. Sau . B. C. 1091 . 40 years. David - - 1051 - 40i " Solomon ■ • 1010 • 40* « 971 - 1 « OfJudah alone. Rehoboam 972 . 16 " Abijam • 954 . 3 « Asa . • 951 . 41 « Jehoshaphat 910 . 25 « Jehoram • 8S5 . 4 « Ahaziah - 881 • 1 " Jntcrual • . 6 " Joash 874 .40 « Amaziah 835 . 29 « Uzziah, or > Azariah i 806 - 52 « Jotham • 754 - 16 " Ahaz 738 . 16 " Hezekiah - 722 . 29 " Manasseh - 694 . 55 " Amon S59 - 2 « Josiah - 637 - 31 « Jehoahaz 606 5 i.or3 I * m'tbs. Jehoiakim 606 • 11 years. Jehoiachin 694 i * m'lhs. • 11 years. Zedekiah 594 Captivity 683 Of Israel alone. Jeroboam - 971 - 22 « Nadab 950 - 2 « Baa^ba 949 . 24 '< £lah 926 . 2 « Zimri 925 - 7 days. Omri 925 . 12 years. Abab 914 - 22 '' Ahaziah . 893 . 2 " Jehoram - - 12 « Jehu 880 . 28 " Jehoahaz - 852 - 17 « Joash, or > Jehoash 5 833 . 16 «' Jeroboam II. 819 . 41 " Zachariah 77S 5 6 m. or I 10 years. Shallum - 768 • 1 month. Menahem 767 • 10 years. Pekaiah • 757 . 2' •' Pekah 755 . 20 « Interned • 734 - 9 " Hoshea • 725 . 9 « Captivity 716 (For an ar alysis of these Dooks, and a map of the coun- KIR tries mentioned in them, sea Union Questions, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. vii.) KIK. (Isa.xxii. 6. Amos ix. 7.) A country north of Media and Assyria, lying along the r.i ver Cyrus, now Kur, between the Black and Caspian seas. Anciently it was called Alba- nia and Iberia, at present Geor- gia. Thither the Damascenes, conquered by Tiglath-pileser, were sent into extle. (2 Kings xvi. 9. Amos i. 5.) KiR OF MoAB. (Isa. XV. 1.) The bulwark or principal for tress of Moab, called Kirhare- shethf (Isa. xvi. 7,) and Kirha resh, (Isa. xvi. 11,) and Kirhe- res. (Jer. xlviii.31.) Kerek,ot Karak, (the modern name of the same place,) is found south of the Dead Sea. Many of the ruins of the ancient fortress are discernible; and a travel ler, who was there in 1822, tells us that the population consist- ed of four hundred Turks and one hundred and fifty nominal Christians. KIRJATH, (Josh, xviii. 28,) called also Kirjalh-jearim, Kir- jath-baal, and Baalah, (Josh. XV. 9. 6U. 1 Chron. xiii. 6.) was on or near ihe boundary line between Judah and Benjamin, and is therefore mentioned in the above passages as a city of both tribes; though in Judg. xviii. 12, and 2 Sam. vi. 2, it is called a cily of Judah. This was the native place of Urijah the prophet, (Jer. xxvi. 20;) and it was here that the ark remained many years. (1 Sam. vii. 1,2. 2Sam. vi. 2.) KIKJATIIAIM. (Josh. xiii. 19.) One of the oldest towns eastward of Jordan. It was once the possession of the Emims, and was then called Shaveh (or, the plain of) Kiri- alkaim, (Gen. xiv. 5;) and is afterwards spoken of as a city of Moab. (Jer.xlviii.23.) There was a town of this name in Naphtali. (I Chron. vi. 76.) KIT KIRJATH-ARBA. (See He- bron.) KIRJATH-SEPHER, KIR- JATH-SANNAH. (See Debik.) KISHON. (Judg. iv. 7. 13.) An ancient river, (Judg. v. 21,) rising at the foot of mount Tabor, and winding southerly of that mountain, through the plain of Jezreel, about thirty miles, to Ptolemais, where it falls into the Mediterranean. It is called the v)aters of Me- eiddo, (Judg. V. 19,) because Megiddo was built upon its margin. It is famous for the battfe between IJarak and Si- sera, and for the destruction of Baal's prophets. (1 Kings xviii.40.) It is called ut ward indication of it ; and after it breaks out, the sufferer often lingers for years before it reaches~a crisis, and then years sometimes elapse before the leper is released by death. The bones and the LEP marrow are pervaded with the disease, so that the joints of the hands and feet lose their power, the linsbs of the body Tail togeilier,and the wholesys- tem assumes a most deformed and loathsome appearance. The progress and effects of the disease are supposed to be de- scribed in Job li. 7, 8. 12, and vi. 2, and vii. 3—5, and xix. 14-21. There were various kinds i of leprosy; but in whatever form it appeared, it was re- I garded as a judgment from ■ the hand of God. We know ! it was frequently employed for this purpose, as in the cases of Miriam, (Num. xii. 10,) Ge- hazi, (2 Kings v. 27,) and Uz- ziah, (2 Chron. xxvi. 16— 23:) Ijut whether it ordinarily dif- fered from other diseases and calamities in this respect we have reason to doubt. Althuugh the laws respect- ing this disease which we find in the Blosaic coile are exceed- ingly ri?id, it is by no means clear tfiat the leprosy was contagious. The horror and dis2us't which was felt towEirds a disease so foul and loath- some might be a sufficient cause for such severe enact- ments. (For a particular ac- count of the leprosy, its symp- toms, treatment, &c. see' Bib LiCAL Antiquities, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. i. chap. vii. $ 1.) With respect to the leprosy of houses and clothes, (Lev. xiv. 55,) some have supposed that the expression was only analogical— the spots and dis figurations which appeared upon the walls and articles of clothing resembling the leprous spots. Others suppose it was a species of mould or mildew, indicating a great de- gree of dampness, corrupting the air, injurious to health, and often the occasion and pre- cursor of fatal diseases. The expressions of the sacred his 400 LET XXfTf are hardly borne out, however, by such an inter- prelaiion as the last. LESBOS. (See Mitylene.) LESHEM. (See Dan.) LETTER. (2 Sam. xi. 14.) The letters mentioned by the sacred writers were in the form of rolls, not unlike those of the present day. Niebuhr tolls us tnat the Arabs roll up their letters, and then flatten them to the breadth of an inch, and paste up the end of them, in- stead of sealing them ; and the Persians, we know, make up their letters in the form of rolls, about six inches long, and paste a bit of paper around it with pum, and seal it with an impression of ink. When sent 10 inferiors, they were often sent open, (Neh. vi. 5 ;) but when sent to equals or superiors, they were enclosed in a purse or bag, as in the cut. (See Seal.) A modern traveller mentions Having seen a letter from the king of Persia to the !io\-€rnor- general of India. The letter was in the form of a roll, en- 34* LEV closed in a bag woven with cold thread and crimson silk. It was tied at the neck with |;old lace, which, after being knotted, passed throueh an immense red seal, four inches in diameter, and about an inch thick of red wax. The seal was entirely covered with Per- sian characters, supposed to be tiilesof the king. To preserve the seal the bag was opened at the bottom; but tiie usual way is to melt the wax, or cut tiie lace between the wax and the ba2. LEVI. (Gen.xxix.34.) Third son of Jacob and Leah. He was concerned in a bloody affair with the Shechemiies, which occasioned the denunciatory and prophetic language of his father respecting hirn, (Gen. xlix. 5—7,) and which was fully verified in the history of his posterity. The opposition of his descendants to the idol-wor- ehip, which was practised by others, was the occasion of the miti'^ation of their curse. <,Ex. xxxii. 26— -29. Deut. xxxiii. 9.) His descendants are called Levites. (See Levites, and Matthevt.) LEVIATHAN. (Job xli. L) The Hebrew name of an ani- mal minutely described in this chapter, ijut not known to modern naturalists. The description answers most near- ly to the crocodile. Probably he was the monster of the sea, as behemoth, described in the preceding chapter, was the monster of the land. The object of the sacred writer evidently is, to represent to us an ex- ceedingly strong and intracta- ble aninial, utterly beyond the reach and control of man, anc yei created, preserved, and destroyed at (jod's pleasure; thence he infers the weakness and insisinificancy of man, and the fully of his calling in ques tion the righteous judgments of God. \VIiat is man, (even 401 LEV in comparisou with some of the inferior works of creation,) that God should be mindful of him 7 The leviathan is figuratively mentioned as an elnblem of strength and destructiveness. (Ps. Ixxiv. 14. Isa. xxvii. 1. For a fuller description of this ani- mal, and an account of the various opiinions respecting him, and illustrative cuts, see LEV Youth's Friend for Nov. and Dec. 1826, by Am. S. S. Union.) LEVITES. (Ex. iv. 14.) All the descendants of Levi may be comprised under this name , but chiefly those who were employed in the lower ser- vices in the temple, by which they were distinguished from the priests, who were of the race of Levi by Aaron, and were employed in higher ot LEV fices. The Levites were the descendants of Levi by Ger- shom, Kohath, and Merari, excepting only the fimily of Aaron; for the children of Mo- ses had no part in the priest- Ciood, and were only common Levites. God chose the Le- vites instead of the first-born of all Israel for the service of his tabernacle and temple. (Num.iii.C,&c.) They assisted the prie.sts in the ministrations of the temple, and sung and played on instruments in the daily services, &;c. They stu- died the law, and were the or- dinary judges of the country; but subordinate to the priests. God provided for the subsist- ence of the Levites, by giving to them the tenth of corn, fruit, and cattle ; but they paid to the priests the tenth of all they received ; and as the Levites possessed no estates in land, the tithes which the priests thus received from them were considered as the first-fruits which they were to offer to the Lord. (Num xviii.21— 24.) The preceding cut shows the dress, &c. ot a Levite. God assigned for the habita- tion of theXevites forty-eight citiesjwith fields,pastures, and gardens. (Num. xxxv.) Of these, thirteen were, given to the priests, six of which were cities of refuge. (Josh. xx. 7— 9; xxi. 19, &c.) While the Le- vites were actually employed in the temple, they were sup- ported out of the provisions Kept in store there, and out of thj daily offerings. (See Deut. xii. 18, 19; xviiT. 6—8.) The Levites were divided into different classes ; the Ger- shomfles, Kohathites, Merar- ites, and the Aaronites, or priests; to each of which were assigned specified du- ties. (Num. iii. 14, &c.) They were not to enter upon their service at the tabernacle till ihey were twenty-five years LIB of age. (Num. viii. 24.) But David fixed the time of service at twentjr years. The priests and Levites waited, by turns, weekly in the temple. (iChron. xxiii. 24. 2Chron. xxiii. 4 — 8; xxxi. 17. Ezra iii. 8.) There is much of deep inte- rest m the history, office, &c. of this order of Jewish eccle siastics; for a particular ac- count of which see Biblical ANTiauiTiES, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. ii. ch. iv. § 1 and 2. LEVITICUS, BOOK OF, the third book of the Bible, was written by Moses, and r.f»n- tains twenty-seven chapters, divided into four principal sec- tions,—(1.) The laws concern- ing sacrifices; (2.) The conse- cration of the higli-priests; (3.) Purification, &c'^ (4.) Sacred festivals. It is called Leviti- cus, because the Levites were the divinely appointed minis- ters by whom these sacred services were in part con- ducted. It contains, also, many of the laws by which the civil depart- ment of the government was to be administered, besides many remarkable prophecies. (See Union Questions, vol. iv. less, xii., and Teacher's Assistant in the use of this volume, pp. 119—131, both by Am. S. S. Uniun.) LE'V^'DNESS. (Acts xviii. 14.) This word is not used here in its present common acceptation, but ratlier denotes the daring, flagrant offence of one who is skilled in deeds of iniquity, or an old offender. LIBERTINES. (Acts Vi. 9.) A Jewish sect, said to be com- posed of such as were prose- lytes or free citizens of Rome ; but whether called Ubertinea from some circumstance in their history and civil rela- tions, or from the town or pro- vince which they inhabited, is uncertain. They had a place of worship at Jerusalem for 403 Lie the accommodation of those of their sect who mi^ht be dwell- iiig in the city, (bee Alexan- drians.) LIBNAH. (Josh. xxi. 13.) A city in the western part of Ju- dan, (Josh. xv. 42,) assigned to the priests, and a city of refuge. (1 Chron. vi. 57.) Its inhabit- afits revolted from Joram, (2 Kings viii. '22,) and were defeated by the Assyrians. (2 Kings xix. 8.) Another Lib- nah was situated near mount Sinai, (Num. xxxiii. 20;) and a third in the country of Asher, (Josh. xix. 26,) called there Shihor-Libnath. LIBYA. (See Lvbia.) LICE. (Ex. viii. IC) The third plague of the Egyptians was the turning of the dust of the land into lice; and when it is considered how universally the Egyptians ab- horred vermin, and especially now strongly their contact was deprecated by the priests, the affliction will appear the more severe. The Jewish commentators, and most of the Christian, ren- der the original word by this term ; and learned biblical critics have exhausted their ingenuity to prove that this is the correct interpretation. The Septuagint translators, how- ever, were in favour of gnats, as the animal designated by Moses among the plagues of Egypt; and Jerome ToUows them in both passages where the word is used ; and, in thingsof this kind; the ancients are much more worthy of con- fidence than the moderns. The learned men above named offer several weighty, if not conclusive, objections to this rendering; as, (1.) These in- sects originated, not from the water, as do gnats or mos- quitoes, but from the dust. (2.) They were on both men and cattle, but gnats do not lake up their residence on LIG any animal. (3.) The He* brew word signifies to he_fixed OT firrriy which does not agree to gnats, whicli are ever on the wing. (4.) And, finally, the plague of flies came afterwards, in which gnats would be in- cluded. Others, however, dis- sent from both these opinions, and are disposed to think the tick is the animal here signi- fied, which sticks its claws into man and beast, so fast, that it never lets go its grasp but by leaving them in the flesh. In some parts of the United States, there is a spe- cies of lick so small as to be almost invisible, and so nu merous that millions are often grouped on a single spire ot grass. LIEUTENANTS. (Ezra viii. 36.) A general name for depu ties. LIGHT. (Gen. i. 2-4.) The element by means of which objects and their shape, size, and colour are discerned. Its motion is extremely quick, and is estimated to be about ten millions of miles in a minute. Whether light really ema- nates from the sun, or whether it is a fluid universally diftused through the universe, which the sun causes to radiate, or to exercise a vibratory motion, is not agreed. Light was created on the first day, although the celestial luminaries did not appear until the fourth. There is every reason to suppose that tlie sun was created as early as any part of the planetary system. Light is an emblem much used in the language of Scripture. Christ is "often called a light, and God is said to dwell in light, which no man can approach ; yea, God is light, and in him is no dark- ness at all. (1 John i. 5.) It is constantly used as the emblem of knowledge and of joy. The holy lives of Christians are I also represented by light. Th 401 LIM following references show a variety of figurative usesoflhe word: — Ps. iv. 6, and xxvii. 1. Prov. iv. 18. Eccl. xi. 7. Isa. ii. 5, and x. 17. Hos. vi. 5. Matt. iv. IG; V. 16. Eph. v. 8. Gol. i. 12. LIGHTNING. (2Sam.xxii. 15.) The terrors of the divine wrath are often represented by thunder and lightning ; and thunder, on account of its awful impression on the minds of mortals, is often spoken of in Scripture as the voice of the Lord. (Job xxviii. 2ii; xxxvii. 4, 5 ; xxxviii. 2.5 ; xl. 9 ) LIGN- ALOES. (See Aloes.) LIGUKE. (Ex. xxviii. 19.) This was one of the precious stones in the breastplate of the Jewish priests. It is said to have resembled the carbuncle, but it is not among any class of gems linown in modern science. LILY. (Matt. vi. 28.) A beau- tiful flower, of a great variety of species, the most beautiful of which are found in eastern countries, and are often men- tioned by travellers. Their gorgeous appearance is alluded "to in the passage above cited, as is also the fact that the dry Kalks were used as luel. In Sol. Song ii. 1, reference is probably made to some spe- cies of the lily that grew spon- taneously in tlie fields, and was seldom admired because seldom noticed ; and in Sol. Song V. 13, reference is sup- jiosed to be had to the Persian lily, within whose flower-cup is found a collection of fluid not unlike myrrh. The lily afforded a pattern for much of the ornamental work of the temple. (1 Kings vii. 2Chron. iv.) LIME. (Isa. xxxiii. 12.) A well known substance, obtain- ed by burninglimestone, bones, shells, &c., and used for plas- ter or the cement of brick- work, &c. It is inferred from LIO the above passage, and from I Amos ii. 1, that the modern mode of manufacturing this article was known to the an- cients. Untempered mortar is that which is so imperfectly or unskilfully mixed that it cannot be worked. (Ezek. xiii. 10, 11.) It is by no means certain that lime was a com- ponent pan of the plaster men- tioned Deul. xxvii. 2. LINEAGE. (Luke ii. 4.) Fa- mily or race. LINEN. (Lev. xiii. 47.) A cloth made of flax. It was much valued and used in ancient as it is in modern times. Fine white linen is, in Scripture, the emblem of innocence, or moral purity. (Rev. XV. 6.) The best linen was ancient- ly made in Egypt, as their country afforded the finest flax, (Prov. vii. 16;) but, it is said, the most of their linen was coarse; and Solomon, it seems, boueht linen-yarn in Egypt. (1 Kings x. 28.) It is supposed that linen was an- ciently used fur writing on, and the letters formed with a pencil. This cloth, so celebrated in ancient times, is still found wrapped around mummies, and appears to be of the qua- lity of the common cotton sheeting. (See Flax.) LINES. (Ps.xvi. 6.) This ex- pression refers to the mode of measuring land with a cord or line, and is the same as if it was said, 'My portion is in a plea- sant place.' (See Measures.) LION. (Gen.xlix.9.) A wild and ferocious animal, too well known to require particular description. Lions formerly inhabited the marshy banks of the Jordan, and when driven 'hence by the annual freshet, were much enraged. (Jer. xlix. 19; 1. 44.) Figurative allusions to the qualities and habits of this aiumnl abound 405 LOC in the Bitile, but are roobvious in their application that they need not be explained. In the Hebrew there are several different names for the lion, expressing the differences in nis age and character, as, the Hail's whelp, (Deut. xxxiii. 22. Ezek. xix. 2 ;) the young lion, Ps. xxxiv. 10 ; xci. 13. Hos. V. 14 ;) the grown and vigorous lion. (Num. xxiii. 24. 2 Sam. xvii. 10. Nah. ii. 11, 12.) For beautiful engravings of the lion and a minute description, see art. Lion in Nat. Hist, of the Bible, and Portfolio of Ani- mals, pp. 1—4, both by Am. S. S. Union.) LIPS. (Lev. xlii. 45.) This word has various peculiar sig- nifications in the Scriptures: Unclean lips (Isa. vi. 5) are lips polluted by sinful words. Calves of our lips. (See Calves.) Burning lips. (Prov. xxvi. 23.) Lips through which the expressions of malice, envy, and other malignant passions are continually passing, (Acts ix. 1 ;) or, as it is ofiener inter- preted, burning with false pro- fessions of piety and friend- ship ; as the potsherd, covered with silver dross, appears with burning brightness, though it is in truth but a potsherd. Covering the lip (Ezek. xxiv.22) or chin v/ith the outer garment was a token of mourn- ing. LIZARD. (Lev. xi. 30.) It is quite uncertain what spe- cies of the animal known to modern naturalists by this name is intended by the sa- cred writers. The original would indicate that which adheres closely to the earth. It was unclean by the cere- monial law. LOCK. (Judg. iii.23.) The doors of the ancient Hebrews were secured by bars of wood or iron, though the latter were LOC almost entirely approprialea to the entrance of fortresses, prisons, and towns. Thus we find it mentioned in 1 Kings iv. 13, as something remark- able concerning Bashan, that there were threescore great cities, having walls ana bra- zen burs. See also Isa. xlv. 2. These were almost the only locks known in early times, and they were furnished with a large and clumsy key, which was appliedjto the bar through an orifice from the outside, by means of which the bar or bolt was slipped forward as in modern locks. There were smaller contrivances for inner doors, (Judg. iii. 24,) and pro- bably projecting pieces by which to shove the bolt with the hand. (Sol. So. v. 4, 5. See Dwellings, Key.) LOCUST. (Nah.ii .15.) An insect of the grasshopper spe- cies, remarkable for numbers and voraciousness, and hence one of the most dreadful scourges of eastern countries. The eighth plague upon Pha- raoh was in the form of locusts, (Ex. X. 4— 15. Ps. Ixxviii. 46; cv. 34,) and they are frequently alluded to as instruments of divine judgment. (Deut. xxviii. 38—42. 1 Kings viii. 37. 2Chron. vi. 28.) Many facts have been related by travellers and his- torians of veracity, to show the immensity of the numbers of locusts which have keen ob- served to pass over some coun- tries. In 873, in Germany, clouds of locusts came from the east, and continued to darken the air for two months; and in one hour^would con- sume every green thing on a hundred acres of land; and when driven back into the sea by the wind, they occa- sioned a dreadful pestilence. Even the heathen viewed the locusts as a dreadful judg- ment from heaven. Pliny say?, " This plague is con»i- ^LOC dared a manifestation of the : wrath of the goils; liy their! number they darken the sun, and the nations view them with anxious surprise; their strength is unfailing, so that they cross oceans, anil pervade immense tracts of land. They cover the harvest with a dread- ful cloud ; their very touch de- stroying the fruits of the earth, and their bite utterly consum- ing every thing." The cele- brated traveller Volney un- designedly illustrates the sa- rred Scriptures in relation to Ihis plague, as he does respect- ing many other things : '' Sy- ria, as Egypt and Persia," says he, " and almost all the south of Asia, is subject to a calamity not less dreadful than that of volcanoes and earthquakes, 1 have mentioned ; I mean those clouds of locusts so often mentioned by travellers. The t^uantily of these insects is incredible to all who have not themselves witnessed their astonishing numbers. The whole earth is covered with Ihem for the space of several leagues. The noise they make in browsing on the trees may be heard at a great distance. The Tartars themselves are less destructive than these lit- tle animals. One would ima- gine that fire had followed their progress. Wherever their myriads spread, the verdure of" the country disappears: trees and plants stripped of their leaves give the appear- ance of winter to the spring. When clouds of them take their tlight, the heavens are literally obscured by them." The prophet Jcel, under a figurative prediction of the invasion of Judea by the Chal- deans, describes with wonder- ful exactness the movements and denredaiionsof this insect. (Joel ii. 1—11.) It is supposed that the pahncr-tcorm, canker- loorm, and caterpillar, (Joel i. LOO 4,) are only various species of the locust. To illusirate the aljove passage, the f)llowing extract from the journal of an eastern traveller is in point: — " The locusts, properly so called, which are so frequently mentioned by sacred as well as profane authors, are some- times gregarious beyond ex- pression. Those which I saw were much bigger than our common grasshoppers, and had brown spotted winsrs, with legs and bodies of a bright yellow. Their first appearance was towards the latter end of March, the wind having been some time from the "south. In the middle of April, their numbers were so vastly in- creased, that in the heat of the day they formed themselves into large and numerous swarms, llew in the air like a succession of clouds, and, as the prophet Joel expresses it, they darkened the si/n. When the wind blew briskly, so that these swarms were crowded by others, or thrown one upon another, we had a lively idea of that comparison of the psalmist, (Ps. cix. 23,) of being tossed up and down as the locust. In the month of May, when the ovaries of these in- sects were ripe and turgid, each of these swarms began gradually to disappear, and retired into tn<> Metijiah and other adjacent plains, where they deposited their eggs. These were no sooner hatched, in June, than each of the broods collected itself into a compact body of an eighth of a mile squaie, and marching afterwards directly forward towards the sea, they let no- thing escape them ; eating up every thing that was green and juicy, not only the lesser kinds of vegetables, but the rine likewise, the Jig tree, the pomegranate, the palm, and the apple tree, even all the AST LOG trees of the field, (Joel i. 12;) in doin? which, ihey kept iheir ranks like men of war, climb- ing over, as they advanced, every tree or wall that was in their way; nay, they en- tered into our very houses and jed-chambers like thieves. The inhabitants, to stop their progress, made a variety of pits and trenches all over their fields and gardens, which they filled with water; or else they heaped up therein heath, stub- ble, and such like combustible matter, which were severally set on fire upon the approach of the locusts. But this was all to no purpose, for the trench- es were quickly filled up, and the fires extinguished by infi- nite swarms succeeding one another, whilst the front was regardless of danger, and the rear pressed on so close, that a retreat was altogether impos- sible. A day or two after one of these broods was in motion, others were already hatched to march and glean after them, gnawing off the very bark and the young branches of such trees as had before escaped with the loss only of their fruit and foliage. So justly have they been compared by the prophet to a great army ; who further observes, tliat the land is as the garden of Eden before them, and behind them a deso- late wilderness." Another says, " While seated in our tents about noon, we iieard a very unusual noise, that sounded like the rustling of a great wind at a distance. On looking up, we perceived an immense cloud, here and there sem i-transparent, in other parts quite black, that spread Itself all over the sky, and at intervals shadowed the sun. These we soon found to be locusts, whole swarms of them falling about us. These weie of a red colour, and I should Buppose are the red predatory LOG locusts, one of the Egyptian plagues ; they are also the great grasshopper, mentioned by the prophet Nahum ; no doubt in contradistinction to the lesser. (Nah. iii. 17.) As soon as they appeared, the gardeners and husbandmen made loud shouts, to prevent their settling on their grounds. It is to this custom that the prophet Jeremiah, perhaps, alludes, when he says, Surely I will fill thee with men, as with caterpillars, and they shall lift up a shout against thee. (Jer. li. 14.) They seem- ed to be impelled by one com- mon instinct, and moved in one body, which had the ap- pearance of being organized by a leader. (Joel ii. 7.) Their strength must be very great, if we consider what immense journeys they have been known to make." Some species of the locust are eaten at this day in east- ern countries, and are even esteemed a delicacy when properly cooked. (Comp. Lev. xi. 22. Matt. iii. 4.) After tear- ing off the legs and wings, and taking out the entrails, they stick them in long rows upon wooden spits, roast them at the fire, and then proceed to de- vour them with great zest. There are also other ways of preparing them. For exam- ple: they cook them and dress ihem in oil ; or, having dried them, they pulverize them, and when other food is scarce, make bread of the meal. The Bedouins pack them with salt, in close masses, which they carry in their leathern sacks. From these they cut slices as they may need them. It ia singular that even learned men have sulTsred ihemselvea *,o hesitate about understand- ing these passages of the lite ral locust, when the fact tha' these are eaten by the orient j ala is so abundantly proved LOG by the concurrent testimony | 01 travellers. One of them I Bays, they are brought to mar- I kpt on strings in all the cities of Arabia, and thai he saw an Arab on moinit Sumara, who had collected a sack full of them. They are prepared in different ways. An Arab in Egypt, of whom he requested that he would immediately eat locusts in his presence, threw them upon the glowing coals ; and after he supposed they were roasted enough, he took them by the legs and head, and devoured the remainder at one mouthful. When the Arabs have them in quantities, they roast or dry them in an oven, or boil them and eat them with salt. The Arabs in the kingdom of Morocco boil the locusts; and the Be- douins eat locustb, which are collected in great quantities in the beginning of April, when they are easily caught. After having been roasted a little upon the iron plate on which oread is baked, they are dried in the sun, and then put into large sacks, with the mixture of a little salt. They are never lerved up as a dish, but every one takes a handful of them when hungry. In the bo'ok of Revelation we have a literal description of the symbolical locust, which gives us a terrific impression of their power, and which \a curiously illustrated by a passage from an eastern tra- veller. An Arab from Bagdad, he says, compared the head of the locust to that of the horse; its breast to that of the lion ; its feet to those of the camel ; its body to that of the serpent ; its tail to tliat of the scorpion ; and so of other parts. In like majiner, the Italians still call locusts little horses; and the Germans call them hay-horses. (For cut and de- ecnption, see Youth's Friend, 35 LOR for October, 1828, an 'Ji Bedouim Arabs, pp. 33—43. 65 ; both by Am. S. S. Union.) LOD. (See Lydda.) LO-DEBAR. (^Sam. ix. 4; xvii. 27.) A place in the tribe of Gad, not far from Mahana- im, north of the Jabbok. Here dwelt Machir the Ammonite, who assisted David when he retired from Absalom's usurpa- tion, in whose house lived Me- phibosheth, Jonathan's lame son, who sat at David's table, and received from him all that pertained to Saul and his house. Some suppose it to be the same with Debir. (Josh, xiii. 26.) LODGE. (See Garden.) LOG. (See Measukes.) LOINS. (iKingsxviii. 46.) The dress of the oriental na- tions being loose, it was neces- sary when they were travel- ling or working, to gird up their garments.and fasten them about the loins; (see Clothes;) hence the expression is figura- tively tised (I Pet. i. 13) to denote restraint or abstinence from worldly cares, thoughts, and pursuits, whereby the soul would be entangled or hin- dered. LOOKING-GLASS. (Job xxxvii. 18.) What is thus translated was in fact a plate of metal, polished so finely as to produce a very perfect re- flection of objecus. LORD. (Gen. xxxix. 2.) This word, though sometimes applied as a term of reverence and respect, usually denotes the Supreme Being ; and ia this last sense it is applied in- discriminately to the Father and the Son, (Acts x. 36. Rev. xix. 16,) especially in the epis- tles of Paul. In the common English translation of the Bi? ble, the word LORD, when U stands for Jehovah, is printed in capitals. Lord's-day, (Rev. i. 10,) or the Christian Sabbath, was dis LOT tinguished by this name from ' the Sunday of the Pagans, and the Sabbath of the Jews. The early Christian writers gene- rally made this distinction ; and the Christian emperors used the term Lord's-day, or Sunday, according to the per- Bons they addressed, i. e. whe- ther they were Pagans or Chris- tians. Lord's-day was the fa- vourite name of ihe day in the times of the apostles and first Christians; and Sunday was used only in accommodation to the popular usage of the Pagans around them. (See Feast.) Lord's supper. (1 Cor. xi. 20.) The night preceding his crucifixion, the Lord Jesus, after ealiiig the paschal sup- per with his disciples, present- ed each of them with a portion of broken bread, and a portion of the fruit of the vine; and declared to them that as often as they should eat of that bread and drink of that cup in re- membrance of him, they would show forth or illustrate his death and their faith in its atoning efficacy, till he should come. The great majority of Christians hold this ordinance to be binding on the church till the end of the world ; and that it is the privileee and duty of all the disciples of Christ to observe it. (See CoMaVUNioN.) LOT. 1. (Gen. xi. 31; xix. 37, 38.) The son of Haran, and nephew of Abraham. (See Abraham.) 2. A portion or share of any thing, particularly an inherit- ance. (Josh. XV. L Ps. cxxv. 3. Isa. xvii. 14 ; Ivii. 6. Acts viii. 21.) 3. (Prov. xviii. 18.) A me- thod used to determine chances or preferences, or to decide a debate. The decision by lot was often resorted to in former times, but always with the strictest reference to the inter- position of God J as in the LOT choice of the apostle Matthiaa (Acts i. 26,) and in the cases of Saul and Jonathan, and Jonah and his companions, to determine who had offended God, (1 Sam. xiv. 41,42. Jonah i. 7 ;) and in the division of the promised land among the tribes of Israel, the use of the lot was expressly commanded by God himself, it being understood that the extent of territory should be proportioned to the population of each tribe. (Num. xxvi. 55.) So the selection of the scape-goat was to be deter mined by lot. (Lev. xvi. 8.) Property was divided in the same way. (Ps. xxii. 18. Matt, xxvii. 35.) The orders of the priests and their daily service were also assigned by lot. (1 Chron. xxiv. xxv.) As to the manner of casting lots, we have no certain infor mation. It is supposed by some that the stones or marks which were used in determin ing the lot were thrown toge ther into the lap or fold of a garment, or into an urs^ or vase, and that the person holding them shook them vio- lently, so that there should be a perfect mingling of the whole contents, to prevent all preference by the hand of him who should draw ; so that the passage, Prov. xvi. 33, is para phrased thus : ' In a lot-vase the lots are shaken in all di rections ; nevertheless, from the Lord is the whole decision or judgment.' The use of lots, without a distinct reference to the provj. dence of God in determining the matter,or in any case where the solution of doubt is possi- ble in any other way, is con- demned, as much by reason as by religion. A case can scarce- ly be imagined at the present day, in which a reference of any matter to a decision by lot would be justifiable. Aj any rate, recourse to the use 410 LUD ol lots, or any similar mode of determining rights or claims, must always imply the inosl solemn appeal to the disposer of all events, or an entire and criminal disregard and denial of his particular providence. Lot's wife. (Luke xvii. 3-2.) The allusion in this passage to the history of Lot's wife, refers either to the attempt to re- turn, (which some suppose she made,) or to the mere looking back with a desire to return. For her offence, it is said she was turned into a pillar of salt. She was probably made a mo- nument of the divine displea- sure, but in what precise form is not known. (See Salt.) LOVE. (IJohn iv. 8. 16.) This term signifies one of the constituent principles of our nature; and in the perfect exercise of it is comprehended the whole of our duty to God and to our fellow-creatures. (Matt. xxii. 37—40. Rom. xiii. 8. 10. Gal. V. 14. James ii. 8.) Hence it evidently compre- hends all holiness of heart and life. The highest and mcst glorious display of the divine character which has ever been made to man, is the love of God in Jesus Christ, (Rom. v. 8,) and the great principle and fruit of both faith and obe- dience consist in the posses- sion and exercise of love. (John xiii. 34, 35.) LUBIM. (See Lybia.) LUCIFER. (Isa.xiv. 12.) This word, signifying light giver, occurs but once in our Bible, and is then applied to the king of Babylon to indicate his glory, as that of a morning star, or, figuratively, o son of the morning. Tertullian and some others suppose the pas- sage to relate to the fall of Satan ; and hence the term is now usually applied in that way; thougli, as it seems, wilh- eut sufficient warrant. LUD. (Gen. x. 22.) A son LUK of Shem, from whom the Lydi- ans of Asia Minor are supposed to have descended. LUDIM. (Gen. X. 13.) Son of Mizraim, whose posterity, also called Lydians, (Jer. xlvi. 9,) settled on the continent of Africa, as we infer from the connexion in which they and their country are mentioned, Isa. Ixvi. 19. Ezek. xxvii. 10; XXX. 5. Their precise location is unknown. LUKE, (Col. iv. 14,) or LU- CA.S. (Phile. 24.) The author of one of the gospels, and also of the book of Acts. He was a physician, (Col. iv. 14;) but nis parentage, nativity, and precise connexion with our baviour and his apostles, are uncertain. It is evident that he was well acquainted with every thing relative to our Saviour, and to his ministrjr upon earth. He wrote his Gospel in Achaia, about a. d. 63, and the Acts of the Apos- tles within a year or two afterwards. Both these books were dedicated to Theophilus, a distinguished Christian, and supposed to have been an Egyptian. He travelled much with Paul, and was with him on his first visit to Rome, whither he went as a prisoner. (2Tim. iv. 11. Phile. 24.) By some he is thought to have been a Greek, and by others a Syrian, and that he was con- verted at Antioch, from which place he commenced his tra- vels with Paul. Some suppose he suffered martyrdom ; but of the time and manner of his death we have no authentic information. Gospel by, coptains many things which are not found in the other gospels; among which are the following: the birth of John the Baptist; the Roman census in Judea ; the cir- cumstances attending Christ's birth at Bethlehem ; the vi- sion granted to the shepherds ; 411 LOjS the early testimony rf Simeon and Anna; Ciirisi's conversa- tion with the doctors in the temple when he was twelve years old ; the parables of the good Samaritan, of the prodigal son, of the rich man and Laza- rus, of the wicked judge,and of the publican and Pharisee; the miraculous cure of the woman who had been bowed down by illness eighteen years; the Cleansing of the ten lepers; and the restoring to life the son of a widow at Nain; the account of Zaccheus, and of the penitent thief; and the garticulars of the journey to immaus. It is very satisfac- tory that so early a writer as Irenseus has noticed most of these peculiarities; which proves not only that St. Luke's gospel, but that the other gos- pels also, are tlie same now that they were in the second century. (See Gospels. The parables and miracles and ge- neral history, recorded in this book, are analyzed in Union Questions, vol. i. ii., and Help TO THE Gospels, both by Am. S. S. Union.) LUNATIC. (Matt. iv. 24.) It was formerly supposed that the changes of the moon had an influence upon certain diseases of the mind ; and persons af- fected with those diseases were therefore called lunatics ; and hence, too, distracted persons, ■who are sane at intervals, are still called lunatics, though the idea of their being at all under the influence of the moon is generally regarded as irrational. LUSTS. 1. Unlawful pas- sions and desires. (1 Cor. x. 6. IPet. ii. ll;iv.2. 2Pet.ii. 10.) 2. The corruption of the heart, which inclines to evil, and is both the effect and cause of sin. (James i. 14, 15.) 3. The desire of food to sustain life. (Deut. iii. 15.) LUZ. (Judg. i. 26.) A city LYD in the land of the Hittitefl, built by a man of Bethel, who was permitted to go free by the Ephraimites, as a reward for making known to them a s©. cret passage into the town, by which they entered and took it. (See Bethel.) LYBIA, or LIBYA, (Acts ii. 10,) was anciently among the Greeks a general name for Africa, but properly it em- braced only so much of Africa as lay west of Egypt, on the southern coast of the Mediter- ranean. Profane geographers call it Lybia Cyrenaica, be- cause Cyrcne was its capital. (See Cyrene.) It was the country of theLubims (2Chron. xii. 3) or Lehal im of the Old Testament, from which it is supposed to have derived its name. LYCAONIA. (Acts xiv. 6. 11.) A province of Asia Minor, which the apostle Paul twice visited. It was separated from Phrygia and created into a Roman province by Augustus, and was bounded north by Ga- )!?i:a,eastbyCappadocia,soutii by Cilicia, and west by Pisidia and Phrygia. Its chief towns were Iconium, Derbe, and Lys- tra. ItisnowapartofCarama- nia, and subject to the Turks. The speech of this province (Acts xiv. 11) is supposed to have been either the old Assy- rian language, or a corruption of the Greek. LYCIA. (Acts xxvii. 5.) A south-western province of Asia Minor, bounded north by Phry gia, east by the sea and country of Pamphylia, south by the Me diterranean, and west by Caria and the gulf of Glaucus, now that part of Anatolia embraced between the bays of Macri and Satalia. Its chief cities were Patara and Myra. LYDDA, (Acts ix. 32. 38,) or LOD; in Hebrew,£,Md. (Ezra ii 33.) A city inhabited by Benja- mites after the captivity, was a 412 LYD few miles east of Joppa, on the way to Jerusalem. Here Peter curedEneasof the palsy. Itwas burnt by the Komans in the war of Judea; but was rebuilt, and called by the Greeks Dioa- polis, the city of Jupiter. It is now in ruins, although in the twelfth century the see of the Bishop of St. George, who is said to havesuffered martyrdom there in the early persecutions of the church, and over whose grave a cathedral was erected. LYDIA. 1. A PERSON. (Acts xvi. 14, 15.) A woman of Thy- atira, who dwelt in the city of Philippi, in Macedonia, and was converted under Paul's ministry. She opened her house to entertain the apos- tles, constraining them to par- lake of her hospitality. She is described as a seller of purple; which means, either that she sold the colouring matter or the fabric already dyed. (Gomp.Ezek.xxvii.7.16. See Purple.) LYS •2. A PLACE. (Ezek. XXX. &.) There was a celebrated king- dom of Asia Minor known by this name, of which Sardis was the capital. It is supposed tc have been settled by the pos- terity of Lud, a son of Shem. It had Mysia on the north, Phrygia on the east, Caria on the south, and the Egean Sea on the west. It was "once un- der the dominion of Croisus, the wealthiest monarch of his age. It was in the time of the apostles a province of the Ro- man empire. TheLydiaoflhe above-cited passage is supposed to refer to a place or a people in Africa. (See Ludim.) LYRE. (See Harp.) LYSANIAS. (See Abilene.) LYSIAS. (See Claudius.) LYSTRA. (Actsxiv.6.8.21.) A city of Lycaonia, where Ti- mothy was circumcised, (per- haps born,) and where Paul performed a surprising miracle upon a man lame from his birth. MAA MAACAH. (2 Sam. iii. 3.) The daughter of Talmai, king of Geshur, and the mo- ther of Absalom and Tamar. The same name occurs else- where, and designates different individuals of both sexes ; as in 1 Kings xv. 1, 2. 7, 8. 10, the daughter of Abishalom, and the wife of Abijam, and the mother of king Asa ; in 1 Kings ii. 39, it designates a king of Gath ; in 1 Chron. xxvii. 16, it designates the father of Shephatiah ; and in Gen. xxii. 24, it is a daughter of Nahor. In 1 Kings xv. 1, 2, Maachah, the dausliter of Abi- shalom, is called Abijah's mo- ther; and in 2Chron. xiii. 2, Abijah's mother is said to have been a daughter of Uriel of Gibeah ; and again, in 1 Kings XV. 10, Maachah is called the mother of Asa, who was Abijah's 35* MAA second son, and of course Maa- chah was his grandmother, and not his mother. An attempt has been made to reconcile these apparent in- consistencies between 1 Kings XV. 2, and 2 Chron. xiii. 2, by supposing that different per- sons arelntended. The rela- tion, it is said, is not the same in both cases; that the king's mother was a title of dignity, and not of consanguinity, dis- tinguishing her rank at court, and not her relation to the king. Thus Maachah, Reho- boani's wife and Abishalom's daughter, (1 Kings xv. 2,) was the "natural mother of Abijah, or Abijam. When her son, Abijah, ascended the throne, the rank of king's mother was given to Michaiah, the daugh ter of Uriel of Gibeah , (2 Chron. 413 MAC xiii. 2;) but, at her death, that title duvolved on Maachah, Rehoboam's wife, and she en- joyed it at the accession of Asa, her grandson, (I Kings xv. 10;) and hence, though she was Asa's grandmother, she is called, by her title of honour, the kino's mother. In confirm- ation 01 this opinion, the pas- sage 1 Kings ii. 19, is relied upon; and "it is also said that a dignitary with such a title is riirfound in some of the east- ern courts. Without determin- ing the value of this suggestion, it is sufficient to say, that in a political and ecclesiastical his- tory nearly 3000 years old, it would be surprising, (if not suspicious.) sliould "there be found that accuracy in the or- thography of proper names,and the precise relation of families and individuals, which would prevent all difficulty and con- tusion. IVIAACHAH, or MAACHA- THI. (Deut. iii. 14.) A city and region of Syria, east and north of the sources of the Jor- dan, and not far from Geshur, at the foot of mount Hermon. The Israelites would not de- stroy the Maachathites, but permitted them to dwell in the land, (Josh. xiii. 13;) and their king assisted the Am- monites aeainst David. (2Sam. X. 8.) The lot of the half-tribe of Manasseh, beyond Jordan, extended to this country. (Josh. MAALEH-AKRABBIM. (See Akraebim.) MACEDONIA. (Acts xvi. 9.) An extensive district of Greece, west of the Egean Sea, south of Thrace, and north of Thessaly, supposed to have been settled originally by the posterity of ChTttim, the son of Javan. It became celebrat- ed in the days of Philip and his son Alexander the Great, under whose reigns Greece was subdued, and'Macedonia MAC became one of the most power- ful nations of antiquity. Ma- cedonia received the gospe' before any other part of Europe. It wcis at that time a Roman province; the Romans, under raulus Emilius, having con- quered the country, afterwards divided the whole of Greece and Blacedonia into two great j provinces, which they called ! Macedonia and Achuia. (2 Cor. I ix. 2.) It remained a Roman province for nearly six hun- dred years, when it was con- quered by the Turks, and is still subject to them. Among its chief cities were Philippi and Thessalonica. A sketch of the apostle Paul's missionary tour through Mace- donia, in the words of a modern missionary travelling over the same ground, is not inappro- priate to this work and this article : Salmi'-a, (Sabbath,) May l-S, 1834. — We stopped in our room. In the morning we read toge- ther the history of Paul's visit here, and his two epistles to the Christian church of this place, (Thessalonians,) whose spiritual father he was. How much more do we feei, and re- alize the contents of the Bible, especially of its sacred history, when we read on the spot! How lively every circum- stance, every link in the chain, appears there ! Paul and Silas start from Antie- chia. It is Paul's second mis- sionary tour. At Derbe young Timotheus joins them. They pass througii Phrygia and 6a- latia, into Mysia, purposing to go to Bithynia ; but the Spirit suffered them not. They turn aside to Troas. Paul is di- vinely instructed to proceed to Europe ! What an eventful moment! How worthy of a divine revelation! Then Luke, a pious physician, unites with the missionary band ; for it is at this period that Luke begins to 414 MAC fljpeak in the first person plural. (Acts xvi. 11.) His profession was evidently calculated to give him access to the people, where the rest of the mission- aries might be excluded. They forthwith take passage ; they touch upon Samothracia,the ro- mantic,imposingrock; thence, the following day, they go to Neapolis and to Philippi. At Philippi, a little flock is ga- thered; persecution breaks out; Paul and Silas are put into prison and beaten; the keeper of the prison is converted, and the missionaries are honour- ably released. Timothy and Luke, who had excited no ill- will against themselves, re- main at Philippi ; while Paul and Silas,afier a farewell meet- ing in Lydia's house, leave for Thessalonica, passing through Amphipolis and ApoUonia. At Thessalonica a church is planted; the fire of persecu- tion is again kindled up ; Paul and Sila~s flee to Berea; there Tiniotheus joins them again. (Acts xvi. 19-40; xvii. 4—10.) Luke overtakes them still later. At Thessalonica, Paul, as usu- al, commences by preaching in the regu-lar place of worship; for while at Philippi they were constrained to worship at the river's side, there being no synagogue there. At Thessa- lonica tliere was one at least. (Acts xvii. 1, 2.) But not con- tented with a weekly procla- mation of the truth, Paul spoke as he had opportunities to the heathen population and their families, and met with abun- dant success, as well among the proselytes (Acts xvii. 4) as among the idolaters, (1 Thess. i. 9 ;) and then concluded by exhorting and comforting them privately and personally. (1 Thess. ii. 10, 11.) MACHPELAH (Gen.xxiii. 9. 17.) A field and cave near to Hebron, which Abraham purchased for a burial place, MAH and where he and his wife and several of his children were buried. Mr. Wliiting, an American missionary, visited the spot in the spring of 1835. He tella us it is situated on the side of a high hill, sloping to the south- west, and that over the cave, which is supposed to have been the burial place of the patri- archal family,is built a mosque. It is a noble structure, and re- garded as peculiarly sacred. It was built by Helen, the mother of Conslantine, though the Moslems say it was built by Solomon. From the summit of the hill is a fine view of the plains of Mamre. Here the missionary and his friends thought and conversed of the father of the faithful, who tra- versed these plains three thou- sand years before, and here they read in Arabic to the na- tives around them the twenty- third chapter of Genesis. (See Hebron.) MADAI. (See Media.) MADIAN. (See Midian.) MAGDALA, coasts of. (See Dalmanutha.) MAGICIANS. (Gen. xli.8.) Interpreters of hieroglyphics, or, as some suppose, interpret- ers of dreams. In later times, it denoted necromancers, or enchanters. To consult magicians was forbidden by the Mosaic law, under the penally of death. (Lev. xix. 31 ; xx. 6. See Wise Men.) MAGOG. (See Gog.) MAHANAIM. (Gen.xxxii. 2.) A town in the territory of Gad, on the north bank of the river Jabbok. It is called Ma- hanaim (or the host, or two hosts) from the vision which occurred to Jacob on that recorded in the n tnat spot, above-cited It vC'as distinguished as Ish- bosheth's capital, (2 Sam. ii. 8 —12. 29,) and as the place to 413 MAL which David repaired during the rebellion and usurpation of Absalom. (2 Sam. xvii. 24.) MAKKEDAH, (Josh. x. 10,) one of the principal cities of the Canaanites, was allotted to Judah, and lay south-west of Jerusalem. There was a re- markable cave here, in which five petty kings concealed themselves, but were disco- vered by Joshua, and put to an icrnoniinious death. MAKTESH (Zeph. i. 11) is generally supposed to refer to some street or square in the lower part of the city of Jeru- salem, which was chiefly inha- bited by merchants,or occupied for commercial purposes. MALACHl. (Mai. 1.1.) Many Jews affirm that Malachi signi- fies only an angel or messenger, {Malachi Jehovah, the Lord^s messenger, as in Hag. i. 13. Mai. iii. 1,) and that the author of this book is Ezra himself; but the general opinion is, that Malachi lived about four hun- dred years before Christ, and was the last of the inspired prophets under the old dispen- sation. Prophecy of, is last in the order of the books of the Old Testament; and it contains sharp rebukes of the sin and folly of the Jews; the most glowing representations of the Messiah's advent; and pre- dicts the preparation of his way by the preaching of John the Baptist. Malachi is sup- posed to have been contempo- rary with Nehemiah. MALLOWS. (Job xxx. 4.) Supposed to be a kind of bram- ble without thorns, the young leaves of which, resembling lettuce, are gathered, and boil- ed by the poor as food. We are told that at Bagdad quan- tities of this vegetable are hawked about, while those who carry it cry, Molachia, Mola- chia, which differs little from the Hebrew word. Many saline MAN plants are found In the deserts of Arabia, and some are of opi- nion this is a general name for the class. Others think that the real plant intended is a species of salt-wort; to which opinion the Greek ver- sion of the word gives some countenance. MAMMON (Matt. vi. 24) is a Syriac word, signifying riches. Mammon of tmRiGHXEOUS- NESs, (Luke xvi. 9,) as it standa connected in this passage, may mean, that we should so wisely use the mammon of unright- eousness, or the unsatisfying riches of this world, that we may secure friends in God and Christ, and in sinners saved and lilessed by our instrument- ality. MAMRE. (See Hebron.) MAN, (Gen. i. 26,) in hia physical nature, is the head and lord of the animal crea- tion. (Gen. i. 26-28.) Though of one blood, (Acts xvii. 26,) yet, as a race, mankind are divided into various nations and tribes, distinguished by colour, stature, physiognomy, &c. &c., and inhabiting such portions of the earth as God m his wise providence haa assigned to them respectively. Man was created in the image and after the likeness of God. He was formed of the dust of the ground; and, besides the life which was given him in com- mon with other animals, he received immediately from hia Creator a rational and immor- tal soul, distinguishing him from, and elevating him incom- parably above, all other crea- tures upon earth ; assimilating him to the author of his being, and enduing him with moral affections, dispositions, and ca- pacities. We are told that God breath' ed into his nostrils the breath of life, (or lives ;) which proba- bly means not only the power 416 MAN of respiration, by which animal life is sustained, but that he was at the same time furnijhed with those high spiritual facul- ties which constiiuie him a living soul. (See Adam.) Thus created in the image and after the likeness of God himself, man was placed under the restrai nis of the d 1 vine law; but, by the force of tempta- tion, he was led to break through those restraints, and so became an orjject of the divine displeasure; whereby all his relations and prospects were com.pleiely changed. Fromihis time, the character of the first man and the character of God were placed in direct opposi- tion to each other ; the one being sinful, and the other in- finitely holy. And this dread- ful event has in like manner changed the condition and prosp'ecls of the whole race; for, since that hour, sin has been the universal character- istic of every son and daughter of Adam, (see Sin ;) and death has reigned over all but two of them. Man is still upon the earth as a probationer. He is under the moral and providential go- vernment of the divine Being, and is required to love the Lord his God with all his heart, and soul, and mind, and strength, and his neighbour as himself. Such is the strength of the depravity of his heart, that he feels no inclination to obey this law, but readily yields to the temptations which assail him to disregard and violate it. If he has correct views of its strictness and spirituality, he finds, that however it may be with him in the outward act and in the sight of his fellow- men, there are thoughts and intents of his heart which it condemns. To save man in this hopeless ftiitremity, God sent his own MAN Son into the world, who not only rendered perfect obedi- ence to the divine law, but bore the penalty of its viola- tion, and thus made an atone- ment for him and opened the way by which believing peni tents may approach unto God, and receive tne forgiveness of their sins, and be restored to the divine favour. And not only has he thus made an atonement for sin; but, upon his ascension to glory, he sent down the precious influences of the Holy Spirit to renew and sanctify the soul, w hile he him- self ever lives to make inter- cession for us. Though mankind, therefore, have lost the image of God, in which they were created, and have exposed themselves to the dreadful penally of the divine law ; yet, by repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, the me- diator between God and man, we obtain forgiveness of sin, and, through free, sovereign, boundless grace, we are deli- vered from the bondage, guilt, and pollution of sin, into the glorious liberty of the children of God, and are made heirs of God and Joint-heirs with Christ. Obedience to God's com- mands, and entire, cheerful submission to his authority, constitute the evidence or fruits of this faith ; but are not, in any sense or degree, the ground or primary cause of oar justification in the sight of God. Thus we have presented to us, in the history of man, a creature once pure, pejfect, and immortal ; then debased, polluted, and ruined by sin; and finally restored to favour, and made a partaker of end- less glory and blessedness, by a scheme of mercy which not only preserves unsullied the character and government of the divine Being, but eloriousiy 417 MAN MAN illustrates his infinite attri- 1 Comp. Num. i. 32, 33. 35, and buies, and at the same time requires of the sinner the ex- : ercise of all his powers in j Gxjd's service, the renuncia- 1 lion of all merit and righteous- ness on his own part^ and a cheerful, unreserved submis- sion of himself, and all that he is and has, tj the disposal of his Creator. i In this Slate of probation or I trial, all men are subject to ' affliction and temptation, sick- ' ness and death ; but after this . stale is passed, all will be \ judged according to the deeds i done in the botly ; the right- j ecus, or those who, having ! been pardoned and sanctified, have loved and served God, will be received into his pre- sence, where is fulness of joy and pleasures for evennore; while those who neglect the means and refuse the offer of salvation, will be driven away in their wickedness into outer darkness, where are weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth; and' these will be re- spectively the eternal and un- chamgeable p:>nion of each class. (See Christ. See also The Fikst Man, and Sketch- es FuoM THE Bible, both by Am. S. S. Union.) Man of sin. (See Anti- christ.) jMAN, son of. (See Son of Man. See also Acts vii. 56.) MANASSEH. 1. (Gen. xli. 51.) The first-bom of Joseph. When he and his brother Ephraim were boys, and Jacob their erandfather was about to die, Joseph took them into the Eatfiarch's presence to receive is blessing. On this occasion , he adopted them into his own ; family, as his own children, ' and in a most significant and interesting manner, predic ed \ the superiority of Ephraim over Manasseh, as it respected num- j bers, &c. (Gen. xlviii. &-20. i . IS. 20. Ps. Ixxx. 2.) On their way to Canaan, the Israelites conquered a large territory east of the Jordan , and some of them, whose pos- sessions were chiefly in cattle, desired to have their portioa assigned them among the rich pasuires and fruiifuF hills of Bashan and the surrounding country. This request was Eranted ; and half the tribe of Manasseh received the terri- tory stretching from near to Cesarea Philip"pi along the Jor- dan down nearly to Ma hanaim. The other half had its por- tion on the west of the Jordan between Ephraim and Issa- char, across the country from the Jordan to the Mediterra- nean. This tribe possessed small tracts within the bounds of Issachar and Asher. 2. (2 Kings XX. 21.) Son and successor of Hezekiah, king of Judah, ascended the throne at the age of twelve years. The former part of his reign was distinguished for acts of daring impiety and wanton cruelly; which are particu- larly detailed by the sacred historian. (2 Kings xxi.) For these sins, in which he per- suaded his subjects to partici- pate, the country was visit- ed with God's judgments; and their severity and desolation are described in the strongest figurative language. (2 Kings xxi. 13.) He was at last taken captive by the Assyrian king, and ignominiously iransporte'd to Babylon. Upon his repent- ance and prayer, however, he was liberated, and returned to his capital, where he died, after having done much to re- pair the evils of his former life. The term of his reign was fifiy-five years. (2Chron. xxxiii. 1—20.) IVIANDRAKES. (Sol. Song vii. 13.) It is uncertain, what 413 MAN MAN plant is intended by ine He- 1 The appearance of the plant Brew word, which is translated ' known in modern limes by mandrakes in the above pas- I this name is represented in sage, and in Gen. xxx. 14—16. | the subjoined cut. Wl.at is generally called the May-apple is also often called mandrake, and bears a fruit Bomewhal resembling lemons. We know that a plant of this name is now common in the east ; its fruit ripens from May to June, and is of the size of small apples, and in its gene- ral appearance like a melon. To what degree (if any) it pos- sesses the properties ascribed to it by the ancients we know not; certainly no such proper- ties belong to what we call the mandrake. MANEH. (See Measures.) MANNA. (Ex. xvi. 15.) A substance miraculously fur- nished to the children of Israel on their journey through the wilderness, and designed as a substitute for bread, the mate- rial for which they could not ruse during their wanderings. It is called the bread rained from heaven, Ex. xvi. 4. The most remarkable things about the manna of the Is- raelites were, (1.) That dou- ble the quantity was supplied on the day precedins the Sab- bath, or seventh dayi (2.) That on the Sabbath, or seventh day, none was furnished ; (3.) That what they kept from the sixth day to the seventh was sweet and good, while what they kept from any other day to the next day bred wonns, and be- came offensive. These mira- cles, it should be remembered, were all wrought in attestation of the sanctity of the Sabbath. The manna of the Jews is described as a small, round thing, as small as the hoar- frost'on the around ; that i7 teas like coriander seed, tchite, ana the taste of it like tcafers made 419 MAN vnth honey. (Ex. xvi. 14. 31.) Wafers were small, ihin cakes of fine flour, mingled with oil, and used in various offerlnss. (Lev. ii. 4; vii. 12.) If to this mixture was added a portion of honey, there would be the nourishmeniof iheflour,the fla- vour of fresh oil, and the sweet- ness of honey. The original word furnishes no clew to the nature of the substance. It is said, that when the Israelites first saw it, they exclaimed, It is manna ; for they knew not what it was. Some have inter- Sreted it to mean prepared food. f course, we must be satisfied with the description given by the sacred historian. "As to the size and colour, it was proba- bly that of the coarsest jiarti- cles of white frost, or the finest hailstones, nearly resembling sleet. It was ground in mills, or beaten in a mortar, then placed in pans in the shape of cakes, ana baked. In gather- ing this food, each was per- mitted to take what was ne- cessary for his own use, not exceeding an omer or about three quarts for each member of the family. If more than this should be collected by ex- traordinary industry, the sur- plus was to be distributed to those who had less. For forty years this miracu- lous supply of food was fur- nished daily to between three and four millions of people. (Deut xxix. 0, 6) It ceased while they were encamped at Gilgal, immediately after they had celebrated the passover for the first time in the land of promise. (Josh. v. 10. 12.) It is not improbable that the usu- al quantity of animal food was consumed. The manna was a substitute fir bread, which is the staff of life. To comme- morate this long-continued and wonderful miracle, Moses was instructed that a golden pot should be provided, (Ex. xvi. MAN 33. Heb. ix. 4,) and that an omer (or one man's portion/ of the manna should be put up for preservation, and placed in or near the ark, that sue ceeding generations might see with their own eyes the very substance on which their fa- thers were miraculously fed in their long and perilous jour- ney ings from Egypt to Canaan. The substance known to us as manna is so called from its supposed resemblance to the manna of Israel. The best of it is brought from Syria, Ara- bia, and Persia. It falls, or is drawn from a tree or shrub, in various ways; and the Arabs boil and strain it, and then use it as honey on their bread or cakes. The manna of Israel was essentially different from the natural manna in a variety of particulars. The natural manna is not found in the de- sert ; it falls only in the spring; it is said not to melt m the sun ; it does not breed worms, and become offensive if kept from day to day. It cannot be ground or beaten in a mortar, as the manna of the Israelites was. It has medicinal proper- ties, which that had not ; it is produced on every day alike; and it comes at the very season of the year when the manna of Israel ceased. The Israel- ites never saw it liefore, nor has it ever appeared again, as we infer from com paring Deut. viii. 3. 16, with Ex. xvi.^lS. 32, 33. A very reputable eastern tra- veller gives us the following account of modern manna in Arabia : " It is from the tamarisk, or tarfa, that the manna is ob- tained. This substance is call- I ed by the Bedouins mann, and I accurately resembles the de- j scription of manna given in [ the Scriptures. In the month i of June, it drops from the thorns ' of the tamarisk upon the fallen MAN twig3,leaves, and ihorns,which always cover the ground be- neath that tree in the natural state; the manna is collected before sunrise,when it is coagu- lated; but he says it dissolves as soon as the sun shines upon it. The Arabs clean away the leaves, dirt, (Sec. which adhere to it, boil it, strain it through a coarse piece of cloth, and put it in leathern skins. In this way they preserve it till the following year, and use it as they do noney, to pour over unleavened bread, or to dip their bread into. I could not learn that they ever made it into cakes or loaves. The manna is found only in years when copious rains have fal- len ; sometimes it is not pro- duced at all. I saw none of it among the Arabs, but I obtain- ed a small piece of the la.st year's produce, in the convent, (of mount Sinai.) where, hav- ing been kept' in the cool shade and moderate temper- ature of that place, it had become quite solid, and form- ed a small cake ; it became soft when kept some time in \he hand ; if placed in the sun for five minutes, it dis- solved ; but when restored to a cool place, it became solid again in a quarter of an hour. In the season at which the Arabs gather it, it never ac- quires that state of hardness which will allow of its being pounded, as the Israelites are said to have done, in Num. xi. 8. Its colour is a dirty yellow ; and the piece which I saw was still mixed with bits of tama- risk leaves ; its taste is agreea- ble, somewhat aromatic, and as sweet as honey. If eaten in any considerable quantity, it is said to be slightly medicinal. The quantity of manna col- lected at present, even in sea- sons when the most copious rains fall, is trifling, perhaps not amountinsr to more tlian MAO five or six hundred pounds. It is entirely consumed among the Bedouins, who consider it the greatest dainty which their country aflfards. Tlie harvest is usually in June, and lasts far about six weeks." Manna is called the corn of heaven, and angels'' food, (Ps. lxxviii.24,-25,) perliaps in allu- sion to the mode by which it was supplied. The phrase hidden manna (Rev. ii. 1~) figuratively de- scribes the support which Christ furnishes to the true believer, of which the world do not and cannot partake. (Comp. John vi. 49. 51.) MANOAH, (Judg. xiii. 2,) the father of Samson, was born at Zorah. In the absence of Ma- noah, an angel appeared to his wife, and predicted the birth of Samson, describing particu- larly the mannerof his life, and the chief purpose for which he should be born. Manoah pray- ed for a repetition of the visit. The angel again appeared.and Manoah had an interview with him ; and, when he was about to depart, proposed to prepare a kid for him, that he might partake of the hospitality of his house; but the angel de- clined taking any food, and ; told him if the kid was for an otfering, it must be to the Lord. The kid was prepared as a sacrifice, and offered upon a rock. When the flame from this rude altar ascended to- wards heaven, the anael pass- ed upward with it. "^lanoah and his wife, witne.ssing this wonderful scene, fell upon their faces to the ground. He was disposed to construe the visit of the angel unfavoura- bly; but his wife more justly regarded the emblematical ac- ceptance of the sacrifice as a token for good ; and so it proved. MAON, (1 Sam. xxv. 2,) dis- tinguished as the residence of MAR Nabal, was on the southern boundary of Judca. Wilderness of, (1 Sam. xxiii. 25,) was in the south- ern pan of Judah, south of the wilderness of Ziph, and near the town of Maon, and extended to the mountains of Idumea. It was in the wil- derness of Maon that David concealed himself when the Ziphiies were seeking his de- struction. MAKAH. (Ex. XV. 23.) A place on the line of the march of the Israelites, at which tit- ter water was made palata- ble hy casting into it a tree which God designated to Mo- ses. Whether the etfect was miraculous, or only the indi- cation to Moses of a particular tree which was capable of pro- ducinsi it, is uncertain. The word Marah, signifying bitter- ness, was adopted by Naomi, as applicable to her.se"lf,in view of her many sorrows. (Ruth i. 20) The well of Hawara, on the eastern coast of the gulf of Suez, isspokenof by travellers as containing bitter water, and corresponds, in distance, &c., to the Blarah of the sacred history. MARANATHA. (See Ana- thema.) MARBLE. (Rev. xviii. 12.) Aspecies of limestone, remark- able for its durability, and ca- pable ofreceiving a high polish. It was probably used in very early times for building mate- rials, (1 Kings vi. 7.36; vii.9— 12. 1 Chron. xxix. 2.) and for many kinds of vessels. The colours of marble are various and beautiful, and pieces of ail sizes may be wrought to- gether so as to resemble a beautiful painting. Such was probably the pavement and columns of the Persian palace, described in Esth. i. 6. MARCUS. (See John Mark.) MAR MARESHAH. (Josh. xv. 44./ A town of Judah, famous as the scene of ilie battle between Asa king of Judah, and Zerak king of Ethiopia, with his nu- merous army. It was also the residence of the prophet Mi- cah. (Mic. i. 15.) MARK. (Acts xii. 12.) Gene- rally supposed to be the same with Marcus, (1 Pet. v. 13;) but whether he was the same with John Mark (Acts xv. 37—39. Col. iv. 10. 2 Tim. iv. 11) is not clear. (See John Mark.) Gospel by. The second in order of the books of the New Testament. It is supposed to have been written between A. D. 56 and 65, and it con- tains the substance of the pub- lic discourses and private con- versations of our Saviour, olv tained in a great measure, as some have suppo.sed, from the lips of the apostle Peter, whose intimate companion he was for several years. It is not unlikely that the apostle him- self had an opportunity to ex- amine it, inasmuch as many things commendatory of him, mentioned in the other gospels, are omitted in this. There are a sufficient number of im- portant differences between this gospel and the other three, to show that this is not an abridgmentor compilation from them, or either of them ; and among these we may mention two miracles which are not re- corded in any other gospel ; and yet there are but twenty- four verses in ]\Iark which contain any important fact not menti med by some other evan gelist. MARKETS, (Matt. xi. 16,) or MARKET-PLACE. (Luke vii. 32.) The markets of east em towns occupy one side of an area, the other sides being occupied by public buildings, temjiles, courts, and offices of various kinds. Hence they were the place of general con MAR course. Laws were promul- gated here ; questions of philo- sophy and public interest were discussed ; and, it being ge- nerally in or near the gate of the city, or the thoroughfare, as we might call it, judicial inves- tigations were made here. (Acts xvi. 19; xvii. 17. See Gate.) The country peoj^le would be found at this point in the greatest numbers, as well as judges and magistrates. Hence the force of the expression, Mark xii. 38. The market-places would embrace the whole area; and here a crowd of children and idlers would be found amusing themselves. To reprove the inconsistency -^f the Pharisees, in rejectinff Christ for doing, as they said, the very things which they rejected John for not doiu^ he compares them to a company of children who are imitating the customs of their elders on public occasions, as by a mock marriage or a mock funeral. On the former of these occasions, it was customary to express joy and congratulation by music and dancing; and on the latter, to employ persons to lead in loud lamentations^ In the children's sport, a few- tried to persuade the rest to join in some joyful measure, but they preferred to mourn; and then they commenced a lamentation, but they prefer- red the music. So perverse and inconsistent were they ,that they could be pleased with no- thing. The market-place was re- sorted to by labourers who sought employment. An in- telligent traveller tells us of a scene he witnessed in Per- sia, where a great number of peasants assembled in the market-place before sunrise, with their spades in their hands, waiting to be employ- ed ; and when he passed the same place at night, some of jmar them were still there, waiting forsomeihingtodo. (See Matt. XX. 1-16.) MARRIAGE (Matt. xxii. 2) is a divine institution. (Gen. ii. 21 — 2o.) It is also a civil contract, uniting one man and one woman together in tlie re- lation of husband and wife. Among the benefits of the insfi- lution'are, (1.) Domestic com- fort ; (2.) Provision for the health, education, and support of children; (3.) The distri- bution of society into familie or small communities, with a master or governor over them who has natural as well as lesal authority ; (-1.) The secu- rity whicli arises from parental anxiety, and the confinement of children to permanent habi- tations ; and, (5.) The encou- ragement of industry. No sins are more frequently and pointedly condemned by the Bible, than such as violate or impair the sacredness of the marriage relation; and nothing is wanting to raise this to the highest, purest, and most sa- cred relation in which two human beings can stand to each other, but obedience to the precepts of the Holy Scrip- tures on this subject. In the celebration of mar- riages in the east at the present day, many of the peculiar cus- toms of ancient times are ob- served. At a Hindoo marriage, says a modern missionary, the procession of which I saw some years ago, the bridegroom came from a "distance, and the brida lived at Serampore, to which place the bridegroom was to come by water. After waiting two or three hours, at length, near midnight, it was announc- ed, in the very words of Scrip- ture, Behold, the bridegroom comelh ; go ye out to meet him. All the persms ernpliyed now lighted their lamps, and ran with them in their hands to fill up their stations in the proces- 423 MAR elon; some of them had lost iheir lights, and were unpre- pared, but it was then too late toseek them, and the cavalcade moved forward to the house of the bride ; at which place the company entered a large and splendidly illuminated area, before the house, covered with an awilng, where a great mul- titude )f friends, dressed in their best apparel, were seated upon mats. The bridegroom was carried in the arms of a friend, and placed in a superb seat in the midst of the com- pany, where he sat a short time, and then went into the house, the door of which was immediately shut, and guarded by sepoys. I and others expos- tulated with the door-keepers, but in vain. Never was I so struck with our Lord's beautiful parable as at this moment — And the door was shut. The journal of one of the Ame- rican missionaries in Greece contains an account of an Ar- menian wedding which she attended ; and, after describing the dresses and previous cere- monies, she says, that at twelve o'clock at nig'ht, precisely, the cry was made by some ol the attendants. Behold, the bride- groom coMeth; and immedi- ately five or six men set otT to meet him. The custom of crying and shouting at the approach of the bridegroom seems to have been continued from the days of our Saviour. (For a veiy interesting and minute account of the laws and customs of ancient nations, re- specting marriage, polygamy, divorce, &c. &c., the ceremo- nies attending an eastern wed- ding, and the figurative allu- sion's of the sacred writers to these topics, the student is re- ferred to Biblical ANTiaui. vol. i.ch. vi.§ 1; OMAF,pp. 145 — 152; and Evening Recrea- MAR TioNs, vol. ii., pp. 89—99, by Am. S. S. Union.) It was the custom to crown the married couple. Hence the allusion, Sol. Song iii. 11. Isa xlix. 18, where the word orna ment might as well be rendered crown. (See Dowry.) MARS-HILL. (See Arbo- PAGITE.) MARTHA. (John xi.l.) The sister of Lazarus and Mary, and the mistress of their family at Bethany. (Luke x. 38—40.) She is always named before Mary, and was probably the elder. There is no question of her piety. (John xi. 5. 25— 27. See Lazarcs, Mary.) MARTYR. (Acts xxii. 20.) One who bears witness to the truth at the expense of his life. The word occurs thrice only in the Scriptures. MARY, 1. (Luke i 27,) the mother of our Lord, was cousin to Elisabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. (Luke i. 36.) The sacred history records but few incidents of her life, after the infancy of the Messi- ah. She was present at the marriage in Cana, (John ii. .'•',) where he WTought a miiacle. She also sought an interview with him in company with others of the family, when he was preaching to a crowd in a country place. (.Luke viii. 19, 20.) She was present at his crucifixion, (John xix. 25,) and was there commended by the expiring Redeemer to the filial kindness and attention of the beloved John ; and she is men- tioned as one among the pray- ing company in the upper room at Jerusalem, after the ascen sion of our Saviour. (Acts i. 14.) 2. (John xix. 25.) The sister of the above Mary, the wife of Cleophas, and mother of James the less, Simon, Joses, and Judas. They were of course cousins,and are called brethren of our Lord. (Matt. xiii. 55; 424 MAR xxvii.56. Markvi.3.) She was present at the crucifixion and burial of our Lord, (Matt, xxvii. 56. CI,) was amon^ those who went to embalm him, (Mark xvi. 1 — 10,) was among the first to whom the news of his resurrection was announced, (Luke xxiv. 6,) and on her way to the disciples with the intel- ligence, she met her risen Lord and worshipped him. (Matt, xxviii. 9.) 3. (Actsxii.l2.) The mother of John Mark, a godly wo- man, residing at Jerusalem, at whose house the disciples were convened the night Peter was miraculously de- livered from prison. 4. (Johnxi. 1.) The sisterol Lazarus, and a devoted friend and disciple of our Saviour. She evinced her affection for him at the supper in Bethany, a fewdays before his crucifix- ion,(John xii. 3.) and received from him the testimony that shc'had chosen the good part which should not be taken from her. (Luke x. 41, 42.) 5. (Luke Ym.2.)MarijMagda- lene, or Mary of Magdala. So called, probably, from the fact that she was a native or resi- dent of the village of Magdala. Thegeneralimpression that she was an unchaste woman isentirely without foundation. There is nothing to warrant the opinion that she was not a woman ingoodcircumstances andof unblemished character. Having been relieved of a de- moniacal possession by thedi- vine power of our Saviour,she became hisfollower,(Lukeviii. 2, 3,) and evinced her attach- ment to him and his cause to the very last. She was at his crucifixion (John xix. 25) and burial, (Mark xv. 47,) and she was among lliose who had pre- pared the materials to embalm him, (Mark xvi. 1,) and who first went to the sepulchre after 3G* MAT the resurrection; and what is particularly interesting in her history, she was the first to whom the risen Redeemer ap- peared, (Mark xvi. 9;) and his conversation with her is ex- ceeded in interest and pathos by no passage of history, sacred or profane. (John xx. 11—18.) MASCHIL is found in the title or inscription of Psalm xxxii.and several other psalms, and probably means an in- structive song. MATTHEW, (Matt. ix. 9,) called also Levi, (Mark ii. 14,) was a native of Galilee, and, though a Jew, was employed as a tax-gatherer under the provincial government of Ju- dea. He was called from his official occupation into the ser- vice of Christ, entertained him at his house, (Mark ii. 15,) be- came one of the twelve apos ties, and was engaged in the propagation of the gospel after our Saviour's ciscension. (Acts i. 13.) There is no certainty respecting the time, place, or manner of his death. Gospel of, is supposed to have been written five years after Christ's ascension,or about the year 38. It existed at a very early period, both in the He- brew and Greek languages; and some suppose it was first writ- ten in Hebrew, and translated into Greek by Matthew himself or, at least, during his lifetime. There is internal evidence that it was designed particularly for the use of the Jews. Matthew, as appears from the preceding article, was early called into the company of Christ's disci- ples, and was a constant at- tendant upon his ministry to its close. His is the earliest of the four histories, and certainly has the characteristics of a nar- rative written soon after the events happened. The visit of the wise men; the slaughter of the infants ; the parable of the ten virgins; the resurrec- 425 MEA lion of ihe saints at the time of the crucifixion ; and some other facts are related by Matthew, which are nut mentioned by either of the other evangelists. (See Union Questions, vols. i. ii., and Help to the Gospels, both by Am. S. S. Union.) MATTHIAS. (Acts i. 23.) A disciple of Christ, and a con- stant attendant on his travels and ministry, from its com- mencement until his ascen- sion. (Acts i. 21, 22.) He was appointed to supply the va- cancy in the company of the twelve apostles, occasioned by the apostacy of Judas. MAZZAROTH. (Jobxxxvili. 32.) Ccmst thou bring forth Mazzaroth in his seasoti? was one of the questions by which God reproved the weakness and presumption of his servant Job. It is supposed by some to mean the twelve signs of the ziidiac; each of which is brought forth in its season by the wisdom and power of God only. MEALS, MEAL -TIME. (Ruth ii. 14.) The meals of the orientals, both ancient and mo- dern, may be compared to our dinner and supper. (Luke xiv. 12.) What is here called din- ner might nevertheless as well be called breakfast ; far it is a light meal, and is taken at an early hour. In Persia, they partake of this first meal be- tween ten and eleven o'clock in the forenoon; and it con- sists principally of fruits, milk, cheese, and confectionary. The principal meal of the day is the supper. Among the Romans, it anciently took place about three o'clock ; but in the east, as at the present day in Persia, about six or seven in the evening, in order to avoid the enfeebling heat of the afternoon. (Mark vi. 21. Luke xiv. 16. 24. John xii.2.) Before going to meals it was tommo 1 to wash the hands ; a MEA custom rendered necessary by their method of partaking of food. The same practice ob- tained among the Greeks and Romans at an early date, and still prevails in the east. (See Eating.) The Pharisees had exalted this into a religious duty, and affected to be greatly scandal- ized at the omission of it by the disciples of our Lord. (Matt. XV. 2. 20. Luke xi. 38 ) In Samuel's time, the people would not eat until he had blessed the sacrifice ; and this is the first notice in Scripture of a blessing on food. (1 &am. ix. 13.) In the time of Christ, however, it was conunon before every meal to bless or give thanks. (Matt. xiv. Ii) ; xv.36.) A distinction of rank also prevailed in sitting at meais. (See Feasts, Seats, Table. See also Biblical Antiq.ui- TiES, vol. i. ch. V. § 2, by Am. S. S. Union.) MEARAH. (Josh. xiii. 4.) / noted cave between Sareptj and Sidon. MEASURES & WEIGHTS (Prov. XX. 10.) The Jewisu law contains two precepts re- specting wf-ighis and measures. The first (Lev. xix. 35, 36) re- fers to the standards kept in the sanctuary ; and the second (Deut. XXV. 13—15) refers to copies of them kept by every family for its own use. Much perplexity has attended aU investigations of this subject, and we must be contented with ajjproximations to truth. The models or standards of the weights and measures which were in earliest use were pre- served for a long time in the Jewish temple, but were de- stroyed with that sacred edifice, and afterwards tlie measures and weights of the people among whom the Jews dwelt were adopted. Josenhus as- serts that measures anu weights were invented by Cain. They 426 ME A were certainly in use from the earliesi period. (Gen. vi. 15; xxiii. 16) As lo currency, it is supposed the Jews had no coins or pieces of metal of fixed size and value, but that the precious metals were exchanged for articles of merchandise by weight. Thus Abraham bought th'e field of Ephron for iom hundred she- kels of silver, as we should buy an acre of land for a hundred bushels of wheat, or a hundred pounds of flax. This is the usual mode of dealing among uncivilized nations at the pre- sent day. Every piece or mass of metal was valued according to its purity and weight. Hence the practice of carrying weights in a bag, to which allusion is frequently made by the sacred writers. (Deut. xxv. 13. Prov. XVI. 11. Mic. vi. 11.) We have abundant evidence that in Da- vid's time gold was used as an anicle of merchandise, and not as a standard of value. In preseminsr this subject in euch a form as to aid the bibli- cal student or teaclier, we shall include only those terms which are actually used in the Bible, and shall endeavour to esta- blish a definite ride rather than to perplex by an array of con- flicting opinions and authori- ties. I. Of measures of length. The handbrea/lth, or pahru, (1 Kings vii. 26,) was four digits, or the breadth of the four fingers —from three inches to three and a half A iT^an, (Lam. ii. 20,) which e.vpressps the distance across the hand from the extremity of the thumb to the extremity of the little finger, when they are stretched as far apart as possible, say nine to ten mches. A cubit. (Gen. vi. 16.) It is obvii )us that this term is applied by the sacred writers to differ ent lengths, one being at least a hand-breadth longer than the ME A I other. It is. however, generally I agreed that the common cubil was about eighteen inches. X fathom' iKc\s xxvil. 2S) was from six feel to six feet I and a half The measuring reed (Ezek. xlii. 16) is supposed to hav3 been from ten to eleven feet; and tlie measuring line (Zech. ii.Dahundredandforty-sixfeet. The/urlong (Luke xxiv. 13) was a Greek measure, and nearly the same as at present, viz. one-eighth of a mile, or forty rods. The mile, (I\Iatt. v. 41,) pro- bably 1612 yards, or about one- twelfth less than ours. The Sabbath-da'/s journey (Acts i. 12) was about seven- eighths of a mile; and the term denoted the distance which Jewish tradition said one might travel without a violation of the law. (Ex. xvi. •29.) It is supposed that this distance extended first from the tabernacle to the remotest section of the camp, and after- wards from the temple to the remotest parts of the holy city. The term a day''s journey (Num. xi. 31. Luke ii. 44) pro- bably indicated no certain dis- tance, but was taken to be the ordinary distance which a per- son travels on foot in the prose- cution of a journey, perhaps twenty miles. II. Hollow sieascres. (1.) Dry. A cab, or kab, (2 Kings vi. 25,) one-third of an omer, or two pints. An omer, (Ex. xvi. 36,) one- tenth of an ephah, or six pints. The measure, or seah, (Gen. xviii. 6. Matt. xiii. 33. Luke xiii.21,) one-third of an ephah, or twenty pints. The ephah, (Ex. xvi. 3 e been the same with the omer, or the tenth part of an ephah. The Greek word translated bushel (Malt. v. 15) is sup- g)sed by some to answer to the e'vew word seah. The Ro- man ousliel was very nearly the same with the English peck. (2.) Liquid. The log, (Lev. xiv. 10,) six egg-shells full, one-tenth of a hin, or nearly one pint. The hin, (Ex. xxix. 40,) one- sixth of a bath, or ten pints. The bath, (Isa. v. 10,) one- enth of a homer, (Ezek. xlv. n,) seven and a half gallons, or sixty pints. The homer, or cor, (Ezek. xlv. 14,) ten baths, seventy -five gallons, or six hundred pints. The lirkin (John ii. (3) was a Greek measure, containing seven and a half gallons. III. Of weights. In the time of Moses the common weight was a shekel, which signifies a tre?^W. There were also the parts of a shekel, as the fourth, third, and half The shekel, the maneh, and the talent were all originally names of weights; and here it may be remarked that there appears no sufficient warrant for the opinion tliat tlie Jews had two kinds of weights. When the phrase shekel of the sanctuary is used, (Ex. xxx. 13,) it means, not that this was diilerent from the common shekel, but that it was a true standard weight, according to the authorized standard pre- served in the sanctuary, or, as we should say, a sealed weight or measure, to denote that its accuracy is certified by autho- rity. To weigh substances the Jews had — The shekel, (Amos viii. 5,) half an ounce avoirdupois. The maneh or mina, (Ezek. MEA xlv. 12,) one hundred shekels, or fifty ounces, equal to three pounds two ounces avoirdupois. The talerU, (2Sam. xii. 30,) three thousand shekels, thirty manehs,fifieenhundred ounces, equal to ninety-three pounds twelve ounces avoirdupois. IV. Of currency. (1.) Before the captivity. The gerah, cne-twentieth of a shekel, would be worth now nearly two and a half cents. The bekah, half a shekel, equal to twenty-five cents. The shekel, twenty gerahs, weighing half an ounce troy, equal to fifty cents. The maneh or mina, one hundred shekels, fifty ounces, or four pounds two ounces troy, equal to fifty dollars. The talent, thirty minae or three thousand shekels, ninety- three pounds twelve ounces, equal to fifteen hundred dollars. The pound is the same with the iniiia. The value of gold was to that of silver about as twelve to one. The dram, (IChron. xxix. 7,) or drachm, was the same with the daric. (2.) After the captivity. The daric, dram, or drachm, (Ezra ii. 69,) was a Persian gold coin, equal to about five dol- lars fifty cents. The stater ov piece of money, (Matt. xvii. 27,) a Greek or Roman silver coin, (a shekel in w&ight,) and in value over fifty cents. The stater or coined shekel of the Jews is often found in the cabinets of antiquaries at the present dav. The penny, (Malt. xxii. 19,) or drachm, a Roman silver coin, equal to from twelve and a half to fourteen cents. The farthing, (Malt. x. 29,) a Roman silver coin, equal W one cent and a quarter. Another piece of money equal to one-fourth of a far- thing is called by the same MEA naine, (Malt. v. 26 ;) and the ] mite (Mark xii. 42) was half of this last farthing, or about one-eighth of a cent and a half. An erroneous impression pre- vails respecting the real value of money, from our associations with its nominal value. The penny a day (Matt. xx. 2) seems to be a mean compensation for ten or twelve hours' labour, and the twopence (Luke x. 35) affords very equivocal evidence of generosity in the good Sa mariian; but when it is con- sidered what these sums could obtain of the comforts and ne- cessaries of life, the case ap- pears differently. As lately as the year 1351, the price of labour was regu- lateu in Endand by parlia- ment, and "Tiaymakers, corn- weeders, without meal, drink, or other courtesy," (in modern phrase, finding themselves,) were to have a penny a day. In many places higher wages are given for haymaking than for any other kind of agricul- tural labour. The pay of a chaplain in England, in 1314, was three half-pence, or about three cents a day. At the same lime wheat was sixteen cents a bushel, and a fat sheep twelve cents. A penny a day under such circumstances would not be inconsiderable wages. It has been estimated that four hundred and forty grains of silver would purchase as much in the fourth century before Christ, as four thousand four hundred grains would purchase in England in 17S0. MEAT, MEATS. (Gen. i. 29. Mark vii. 19.) The food of the Hebrews was regulated by the appointment of God. Their methods of cooking meats were various, though they never ate of food dressed by any other than a Jew, nor of food pre- pared by other kitchen uten- sils than those of their own nation. What animals they MEA might eat, and what they ought nof, was particularly command- ed. (Lev.xi. Deut.xiv.) The iiiv- njrt of the word meat seems to have undergone a considerable change since our version of the Bible was made; for, in this, it means food in general; or, when confined to one species of food, always signifies meal, flour, or grain, but never flesh, which is now the usual accep- tation of the word. A meat- offering in the Scriptures is always a vegetable and never an animal offering ; and it might now be rendered a bread-offering, or a meal-offer- ing, instead of a meat-offering. Meats offered to idols. (1 Cor. viii. 7. 10.) At the first settling of the church, there were many disputes concern- ing the use of meats offered to idols. Some newly converted Christians, convinced that an idol was nothing, and that the distinction of clean andunclean creatures was abolished by our Saviour, ate indifferently of whatever was served up to them, even among pagans, without inquiring wliether the meats had been offered to idols. They took the same liberty in buying meat sold in the mar- ket, not regarding whether it were pure or impure, accord- ing to the Jews; or whether it had been offered to idols or not. But other Christians, weaker or less instructed, were offended at this libertv, and thought that eating of meat which had been offered to idols was a kind of partaking in that wicked and sacrilegious act. j This diversity of opinion pro- duced some scandal, for which ■ Paul thought it behoved hira ! to provide a remedy. (Roiii. I xiv. 20, 21.) Ho determined, I tlierefjre, that all things were ; clean to such as were clean, (Tit. i. 15,) and that an idol j was nothing at all. That a I man might safely eat of what- 429 MED ever was sold ia the market, and need not scrupulously in- q'lire from whence it came; and that H"an unbeliever should invite a believer to eat with him, the believer might eat of whatever was set before him, &c. (I Cor. x. 25. &c.) But at the same lime lie en- joins, that the laws of charity and prudence should be ol> served; that believers should lie cautious of scandalizing or offending weak uiinds; for though all things might be lawlul, yet all things were not always expedient. MEDEBA. (Josh.xiii. 16.) A city in the eastern part of the territory of Reuben, which still retains nearly its ancient name Madaba. The site of the old town shows the ruins of a temple, and the excavations of ponds and reservoirs. MEDIA. (Isa. xxi. 2.) This country, which probably de- rives its name from Madai, (Gen. X. 2,) anciently occupied what is now part of the king- dom of Persia, and was bound- ed north by the Caspian Sea and Armenia, south by Persia f)roper, and west by Assyria, t was a fertile and well-cul- tivated region, and was divided into greater and lesser Media. Ninus, king of Assyria, added this country to his kingdom, and retained it until the time of Sennacherib, when it re- volted, and his son became king, B. c. 700. It fell into the hand of Cyrus the Great, about 556 B. c, who perfectly united Media and Persia, form- ingthe Medo-Persian kingdom. Hence, by Esther and Daniel, the laics and chronicles of the Medes and Persians are always mentioned together. God em- ployed the Medes to punish Babylon, and then sent them the cup of his wrath by Cyrus. (Isa. xiii. 17, 18; xxi. 2,3. Jer. XXV. 25.) MEDIATOR. (Gal. iii. 19.) MKD One who interposes between two parties at variance, with the view of effecting a recon- ciliation between tHem. The title belongs pre-eminently to the divine Redeemer, in and by whom God is reconciling the world unto himself (1 Tim. ii. 5. Heb. viii.6, and xii. 24.) And it is to be remembered that he is the ONLY mediator between God and man. Of course our blessed Saviour has always stood in that relation, as well before as since his manifesta- tion in the flesh. He is the Angelof the covenanl,by whom all the divine communications were made under the several dispensations. Of the new co- venant he became the surety as well as the mediator, seal- ing it with his own blood ; and the blessings of this covenant are now and ever will be be- stowed in virtue of his merits and intercession. The errors and absurdities into which many are betrayed who reject this doctrine are without num- ber; and no view of the subject accords with the divine ora- cles, or brings into their just relation all "the parties con- cerned, except that which con templates the Redeemer both in his divine and human na- ture ; as, on the one hand, iden- tified with the infinite Jehovah whose honour and elory are to be maintained, and whose fa- vour is to be secured; while, on the other, he is the self- offered, atoning sacrifice for sin ; and, as the friend of sin- ners, invites them to come to him in faith and penitence, and receive the boundless blessings of God's grace, se- cured to them by his own pre- vailing intercession. In all ages, and in all parts of the v/orld, there has constantly prevailed such a sense of the noliness of the supreme Di- vinity, as to make recourse to some sort of mediation uni- 430 verbal. There is not a larm of religion known, even among the sava^e.s and heathen na- tions, which does not recog- nise, witli more or less dis- linctnes?, the necessity of a me- diator between the divinity and man. This fact, together with the consideration that there is notliing in the doctrine itself coiHrary to reason and ana- logy, sufficiently establishes it against the objections and cavils of scoffers and unbe- lievers. MEGIDDO. (Josh. xii. 21.) A city belonging to Manasseh, but lying wiiliin the limits of Issacliar, not far from the river Kishon, whose waters are hence called the waters of Megiddo. (Judg. V. 19.) Its inhabitants were not expelled by Manas- seh, but when Israel became Btrong were made tributary. Solomon f Ttified it, and made it the residence of one of his commissaries, who provided stores of provision for his house- hold (1 Kings iv. 12; ix. 15.) There, too, Ahaziah died, in consequence of a wound in battle, and Josiah was slain by Pharaoh-necho of Esypt. C2KinE:s ix. '27: xxiii. 2y.) MELCHIZEDEC (Gen. xiv. 18) is supposed to have been king of the Salem which was afterwards Jerusalem, (though it is not improbable that the title king of Salem was a mere appellation.) He is men- tioned before the institution of the Aaronic order as a priest of the most high God. Some have strangely suppos- ed him to have been Shem, but his birth and genealogy are concealed, (perhaps pur- posely.) or the phrase with- out father, &c. may mean that his parpnts were of obscure or low origin ; and we know not that he iiad a predecessor or successor ; at any rate the time of his priesthood was unlimit- ed, and in this respect differ MEL ent from the Levitical prie^l- hood . (Num. v i i i . 24, 25.) The phrase having neither begin- jitng of da^s no?' end of life may apply either to the time of his binh and death being unknown, or to the indefinite termofhisoffjcial life. Abraham showed his respect for the age, rank, piety, and priestly office of Melchizedec, by paying him a tithe of the spoils he" had taken in the battle with Che- dorlaomer and his allies, in the valley of Jehoshaphat; and hence the argumentof the apos- tle, that if Abraham, whom the Jews regarded so highly, and who was the ancestor of the sons of Levi, thus acknow- ledged the dignity and supe- riority of Melchizedec; surely Christ, the great High-jiriest, of whom Melchizedec was but an imperfect type, was worthy of like or still greater homage. And if the anceswr of Levi thus paid homage to Melchi- zedec the type of Chrbt, surely the priesthood w hich was filled by the sons of Levi must be regarded as far inferior in die- nity and excellence to the priesthood of Christ himself (Hell. V. vi. vii.) MELITA, (Acts xxviii. 1,) now Malta, an island twelve miles in breadth and twenty in length, lying between Sicily and Africa, about two hundred miles east of Tunis, and in that pan jf ihe Mediterranean which, in the apostle's day, was often called Adria, in- cluding the Ionian and Sici- lian seas, according to the tes- timony of rtolemy and Strabo. Here Paul and his company were shipwrecked on the pas- sage to Rome, and very kindly treated by the inhabitants, es- pecially by Publius the govern or. A modern traveller says, — "Passed St. Paul's harbour where the apostle was ship- wrecked. In reading the ac- count of ihid shipwreck, \ 43. MEL nad ever experienced difficulty in comprenending how there could be a place formed on the coast of an island, where two seas met. But in view- ing the spot pointed out where the ship wa3 thrust in. the difficulty was removed. The island Gozo lies west of the main island, (MallaO and is separated only by a strait, from half to a quarter of a mile in width. Wnen a violent Euro- clydon (east-wind) prevails, and the seas run high, a power- fell current is forced in at each end of this strait, which ranges nearly north and south. The ship was driven in at the north end, and struck in a small nook, on the Malta side, about forty rods from the entrance. This strait must have been, I think, the creek tcith a shore, into which they tcere minded, if possible, to thrust in the ship. For, while lying off to the north, the entrance of the strait has the exact ap- pearance of the mouth of a creek or river." This island was settled by a Phenician colony, about b. c. 1500. Since the Christian era, it has belonged successively to the (joins", Vandals, Sara- cens, Normans, Germans, and French, until Charles V. sur- rendered it to the knights of St. John of Jerusalem, who were dispossessed by Bona- parte ; and by the treaty of 1814 it was allotted to England. At present it is the centre of exter.sive missionary opera- tions. Publications in the mo- dern Greek, Armenian, Turk- ish, and Arabic languages are widely circulated ; 'and it is also a depository for Bibles in various languages. MELONS. (Num. xi. 5.) Probably what is known to us as the water-melon, a fruit which is still faund in great lK.'rtection in Egypt, and which MEP travellers tell us furnished the chief food and drink of the lower classes during the heat of summer. MEN AHEM (2 Kin-s xv. 14) was the son of (radi, and having slain Shallum, king of Samaria, reigned in his steao. His reign, which lasted ten years, was distinguished for cruelty and oppression. (2 Kings XV. 16—20.) MENE. (Dan. v. 25.) A word of that significant sentence which appeared on the wall of Belshazzar's banqueting, hall, to warn him of the im- pending destruction of Baby- lon. The whole sentence ia in the pure Chaldee language, and reads, when translated literally, 'i\Iene, he is nu7r> bered — 3Iene,Ac isnuinbered — Tekel, he is iceighed—VjohaT- sin, they are divided.' Peres, in the original language, is the same word with Upharsin, but in a different case or number. It means, he rras divided. MEPHAATH (Josh. xiii. 18) is supposed to have been con- tiguous to Kedemoth, Bezer, and Jahzah. (1 Chron. vi. 78, 79.) In later times it was in the hands of the Moabites. (Jer. xlviii. 21.) MEPHIBOSHETH, 1. (2 Sam. xxi. 8,) was a son of Saul, who, with his brother and five others of the family, suffered a violent death at the hands of the Gibeonites. 2. (2 Sam. iv. 4.) Or Merib- baal, (1 Chron. viii. 34,) was a son ol Jonathan, and grandson of Saul, who, at the age of five years, fell from his nurse's arms, and wm ever after a cripple. When David was in auiet {X)ssession of his kin^- om, he sought out this branch of the family of Jonathan his friend, and not only gave hiiw an honourable place in his palace, but made ample pro- vision for his family. The in- 432 MER leresling history of this liberal f)roceedingof Da viil's is minuie- y related in 2 Sain. ix. MERAB. (1 Sam. xiv. 49.) The eldest daughter of Saul, who promised her to David in marriage; but she married Adriel of Meholath, by whom she had five sons, and David look her sister Michal. The five sons of Merab suffered a violent death at the hands of theGibeonites. (2Sam. xxi.8.) They are called the Jive sons of Michal, ichom she brought up f'^r Adriel ; and the proba- bility is, if the text is correctly expressed, that Michal adopted her sister's children, (their mo- ther being dead.) At all events, we may be sure that if the his- tory was fabulous, such ap- parent inconsistencies would nave been avoided ; so liiat their occurrence shows the ab- sence of any cunnins. MERCHANTS. (Isa. xxiii. 2.) The earliest mode of com- merce was doubtless by cara- vans. The merchants to whom Joseph was sold were probaljly of this character. The earliest commerce with India, of which we have any knowledge, was carried on in this way by the merchants of Arabia and Egypt. Tliere was, however, considerable intercourse be- tween many countries by water. The Phenicians held the first rank as a commercial nation, and their first metro- polis was Sidon, and after- wards Tyre. Something may be learned of their commerce from Ezek. xxvii. and xxviii. (See Ships.) The commerce of the Egyptians was also very extensive. They imported goods from India, and carried on an export, trade with various parts of ihe Mediterranean. MERCY. (Gen. xix. 19.) An essential attribute of the Di- vine Being, fur the knowledge of which we are indebted wholly to revelation. The 37 iVIER ) plan of salvation by JesuB I Christ provides for the exercise 1 of infinite mercy, consistently I with the most rigid demands j of truth and righteousness ; so I that, under this gracious dis- pensation, mercy and truth are said to have met together, and righteousness and peace to have kissed each other. (Ps. Ixxxv. 10.) The expression / will have mercy, and not sacrifice, (Hos. vi. 6. Matt. ix. 13,) signifies (as its connexion indicates) th,-it God is pleased with the ex- ercise of mercy rather Ihaa with the otiering of sacrifices, though sin has made the latter necessary. (Comp. 1 Sam. xv. 22.) Mercy is also a Christian grace, and no duty is more strongly urged by the Scrip- lures than the exercise of it towards all men, and espe- cially towards such as have trespassed against us. (Mall. j xviii. 33 — 35.) I ]\Lercy-seat. (Ex. xxv. 17.) This was the lid or cover of the ark of the covenant. It was j made of gold, and two cherubs I of gold were placed at each I end, and stretching their wings ' towards each other, formed a I kind of throne, upon which God was supposed to ije present in ? peculiar manner, to hear j and answer prayer, and tu . make known his holy will. I MERIBAH. (See Rephi- ' DIM.) j MERODACH. (Jer. 1. 2.) The name of an idol g )d of the Ba- bylonians, supposed by some to have represented the planet Mars, and by others to have i been the statue of some famous j king. It was the surname of some of the Babylonish mo- narchs. (Isa. xxxix. 1.) i MEROM. (Josh. xi. 5, 6.) A marshy lake in the northern pan of Judea, through which I the Jordan flows. It is now I called Houle, as is the valley 433 MES which encloses it. It is about twelve miles above Tiberias, and is regarded by many as pro- perly the source of the Jordan. Most of its bed is dry in sum- mer, and is overgrown with grass and shrubbery, aflbrding retreats for wild beasts. In the spring freshets the hike swells to " six miles in length, and three and a half in breadth, and abounds with fish. It is called the waters of Merom, or high waters, because it was higher than the other lakes of Juclea. (See Omau, by Am. S. S. Union, p. 123.) MEROZ. (Judg. V. 23.) A place in the vicinity of the brook Kishon, whose inhabit- ants were accursed fir refusing to come to the help of Israel", in the contest with Sisera, MES EC H, (Ps. cxx. 5,) or MESHECH. (Ezek.xxxii.26.) The name of the country in the north-eastern angle of Asia Mi- nor, supposed to iiave been set- tled by the posterity of Mesech, the son of Japheth. They had considerable commerce with Tyre. (Ezek.xxvii.13.) Some suppose the Muscovites were of this race. The terms Me- sech and Kedar, in the above passage from Psalms, is sup- posed to denote northern and southern barbarians generally. MESHA. 1. A PLACE. (Gen. X. 30.) Supposed to denote the country called by the Greeks Messene, and lying near the modern Bassora. 2. A PERSON. (2Kingsiii.4.) A king of Moab, who refused to pay to Jehoram, king of Is- rael, the annual tribute which he had Ijeen accustomed to pay to his father Ahab. For this ofTence Jehoram determined to punish him; and calling to his aid Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, and the king of the Edomites, he invaded the territory of Moab, signally defeated them, de3olate ordinate sense, as in Isa. xlv. 1. Ezek. xxviii. 14 ; but when ap- plied to Christ, it denotes that he unites in himself the offices of a prophet, a priest, and a king; not of the Jews only, but of all mankind. The Jews expected the Mes- siah would be their deliverer from civil bondage, and would raise them, as a nation, to great power. Hence they rejected the meek and lowly Jesus, and nut him to shame and death. They were disappointed and offended because his kingdom was not of this world, and pro- mised no privileges to them in distinction from the Gentiles. The whole Scriptures abound with evidence that they were and are under a gross delusion ; and the Christian clmrch is looking with deep interest for the time when the veil shall be taken from iheir eyea; MIC when they shall look on Hira whom they have pierced, and mourn ; and when they dhall receive him as the long-pro- mised and long-expected Mes- siah. (See Christ.) METHEG-AMMAH. (2Sam. viii. 1.) The same with Galh. (Comp. 1 Chron. xviii. 1.) MIC AH. 1. (Judg. xvii. I.) A celebrated idolater in mount Ephraim, who persuaded a Le- vite to officiate as his priest for a stipulated reward. The emissaries sent out by the tribe of Dan to find a settlement for them happened to call at Mi- cah's house, and saw the idols and the Levite; and the party of the Danites, who afterwards went to Laish, took Micah's house in their way, secured all his images, and persuaded his priest to accompany them. Micah endeavoured to obtain them again, but in vain. (Judg. xviii.) 2. (Micah i. I.) The prophet, was a native of Mareshah, (hence called the Morasthite,) a village in the south of the territory of Judah. (Josh, xv.44.) It is supposed that a reference to one of his predictions saved the life of Jeremiah. (Jer. xxvi. 18-21.) Prophecy ck, is the thirty- third in the order of the books of the Bible. It was uttered within the space of fifty years. V iz.from the commencement of the reign of Jotham, a. m. 324o^ to the close of the reign of He- zekiah, a. m. 3306, or nearly contemporary with Isaiah. The prophecies of Micah, which are recorded in the sacred canon, make but seven chapters, and are divided into three sections: § 1. Prophecies in the reign of Jotham, ch. i. § 2. Prophecies in the reign of Ahaz, ii.— iv. 8. § 3. Prophecies in the reign of Hezekiah, iv. 9— vii. The remarkable feature o this whole prophecy is, that l», 435 MIC is very explicit respecting the birthplace and prominent cha- racteristics of the Messiah, and the blessings of his reign upon earth. MICAIAH. (SeeAHAB.) MICHAEL. (Dan. x. 13.) A name of frequent occurrence in the sacred writings. It is applied particularly to an an- gel, or a prince of angels, (as the name denotes,) (Jude9;) and in the book of Daniel, the same Michael is spoken of as a prince. (See Archangel.) MICHAL. (1 Sam. xiv. 49.) Second daughter of Saul, and the wife of David. She was evidently an unprincipled wo- man. When she hat! aided David to escape from the fury of her enraged father, she placed an image in the bed ; and when the messengers came to seize him, Michal told them he was sick in bed. Saul di- rected him to be brought, sick or well ; and when the mes- sengers came again and disco- vered the trick, Michal ex- cused herself to her father by a direct falsehood. During David's exile, Michal married another man, with whom she lived nine or ten years. David, having in the mean time become established on the throne, required of Abner, as one of the cond i tions of a treaty, that Michal should be restored to him, which was accordingly done. As another and conclusive evidence of her impiety, we are told that she despised Da- vid when she saw the expres- sions of his gratitude and joy at the approach of the ark of the Lord, and was evidently filled with passion and con- tempt. For this sin she was visited with a special judg- ment. (2 Sam. vi. 16—23.) MlCHMASH,(lSam.xiii.2,) or MICHMAS. (Neh. vii. 31.) A place on the borders of Ephraim and Benjamin. It is MID supposed to lie on the road through Rama, nine miles from Jerusalem. Probably a narrow defile, formed by two abrupt, rugged rocks in mount Ephra- im, was called ihe passage of Michmash, (1 Sam. xiii. 5S,) in which was the garrison of the Philistines, and which was pro- bably so well defended as to make it a safe dep6t for the stores of Sennacherib's army, in hisadvance upon Jerusalem. (Isa. X. 28, 29.) The place was in later limes of some import- ance, (Neh. xi. 31 ;) and is mentioned by profane histori- ans four hundred years after Christ. MIDI AN, (Ex. ii. 15,) or MADIAN. (Acts vii. 29.) A country lying around the east- ern branch of the Red Sea, and supposed to have been settled by the posterity of Midian, fourth son of Abraham and Keturah. Midian was cele brated for its camels, (Judg.vii. 12:) and the descendants ot Ephah, who were the posterity of^Midian, were rich in camels and dromedaries. (Isa. Ix. 6.) Hither Moses fled, and here he married the daughter of Jethro. It is supposed that another country of the same name was situated on the eastern coast of the Dead Sea, in Arabia Petrea, adjoining Moab; but very learned geographers de- scribe but one lancl of Midian, and this embraces both sides of the eastern gulf of the Red Sea, extending southwardly near to mount Sinai. Perhaps they might have been distin- guished as northern and south- ern Midianites. When the children of Israel were encamped in the plains of Moab, the Midianites were invited by the Moabiies to join in the deputation to Balaam, to procure his services to curse the children of Israel. For their conduct towards the Isra MIL elites, they were completely flubdued ; their kings and their male population slain; their cities and fortifications were burned ; and their properly of every kind, to an almost in- credible amount, with their wives and children, were brought to the camp of Israel, and there disposed of by Moses and Eleazar. (Num. xxxi.) Pro- bably a few escaped the gene- ral massacre ; for, about two centuries afterwards, the Mi- dianites were again a powerful nation, mustering an immense army, who, for their oppressive treatment of the Israeliies,were miraculously defeated by Gide- on, (Judg. vi. vii. viii. ;) after which, they seem to have been incorporated with the Moab- ites and Arabians. A modern traveller describes the scene in the solitudes of Midian, where tradition says Moses kept the sheep of Jethro his father-in-law. It is seen from the convent on mount Sinai, in a valley in rear of the mount, between two ridges. A group of trees stands in Uie midst of the plain. The curtains of Midian (Hab. iii. 7) is a figurative expression denoting the borders or inha- oitants of Midian. MIGDOL. (Ex. xiv. 2.) A fortress or tower, (probably the modem Bir Suez,) erected at a watering place a few miles north of Suez, tov/ards Etham. MIGRON. (1 Sam. xiv. 2.) A place in the vicinity of Mich- mash. (Gomp. Isa. x. 23. See MlOHMASH.) MILCOLM. (See Moloch.) BIILE. (See Measures.) MILETUS, (Acts xx. 15,) or MILETUM. (2 Tim. iv. 20.) A city and seaport, and the capi- tal of ancient Ionia. It stood about forty miles south of Ephesus, and was second only to that city in wealth, com- merce, and luxury. Miletus is distinguished as the birth- 37* MIL place of Thales, and Anaxime- nes his pupil, and also for a magnificent temple and oracle of Apollo. It was here that Paul received the elders of Ephesus, whom he could not visit in his journey, and here he left Trophimus sick. There are ruins of an old town near the mouth of the river Mean- der; but wlielher they are those of Miletus is very doubtful. The Turkish town of Melas is said to occupy the site of the ancient IMiletus; and the Mi- lelum, where Trophimus was left, is also placed by some geographers on the island of Crete, but without sufficient warrant. MILK. (I Cor. iii. 2.) A liquid and very nourishing food, drawn principally from cows. The simplest spiritual food, or the plain and easy truths of the gospel, wherewith the new-born soul is nourished and sustained, is compared to milk. (Heb. v. 12. 1 Pet. ii. 2.) A land flowing icith milk and honey (Josh. v. 6) means a country of extraordinary fer- tility, alfording every thing which is needed for the sup- port and comfort of life. The phrase wine and imlk (Isa. Iv. 1) denotes all spiritual bless- ings and privileges. Cheese was made of milk. (2 Sam. xvii. 29.) The word rendered cheeses in 1 Sam. xvii. 18, means cheeses of milk, supposed to have been slices of coagulated or curdled milk, which had been strained through a leathern strainer, and after it had grown hard, was cut in pieces lor use. This is much like the modern process of making cheese; and food made in the same way is common in some parts of this country under the name of cheese-curd. (See Chee.se.) MILL. (Ex. xi. 5.) The simplest mill for bruising grain was nothing more than 437 MIL two stones, between which they were Droken. Such were seen in the country of the Niger by Richard and John Lander, on their recent expe- dition in Africa. If one of these stones be hollowed out, so as to contain the corn to be pounded by another stone, or by a piece of wood or metal, it is not a mill, but a mortar. When manna was gi ven in the desert, the people icent about, and ga- thered it, and ground it in mills, or beat it in a mortar. (Num. xi. 8.) In the law it is ordained, No man shall take the nether or the upper millstone to pledge; for he taJceth life to pleoge; that is, he who lends money must be humane to the borrower, and must not make tl)e poor man pawn his mill, without which his life cannot be sus- tained. (Deui. xxiv. 6.) P'rom these mills and mortars there must have been obtained at first only a kind of peeled grain, which may be compared to the German graupe, the English groats, and the Ame- rican grits, or hominy. Fine flour was more lalwriously ob- tained from household-mills, like our cofiee mills. The lat- ter implement is indeed far more refined and ingenious than the eastern hand-mills. Yet we read that Sarah set before the three angels who visited Mamre cakes oijine ineal. (Gen. xviii. 6) ft is almost needless to observe, that sieves must have been known at the same time. Niebuhr describes two kinds of eastern hand-mills. The first is very simple, and con- sists of an oblong stone, some- what roughened or hollowed upon the surface; u|X)n which the corn, after being moisten- ed, is rubbed with another stone, of a long and round shape. Niebulir saw these milki only once. They seem, MIL therefore, not to be common. The other, which is also de- scribed by Shaw and Tourne- fort, was seen by Niebuhr in Egypt. It consists of two round stones, each about two feet in diameter, and six inches high. The under one, or nether millstone, (Job xli. 24,) is immoveable, and is somewhat lower around the edse than in the centre ; that is, it is slightly convex on the top. The upper one is just the reverse, being concave on the bottom, or thicker at the cir- cumference, so as to fit pretty closely to the other. In the centre there is a hole, and above this a funnel, or hopper, into which the grain is poured, and thus it runs'in between the stones, and is broken between them into meal, which falls over the edge upon a board. On the top of the other stone there is an upright peg, by means of which it is turned around. Such mills cost, says Tourneforljless than a Spanish dollar. a is a section of the upper millstone, in which we see the hopper and ihepeg, or handle 438 MIL 6 is the loAver millstone, con- vex above, to fii tlie other. c is the complete mill. Frequent allusions are made in Scripture to tliese utensils. Of Leviathan, It is said, that his heart is as hard as a piece of the nether millstone. (Job xli.24.) AllhesiegeofThebez, a certain woman cast a piece of a millstone uponAbimelech's head, and entirely brake his skull. (Judg. ix. 53.; Wlieat was tlie grain com- monly used for bread. The poor people, however, lived much upon barley, as at the present day, the Arabs do up- on millet, or durra. Niebuhr thinks this durra was the first kind of corn which was ground and made into bread. Tlie durra bread, like barley bread, is very good while fresh; the latter, however, is superior, and has a better tasie in hot climates than with us. After some hours, it becomes taste- less ; yet the same thing takes place with regard to the wheat- en bread of the orientals. They are forced, therefore, to bake every day, and no more is ground daily than is wanted for the baking. This daily grinding makes such a noise m the houses as is heard in the streets. The sound was pleas- ing, because it wa^ naturally associated with industry, and the supports and enjoyments of life. Hence the prediction in Jer. xxv. 10. The noise of the millstones,and the lighting up of candles, are circum- stances belonging to inhabited places, and are striking when we call to mind ihe fa~ct that they grind at a very early hour in the morning. Chardin says it is this noise which often awakens people in the morn- ing ; and Hamier supposes the import of the verse just quoted to be, "Gloomy shall be the silence of the morning, melan- choly the shadows of the eve- ning; no cheerful noise to ani- mate the one, no enlivening ray to snften the gloom of the other. Desolation shall every- where reign." ''See farther, Biblical Antiq,uitie.s, \o1. i. ch. V. § 2, by Am. .S. S. Union.) MILLET. (Ezek. iv. 9.) A plant resembling wheat and rye, the stallc of which grows about three feet in height", and bears a great number of grains. This grain was coarse, and chiefly used for beasts. Niebuhr informs us, that there is a kind of millet used in the east.called rfMr7-a,which, made into bread with camels' milk, butter, or grease, is al- most the only food eaten by the common people in Arabia ; but he says he found it so un- palatable, that he would have preferred plain barley bread, which furnishes the reason of its being appointed as a pari of the hard fare of Ezekiel. MILLO, HOUSE OF. (Judg.ix. 6.) Supposed by some to denote either the senate or chief men of the place, or to be the name of a distinguished individual in Shechem, whose family and adherents joined in ele- vating Abimelech to the throne. Other's suppose it to be a vil- lage. Millo in Jerusalem (2Chr. xxxii. 5) was a section of the fortifications, or perhaps the public edifices in that city. The expression in 2Kings xii. 20, describes the place as above Silla— perhaps Siloam. MINA. (See Measures.) MIND. (Gen. xxiii.8.) The meaning of this word, when employed by the writers of Scripture, must be determined by its connexion. According to this, it sometimes means the soul renewed, in oppo- sition to the flesh under the dominion of sin, (Kom. vii 25 ;) and, at others, the im- material, in opposition to the material nature. (Eph. ii. 3.) Sometimes it means temper or MIN disposition, as in Phil. ii. 3. 5 ; or a particular faculty is meant, as in Ps. xxxi. 12. Isa. xlvi. 8; Ixv. 17. Mark xiv. 72. Some- times the motive or intention, as in Prov. xxi. 27; or thought, as in Isa. xxvi. 3. Jer. li. 50; or opinions, as in Judg. xix. 30 ; or affections, as in Ezek. xxiv. 25. When used in reference to God, it signifies \vill,counsel, or purpose, as in Rom. viii. 27 ; xi. 34. 1 Cor. ii. 16. When used as a verb, it signifies to regard and care for, as in Rom. viii. 5; xii. 16; and Phil. iii. 19 ; or to incline, as in 2 Chron. xxiv. 4. Matt. i. 19. Acts xx. 13; or to be disposed, as in Phil.ii. 2. 20; iii. 15. MINISTER. (1.) One who eerves another. (Ex. xxiv. 13. Josh. i.l. Matt. XXV. 44.) When applied to Christ, as the minis- ter of the sanctuary., (Heb.viii. 2,) it denotes his official cha- racter as our high-priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, and who ever liveth to make intercession for us. (2.) Those persons who are appointed to preach the gospel and administer its ordinances. (ICor.iv.l. 2Cor.iii.6. Eph.iii. 7. 1 Thess. iii. 2. lTim.iv.6.) (3.) To magistrates, (Rom. xiii. 6,) as God's ministers, to punish vhe evil and protect the good ; and, (4.) To the angels, who stand ready to do the will of God. (Ps. ciii.21. Dan. vii. 10. Rom. xiii. 6. Heb. i.l4.) MINISTRATION. (1.) The {)eriod during which an office s administered. (Luke i. 23.) (2.) Distribution of alms. (Acts vi. 1. 2 Cor. ix. 13.) The law of Moses was the ministration of death and condemnation. It convinces men of sin, the penalty for which is eternal death; and to this they are already condemned. The gos- pel is the ministration of the Spirit thai giveth life ; it pro- ceeds from the Holy Ghost; is MIR confirmed and applied by him; and by means of it, he conveys life, and all spiritual graces and benefits, to the souls of men. (2 Cor. iii. 7, 8.) MINNI. (Jer. li.27.) A pro- vince of Armenia, or, more pro- bably one of several clans or tribes who were settled on mount Taurus, east and south of the Black Sea. The Ash- keniies were another of these tribes. MINNITH. (Judg. xi. 33.) A place east of Jordan, four miles from Heshbon, on the Philadelphia road, famous foi its wheat. (Ezek. xxvii. 17.) MINSTREL. (2Kingsiii.l5.) A musician or piper. It seems, from the case of Jairus, to have been customary in the time of our Saviour to employ min- strels at funerals; for when Christ came into the house to raise his daughter, he saw the minstrels ana the people mak- ing a noise. (Matt. ix. 23.) MINT. (Matt, xxiii. 23.) A garden herb of several species. The law of Moses required that tithes should be paid of the produce of the field, (Dent, xiv. 22 ;) but the Jews, in their Pharisaical precision, tithed an article which could scarcely be regarded as tithable by the law, while its most important, plain, and imperative jirecepts were neelected. (See Tithes.) MIRACLE. (Ex. vii. 9.) An effect caused by an extraordi- nary interposition of divine power. It is not an effect con- trary to the laws of nature, (as they are called,) nor does it necessarily require a suspen- sion of those laws. It is at most but a suspension of the operation of those laws, as to a specific event. It would not and could not be produced by the ordinary operation of those laws; and hence, being beyond or above the order of nature, it requires the exercise of divine power to accomplish it. 4iO MIR Miracles were performed in attestation of the truth of some particular doctrine or system of religion. Those performed by our Saviour incontrovertibly prove his divine power. They exceed thirty in number. Many of them were wrought before a great multitude of people, friends and enemies, in the open day, and where there was no chance to deceive. And it Miracles. Water turned into wine - The Capernaum nobleman's son cured Drau?lit of fisties .... Demoniac cured . . . • Peter's mother-in-law healed - Leper healed Centurion's ser\'ant healed Widow's son raised from the dead • Tempest calmed Demoniacs of Gadara cured - Man sict of the palsy cured • Jairus' daughter raised to life Woman diseased with issue of blood he.a]ed Sight restored to two blind men Dumb demoniac cured - Diseased cripple at Bethesda cured A withered hand cured • Demoniac cured ... Five thousand fed - Canaanile woman's daughter cured Alan deaf and dumb cured Four thousand fed . Blind man restored to sight Boy possessed of a devil cured Man born blind restored to sight Woman cured of eighteen years' infirmity Dropsical man cured ... Ten lepers cleansed ... Lazarus raised from the grave to life Two blind men restored to sight Fig tree blasted . . . - The ear of Malchus healed • Draught of fishes . . - . MIRIAM, (Ex. XV. 21,) the sister of Moses and Aaron, is supposed to have been ten or twelve years older than Moses; and being appointed to watch the ark of bulrushes, in which her infant brother was laid, among the flags of the river, ehe was there when Pharaoh's daughter came down and dis- covered it, and proposed to go for a nurse, concealing her fe- lation to the child. She imme- diately called her mother as the nurse, and the infant was placed under her care. She MIT really requires more faith to believe that such a multitude of people could be so often deceived by one of the most blameless men that ever lived on the earth, than it requires to believe the miracles them- selves. The following is a taVjle of Christ's miracles, arranged in the order in which they are supposed to have been wrought. Place. Cana • Ditto - Sea of Galilee Capernaum • Ditto - Ditto • Ditto • Nain - Sea of Galilee Gadara • Capernaum Ditto - Ditto • Ditto - Ditto - Jerusalem Judea - Capernaum Decapolis Near Tyre Decapolis Ditto - Bethsaida Tabor - Jerusalem Galilee • Ditto - Samaria Bethany Jericho Olivet - Gethsemane Sea of Galilee Record. Johnii. 1-11. iv. 46—54. Luke V. I— II. Mark i. 23—26. 30.31. -10—45. Matt. viii. 5—13 Luke vii. 11—17. Matt. viii. 23—27. 2S-34. ix. 1—8. 18-26. Luke viii. 43— 4S. Matt ix. 27—31. 32; 33. John V. 1—9.. Matt. xii. 10—13. 22, 23. xiv. 15-21. XV. 22— 2S. Mark vii. 31—37. Matt. XV. 32-33. .Mark viii. 22— 26. Matt.xvii.l4— 21. John ix. Lukexiii. 11 — 17. xiv. 1-4. xvii. 11—19. John xi. Matt. XX. 30—34. xxi. 18—21. Luke xxii. 50, 51. John xxi. 1 — 14. was smitten with leprosy fot her treatment of Moses, but was restored in answer to the prayer of Moses. (Num. xii. 1—15.) She died, and was bu- ried at Kadesh. (Num. xx. 1 ) MIRRORS. (See Looking- glass.) MITE. (Luke xii. 59.) The lowest denomination of Jewish money, and probably of the value of two mills of our cur- rency. (See Measures, &c.) IMITRE. (Ex. xxviii. 4—7.) This was the head-dress of the Jewish priest. It was of fine 441 MIZ flax or linen, made with many folds, making in lengtii eight yards, finished with elegance and taste, and wreathed round the head in the shape of an eastern turban. It bore upon its front a gold plate, on which was inscribed "Holiness to THE Lor4D." The Jews tell us that the mitre and the bonnet were the same thing, only fold- ed up differently, according to the dignity of tlie wearer. MITYLENE. (Acts xx. 14.) The capital of the ancient island of Lesbos. The whole island is now under the Turk- ish power, and is called Miti- lene, and the chief town is called Castra, near which the ruins of the ancient city are discernible. Tlie island lies on the eastern coast of Asia Minor, nearly opposite Perga- mos, and is about one hundred and seventy miles in circum- ference. The population is at present 25,000. The chief pro- ductions are wine and figs. Paul passed through this island on his way from Corinth to Jerusalem : and it is famous as the birthplace of many wise and learned men. MIZPAH, (I Kings xv. 22,) or MIZPEH. (Josh. XV. 38.) This name is given to several places, and implies a post of observa- tion or a watcn-tower. They seem to have been kn-iwn as places of convocation on public occasions, religious and civil. 1. (Josh.xv.38.) Aciiy inthe territory of Judah, north of Hebron, and nearly twenty miles south from Jerusalem. Some geographers place it in the tribe of Benjamin. (Josh, xviii. 26.) Samuel dwelt at Mizpah, (1 Sam. vii. 5, 6,) and Saul was anointed king there, (1 Sam. x. 17—24;) and hither, it is sup- posed, the Jews often resorted lor business and devotion. (Jud^. XX. 1. ISam. vii.5— 7; X. 17.) It was fortified by Asa with MOA the stone and timber which Baasha had been using for the like purpose at Rama, (1 Kings XV. 22;) and was the residence of Gedaliah, the governor ap- pointed by Nebuchadnezzar after his subjection of the land. (Jer. xl. 6.) We find it rebuilt after the return from Babylon. (Neh. iii.ia.) 2. (Gen. xxxi. 49.) A city in the territory of Gad, where Laban and Jacob entered into a covenant of friendship, and where Jephthah resided and mustered his army. (Judg. i'i. 11.29.) 3. (Josh. xi. 3. 8.) A tract of country lying near the base of mount Hermon. 4. (1 Sam. xxii. 3.) A town of flloab, where David placed his father and mother during his reverses. MIZRAIM (Gen. x. 6) is the original word translated Egypt; and the modern Arabian name Mitzr is an abbreviation of the Hebrew word Mizraim. (See Egypt.) MIZREPHOTH-MAIM. (Josh. xi. 8.) A place near Sidon, and supposed to be the same with Sarepla. MNASON. (Actsxxi.16.) A native of Cyprus, but a resident of Jerusalem. He was an early convert to Christianity, and hos- pitably entertained the apos- tles. It is supposed by some that the reading of the passage should be, ' brought us to Mna- son of Cyprus,' &c. MOAB, PLAINS OF, (Num. xxii. 1; xxxiii. 43—50,) were situated east of Jordan and the Dead Sea, on both sides of the Arnon. The country belonged principally to the Amorites, north of the Arnon, where the Israelites encamped before the passage of the Jordan. After- wards it fell to the lot of Reu- ben. The inhabitants were called Moabites, and the country de- rived its name from Moab the 442 MOL son of Lot, (Gen. xix. 37,) by whose posterity it was conquer- ed, when in possession of the fiant race of Eminis. (Deut. ii. 1, 12.) They were severely punished for their treatment of the Israelites. (Deut. xxiii. S-6. Judg. iii. 12— 30. 2 Sam. viii. 2. See Mesha.) They were an idolatrous nation, and are made the subject of seve- ral prophecies. (Isa. xv. xvi. Jer. xlviii.) Their country seems to have been exceedingly fertile in an- cient times; but now it is a barren desert, traversed only by wandering Arabs, according to that prediction of the pro- phet, Moah shall be a perpetu- al desolation. fZeph. ii. 'J.) MOLE. (Isa. ii. 20.) .Some are of the opinion that the word in Lev. xi. 30, which our translators render mole, is properly the chameleon; and that the word translated wea- sel, in the preceding verse, is the mole; and in the east, at this day, the mole is called khuld, which is evidently the same as the Hebrew word choled, here used. A learn- ed author is, moreover, of opi nion that the words rendered moles and bats, in the passage first above cited, should be read as one word, and that no animal is meant, but a deep sink, or subterranean vault; and an- other concurs in the opinion, but thinks t'hat sepulchres are intended. The habits of the mole are well known; and the idea of the prophet is fully sustained by any expression denoting the cavsrnsordesolate placesof the earth. (See Youth's Friend, for Aug. 1^29, by Am. S. S. U.) MOLECH, (Lev. xviii. 21,) or MILCOLM, (1 Kines xi. 5,) or MOLOCH. (Acts'vii. 4-3.) The name of an idol god, wor- shipped by the Ammonites with human sacrifices. MON The Rabbins tell us tliat it was made of brass, and jilaced on a brazen throne, and that the head was that of a calf, with a crown upon it. The throne and image were made hollow, and a furious fire was kindled within it. The flames pene- trated into the body and limbs of the idol ; and when the arms were red-hot, the victim was thrown into them, and was al- most immediately burned to death. Its cries were drowned by drums, &c. Some have doubted whether there was an actual sacrifice of life on these occasions; and they refer to cus- toms still prevalent in China, and among some of the Indian nations, where the devotees walk barefoot over burning coals, and often carry their children in their arms for the purpose of consecrating them. This they cM passing through the fire. (2Kms3 x\i. 3.) No objection can be made to the credibility of the Rabbins' ac- count, from the barbarity of it ; for the burning of widows, and the drowning of children, in India, are certainly no less re- volting instances of cnielty, than the throwing of infanta into the heated anus of an idol god. We subjoin a cut of this idol. The tabernacle of Moloch was the tent or small house in which the image of the idol was placed. It was of a size and shape to be portable, and was taken up like other bag- gage, and carried from place to place. MONEY.(Gen. xxiii, 9.)Thig is the first mention of money in the sacred Scriptures. It was silver, and was weighed, and is said to have been current with the merchant. The prac- tice of weighing money is ge- neral in Syria, Egypt, and all Turkey. No piece, however effaced, is refused there. The 443 MON MON The worship of Moloch, p. 443. merchant chairs md his scales and iceighs if, as in the days of Abraham,\vhen he purchased his sepulchre. In considerable payinenls,aii agent of exchange IS sent for, who counts it by thousands, rejects pieces of false money, and weighs all the coin either separately or together. With us, the piece of metal is stamped according to its value, as fixed by public authcflrity. (See Changers, Measures, &c.) MONTH. (Gen.viii.4.)The twelfth part of a year. The ancient Hebrews called the months by their numbers; as first month, second month,tiiird month, &c. The length of the month was regulated by the changes of the moon. After they left Egypt, the Jews had two courses of months; one making the civil, and the other the sacred year ; the former commenced from the first new- moon in October, and this waa used in civil and agricultural concerns onlj j and the latter from the first new moon in April, because they left Egypt on the fifteenth of that montli, and was used in regulating the time of their feasts, &c. The prophets use this reckoning. The names of the Hebrew months follow. 44A MOR CML VI [. VIII. IX. X. XI. XII. I. H. IlL IV. V. VL MOR Btginning with the new moon. T. Nisan, or Abib March, or April • • H. Zif, or Ziv - April, or May • • - III. Sivan . - - . May, or June • - - IV. Tammuz • . - June, or July ... V. Ab July, or August - - VI. Elul .... August, or September VII. Tisliri, or Ethanim September, or October VIII. Bui October, or November Neh. ii. 1. I Kings Ti. U Esth. viii. 9l IX. Kislcu, or Chisleu November, or December - Neh Neh. vi. 15. I Kings viii. 2. • 1 Kings vi. 33. X. Tebeth • XI. She-bat - XII. Adir • • December, or January • January, or February • • Zech. i. 7. • February, or March - - Esth. iii. 7. Twelve lunar months, mak- ing but three hundred and fif- ty-four days and six hours, the Jewish year was short of the Roman by twelve days. To compensate for ihis difference, the Jews every three years in- tercalated a thirteeyith month, which they called Vedar, the second Adar. By this means, their lunar year equalled the solar. MOON, (Deut. xxxiii. 14,) or lesser light. (Gen. i. 16.) The moon is a planet revolving round the earth, and reflecting the light of the sun. The church is compared to the moon with great force and beautv, (Sol. Song vi. 10,) as she derives from the Sun of righteousness all her bright- ness and glory. The new moon regulated many of the feasts and sacred services under the old dispen- sation. The new moon was always the beginning of the month, and this day they called Neomenia, new-moon day, or new month. The heathens have generally worshipped the moon, under the names of Queen of heaven, Venus Ur(tnia,Succoth-benoth, Ashtaroth, Diana, Hecate, or ferhaps Meni, &c. (Deut. iv. 9; xvii.3. Job xxxi.26,27.) The orientals regulate their journeys by the moon, and set off soon after her change. MOKDECAI. (Esth.'ii.S.) A captive Jew of the family of Saul, resident at the court of Ahasuerus. An uncle of his 33 died, leaving an orphan ( ter named Hadassah, whom Mordecai adoi)ted, and who afterwards became the queen of Persia. (See Esther.) Mor- decai fell under the displeasure of Haman, one of the king's principal officers of state, a very proud and ambitious man ; and to be revenged on the de- spised Jewj he laid a plan for the extermmation of the whole body of Jews in the empire. His purpose was, however, de- feated by the interposition of the queen. Haman lost his life, and Mordecai was ele- vated to wealth and power. (See Haman. See, also, Ha- DASSAH, by Am. S. S. Union.) MOREH, PLAIN or plains op, (Gen. xii. 6. Deut. xi. 30,) was probably a famous oak or grove of oaks in the vicinity of She- chem, and perhaps at the foot of a hill of the same name, (Judg. vii. 1.) It was near the mounts Ebal and Gerizim, and some think it the same with Ebal. (Deut. xi. 29, 30.) The oak of Shechem is often re- ferred to, (Gen. xxxv. 4. Josh, xxiv. 25, 26,) and in these and other passages is supposed to be the same with the plain of Moreh. Hence, from Judg. vii. 1, it would appear that the hill of Moreh was in or near the \'al- ley of Jezreel. As the original phrase means high oak, it might be applied to several places designated in each case by the connexion. MORIAH. (Gen. xxii. 2.) 415 MOS This hill was situated north- east of Jerusalem, and was originally separated from Acra by a valley, which, accord- ing to Jewish historians, was filled up by the Asmoneans; and thus the two hills be- came one. In the time of David, mount Moriah was not included within the limits of the cUy, but formed a part of the cultivated ground of Arau- nah the Jebusiie, from whom David bought it. (2 Sam. xxiv. 16—25.) On this spot Solomon built the temple. (2 Chron. iii. 1.) It is supposed that this is the mount Rloriah on which Abraham was directed to offer up his son Isaac for a burnt- offering. (See passage first cited.) This mount was raised by artificial means to the height of about seven hundred feet. Being at first a rocky precipice, it was enclosed by a square wall, and filled in, until it formed a level area for the temple and its courts. Moriah is now a piece of level ground. It is occupied by an open court fifteen hundred feet long, and one thousand feet wide, surrounded by a wall, and planted with trees. In the centre of this area is a large platform, paved with marble, on which stands the mosque which the caliph Omar erected in the seventh century, and which is considered the second only to the holy house at Mecca in point of sanctity, and the first in size and magnificence. NoChristian is allowed toenter this enclosure; though this pro- hibition has been relaxed in fa- vour of several modern travel- lerS.(SPejERUSALEM,TEMPLE.) MORNING. (See Day, Watch.) Morning watch. (See Watch.) Morning STAR.(SeeSTARS.) MORTAR. (See Lime.) MOSES, (Ex. ii. 10.) the dia MOS tinguished leader aud general of the Hebrews, was born in Esypt, A. M. 2433. For three months he escaped thf> general massacre of all the male chil- dren of the Hebrews by being secreted, and then he was placed in an ark or basket of reed or osier work made water- tight, and deposited among the flags on the river bank. The sister of the infant was sta- tioned near to watch, and by and by one of the daughters of Pharaoh, walking near the spot, discovered the basket, and, upon opening it, saw the helpless babe,and,bein^ moved by its cries, was disposed to save it, notwithstanding she saw it was one of the Heljrew ch ildren that her father's tyrannical de- cree doomed to death. Miriam asked the princess if she should call a nurse, and being told to do so, immediately called hei mother, who was directed to take the child and nurse it fon the princess upon wages. This commission the mother joy- fully executed. She nourished the child, and probably in- structed him in the principles of religion; and at a proper time took him to Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. She gave him the name of Moses, signifying that he was drawn out of the water. Being mstructed in the various branches of Egyptian learning, (Acts vii. 22,) and having great advantages from his connexion with the royal family, the pros- pects of the young Hebrew were extremely flattering ; but, at the age of forty, he chose t» renounce them all, and become the servant of God. (Heb. xi. 24—26.) He espoused the cause of an oppressed Israelite, and, I in his defence, put an Egyp- tian to death, for which cause i he fled into Midian, where he ! married Zipporah, a daughtet ! of Jethro, and lived forty years ' as a shepherd. At the end of 446 MOS that period, he received a mi- raculous intimation from God ,hat he was to be the leader and deliverer of his chosen people, for which high and responsiljle office he was fur- nished with the necessary gifts and graces. His brother Aaron was associated with him, and the history of their official career would be a history of the Jews from the close of their bondage in Egypt to their ap- ? roach to the land of promise. 'he miracles God wrought by his hands ; his frequent oppor- tunities of communion imme- diately with the divine ma- jesty; the wonderful displays he witnessed of the power and glory of Jehoval), and his con- nexion with the grand and significant system of religious rites and ceremonies, which is called after him the Mosaic ritual or dispensation; the se- verity of the rebukes he suf- fered in consequenceof a single sinful act, (Num. xx. 12); his ex- traordinary meekness, (Num. xii. 3) ; the singular manner of his death, andlhe fact that he is the hislufian of ages and events so remote and so in- tensely interesting to us, in our various relations, prospects, and circumstances, al 1 combine to make him, perhaps, the most extraordinary man that ever lived. (Deut. xxxiv. 10—12.) He retained his faculties to 4 very extraordinary degree, for we are told that al his death, which took place at an ad- vanced age, his eye teas not dim, nor his natural force ubated. (Deut. xxxiv. 7.) After having seen the most con- clusive tokens that God would accomplish all his purposes in bringing his people into the prornised land, (Num. xxxi. xxxii.,) he assembled the na- tion, and recaiiitu ated in their hearing the events of their history. He exhorted them to obedience; proposed to them MOS the blessings and the curses which were suspended on their faithfulness ; solemnly testified to the truth and holiness of tlie Divine Being, (Deut. xxvii. xxviii. xxix. xxx.,) and made all necessary arrangements with his successor for tlie com- pletion of the commission. He then celebrates the glory of God in one of the most sublime and animated hymns of praise that we find on record; and after pronouncing on the tribes, respectively, the most solemn prophetic blessings, he went up into a mountain ap- pointed for that purpose by God, from the summit of which he could survey the whole length of the land of Canaan, and across from the Jordan to the Mediterranean. When he had thus seen, for himself, the promised possession of his countrymen, he cheerfully re- si£ned his spirit to the hands of a covenant-keeping God, and at the advanced age of one hundred and twenty years, he died upon or in the vicinity of the mountain, and was bu- ried in a valley of Moab ; but the precise place of his burial was never known. What is said respecting his burial, (Deut. xxxiv. 6 ;) what Jude says of the archangel dis- puting with the devil about his body, (Jude 9 ;) and his appear- ing with Elijah on the mount of transfiguration, (Matt. xvii. 3,) have led some to conjecture that he was immediately raised from the dead, and translated to heaven ; but where the Scriptures are silent, it is our wisdom to be so also, and not attempt to be wise above what is written. Moses uttered a remarkable prophecy respecting the Mes- siah, (Deut. xviii. 17—19. comp. Acts iii. 22, and vii. 37;) and the similarity of their character and offices is, in many re- spects, very strikinsr. 447 MOS We have already alluded to Moses as the author of the first five books of the Bible called the Pentateuch, containing the history of the creation of the world and its inhabitants ; the fall and curse of man ; the de- struction of all the human race save one family of eight souls ; the dispersion of the nations ; the deliverance of the chosen people of God from oppression, and the introduction of that wonderful dispensation of which the Divine Being him- self was the author and exe- cutor, and under which the civil and ecclesiastical govern- ment of these nations wa"3 ad- ministered for so many ages. In relation to this portion of the sacred history, and es- pecially the earliest chapters of it, the late Baron Cuvier, who has been justly called the prince of geologists, says : " His books (i. e. the books of Moses) show us that he had very perfect ideas respecting se- veral of the highest questions of natural philosophy. His cosmogony especially, consi- dered purely in a scientific view, 13 extremely remark- able; inasmuch as the order which it assigns to the different epochs of creation, is precisely the same as that which has been deduced from geological considerations." This, then, is the issue, in the opinion of Baron Cuvier, of that science which has been held by many persons to teach conclusions at variance with the book of Genesis; when, at last, more matured by a series of careful observations and legitimate induction, it teaches^is precisely what Mo- ses had taught more than three thousand years a^o. And whence did Moses re- ceive the knowledge which philosophy has been so long m reaching, through the paths of geology ? Was the genera- MOT tion in which he lived, more learned than any which suc- ceeded for thousands of years? There is not the slightest sha- dow of evidence to "sustain so incredible a position. It could not be through the slow pro- cesses of geological investiga- tion, either of himself or his contemporaries, that Moses learned the sublime truths which were hidden from Aris- totle and Pythagoras. The superior wisdom which dis- tinguishes the Hebrew prophet from all his contemporaries, and renders his simple nar- rative a standard of truth in all ages, was from above. It was from Him who made the world that Moses learned the history of its creation, and in no other way could his suc- cessors on the inspired page be possessed of the truth and wisdom which shines as brist- ly in their pages as in his. (See Aaron, Hebrews ; and f»r a full history and character of this extraordinary man, with illustrative maps and engrav- inga, see Life op Moses, by Am. S. S. Union.) MOTH. (Luke xii. 33.) A well known insect, one spe- cies of which, in its caterpillar state, is very destructive to furs, woollen cloths, &c. The egg of the moth, being depo- sited on the fur or cloth, pro- duces a very small shining insect, which immediately forms a house for itself by cut- tings from ihe cloth. It eats away the nap, weakens or destroys the thread, and finally ruins the fabric. There is fre- quent reference to this weak, but destructive insect, in the sacred Scriptures. In Job iv. 19, man is said to be crushed be- J^orethemoth.wheTelhisanimal is the emblem of man's weak- ness and defenceless condition. In Job xiii. 28, the wasting, decaying life of man is com- pared to a moth- eate n garment • 443 MOU *Aid in Isa. li. 6, the earth ia told to wa.x old as a garment ; Uial is, a moth-eaten garment, as the original imports. lu.Tob xxvii. IS, the man who rises by injustice is compared to the moth, which, by eating into the garment where it dwells, after a while destroys its own liabitation. In Ps. vi. 7, the word rendered in our version consumed, properly means moth-eaten. In Ps. xxxix. 11, the effect of God's judgments on mankind is illustrated by the consuming power of the moth ; and so in Hos. v. 12. The devastations of this insect are particularly referred to in Isa. 1. 9. As much of the trea- sure of the ancients consisted in costly garments, we may readily understand why the moth was considered so noxious an insect; and this will teach us the true import of our Sa- viour's words. (Matt. vi. 19, 20.) It was common in Asia to lay up stores of precious garments, which descended as an inherit- ance to children; for their modes of dress never changed: but the moth was a formidable enemy to such treasures, so as to render it useless to take much pains to lay them up. (See, also, James v. 2.) MOURN, MOURNERS. (Gen. xxiii. 2.) The Hebrews, at the death of their friends and relations, gave all possible de- monstralionsof ";rief and mourn- ing. (Gen. 1. 10.) They wept, lore their clothes, smote their breasts, fasted, and lay upon the ground; went barefooted, pulled their hair and beards, or cut them, and made incisions on their breasts, or tore them with their nails. (Lev. xix. 28; xxi. 5. Deut. xiv. 1. Jer. xvi. 6.) The time of mourning was commonly seven days; but it was lengthened or shortened according to circumstances. That for Moses and Aaron was prohnged to thirty days. (Num. 38* MOU XX. 29. Deut. xxxiv. 8.) They mourned excessively for an only son, as his deaih cut off the name of the family. (Zech. xii. 10.) The priest mourned only for near relatives, but the high- priest for none. (Lev. xxi. 1 — 12.) During the time of their mourning, they continued sit- ting in their houses, and ate on the ground. The food they took was thought unclean, and even themselves were judged impure. (Hos. ix. 4.) Their faces were covered ; and in all that time they cijuld not apply themselves to any occupation, nor read the book of the law, nor say their usual prayers. They did not dress themselves, nor make their beds, nor un- cover their heads, nor shave, nor cut their nails, nor go into the bath, nor salute anybody. Nobody spoke to them unless they spoke first. (Job ii. 11 — 13.) Their friends commonly went to visit and comfort them, bring- ing them food. They also went up to the roof, or upon the plat- form of their houses, to bewail their loss. (Isa. xv. 3.) It was reckoned a very pious work to comfort mourners ; and v/hen they came to the mourn- ers, they stood around them, ten in a row, and approaching towards them, one by one, wish- ed them comfort from heaven. If they sat, it was on the ground, and the chief mourner had the chief seat. The friends came not to comfort them till after the interment, and not many till the third or fourth day after the decease. (John xi. 19. 39.) They sometimes went to the graves to lament their dead; and s& the Turkish women do to this day. The Jews had a kind of grayer, or rather benediction, of od, as of Him who raises the dead, which they repeated as they mourned, or even passed the graves of their dead. The 4i9 MOU Tews in Chaldea did not mourn and weep, but jnourned one towards another ; ihai is, ihey durst not openly bewail their misery, but did it secretly. (Ezek. xxiv.23. See Evening Recreations, vol. ii. pp. 62 — 73, by Am. S. S. Union.) The mourning habit amon^ the Hebrews was not fixed either by law or custom. An- ciently, in times of mourning, they clothed themselves in sackcloth, or hair-cloth; that is, in coaree or ill-made clothes, of brown or black stuff. 2 Sam. iii. 31.) They hired women to weep and mourn, and also persons to play on instruments, at the funerals of the Hebrews. (Jer. ix. 17. Matt. ix. 23.) All that met a funeral procession, or a company of mourners, were to {'jin them, as a matter of civi- ity, and to mingle their tears with those who 'wept. Some- thing like this is still customary in Turkey and Persia, where he who meets the funeral takes the place of one of the bearers, and assists in carrying the bier, un- til they meet some one by whom he is relieved. The custom of hiring women to weep and mourn is common at this day in many of the east- ern nations. (See Burial.) MOUSE. (Lev. xi. 29.) It is supposed by some that the animal called the mouse in our Bible was the jerboa, or field mouse, which is larger than the common mouse, and entirely different in its motions and habits. (For a particular description and cut, see art. Mouse, in Natural History OF THE Bible, by Am. S. S. Union.) Others suppose that some other species oi the com- mon mouse is intended, the flesh of which was forbidden to be used for food. (Lev. xi. 29. Comp. Isa. Ixvi. 17.) Common field mice are very destructive MUF to the fruits of the field. Mice made great havoc in the fields of the Philistines, after the people had taken the ark of the Lord. (I Sam. v. 6, &c.; vi. 4, 5.) In the twelfth century, they destroyed the young sprouts of grain in some parts of Syria for four successive years, and came near to producing a gene- ral famine; and they abound in those regions at the present day. A modern traveller, in speaking of Hamath, says:— " The western part of its terri- tory is the granary of northern Syria; though the harvest never yields more than ten for one, chiefly in consequence of the immense numbers of mice, which sometimes wholly de- stroy the crops." MOWINGS, king's. (Amos vii. I.) It was the custom in Judea to lead out the cattle to feed in the common pastures in the month of April. The horses of the kings, and those designed for war, were turned in during the month of March, and of course had the best of the feeding; and the flocks and herds in general were not suffered to go into the pas- tures until after these horses were taken out and put to bar- ley, which was then common food during the residue of the year. The vision of Amos re- presents the judgment of God in sending locusts to eat off' and destroy the grass, which had sprung up after the king's feftdings had past, and on which the people depended for the sustenance of their flocks and herds. (See Hay.) MUFFLERS, (Isa. iii. 19,) or spangled ornaments^ (as it is in the margin,) are supposed to have been a covering for the face, such as is now worn by women of the east. It is seen on the face of the subjoined figure. MUL MUR MULBERRY TREES. CJSam.v. 23,24) A common fruit tree, whose leaf atfords the ap- firopriate food of the silkworm. n one of David's campaigns against the Philistines, it be- came a question whether he should attack them as they lay encamped in the valley of Rephaun. He was told to take a certain position over against a grove ot mulberry trees, per- haps under a hill which was surmounted by such a grove, and at a given signal, probably a rushing of wind in the top- most branches of the trees, resembling, we may suppose, such signals of God's presence as were given on other occa- sions, (Jonah i. 4. Acts ii. 2,) he Wcis to make the onset, (iChron. xiv. 14, 15 ;) which he did, and was completely victorious. MULE. (2 Sam. xiii. 29.) The name of the offspring of the horse and the ass. It is much smaller than the former, and is a remarkably hardy, patient, obstmate, sure-footed animal, living ordinarily twice as long as a horse. Mules are much used in Spain and South America for transporting goods across the mountains. So also in the Alps, they are used by travellers among the moun- tains, where a horse would hardly be able to pass with safety. Even the kings and most dis- tinguished nobles of the Jews were accustomed to ride upon mules. (See passage above cited, and also 2 Sam. xviii. 9. 1 Kings i.33; x. 25; xviii. 5. 2Chron. ix. 24. Esth. viii. 10. 14.) It is probable that the Jews purchased, but did not raise mules. (Lev. xix. 19.) The Hebrew word translated mules, in Gen. xxxvi.24, signi- fies more properly hot foun- tains, or baths. That these places should be discovered by means of animals who were burnt bv them, or refused to drink of them, is nothing won- derful. This would give a bet- ter meaning to this pasage. The desert of Arabia has many warm baths. There is in the neighbourhood of the Dead Sea, in the ancient country of the Edomites, where Anah belons- ed, a famous bath of this kind known to the Greeks and Ro mans under the name of Calir rlioe. This place is mentioned by Josephus amon-r others, who, in speaking of Herod's sick- ness, says, " He not only hoped for restoration, but thought of the means. He caused htmself 451 MUR to be carried over ihe Jordan, and used the warm ballis at Calirrhoe, which flow into tiie lake Asnhalliies." Pliny also says of them: "Upon ihe south slue of the lake Asphaliiies is a warm founiain (;f sreal virtue in restoriiis health, whiiso name indicates the lame of the wa- ter." The Greek word Calir- rhoe sigiiifies beautiful foun- tain. The remarkable cha- racter of this water may be the reason wliy il is introduced in the narrative in so unusual a manner. MURDER. (Ps. X. 8.) The Jewish law calls a murderer one who slays another from enmity, hatred, or by lying in wait. For this crime there was no pardon ; the city of refuge, and even the altar, furnished no asylum, nor might money be taken in satisfaction. (Ex. xxi. 14. 28, 29. Num. xxxv. 30—32. 1 Kings ii. 5, 6. 28-34.) It seems to have been regarded as one of the most odious and abominable crimes, (Deul. xix. 13; xxi. 9. Num. xxxv. 33, 34;) and was a subject of early and severe lesislation. (Gen. ix. 6.) In case of the inadvertent kill- ing of another, provision was made for the protection of tlie offender by cities of refuge. (See Cities of Refuge.) M U R R A I N. (Ex. ix. 3.) This was the fifth in order of the plagues with which the Esyptians were visited when they held the Israelites in bondage. The word translated jnurrain signifies death ; and may mean death by plague, or pestilence, or any other fatal disease. The term mortality would be nearest in sense to the original, as no particular disorder is specified by the Hebrew word. This sudden and dreadful mortality was amona: the cattle in the field, including horses, asses, camels, oxen, and sheep. It was, however, confined to MUS the Egyptian cattle, and to those that were in the field; for thoiigli the cattle of Israel breathed llie same air, and drank the same water, and fed in the same pastures, not a creature of their's died. The word all is often used in Scrip- ture for the mass or great pro portion. It is probable that nearly all the cattle in the field were destroyed by this plague, and the few that sur vived or were afterwards sent into the field, were destroyed by the succeeding storm of fire and hail. Many horses must have escaped ; perhaps all the war horses. (CJomp. Ex. xiv. 27,28: XV. 21.) MUSIC. (ISam. xviii.6.) This was an important part of the festivities and religious ser- vices of the Jews. In their annual pilgrimages to Jerusa- lem, their inarch was thus en- livened. (Isa. XXX. 29.) This is still the custom in oriental pilgrimages. The practice of music was not restricted to any one class of persons. (1 Chron. xiii. 8; xv. 16.) The sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun were set apart by David for the musical service, and the nu ber of theiriy tcilh their brethren, that were vistructed in the songs of the Lord were two hu7idred and eighty-eight. They were divided, like the pri ests,i nto twenty -fou r courses, which are enumerated, IChron. XXV. Of the 38,000 Leviles/owr thousand praised the Lord with ms/rwmen/s, (IChron. xxiii. 5 ;) being more than one in ten of the whole available members ofthe tribeofLevi. Eachofthe courses,or classes, had one hun- dred and fifiy-four musicians and three leaders, and all were under llie general direction of Asapli and his brethren. Each course served for a week ; but, upon the festivals, all were re- quired to be present.orfourthou^ sand musicians. Heman, with 153 MUS one of his leaders, directed the central ciioir, Asaph the right, and Jeduthun the left wlhg. These several choirs answererd one another, as is generally supposed J in that kind of al- ternate singing which is call- ed antiphonal, or responsive. The pnesis, in the mean time, performed upon the silver trum- pets. (2Chron. v. 11—14.) It is necessary to suppose, that, in order to ensure harmony from such a number of voices as this, some musical notes were used. This truly regal direction of sacred music continued after the death of David until the captivity ; for though under the impious reign of some kings, the whole of these solemnities fell into disuse, they were re- vived by Hezekiah and Josiah. And although during the exile the sweet singers of Israel hanged their hai-ps upon the willows by the waters of Baby- lon, yet two hundred musicians returned with Ezra to the Holy Land. (Ezra ii. 65.) Musical instruments. (Eccl. ii. 8.) They were invented by Jubal, the son of Lamech,(Gen. iv. 21,) and had appropriate names. (Gen. xxxi. 27.) They may be divided into three classes: stringed instruments, wind instrunTents, and such as gave their sounds on being Btruck. Of stringed instru- ments were the harp, the in- strument of ten strings, the sackbut, and psaltery. They are described under their pro- per names. The instruments of music mentioned in 1 Sam. xviii. 6, as used by women, are suppos- ed to have been metallic tri- angles, as the name indicates. The instrument often strings resembled a modern guitar,hav- ing its strings stretched over something not unlike a drum; and it was played with the fingers. (For description and engravings of several ancient MYR musical instruments, see He- brew Customs, pp. 79—87, by Am. S. S. Union.) MUSTARD. (Matt. xiii. 31.) A species of the plant known to us by the same name, but of much larger size, and espe- cially in the fertile soil of Ju- dea. With us it is a small annual herb, but there it grew to the size of a fig tree, ancTwaa sufficiently large to bear the weight of a man to climb upon it. The seeds are very small; so that it proverbially express- ed the least thing, or the mi- nutest particle. It was the largest plant from the small- est seed which was then or is now known. Hence the figure used in our Saviour's parable forcibly illustrates the contrast between the infancy of his charch and its final pros, perity, as well as between the early fruits of God's grace in the soul, and the full develope- ment of Christian character in the believer. MYRA. (Acts xxvii. 5.) A seaport of Syria, and one of its principal cities, was situated near tiie southernmost cape of Asia Minor, where Paul em- barked for Rome in a ship of Alexandria. The magnificent ruins of Myra, now Cacamo,- attest the opulence of the age of Adrian and Trajan. The necropolis. or place of interments, has ol itself the appearance of a city. MYRRH. (Gen.xliii.il.) A medicinal gum, yielded oy a thorny tree which grows eight or nine feet high, chiefly im ported from Arabia to the East indies. It was at a very early period an article of commerce, (Gen. xxxvii. 2.5,) and was an ingredient of the holy oint- ment. (Ex. XXX. 23.) and of the embalming substance. (John xix. 39.) It was also used as an agreeable perfume, ^sth. ii. 12. Ps.xlv.8. Prov. vii. 17.) It w^as also regarded amone 453 MYR the valuable gifts which it was customary to present lo kings, nobles, and oiiiers, as a token of respect in ancient limes and countries. (Gen. xliii. 11. Matt. ii. 1. 11.) In Matt. XX vii.34,it is said,lhat they gave Jesus to drink vine- gar mixed with gull, which, in Mark xv. 2-3, is called wine mingled with myrrh. It was prv)bably the sour wine which the Roman soldiers used to drink, mingled with myrrh and other bitter substances; very much like the bitters of modern limes. MYRTLE. (Isa. xli. 19.) A beauiiful, fragrant, and orna- mental evergreen. The seeds of one species of the myrtle, being collected and dried be- fore ihey are ripe, are called pimento, or allspice. Groves of the my rile are siill found of spontaneous growth in Judea and corresponding latitudes; and for the rich hue of their green, polished leaves, their MYS agreeable fragrance, and beau- tiful flowers, are used by the sacred writer, in contrast with the noxious, useless brier, to illustrate the prosperity and glory of the church. (Isa. Iv.l3, See also Isa. xli. 19 ; and Zech. i.8-11.) The myrtle furnished the wreaths of ancient lieroes and victors. Branches of the myrtle were gathered, among others, to cover the booths and tents of the Jews at the celebration of the feast of tabernacles. (Lev. xxiii. 40. Comp. Neh. viii. 15.) MY SI A. (Actsxvi.7.) A province of Asia Minor, and at this day a beautiful and fertile country. It has the sea of Pro- ponlis on the north, Lydia on the south, and Bythinia on the east. In the northern section of Mysia was the province in which the ancient city of Troy was situated, and not far dis- tant was the Troas mentioned by Paul. (Acts xvi. 8 ; xx. 6. 2Cor. ii. 12. 2 Tim. iv. 13.) N NAA A AM AN. (2King3v.6.) A Syrian general of great distinction and bravery, (2 Kings V. 1,) who applied to the prophet Elisha to relieve him of the leprosy with which he was severely afflicted. He was induced to make the applica- tion in consequence of what was said to his wife, about the prophet, by a little girl, who had been taken captive from among the Israelites, and was living in the general's family. Taking with him a letter of introduction from the king of Syria to the king of Israel, (supposing, perhaps, that the king of Israel would know what prophet was meant, and would have influence over him,) Naaman ascended his chariot, and, with much pomp, :2 Kings V. 9. 13,) went to the NAA king of Israel, who resided in Sumaria. The king of Israel expressed his surprise and grief that the king of Syria should send him such a letter ; and it was soon noised abroad thai the Syrian general was at the palace, and for what purpose he had come. Elisha sent word lo the king ihai he need not be concerned. If the leprous stranger would come lo him, he should see that there was a prophet in Israel. So Naaman applied lo Elisha, and was directed merely to wash seven limes in the river Jordan. This simple remedy seemed to Naaman altogether inadequate. If the mere washingof the body would suffice, there were waters in Syria purer and more salutary than all the waters of Israel 454 NAB Why, then, make a journey to Samaria to wash in the Jordan'.' Ae was about to leave the place in icdignalion, when some of his retinue very wisely sug- gested to him, that if the pro- phet had proposed some ex- pensive or difficult remedy, he would have tried it at once ; and surely he could not refuse to try onewhich was so simple, and which, whether successful or not, would cost neither toil nor money. Thus they per- suaded him to follow the pro- phet's prescription ; and, upon washing in the Jordan seven times, his flesh and health were perfectly restored. Deeply impressed with the power of the God of Israel, by which his loathsome disease was thus suddenly cured, he offered a reward to Elisha, which he promptly declined. He then voluntarily renounced all his idolatrous practices ; and asked for a quantity of earth from the soil on which the prophet and the people of God dwelt, perhaps that he might build with it an altar to the God of Israel; and so tender had his conscience become, that he feared even to attend his master the king in his idol- atrous services, as his ofl5cial duty required, without asking beforehand if such attendance might be pardoned. It seems that Elisha was disposed to trust him to the dictates of his own conscience, which was evidently under divine influ- ence. We are not informed of his subsequent history. (For map, and particular history of this transaction, see Elisha, ch. vi., by Am. S. S. Union.) NABAL. (1 Sam. XXV. 3.) A very wealthy citizen of Maon. When David was in the wil- derness of Paran, Nabal was in the vicinity of Carmel, a place west of*^ the Dead Sea, shearing his sheep, of which h» had no less than three thou- NAB sand. David sent ten of his young men to ask him for sup- plies in the most courteous manner; but Nabal, who was proverbially churlish, refused, in the most offensive terms, to grant his request. David im- mediately ordered four hun- dred of his men to arm them- selves and follow him to the place where Nabal lodged, in- tending to destroy him and all that pe'rtained to' him. When they drew near, Abigail, the discreet and beautiful wife of this son of Bplial, was admo- nished of their purpose. She promptly made uo a sumptuous present, and, without the know- ledge of her husband, set forth to meet Daviii, wiih her ser- vants, and with asses to bear the gifts. When David met her, she showed him the most profound reverence, and so en- tirely conciliated him, that he received her present, and gave her his blessins. When 'Abi- gail returned, she found her husband at a feast which he had made at his own house; and she deferred communi- cating to him the history and result of her embassy until he should recover froui the effects of his indulgence. He had no sooner received her statement, than he was seized with a se- vere illnessjwhich proved fatal at the end of ten days. (For a full and interesting account of this scene, with cuts, &c., see Life of David, ch. xv., by Am. S. S. Union.) NABOTH. (IKingsxxi. 1.) An Israelite of the town of Jezreel, who owned a vineyard adjoining the palace of king Ahab. Anxious to secure this particular spot that he mi^^hl use it for a garden, the king proposed to buy it, or give him some other property of equal value; but Naboth declined, to the great disappointment and mortification of the wick ed monarch. Jezebel, his mo; e 455 NAH wicked wife,immedialely form- ed a plan lo take the life of Naboih, in which she succeed- ed; and so Ahab obtained pos- session of his inheritance. (See Ahab, Jezebel.) NADAB. (1 Kings xv. 25,) son and successor of Jeroboam, king of Israel, reigned two years. His rei|n was wicked and corrupt, and he was finally assassinated while prosecuting the siege of Gibbethon, a Phi- istine city. (See Aeihxt.) N A H A S H. (See Ammon- ites.) NAHOR, (Gen. xi.23,) or NACHOR, (Josh. xxiv. 2,) was the name of Abraham's grand- father, and also the name of one of Abraham's brothers, (Gen. xi. 26,) who married Mil- cah, the daushter of Haran. (Gen. xi.29.) "He lived at Ha- ran ; which is thence called the city ofNahor. (Gen. xxiv. 10.) NAHUM. (Nah.i.l.) A na- tive of Eli-Koshai, a village of (Jalilee, the ruins of which were plainly discernible as lately as the fourth century. There is considerable diversity of opinion as to the lime in which he lived. Prophecy of, is the thirty- fourth in the order of the books of the Old Testament. Though divided into three chapters, it is a continuous poem of unri- valled spirit and sublimity, and admirable for the elegance of its imagery. It relates chiefly to the destruction of the magnificent city of Nine- veh, which had been prophe- sied by Jonah nearly a century before. These predictions (it is supposed) were made in the reign of Hezekiah, and have been remarkably fulfilled, both as to the fact and the manner of their fulfilment. The city of Nineveh was de- stroyed about a century after the prophecy of Nahum was uttered ; and so complete was NAM its overthrow, that the site on which it stood has been matter of mere conjecture for nearly or quite sixteen centuries. NAIL. (Ezra ix. 8.) Travel lers tell us, what we might infer from the frail materials and weak construction of east- ern dwellings, that the nails or spikes which are necessary to hang up garments, curtains and utensils of various kinds, are not driven in, but are built in firmly with the wall, in the process of its erection. They are large, and being quite con- spicuous, are well finished. The force of the figure in the above passage is obvious, inas- much Eis the nail bei ng not, like ours, easily drawn and placed elsewhere, was a part of the fabric itself, and could only be removed with the wall itself, or some part of it. Hence the word in the margin is ren- dered a constant mid sure abode. (See, also, Zech. x. 4.) The nail with which Jael killed Sisera was a tent pin, with which the cords of a tent are fixed to the ground. NAIN. (Lukevii. 11.) Acity of Galilee, south of Mount Ta- bor, and but a little distance from Capernaum. It is now a Turkish village, inhabited by Jews, Mohammedans, and a few (jhristians. The place is distinguished as the scene of one of Christ's most remark able and affecting miracles (Luke vii. 11—1.5.) NAIOTH. (1 Sam. xix. 22.) A part of the town of Ramah, (or, as the word signifies, the meadows of Ramah,) where a school of the prophets was es- tablished. NAME. (Gen. ii. 19.) This word, in some passages of Scripture, has a peculiar sig- nification, as in Prov. xviii. 10, where the term denotes Goo himself, with al.l his attributes and perfectioni. (See, also, Ps. XX. 1. 5. 7) in the New 456 NAO Testament, it usually means the character, faith, or doctrine • or Christ. (Acts v. 41 ; viii. 12; ix. 15, and xxvi. 9.) Names among the Jews were often given, in allusion to some peculiar circumstances in the character, birth, or destiny of •the individual, (Ex. ii. 10, and xviii.3,4;) and sometimes it had a prophetic meaning. (Matt. i. 21.) Many instances occur in Scripture of the same person having two names. Names were changed, and are still, in eastern countries, for slight reasons. A change of office 3r station often occasioned a change of name. And upon his thigh a name vrritten. (Rev. xix. 16.) This phrase alludes to an ancient custom in the eastern nations of adorning the images of their gods and the persons of princes and heroes with inscriptions expressive of their character, titles, &c. They were made on the garment, or on one of the thighs; and several ancient statues have been discovered, with inscriptions of one or two lines, written sometimes hori- zontally and sometimes per- pendicularly both on the inside and outside of the thigh, and sometimes upon both thighs. Men surname themselves by the name of /sraeZ, when, hav- ing been before Gentiles and sinners, they join themselves to Jesus and his church. (Isa. xliv. 5. See Stone, Thigh.) NAHSHON, (Num. vii. 12,) Bon of Amminadab, and head of the tribe of Judah, made the first offering for the tabernacle in the wilderness. He is the only one of the heads of tribes who is not called a prince in the history of this transaction. Probably the omission was de- signed; as, to be the head of the tribe of Judah was, from the pre-eminence of that tribe, a sufficient honour. NAOMI. (Ruth i. 2.) The NAT wife of Elimelech, and the mother-in-law of Ruth, whe moved with their two sons from Judea to Moab. Elimelech died, and also his two sons, each leaving a widow; and Naomi, having thus been leti alone, returned to her home in Judea. So severe had been her afflictions, that she pro- posed to her friends on her re- turn to call her Mara, (which signifies bitter,) rather than Naomi, (which signifies fteajt- tiful.) (Ruth i. 19—21. See Ruth. See also Affection- ate Daughter-in-law, by Am. S. S. Union.) NAPHTAIJ, (Gen. xxx. 8,) or NEPHTHALIM. (Matt. iv. 15.) A son of Jacob by Bilhah. Tribe of, received their portion of the promised land in the northern part, be- tween the Jordan on the east, and the possessions of Asher on the west. It was one of the most fruitful sections of the country, and included the sources of the Jordan. (Josh, xxi. 32—39.) This tribe was peculiarly blessed of God, (Deut. xxxiii. 23;) and the figiv rative language in which th» benediction of Jacob is ex pressed (Gen. xlix. 21) implies the increase, power, and jjros- perity of the family of Naph- tali. The city of Capernaum, where Christ resided and taught so much, was situated in the borders of Zebulon and Naphtali, near Tiberias. Hence the language of the prophet. (Isa. ix. 1. See Hind. See also Youth's Friend- for December, 1828, by Am. d. S. Union.) NATHAN. (2 Sam. vii. 2.) A distinguished prophet of Ju- dea, who lived in the reign of David, and enjoyed a large share of his confidence. To him David first intimated his design to build the temple; and he was divinely instructed to inform the king that this ho> 457 JNAT nour was not for him, but for his posterity. Nathan was also charged with the divine mes- sage 10 David, upon the occa- sion of his sin against Uriah, which he conveyed under a most beautiful and significant allegory, by which he made the king to condemn himself Nathan was one of David's bi- ographers. (1 Chron. xxix. 29.) There are several others of this name mentioned in the Bible, of whose history we are uninformed. (iSam.v.H; xxiii. 36. 1 Chron. xi. 38. Ezra viii. 16. Luke iii. 31.) NATHANAEL, (John i. 45,) one of the twelve disciples, is supposed to be the same with Bartholomew. (See Bartho- lomew.) He was called upon by Philip to go with him and see the Messiah, who had just appeared. Naihanael seems to have doubted his friend's tes- timony; but, to resolve his doubts, consented to accompa- ny him. As they approached the Messiah, he received the most emphatic testimony to his integrity that can be found on record. (John i. 47.) Jesus on this occasion declared his om- niscience; fur he professes to know his character and heart at their first interview, and assures him that his eye was upon him under a fig tree, be- neath the shade of which he had probably been engaged in religious exercises. (John i. 50.) Nathanael was convinced; and acknowledged him as the true Messiah. Cfhrist thereupon as- sured him in suljstance that he should see still more con- vincing evidences of his mes- fiiaiiship in the progress of his ministry; in the doctrines he should leach ; in the miracles he should work; and in the peculiar favour and protection of God which he should enjoy. Among those greater evidences may have been the eventa re- corded Matt. iii. 17; iv 11; NAZ xvii. 5. John xi. 42; xii. 28— 30. NAZARENE. (Malt, ii.23.) An inhabitant of Nazareth. The passage from the prophets, to which reference is here made, is not known; and the probability is, that the refer- ence is rather to the general current of prophecy respecting the humble and despised con- dition of Christ. To come out of Nazareth, or to be a Naza- rene, rendered one an object of reproach and contempt. (See Christ. Comp. Isa. liii, 2—12, and John i. 46; vii. 52.) NAZARETH. re given in 2Kia2:sxxv. 8— 21. NEtHO. (2Chron. xxxv.20.) A king of Egypt, whose expe- ditions are often mentioned in profane history. As he was advancing upon Carchemish, an Assyrian city, he passed through the possessions of the kingdfJudah.Josiah, regarding *Jiis as an act of hostility, pre- pared to resisthis progress. Ne- cho sent ambassadors to inform him of the object of his expe- dition ; but as he was already in his kingdom, and avowed his hostile purposes against an ally of the kingdom of Judah, Josiah thought himself justified in opposing him. There was no evidence to Josiah that Necho was under the divine guidance, though he claimed to be so. It may be regarded as precipitate in him to have opposed such a force upon such grounds; and the issue was fatal. The battle was fought at Megiddo, and josiah lost his life. Necho, on his return from his expedition into As- syria, stopped at Riblah, in Syria, and sent for Jehoahaz, who had succeeded to the throne of Judah upon the death of Josiah, and deposed him, loading him with cliains, and sending him into Egypt. He then put the land of Judah WEH under a heavy tribute, maliirg Eliakim (whose name he changed to Jehoiakim) king in the place of Jehoahaz. (See Elisama, by Am. S. S. Union, ch. i. ii. and iii.) NECROMANCER. (Deut. xviii. 11.) One vvlio pretends to divine future events by questioning the dead. The practice has prevailed from a very early period among the pagan nations of the east. It was forbidden by the Levitical law. NEESINGS. (Job xli. 18.) By the force with which the leviathan breathes and throws forth water (in a manner not unlike sneezing) a light is caused. This is not impossi- ble by the laws of nature, but perhaps the expression is po- etical. Sneezing is occasioned by throwing the breath through the nose, and hence was an evidence of returning life. (2 Kings iv. 35.) NEHEMIAH, (Ezra ii. 2,) son of Hachaliah, (Neh. x. 1,) was a Jew of distinguished piety and zeal, born in cap- tivity, but rai "^d to the ho- nourable pos^t of cup-bearer to Artaxerxes, king of Persia. He used his influence with that monarch in belialf of his afflicted countrymen, and be- came their permanent bene- factor. He was commissioned, at his own request, to visit Jerusalem, and repair its ruins, which he accomplished under the most perplexing difficul- ties. Nehemiah, as the tir- shatha or governor, and Ezra as the priest and scribe, (Neh. viii. 9,) were instrumental in restoring the worship of the Jews ; and the sacred books were collected and compiled under their direction. Nehemiah administered the government of Jerusalem twelve years without salary, and in a manner most expen- sive to himself, (Neh. v. 14— 462 NEH NET 19 ,) and at the end of this I addressed to the master of period he returned to Persia, ' music, presiding over the where he remained for an uncertain period. (Neh. xiii flutes.' NEHUSHTAN, (2 Kings 6.) He was absent long enough I xviii. 4,) ftra^en, a name given to allow great abuses to arise i by Hezekiah king of judah in Jerusalem, (Neh. xiii. comp. : to the brazen serpent that Mo- Mal. ii. 10—17; which, on his return, he made it his first business to correct, especially the violation uf the 6—12,) ses had set up in the wilder- ness, (Num. xxi.8,) and which had been preserved by the Israelites to that time. The Sabbath. By these means he i superstitious people havin restored his people, in some degree, to their former happy condition, and probably re- mained inpovvertill his death, which it is supposed took place in Jerusalem. (See Elisama., chap. xii. and xiii., and Union Questions, vol. ix., both by Am. S. S. Union.) Book of, is the sixteenth in the order of the books of the made an idol of this serpent, Hezekiah caused it to be burned, and in derision gave it the name of Nehushtan, i. e. little brazen serpent, or d piece of brass. NEIGHBOUR. (Luke x. 29.) The Pharisees restrained the meaning of the word neigh- bour to those of their own na- tion, or to their own friends. Old Testament. It may be j But our Saviour informed them regarded as a continuation ; that all the people of the world or supplement to the book of j were neighbours to each other; Ezra, which immediately pre- ■ ■ "" ■ cedes it ; and in some Bibles it is called the second book of Ezra, though it is unques- tionably the "work of Nehe- miah. This book contains an ac- count of the motives and de- signs of Nehemiah in wishing to"restore Jerusalem, the place of his fathers' sepulchres; of the commission he received ; his associates in the work ; their various successes and difficulties; the introduction of a belter order of things, Iwth in the religious and civil de- pariments of the government ; and a census or register of the Keople. The Old Testament istory closes with this book B. c. 420. After the death of Nehemiah, Judea became sub- ject to tlie governor of Syria. NEHILOTH, a word found at the beginning of the fifth Psalm, and which signifies probably the Jlutes, of icind instruments. The title of the fi,fth Psal m may be thus trans lated that they ought not to do to another what they would not have done to themselves ; and that this charily extended even to enemies. NERGAL. (2 Kings xvii. 30.) One of the gods of those hea- then who were transplanted into Palestine. This idol pro- bably represented the planet Mars, which was the emblem of bloodshed. The name A^er- gal appears also in the proper name Nergalsharezer. (Jer. xxxix. 3.) NETHINIMS. (Ezra ii. 43. 53.) The word signifies given or dedicated perscms. They were a remnant of the Gibeon ites, and were given as sacred servants or bondmen to the priests, (1 Kings ix. 20—22,) and were employed as hewers of wood, and drawers of water for the house of the Lord. (1 Chron. ix. 2.) They were not the first, however, wiw were set apart as the Lord's bondmen ; for Moses had pre- viously mentioned vows, bjr 'h. Psalm of David, ' which men devoted then* 463 NIC Bt'lves or others— that is, child- ren or servants — to God, to minister in the sanctuary. The number of these was greatly increased in later limes by David and others. Their condition appears to have been easy. It was not till after the captivity that they were called Nethinims. (Neh. iii. 26; vii. 46.60.73; x. 28; xi. 3. 21.) The Nethinims were carried Into captivity with the tribe of Judah, and great numbers were placed not far from the Caspian Sea, whence Ezra brought two hundred and twenty of them' into Judea. (Ezra viii. 17—20.) NETTLES. (Prov.xxiv.31.) A well known, wild plant, the leaves of which are armed with stings, connected with a small bag of poison ; and when the leaves are pressed by the hand, the stines penetrate the flesh, and produce a swelling with a sharp burning pain. The leaf when wet or dead does not possess this power. The presence of nettles be- tokens a waste and neglected soil ; hence the figure in the passage above cited, and in Isa. xxxiv. 13. Hos. ix. 6. The word rendered nettles in Job xxx. 7, and Zeph. ii. 9, is sup- posed to refer to different spe- cies of nettles, or to some larger shrub of similar properties, else it could not afford shelter. NEW MOON. (See Moon, Fea.sts, Month.) NEW TESTAMENT. (See ScRIPTtTRES.) NIBHAZ. (2Kingsxvii. 31.) An idol god of the Avites. The signification of the original word is the seeing barker. Hence a connexion is traced between this idol and the Amibis of the Egyptians, repre- senting a dog'S head and a man's body. NICODEMUS. (John iii. 1.) A luler of the Jews, and a dis- tinguished member of the sect NIG of Pharisees, whose conversa tion with the Messiah, as re- corded in this chapter, reveals one of the grand doctrines of the Christian system, viz. re- generation BY THE Spirit op God. The simple but pointed instruction he received on thia occasion seems to have been made effectual upon the heart and conscience of Nicodemus, as we find him afterwards evincing on more than one occasion his attachment to the Redeemer. (John vii. 45—53; xix. 39.) NICOLAITANS, or NlCa LAITANES. (Rev. ii. 6. 15.) An ancient sect, whose deeds are expressly and strongly re- probated. Some have supposed that the name is symbolical— Nicolans corresponding to Ba- laam, and that it denotes all false and seducing teachers like Balaam. (See Nicolas.) NICOLAS. (Acts vi. 5.) One of the deacons of the church at Jerusalem in the days of the apostles. He was a native of Antioch, converted to Juda- ism, and ihence to Christianity. It is supposed by some that he was the founder of the sect of Nicolaitans, but without suf- ficient warrant. (See Nico- laitans.) i NICOPOLIS, (Tit. iii. 12,) the place where Paul deter- mined to winter, is now called Nicopi, or Nicopoli, a town upon the river Nessus, (now j Karasa,) which divided Thrace from Macedonia. (See the I subscription to the epistle.) Another town of the same name was in Epirus, opposite Actium, to which some have thought the apostle refers in i the above passage. 1 NIGHT-HAWK. (Deut. xiv. j 15.) A species of bird unclean j by the Levilical law, (Lev. xi. [ 16,) but not the bird known to us by this name. Probably the night-owl is intended, which . is described as of the size of 464 NIN the common owl, and lodges | in the large buildings or ruins j of Egypt and Syria, and sopie- i times even in the dwelling- nouses. It is extremely vo- racious. NIMRIM. (Isa. xv. 6.) A stream in the north part of Moab, near to the village of Beth-nimrah, (Num. xxxii. 36,) the ruins of which now bear the name of Nimrein. NIMR0D. (Gen. x. 8.) The eon of Gush. The Hebrews regard him as the leader of those who attempted to build the tower of Babel; and the orientals make him the author of idolatry. He was princi- Eally concerned in building oth Babylon and Nineveh". (See Assyria.) The expres- sion a mighty hunter (or a hunting giant) before the Lord means that he was re- markably skilful and powerful in hunting wild beasts. Before the Lord is a figurative phrase, signifying very powerful. The land of Nimroa (Mic. v. 5) is the same with Babylon. NINEVEH, (Jonah iii. 6,) the capital of Assyria, (2 Kings xix. 33,) and rival of Babylon, was situated on the Tigris, north-east of Babylon, pro- oably near the modern village of Nania, opposite to Mosul. It signifies the dwelli?ig of Ninusy and therefore v/e may presume was founded by Nira- rod, also called Ninus, though pome regard Ashur as the founder. It was a City of nineteen miles in length and eleven in breadth, and from forty-eight to sixty miles in circumference, (as may be inferred from Jo- nah's account, Jonah iii. 3, confirmed by that of Slrabo.) and contained a population of about six hundred thousand. (Jonah iv. 11.) It was sur- rounded by a wall one hun- dred feet high, and wide enough for three carriages to go abreast, NIT fortified by fifteen hundred towers, of two hundred feet in height. For its luxury and Avickedness the judgments of God fell upon it. (Nah. iii. I. Zeph. ii. 13—15.) Nineveh, which had long been mistress of the east, was first taken by Arbaces ' and Belesis, under the reign of Sardanapalus, in the time of Ahaz, kingof Judah, about the time of the^foundation of Rome, B. c. 753. It was taken a se- cond time by Cyaxares and Nabopolassar, about b. c. 632, after which it no more reco- vered its former splendour. It was entirely ruined in the time of Lucian of Samosata, who lived under the emperor Adrian. It was rebuilt under the Persians, but was destroyed by the Saracens about the seventh century. NISAN. (See Month.) NITRE. (Jer. ii. 22.) An earthy alkaline salt, resem- bling and used like soap, which separates from the bottom of the lake Natron, in Egypt, and rising to the top, is condensed by the heat of the sun into a dry and hard substance, simi- lar to the Smyrna soap, and is the soda of common earth. It is found in many other parts of the east. Vinegar has no effect upon common nitre, and of course this could not be meant by the wise man, who, in Prov. xxv. 20, says, As he that taketh away a garment in cold tceathcr, and o-s tine- gar to nitre, so is lie tliat sing- elh songs to a heavy heart. Now as vinegar has no effect upon nitre, but on natron or soda iis action is very obvi- ous, it seems the English translation should have been natron. In Jeremiah, ch. ii. 22, the same word again is improperly used. For though thou wash thee with nitre, and take thee much soap, yet thy iniquity is marked before 4(w NOA me, saith the Lord God. The alkaline earth natron is ob- viously designed in this pas- sage. It is found, as an impure carbonate of soda, on the sur- face of the earth in Egypt and Syria; and is, also, native in some parts of Africa, in hard strataor masses, and is called trona, being used for the same purposes as" the barilla of com- merce. NO (Jer. xlvi. 25. Ezek. xxx. 14) is generally supposed to be the famous city of Thebes, in upper Egypt, extending itself on both sides of the Nile. (Nah. iii. 8.) The fact is so uncertain, however that we should not feel justified in in- troducing an article upon Thebes. Instead of A'b, in Jer. xlvi. 25, it should be rendered Ammon of No, or the seat or dwelling of the god Ammon. It was probably applied to two or three places. A distinction is sometimes made between the No spoken of in Nahum iii. 8—10, and the No men- tioned by Jeremiah and Eze- kiel. The destruction of the former (supposed to be Thebes) isdescribed in detail as already past, while the doom of the other (which is supnased to have been in lower Egypt) is predicted by Jeremiah and Ezekiel as a future event. NOAH, (Gen. vi. 8,) or, as the Greeks write it, Noe, (Matt. xxiv. 37,) the ninth in descent from Adam, is de- scribed as a just man, perfect (or upright) in his generations, and walking with God. (Gen. vi. 9.) In the midst of the universal corruption which overspread the earili, he found grace in the eyes of the Lord, and was not only warned of the approach of the general deluge, but instructed in the means of saving himself, and his family, and a sufficient Humberof the animal creation, NOA to preserve the several tribes (See Ark.) Believing the di vine declaration, he prepared the ark, and diligently warned the world of the approaching judgment, but without effect. In 'due time it came. (See Flood.) Noah, and his wife, and his three sons, and their wives, and the required num- ber of beasts and fowls, en- tered into the ark, and were saved. All the rest in whose 7iostrils was the breath of life, of all that v:as in the dry land, died. When the waters subsided, the ark rested on a mountain of Armenia. (See Ararat.) Noah and his fa- mily went forth, and the crea- tures they had preserved. The first act of this new progenitor of the human race was to offer a sacrifice to God, which was acceptable in his sight, for he immediately entered into a covenant with him, that such a judgment should not again visit the earth, nor should the regular succession of the sea- sons be again interrupted while the earth remains. As a token of the covenant thus made, God established the rainbow. He also put the irrational cre- ation in subjection to Noah, as he had originally done to Adam, and enacted some general lawa for his government. Noah became a husband- man, and partaking too freely of the fruit of the vine, exposed himself to shame. When in this state he was treated inde- corously by one of his sons, who, on that account, was the subjei;t of severe judgments ; while his brothers, for an op- posite course of conduct, re- ceived peculiar blessings. Noah lived three hundred and fifty years after the flood, but the place of his residence is matter of vain conjecture. (For a particular account of the settlement of Noah's fa- 466 NOP mlly, see Eveninc; Recrea- tions, by Am. S. S. Union, ▼ol. ii. pp. 2S -50.) NOB (1 Sam. xxii. 19) was a tily of the priests, in the ter- ritory of Benjamin, and within Jight of Jerusalem on the north. To this place David fled from the fury of Saul, and ootained from Ahimelech, the high- priest, some of the shew-hread, M satisfy his hunger; and also Goliath's sword for his defence. For this act Saul caused the ;ity and all ihat was in it to be jestroved. (See Ahimelech.) NOT), LAND OF, (Gen. iv. 16,) probably designates no par- ticular place. It might be literally rendered (with re- ference to the doom of Cain) land of wandering, eastward of Eden. NOPH. (Isa. xix. 13. Je'. ii. !6. Ezek. xxx. 13. 16.) The ancjenl Memphis, in middle Esrypt, on the Nile, fifteen miles south of old Cairo. It was the residence of the earlier kings of Egypt, and is said to have been about twenty miles in circumference. In the se- venth century it fell into the hands of the Saracens ; and the predicted judgments of God, on account of its idolatry and gener.il corruption, gra- dually effaced every trace of its ancient magnificence. In the lime of Strabo, there were many splendid remains; among wiiich, he describes a temple of Vulcan, of ereal magnificence; another of Ve- nus; and a third of Osiris, vhere the Apis or sacred ox was worshipjied. He also mentions a large circus: but he remarks, that many of the palaces were in ruins; and oescribes an immense colossus which lay prostrate in the front of the city ; and among a num- ber of sphinxes, some were buried in sand up to the mid- dle of the* body; while of others, only the heads were NUR visible above the sand. Some monuments were to be seen six hundred years after the time of Strabo's visit, when the Sa- racens had possession of the country: but at present there is scarcely a vestige of its former grandeur to be found. This has led some to conjec- ture that its site wag over- flowed by the Nile; but it is much more probable that it has been covered by the con- tinual encroachment of the sands, which, we see, were advancing in the time of Strabo. And it cannot be doubted, but that a large part of ancient Egypt has already been completely Imried by the sands from the wilderness. NORTH. (Jer. vi. 1.) North and sovth in the Scriptures are used relatively to the situa- tion of countries in regard to Judea. Thus Syria is north ; Egypt south; Babylon and Assyria lay to the north-east ; but the Assyrian army always invaded Palestine from the north. Media was still far- ther to the north. (Jer. iii. 12. Dan. xi. 13, 14.) NUMBERS. This is the fourth in order of the books of the Old Testament, and derives its name fi-om the cir- cumstance that it contains the vtimbers and ordering of the Hebrews and Levites, after the erection and consecrationof the tabernacle. (For an account of their removal from Sinai, and their subsequent marches in the wilderne.ss; and of the wonderful dealing of God with them, imtil their arrival on the borders of Moab, see Union Questions, vol. iv., and Teachers' As.sistant in the u.se of the same. See, also Life op Moses, all by Am. S. S. Union.) NURSE. (Gen. xxiv. 53) This domestic relation wae and is still one of the most im- portant in eafliern families Ir 467 NUR Syria the nurse is regarded as a sort of second parent, always accompanying the bride to the husband's house, and ever remaining there an honoured giest. So it was in ancient reece. And in Hindostan, the nurse passes her days among the children she has helped to rear; and in mosc[ues and mausoleums are sometimes seen the monuments of prince- ly affection towards a favourite nurse ; and the relation on the part of the nurse must have NUT corresponded in tenderness and affection ; and hence the force of the figurative expres- sions, lsa.xl'xr23. IThess. ii.7. NUTS (Gen. xliii. 11) are generally supposed to have been what are now known as pistachio or pistacia nuts, which were produced in great perfection plentifully in Syria, but not in Egypt. This nui is of an oblong shape, and, in its green state, of^ exquisite taste. When dried for export- ation, they are very inferior. o OAK AK. (Gen.xxxv.4.8.) There is a word in the Hebrew Bible which is often translated in our version oak, but which is the name of a tree peculiar to the eastern world. This is the terebinth, or turpentine tree, which abounds in Syria, Mesopotamia, and Palestine. It grows to a considerable size, and has a rich and luxuriant foliage. From this tree is ob- tained the genuine turpentine of the ancients, and a rich and balsamic gum, which exudes from the trunk. It is said to live one thousand years, and when it dies the race is renewed by young shoots from the root ; so that the tree may in a sense be called perpetual. Hence the figurative allusion in Isa. vi. 13, where the teil or Jinden tree might as well be rendered terebinth. For the same reason it was an important landmark, and served to fix the topography of the lands, as we find oaks very often named for the pur- pose of designating the locality of great events. (Josh. xxiv. 26. Judg. vi. 11. 2Sam. xviii. 9. 1 Kings xiii. 14. 1 Chron. X. 12.) The strength of the oak is alluded to by the prophet, CAmos ii. 9p and the district OAT of Bashan is often mentioned as peculiarly favourable to the growth of this tree. (Isa. ii. 13. Zech. xi. 2.) The word translated plains in several passages, (Gen. xii. 6; xiii. 18; xiv. 13; xfiii. 1. Deul. xi. 30. Judg. ix. 6,) are places noted for clusters or groves of the terebinth or oak. The wood of the oak was used for idols. (Isa. xliv. 14.) OATH. (Heb. vi. 16.) To take an oath is solemnly to call on God to witness or take notice of what we affirm. It invokes the vengeance, or renounces the favour of God, if what is asserted is false, and if what is promised is not per- formed. It has been matter of doubt among some Christians, in almost all ages, whether the practice of taking an oath on any occasion is not a vio- lation of the express command of our Saviour, (Matt. v. 34 ;) and there is great force in the arguments which are used in support of this opinion. Even those who allow the practice, require that it never be taken but in matters of importance, nor sworn by the name of any but the true God, as it is an act of solemn worship, (Dent. vi. 13. Josh, xxiii. 7. Jer. v. 7. Matt. V. 34, 35. James v. 12 j) 468 OAT nor irreverently, without 20(11 y fear and awe of the Most High ; and he is represented as a wicked man who is not deep iy impressed with an oatn, (Eccles. ix. 2;) nor rashly, without caution, (Gen. xxiv. 2—8. Lev. V. 4. Matt, xi v. 7;) nor falsely, nor deceitfully, affirming what is fabe, or without a sincere intention to perform. (Lev. vi. 3 ; xix. 12. Jer. xlii. 5.) But every oath ought to be sworn, in truth, and with judgment, having respect to tiie nature of an oath, and of the thing sworn ; and with fearof God, by whom we swear; and only in things that are eood, and for a good end. (Jer. iv. 2. 1 Gor. x. 31. Heb. vi. 17.) Oaths may be sinful, even when prescribed by the law of the land : they may contain things in them- selves unlawful, whicli no hu- man laws can render consist- ent with right; or they may be enjoined without necessity, and multiplied beyond reason ; or administered in a manner so manifestly irreverent, that they are rather an insult to Jehovah, than a solemn act of worship. The very nature ' and terms of an oath show that atheists, who profess to believe that there is no God, and per- sons who do not believe in a future state of reward and punishment, cannot consist- ently take one. In their I mouths an oath can be only j Tain mockery. God himself is represented \ as confirming his promise by oath, which is a mere figura- tive allusion to what is prac- tised among men. (Heb. vi. 13. 16, 17.) The forms of swearing are various. Anciently the lifting up of one of the hands towards heaven, (Ps. cxliv. 8. Rev. x. 5,) and putting the hand under the thigh, (Gen. xxiv. 2.) were used. (See Right Hand.) 1 40 ODE I OBADIAH. (1 Kings xviil. I 3.) A godly man, and prin- I cipal officer in the household I of Ahab, by whose interposition ' one hundred prophetd were j preserved from the murderous ! persecution of Jezebel, and I supplied with food. Some have supposed that this was no other than the prophet of the same name; but there is better reason to suppose that Obadiah the pro- phet lived at the same periofl with Jeremiah and EzekieL There are several other per- sons of this name mentioned in the Old Testament. Prophkcy of, is the thirty- first in the order of the books of the Old Testament. It re- lates to the judgments im- pending over Edom, and to the restoration and prosperity of the Jews. Some portions of this prophecy are supposed to have relation to events still future. The similarity of a portion of Obadiah's jwjphecy and that of Jeremiah is strik- ing. (Comp. Jer. xlix. 7 — 10, and 14-16. Obad. 1—9.) OBED-EDOM. (IChron.xvL 38.) A Levite who lived in David's time, and at whose house the ark was deposited, after the dreadful death of Uzzah. (2 Sam. vi. 6— 10.) Th€ blessing which came on tht house of Obed-edom for th» ark's sake, encouraged Davie to remove it to Jerusalem (2 Sam. vi. 10-12.) Obed edom and his sons were ap> pointed keepers of the door^ of the tabernacle. (1 Chron, xvi. 38,) and of the sacrec vessels. (2 Chron. xxv. 24.) OBLATIONS. (See Offer INGS.) ODED. (2Chron. XV. S.) A prophet, by whose instructior Asa, king of Judah, was in duced to put away idols out of his kingdom and possessions and to renew the worship of the true God. (2 Chron. xv. 1— 463 OFF 8.) Oded was at Samaria, and when the Israelites returned from the war against Judah, with their liing Pekah, and brought two hundred thousand captives, he wenttomeetthem, and remonstrated so effectu- ally with them that the princi- pal men in Samaria look care of them, gave them clothes, food, and other assistance, with asses to ride upon, because the greater part of them were ex- hausted, and unable to walk. Thus they conducted them to iheir brethren at Jericho. OFFENCE. (Rom. ix. 33.) This term in the sacred writ- ings often means that which causes or is likely to cause us to sin. Thus in Matt. v. 27, the right eye which would al- lure to sin is said to offend ; and in Matt, xviii. 7, causes of Bin, sufferins, or wo are called effences: so" in Malt. xvi. 23. In the same sense our Saviour is called, in the above passage from Romans, a rock of offence ; whereby we underslauo, that to the Jews he was offensive in all the circumstances of his birth and history. They stum- bled at his word, and were dis- obedient. A reference to Lev. xix. 14. Isa. viii. 14. Luke ii. 34. Rom. ix. 32, 33, will furnish a sufficient illustration of the word and its connexion. The cffence of the cross (Gal. v. 11) is that, in the doctrines of Christ, or the cross, which is offensive to carnal men. OFFERINCJ, (Gen. iv. 3,) OBLATION. (Lev. ii. 7.) An offering, in a religious sense, is whatever one offers as a gift by way of reverence to a su- perior. (Matt. ii. 11.) The Jew- ish sacrifices, and in general all the religious sacrifices, are, properly speaking, oblations. Sometimes they seem to be used indiscriminately, as in Lev. iii. I, if his oblation be a sacrifice of peace-offerings &c. The word sacrifice is some- OFF times used in a sense so gene ral, as to embrace whatever i» in any way devoted to the service of God ; but, strictly speaking, offerings were sim- ple, bloodless gifts, as all sorts of tithes, first-fruits in their na- tural state, meal, bread, cakes, ears of corn, parched grain, &c. To these oil was often added, and sometimes they were baked with oil. Proper sacri> fices involved the destruction of animal life, or the shedding of blood ; and also the entire or partial consumption of the vic- tim by fire. Birds and quadru- peds constituted the sacrifices ; hence their blood was forbid- den to be drunk, but not that of fishes, which were not allowed to be brought to the altar. Probably all clean birds might be offered, (Lev. xiv. 4—7,) but not all clean, beasts. The dove was the most common offering of birds ; and oxen, sheep, and goats from among quadrupeds. No wild beast could be offered, and in killing and eating them all idea of sacrifice was to be avoided, (Deut. xii. 15. 22; xt. 22,) except that the blood was to be thrown away. (Deut. xv. 23.) Leaven and honey were excluded from all offerings made by fire, (Lev. ii. 11,) and salt was required in all. (Lev. ii. 13.) Drink-offerings were a kind of accompaniment tothebloody and bloodless offerings. They consisted chiefly of wine, part of which was poured on the vic- tim, and the residue was given to the priests. (Num. xv. 5. 7.) Amongthe offerings required by the Jewish law were the burnt offering, (Lev. i.4,)socalledbe' cause the thing offered was en tirely consumed ; the trespass offering, (Lev. v. 6,) in which the guilt of the offerer was confessed, and an atonement made; the sin-offering, (Lev iv. 3 ;) the meat-offering, (Lev 470 OFF fl. 1,) which was usually a tomjDound of corn, flour, oil, and frankincense, prepared in various ways, and burnt on the altar of burnt-offering; the peace-offering, (Lev. iii. 1.) and the cmisecration-offering. The six foregoing are the offerings by fire, as expressly required. (Lev. vii. 37.) The drink-offering, wiiieh always attended the meat-offering, (Ex. xxix. 40 ;) the heave-offer- ing, (Ex. xxix. 27,) and the toave-offering, (Ex. xxix. 24 :) the last two are so called from a particular motion used in the presentation of them. The oblation of the first-fruits (Lev. ii. 12) was regarded as a meat-offering, and was pre- sented before the harvest was ripe, the fruit being dried or parched. (Lev. ii. 14.) The Jews were required, as a general rule,to bring all their offerings to an appointedplace, first the tabernacle, and after- wards the temple; and the manner of presenting them is described in most minute de- tails. The burnt-offering was to be a male without blemish, of the herd and of the flock offered voluntarily at the door of the tabernacle, the hand of the offerer beine upon the head of the victim. "(Lev. i. 2—4.) The animal was then taken to the altar, slain on the north side, and the blood sprinkled about the altar. (Lev. i. 5. Comp. Heb. xii. 24.) The east side of the altar was appropriated to the ashes, &c. (Lev. i. 16) On the south was the ascent to the altar, and on the west was the sanctuary. The body of the victim was flayed, opened, cut in pieces, salted, laid in order on the altar of burnt-offering, and consumed to ashes. (Lev. i. 5. 8. Comp. Heb. iv. 12.) So of killing and offering fowls. (Lev. 1.14— 17.) The end of the bu^n^offe^ing was an atone- OFF ment for sin. (Lev. i. 4. Comp. Heb. X. 1—3. 11.) This offering constituted a morning and eve- ning sacrifice, and was often made on other prescribed occa.- sions. The meat-offering consisted of flour prepared with oil and frankincense. (Lev. ii. 1.) It was to be free from leaven and honey, but was to have salt. (Lev. i. 11.13.) With this was connected the drink-offering, which, as before observed, was never used separately, but was an appendage of wine to some sacrifices. Hence the con- demnation of their supersti- tious practice of using blood for a drink-offering. (PsTxvi.4.) In this, and other sacrificial observances, it would appear, that generally the offerer was to kill the victim, take off the skin, cut up the body, and wash the different parts. The priest was to sprinkle the blood, prepare the fire, and lay the sacrifice upon the altar. The Levites, and afterwards the Nethinims, assisted in these labours. The meat-offering was pre- sented on prescribed occasions. It always attended burnt-offer- ings and peace-offerings, and also the sin-offering and tres- pass-offering of the leper. A handful of the composition was burned by the priest upon the altar, (Lev. ii. 16,) and the re- sidue was for his own and his family's use. The peace-offerings were vows of thanksgiving, or a sup- plication for mercies, and were similar in kind, and manner ofpresentation, with theburnt- offp.ring. (Lev. iii.) The sin-offering had pecu- liar respect to sins committed ignorantly, and was modified according to the persons pre sentins it. (Comp. Lev. iv. 3. 13. 22. 27.) Part of the blood of the victim was poured out at the bottom of the altar; a 471 OIL Eart was sprinkled on the orns of ihe altar of incense ; and a pan was carried by the priest into the most holy place. (Lev. xvi.) The trespass • offering, the manner and occasion of which are described, Lev. v. — vii., seems to have differed but , slightly from the last. It may be remarked, that all the blood of the trespass-offering appears to have been sprinkled around the altar, and tnat it was offered only for individuals, and nover (as the sin-offering) for the con- gregation. The burnt, sin. and trespass-offeritig were of an ex- piatory character, though not exclusively so. The consecration - offerings were made at the time4)f con- j seorating the priests, (Lev. viii. 22;) from which circumstance , (and not from any thing pecu- j liar in the ceremony) the name 1 is derived. (See Sacrifices. See also Biblical Antiq,oi- i TIES, by Am. S. S. Union, vol. j ii. ch. v., for a clear and most interesting history of the sub- ject.) OG. (Deut. iii. 1.) A king of Bashan, of gigantic stature, (Deut. iii. 11,) who opfiosed the passageof the Israelites through his territories. Moses, being di- vinely admonished of his suc- cess, attempted to force his way through the country, and suc- ceedea in capturing the king, and ultimately became master of the whole country. (Deut. iii. 3—6.) OIL. (Ps. xcii. 10.) Among eastern nations the practice has prevailed, from the earliest periods, of anointing the head with oil, made fragrant with the richest aromatTcs of the east, especially on festivals and other joyous occasions. The Greeks and Romans applied oil to the whole body, and the modern orientals anoint their beards. Hence the use of oil e significant of joy and glad- OLI ness, (Ps. xxiii. 5,) and tha omission of it betokened sor row. (2 Sam. xiv. 2. IMatl. vi 17. See Olive.) Oil teee (Isa.xli. 19) is pro- bably the same with the olive tree, (1 Kings vi.23 ;) but whe- ther the olive, properly speak- ing, is intended in these pas- sases, admits of some doubt. OINTMENT. (See Anoint.) OLIVE. (Job XV. 33.) The soil and climate of Syria were very favourable to the produc- tion of the olive. (Deut. vi. 11; vii. 13; viii. 8; xi. 14; xxviii. 40. 1 Kings V. 11.) The fruit is like a plum in shape and colour; being first green, then pale, and, when ripe, nearly black. Tliey are sometimes plucked in an unripe state, and put into some pickle, or other preserving liquid, and exported. For the most part, however, they are valuable for the oil they produce, and which is expressed from the fruit in various ways, and con- stitutes an important article of commerce and luxury. (Job xxiv. 11. Ezck. xxvii. 17.) The fruit is gathered by beating (Deut. xxiv. 20) or shaking the tree, (Isa. xvii. 6;) and gfean- ings were to be left for the poor A full-sized tree in its vigour produces a thousand pounds of oil. The olive is a beautiful and durable tree, and the fruit rich and valuable; hence the fre- quent figurative allusions to it, which are self-explanato- ry. (Judg. ix. 8, 9. Ps. Iii. 8; cxxviii.3. Jer. xi. 16. Hos. xiv. 6.) The olive branch is re- garded universally as an em- blem of peace. (Gen. viii. 11.) The wild olive (Rom. xi. 17) is smaller, and its fruit, if it produces any, far inferior to the cultivated. The olives, from which oil is to be expressed, must be ga thered by the hands, or softly shaken from the trees before 472 OLl they are fully ripe. The best oil is that which comes from the fruit with very light pres- Bure. This is sometimes called in Scripture green oil, not be- cause of its colour, for it is pellucid, but because it is from unripe fruit. It is translated in Ex. xxvii. 20, pure oil-olive beaten, and was used for the golden candlestick. For the extraction of this first oil, pan- niers or baskets are used, which are gently shaken. The second and third pressing produces in- ferior oil. The best is obtained from unripe fruit; the worst, from that which is more than ripe. The oil of Egypt is worth little, because the olives are too fat. Hence the Hebrews sent gifts of oil to the Egyptian kings. (Hos. xii. 1.) The in- ferior quality is used in mak- ing soap. But the Hebrews used oil not merely in lamps, and with salads, but in every domestic employment in which butter is serviceable, and in the meat-oflerings of tlie temple. It is observed by travellers, that the natives of oil countries manifest more attachment to this than to any other article of food, and find nothing ade- quately to supply its place. A press was also used for the extraction of the oil, consist- ing of two reservoirs, usually eight feet square and four feet deep, situated one above the other. The berries, being in the upper one, were trodden out with the feet. Mic. vi. 15. OLIVES, MOUNT OF, (Matt, xxvi. 30,) or OLIVET, (2 Sam. XV. 30,) or Mount of Corrup- tion, (2 Kings xxiii. 13,) over- looks Jerusalem on the east , so that every street, and almost everyhouse maybedistinguish- ed from its summit. It doubtless had its name from the abun- danceofoliveswhichgrewupon it; 8omeofwhich,of remarkable age and size, are still standing. A late traveller describes the 40* OLl mount of Olives as about a mile in length, and about seven hundred feel in height. To a spectator on the west, it has a gently waving outline, and appears to have three summits of nearly equal height. On the top of the centre "one is a church, erected over the spot where, they inform us, our Sa- viour ascended into heaven; and, in confirmation of the tra- dition, point to a stone with the impressionoftheleftfoot.made, as they pretend, when he was about leaving the earth ; that of the right foot having been car- ried away by the Turks. On Ascension-day they come up in great crowds, and have service here. The chapel had been shaken down by a recent earth- quake, and the floor was cover- ed by rubbish, so that he did not see the stone of such sacred pretensions. In Luke xxiv 50, it is very clearly stated, that the ascension occurred near Bethany, which is on the eastern side of the mountain, more than a mile from this. (Comp. this passage with Acts i. 12, where the ascension is also spoken of) There are two roads to Bethany; one around the southern end of the mount of Olives, and one across its summit; the latter being considerably shorter, but more difficult. It was probably on this latter road, in the de- scent to Bethany, that the Saviour was taken up from the apostles. " From this central height a ridge stretches off towards the east for a distance of three- fourths of a mile, when it ter- minates by a bold descent. AVe were conducted to the end of it in order to enjoy tlie view eastward, which is very exten- sive. The plain of Jordan, the mountain beyond, the Dead Sea, and the dark and singular chain of mountains on the east of it, were in full view, as well 473 ON as all the country intermediate between them and us. Some of us thought that we could see the waters of the Jordan ; but, although this was uncer- tain, we could easily trace the course of the river, through the plain, by the verdure; and, where this failed, by the bro- ken nature of the ground. Beyond it towered the lofty mountains of Moab, rising peak above peak in great ma- jesty, including among them mount Nebo." (For a minute description of the geography and scenery of mount Olivet, see Selumiel, ch. viii. pp. 154—169, by Am. S. S. Union.) OMEGA. (See Alpha.) OMER. (See Measubks.) OMRI. (1 Kings xvi. 16.) An officer in the army of Is- rael. He was engaged in the siege of Gibbethon, a Philis- tine city, when lie received in- telligence that Zimri, another officer of the army, had assas- sinated the king, and had usurped the throne. The ar- my, by general acclamation, made Omri king, and, raising the siege of Gibbethon, they forthwith marched to Tirzah, where Zimri resided, and cap- tured it. Zimri set fire to the house he occupied, and was consumed. The Israelites were then divided into two parties; but, afler a short struggle, Omri prevailed, and took the throne, which he polluted and disgraced through a reign of twelveyears. OmribuiltSama- ria, which thereafter became the capital of the ten tribes. ON, (Gen. .xli.45,) or AVEN, (Ezek. XXX. 17,) is the same with Bethshemesh, or house of the sun, {.lev. xliii. 13,) and was called by the Greeks He- liopolis, or city of the su7i. These names are given to the place, because it was i he prin- cipal seat of the Egyptian worship of the sun. It was ONE I one of the oldest cities in the world, and was situated in Egypt, in the land of Goshen, on the east of the Nile, about five miles above modern Cai- ro. Eighteen centuries ago, this city was in ruins, when visited by Strabo. According to Josephus, this city was given to the family of Jacob, when they first came to sojourn in Egypt ; and we know that it was a daughter of the priest of the temple si- tuated here who was given in marriage to Joseph. Here also, in the time of Ptolemy Phila- delphus, Onias, a Jew, obtain- ed leave to erect a temple si- milar to the one at Jerusalem, which was for a long time fre- quented by thellellenist Jews. There is an apparentreference to it by several of the prophets. (See passages above cited.) The ruins of this ancient city lie near the modern vi.- lage Matarea, about six miles from Cairo, towards the north- east. Nothingnowremainsbut immense dikes and mounds, full of pieces of marble, gra- nite, and pottery, some rem- nants of a sphinx, and an obe- lisk, still erect, of a single block of granite, fifty-eight feet above ground, and co- vered with hieroglyphics. ONESIMUS. (Col. iv. 9.) A servant of Philemon, at Co- losse, who, having been guilty of some delinquency, had fled to Rome ; and, being convert- ed under the preaching of Paul, was sent back to Phile- mon with a most affectionate letter, commending the peni- tent, not only to the forgive- ness of Philemon, but to his love and confidence as a fel- lowdisciple. (SeePniLEMON.) ONESIPHOUUS. (2Tim.L 16.) A primitive Christian, re- sident at Ephesus, where he ministered very seasonably to the relief and comfort of Paul. (2 Tim. i. 18.) When Paul was 474 OPH Imprisoned at Rome, Onesi- phorus came thither, and again afforded timely relief to the afflicted apostle; for which he expresses his gratitude in the warmest terms in the passage above cited. ONION. (Num. xi. 5.) A well known garden vegetable, which grew in great perfection ia Egypt. The onions of Egypt are described Dy travellers as of large size and exquisite fla- vour ;"ditfering (says one) from the onions of our country as much as a bad turnip differs in palatableness from a good apple. ONO. (Neh. vi. 2.) A city and its suburbs, occupying a small section of the plain of Sharon. It was about five miles from Lod. or Lydda, (1 Chron. viii. 12.) and is called the valley of Charashhn, or tfie craftsmen. (I Chron. iv. 14. Neh. xi. 35.) ONYCHA. (Ex. XXX. 34.) An ingredient of the sacred in- cense, which was prepared under divine direction. It was probably an odoriferous shell or gum. A species of muscle is still found in the Red Sea, the shell of wh-ich, when burnt, emits a smtU not unlike musk. ONYX, (Ex. xxviii. 20,) or banded agate. A precious stone (Ex. XXV. 7) or gem, (Ezek. xxviii. 13,) exhibiting two or more colours disposed in paral- lel bands or zones. It was obviously of hish value, from the uses made of it, (Ex. xxviii. 9—12. 20; xxxix. 6. 13,) and from its being named with other highly valuable sub- Btances. (Job xxviii. 16.) Per- haps the onyx used in the construction of the temple (1 Chron. xxix. 2) was a spe- cies of marble resembling the onyx. OPHEL. (2 Chron. xxvii. 3.) In the angle formed by the eastern extremity of mount OPH Zion, and the southern extre- mity of mount Moriah, or, in other words, at the outlet of •.he valley of Cheesemongers, there was a considerably ele- vated point, called Ophel. It was strongly defended by its natural position, and by a tow- er, and was separated from mount Zion by a wall . (2Chron. xxxiii. 14.) This lower is per- haps intended in Blic. iv. 8. In some modern maps this is called Ophlas. OPHIR. (1 Kings ix. 23.) A country of the east, celebrated for its production of gold and precious stones. (IKinesx. 11. 2 Chron. viii. 18; ix. 100 It is supposed to have been settled by the descendants of Joktan. (Gen. X. 29.) It is certain that its gold was renowned in the timeofjob, (Jobxxii.24; xxviii. 16;) and that, from the time of David to the time of Jeho- shaphat, the Hebrews traded with it, and that Uzziah re- vived this trade when he made himself master of Elath, a noted port on the Red Sea. In Solomon's time, the Hebrew fleet took up three years in their voyage to Ophir, and brought home gold, apes, pea- cocks, spices, ivory, ebony, and almug trees. The articles imported from this place, the port from which the ships sailed engaged in the trade, and tlie time required for the performance of the voy- age, all go to prove that Ophir could not be anywhere in the west of Asia, or "on the conti- nent of Europe; and some of these facts are also sufficient to render it entirely improbable that it was anywhere on the coast of Arabia, or even any- where on the coast of Africa. It seems far more probable that this place was situated somewhere in the East Indies ; hut the precise spot, or even district, cannot now be ascer- 475 ORI tained. Not fewer than sixteen different countries liave been regarded as the site of Ophir. OPHNI. (Josh, xviii. 24.) A city of Benjamin, latterly call- ed Gophna between Shechem and Jerusalem. It is men- tioned by profane historians among the places through which Tespasian and Titus ^ssed in their march of con- quest. OPHRAH, (Judg. vi. 11,) or APHRAH. (Mic. f. 10.) Tliere were two cities of this name ; one in the territory of Benja- min, (Josh, xviii. 23. 1 Sam. xiii. 17;) and the other in that of Manasseh, where Gideon was born. (Judg. vi. 11 ; viii. 27; ix. 5.) ORACLE, (2Sam. xvi. 23.) This term is sometimes applied to the most holy place, whence God declared his will to an- cient Israel. (lKingsvi.5. 19 — 23; viii. 6.) It is also applied to the sacred writings, which were intrusted to the nation of Israel. (Acts vii. 38. Rom. iii. 2.) It is probable that the oracles of the heathen world were invented in imitation of the responses given by Jeho- vah to the patriarchs and priests of ancient days. ORDINANCES. (Ex. xviii. 20.) As used by the sacred writers, the term generally de- notes established laws, rules, or appointments of God's go- vernment. OREB. (Judg. vii. 25.) A prince of Midian, whose fate IS alluded to, Ps. Ixxxiii. 11 ; and Isa. x. 26. ORGAN. (Gen.iv.21.) The organ, as it is called, is thought to have been what the ancient Greeks called the pipe of Pan. It consisted of seven or more reeds of unequal length. These are still used by the shepherds of the east, and, in skilful hands, produce quite tolerable music. ORION. (Jobix.9.) A con- OST stellation of about eighty stars, seen in the southern hemi- sphere about the middle of No- vember; and hence associated w ugh Asia Minor to Europe, finds Aquila and Pris- cilia at Corinth. (Acts xviii. 2.) . 54 Paul remains eighteen months in Corinth. (Acts xviii. II.) After being brought before Gallio, he departs for Jerusalem the fourth time, and then goes to Antiocb. (Acts xviii. 22.) 56 The apostle winters at Nicopolis, (Tit. iii. 12.) and then goes to Ephesus. (Acts xix. 1.) . . . .57 The places visited by the aposlle, in his various jour- neys, are presented at one view in the following sketch. After he was recognised as a disciple by the brethren at Jerusalem, he became so bold an advocate for the tnith, as to excite the anger of the Gre- cians, who were taking mea- Bures to slay him. This led to h\s first journey from Jeru- salem, in the course of which he visited Cesarea, Tarsus, (where he continued four years,) Antioch in Syria, (where he tarried one year^) thence to Jerusalem. Second journey. — From Je- rusalem to Antioch, Seleucia, Salamis, and Paphos in the island of Cyprus, Perga, An- tioch in Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe, Pisidia, Pam- phylia, Perga, Attalia, Antioch in Syria, Phenice, Samaria, and thence to Jerusalem. Third journey.— From Jeru- salem to Antioch, Syria, Cili- cia, Derbe, Lystra, Phrygia, Galatia, Mysia, Troas, (where he was joined by Luke,) Sa- mothracia, Neapolis, Phiiippi, Amphipolis, ApoUonia, Thes- salonica, Berea, Athens, Co- rinth, Cenchrea, Ephesus, Ce- sarea, and thence to Jeru- salem. Fourth journey.— From Je- rusalem to Antioch, Galatia, Phrygia, Ephesus, Macedonia, PAU A.9. After a residence of two years or more at Ephesus, Paul departs for Macedonia. (Acts xi. 1.) . . .59 After wintering in Achaia, Paul goes the fifth time to Jerusalem, nhere be is imprisoned. (Acts XX. xxi.) GB The apostle remains two years in prison at Cesarea, and is then sent to Rome, where he arrives in the spring, after wintering- in Malta. (Acts xxiv. 27: xxv. — xxviii.) 63 The history in Acts concludes, and Paul is supposed to have been set at liberty 65 Probable martyrdom 65 Greece, Philippi, Troas, Assos, Mitylene, Chios, Samos, Tro- eyll ium, Miletus, Coos, Rhodes, Patara, Tyre, Ptolemais, Cesa- rea, and thence to Jerusalem. Fifth journey.— From Jeru- salem to Antipatris, Cesarea, Sidon, Myra, Fair Haven, Melita, Syracuse, Rhegium, Puteoli, Appii Forum, Three Taverns, Rome, where the narrative in the Acts ends. Probable journeys from his first to his second imprison- ment in iZcwic.— Spain,France, Britain, Jerusalem, Antioch in Syria, Colosse, Ephesus, Phi- lippi, Corinth, Troas, Miletus, Rome, where he suffered mar- tyrdom. (For a full and com- plete biography of the apostle Paul, with a map of his tra vels, see Life of Paul, Union Questions, vol. v., and Help TO THE Acts, parts i. and ii., see also a large outline map of Paul's travels, drawn on muslin; all by Am. S.S.Union.) Epistles of. These are fourteen in number, and are unquestionably among the most important of the primi- tive documents of the Chris- tian religion, even apart from their inspired character. Al- though tney have reference often to transient circum- stances and temporary relji- tions, yet they everywhere bear the stamp of the great and original mmd of the apos- 488 PAD PAU llBP|^ll|-3^iri.|5|i»lll|l PEA tie, as purified, elevated, and sustained by llie influences of the Holy Spirit. (For the order in which these letters were written, and the date of them, see Epistles.) PAVEMENT. (John xix. 13.) An area in Pilate's court-room, the floor of which was paved with marble or other stones. (Esth. i. 6.) PAVILION. (Jer. xliii. 10.) A small moveable tabernacle or tent, chiefly used for a king, prince, or "eneral. (1 Kings XX. 12. 16.) Jahn thinks it was the cloth used for Jewish meals, and which, when done with, was drawn up by a cord, like a wine skin or bottle, and hung upon a nail. The psalmist sublimely de- Bcribes Jehovah as surrounding himself with dark waters, and thick clouds of the skies, as with a tent or pavilion. (Ps. xviii. 11.) PEACOCKS. (IKings x. 22.) This singular and beautiful bird is mentioned among the articles imported by Solomon, though some suppose the origi- nal word might be more pro- perly rendered parrots. In Job aacxix. 13, also, the word pea- cocks would be better rendered ostriches, and the word ostrich should be translated (as it is elsewhere) stork. The wings of the ostrich cannot raise it from the ground ; yet, in run- ning, it catches (or, as the word rendered goodly imports, drinks in) the wind. The construction of the ostrich and the stork are thus contrasted, as are also their habits ; for the stork is as proverbial for her tenderness to her young, as the ostrich for her seeming indifference. (Job xxxix. 14— 16. See Ostrich. See, also, for description and engravings. Youth's Friend for June, 1829, and Natural History of Bi- ble, art. Peacock, both by Am. S. S. Union.) PEA PEARLS (Matt. xiii. 45, 46) are produced by a shell-fish of the oyster species. It is a malady of the animal, which completely developes itself in seven years. If not secured at or about the end of that period, the animal dies, and the pearl is lost. The pearl oysters are found in clusters on rocks, (hence called pearl banks,) in the Persian Gulf, on the western coast of Ceylon, and on the coasts of Java, Sumatra, &c., and in some parts of Europe. The shells are obtained by diving, and this is done by a class of per- sons trained to the business. The Ceylon pearl-fishery bank is about fifteen miles from the shore, and seventy-two feet deep on an avere^e. The fishery begins in April, when the sea is most calm, and con- tinues five or six weeks. One shell contains from eight to twelve pearls. The largest are of the size of a walnut, but they are rarely as large as a cherry-stone. The shells of the pearl oyster, or, more properly, the interior coat, is called another of pearl. A sin- gle pearl has been valued at «350,000. In our version of the Old Testament, this word occurs only in Job xxviii. 18. In Prov. iii. 15; viii. 11; xx. 15; xxxi. 10. Lam. iv. 7, the word trans- lated rubies some suppose means coral, but it probably means pearls ; and in the pas- sage last cited, reference is probably had to the beautiful red blush of some species of the pearl. Pearls were anciently used in the east as personal orna- ments, (1 Tim. ii. 9. Rev. xvii. 4; xviii. 12. 16,) and are so used now. From the various illustrations in which the pearl is introduced, it was evidently regarded as among the most precious substances. (Matt. PEN vii. 6; xiii. 45, 46. Rev. xxi. «1.) PEKAH. (2 Kings xv. 25.) A general of the Israel itish army. He assassinated the king Pekahiah in his palace, and usurped the government. His reign, which lasted twenty years, was highly inauspicious ; the country was invaded and greatly harassed by the Assy- rians, and Pekah himself was the victim of a conspiracy. PEKAHIAH. (See Pekah.) PELATIAH (Ezek. xi. 1) was one of the five-and-twenty men who withstood the pro- phet, and counselled the peo- ple of Israel wickedly. He was suddenly struck dead, while the prophet was utter- ing his prediction. (Ezek. xi. 13.) PELETHITES. («ee Che- RBTHIMS.) PELICAN. (Deut. xiv. 17.) A voracious water bird, unclean by the Levitical law, (Lev. xi. 18,) of singular construction and habits, resembling the goose, though nearly twice as large. Its bill is fifteen inches long. The female has a large pouch, or bag, capable of con- taining two or tnree gallons of water, and food enough for six common men. Out of this pouch she feeds herself and ner young, whence the vulgar notion that she feeds them on her own blood. It is classed with the bittern, and other birds who delight in solitary and desolate places, and its cry is harsh and melancholy, (Job XXX. 29. Ps. cii. 6. Isa. xxxiv. II. Zeph. ii. 14;) in some of which passages the same word is translated owl, cormorant, or bittern, which, In others, is translated pelican. (For description and engrav- Inc, see Youth's Fkiend for July, 1829, by Am. S. S. Union.) PEN. (Judg. V. 14.) The in- struments with which the cha- raciers were formed in the PEN writing of the ancients, varied with the materials upon which the letters were to be traced. (1.) Upon hard substances, such as stone or metallic plates, a graver of steel was used, the same which Job calls an iron pen. It is possible that an mstrument pointed with dia- mond, such as glaziers now use, was not unknown, as the sin of Juduh is written with a pen of iron, arid with a point of a diamo7id ; it is graven upon the table of their heart, and upon the norns of your altars. (Jer. xvii. 1.) Pliny gives an account of such an in- strument as having been long in use. (2.) Upon tablets of wax a metallic pen or stylus was employed, having one end pointed to trace the letters, the other broad and flat, to erase any erroneous marks by smoothing the wax. We have seen a copper style, several inches in length, now used by the natives of Ceylon in writing upon the leaves of trees. Upon paper, linen, cotton, skins, and parchments, it was in very early times common to paint the letters with a hair pencil, brought to a fine point, as the Chinese do at this day. Afterwards, however, the reed penwas introduced, which vAa at first used without being split at the point. The reed pen is used by the modern Turks, Sy- rians, Persians, Abyssinians, Arabs, and other orientals, as their languages could not be written without difficulty with pens made, like ours, from quills. A particular kind of knife is used to split the reed, (Jer. xxxvi. 23. See Book.) PENIELj (Gen. xxxii. 30,) or PENUEL. (Judg. viii. 9!) The Dlace at the ford of the Jabbok, east of Jonian, where Jacob wrestled with the angel on his return from Mesopo. tamia. There was a town built here, the tower of which PER was beaten down by Gideon. t,»udg. viii. 17.) Jeroboam re- built and fortified the place. (1 KinffS xii. 25.) PENNY. (See Measures, &c.) PENTECOST. (See Feast.) PENUEL. (See Peniel.) PEOR, MOUNT. (Num. xxiii. 28.) A rise of ground east of the Jordan, and part of the same chain with Nebo and Pisgah. It is supjxysed to have been the site of an idol tem- ple. (Num. XXV. 3. Deut. iv. §. 46.) PERAZIM, MOUNT. (See Baal-perazim.) PEREZ. (See Mene.) PERFECTION. (Ps. 1. 2.) That which is entire and com- plete in all its parts, without defectjblemish, or redundancy, is called perfect. The word perfection is used in various senses, which can generally be determined by the subject and connexion. The most de- sirable things in the view of worldly men, are honour, wealth, pleasure, learning ; and to see an end of these, is to see how insufficient any thing but God himself is, to satisfy an immortal soul, (Ps. cxix. 96.) The word also means the more mysterious principles of the Christian faith, (Heb. vi. 1,) or the full measure and de- # gree of excellence, holiness, or happi ness. (2 Cor. xiii. 9.) PERGA. (See Pamphylia.) PERGAMOS, (Rev. i. 11,) now Bergamo. A city of the province of Troas, in Asia Mi- nor, about sixty miles north of Smyrna. Here was one of the seven churches of Asia addressed by John, from whose language we infer that the city was infested by false teach- ers, who grossly corrupted the people, and led tnem into many abominable errors. There are still to be seen evi- dences of the former magni- ficence of this place, such as PER granite walls and marine co- lumns, and the ruins of what is said to have been the tem- ple of Esculapius. The population of the mo- dern city is variously estimat- ed from 15,000 to 30,000, and among them 3000 nominal Christians. It was the birth place of Galen. There was once at Pergamos a royal li- brary, containing 200,000 vo- lumes, which were added by Cleopatra to the Alexandrian library. It is said that perga- mentum, the Latin word for parchment, is derived from this place. (See Parchment.) Pergamos was visited by INlessrs. Fisk and Parsons, American missionaries, in No- vember, 1820. The people of the place pretend to show the very church where the disci- ples assembled, to whom John's message wais addressed, (Rev. ii. 12,) and also the tomb of Antipas. (Rev. ii. 13.) PERIZZITES, (Gen. xxxiv*. 30,) sisnifying lowlanders, in- habitalits of the plain, or of unwalled villages: a tribe of the Canaanites, or a people mingled with them, and scat- tered over the land. (Gen. xiiL 7. Josh. xvii. 15. Judg. iii. 5. 1 Kings ix. 20. 2 Chron. viii. 7. Ezra IX. 1.) PERSIA. (Ezek. xxvii. 10.) An ancient kingdom of Asia, whose limits have varied con- siderably at different periods. The kingdom as such was founded by Cyrus, its inhabit- ants having been anciently called Elamites, from therr ancestor Elam the son of Shem. and in later limes Parthians. The thrones of Media and Persia were united under Cyrus, b. c. 536, (comp. Dan. vi. 8. 12;) and indeed the whole country, from Egypt to the Ganges, became incop- porated in what was called the Persian empire. This empire was overthrowa 492 PES by Alexander's invasion, and m the seventh century fell into the power of the Saracens, subject to the caliphs of Bag- dad, until the middle of the thirteenth century, when it was taken by Gengis Khan, and in the close of the four- teenth by Timour, or Tamer- lane. Modern Persia is bounded north by Georgia, the Caspian Sea, and Tariary, east by Af- ghanistan and Beloochistan, South by the Persian Gulf and straits of Ormus, and west by Turkey. But thedistrict known lo the Hebrews as Persia is the modern Farsesian, bounded by Irak-Adjemi on the north, Ker- man on the east, Saristan and the gulf on the south, and Khusistan on the west; and is about equal in extent loFran'-e. For some time, tlie Persians have been governed by their dwn kings; and no country has ever been the theatre of more crusliy and confusion; Ijul still it has, as a counti7, re- tained its name and integrity ; and modern travellers are of opinion, that the manners de- scribed in the Bible are no- where upon earth so perfectly retained as in Persia, of which they give many illustrations. An interesting American mission is now in successful progress in Persia. The trans- lation of the Bible into the language cf the Nestorians has been commenced, and schools have been opened with flatterins prospects. PESTILENCE, (Jer. xxi. G,) or plague, expresses all sorts of distempers and calamities. The Hebrew word, which pro- perly signifies the plague, is applied to all epidemical and eontagious diseases. Pestilences are still very common in Asia and Africa. It is supposed to have been by a species of pestilence that the 42 PET firstborn of Egypt were cut off. (Ps. lxxviii.00,51.) h. pestilent fellow is one who is n)ischievous, and disposed to corrupt and ruin a multi- tude. (Acts xxi v. 5.) PETER, (John i. 40,) the son of Jonas, or Jona, and brother of Andrew, was a native of Bethsaida. His original name was Simon, or Simeon. The name Cephas (a Syriac word signifying a rock, and in Latin Petra, translated Peter) was given him when he was called to the aposlleship. (John i. ^ Comp. Matt. xvi. 18.) He had a family resident at Caper- naum, (i\Ialt. viii. 14. Mark L 29. Luke iv. 38,) and was by occupation a fisherman. (Luke V. 1—3.) The religious life of this apostle^ from its con> mencement to its close, is filled with the most interesting inci- dents. He was with Christ during his ministry, probably, more than any other man- He was the most decided and forward of tiie disciples, fol- lowed his Divine Master in his most eventful journeys, and was with him when he performed his most wonderful miracles; and though he fell into some dreadful' sins, he probably did more to extend the religion of the Redeemer than al most any other man thai ever lived. From the beginning to the end of his illustrious course, we are struck with Peter's fear- lessness and simplicity ; his strong faith and ardent love; the promptness and decision with which he carried out his Master's instructions; and the distinguished regard in which he was held by his fellow apostles. That Peter was too forward and positive in his professions of attachment to Christ may be admitted, without any ira peachment of his motives, or 493 PET doubt of his sincerity. Cer- tainly, we see nothing in him like cunning or hypocrisy. ! The general impression made j on the mind of a superficial reader of the Bible respecting Peter's character, might, how- i ever, be unfavourable ; and, besides this general impression against him, wliich is confirm- ed and strengthened by the frequent and severe reproofs he received from the lips of Christ, ihere is the one deep and aggravated sin of denying him. Peter was alone in de- nying his Master ; but he was not alone in forsaking and fleeing from him. Then all the disciples forsook him, and Jled, is the mournful record of inspiration. The fulness of Peter's forgiveness exceeded, immeasurably, all the guilt and aggravation of his sin; and the history of his life and apostleship is, of itself, an eter- nal monument of the purity, consistency, and elevation of his Christian character. It is quite uncertain when or where Peter died. It is sup- posed that he suffered martyr- dom; and the circumstances of his arrest, imprisonment, and crucifixion are related very particularly by some of the ancient historians. There is, however, so liitle confidence to be placed in these accounts, that we shall present only one of them to the reader, and that rather as a matter of curiosity. There is an ancient prison in Rome called the Mamertine prison. It is considered the oldest building of any kind in the city, and derives its name from Martius, or Mamertinus, the fourth king of Rome, by whom it was built. The tradition is, that Peter and Paul were both confined in this prison by order of Nero, the Roman emperor, and it is not improbable that they both suffered martyrdom here about PHA the year 65. But few can be found credulous enough to be- lieve the guides in the Mamer- tine prison, when they pretend to show the very pillar to which Peter was fastened when he sealed his faithfulness as an apostle of the Lord Jesus with liie blood of a martyr. (For a full history of Peter, and his letters, with a beautiful view of his birthplace, and illus- trative maps and cuts, see Life OF Peter, by Am. S. S. Union.) Epistles of. They are called epistles general be- cause they were not addressed to any particular church or community of believers. They are supposed to have been written in a time of violent persecution, by which the con- verts were scattered abroad. (1 Pet. i. 1 ; iv. 16—19.) The date usually assigned to them is between a. d. 64 and 66. Babylon, from which the first of these ejustles was written, (1 Pet. v. 13,) is supposed to be Babylon on the Euphrates, which, though in ruins, con- tained many thousand inhabit- ants, among whom were very many Jews. There is no rea- son to believe that this Baby- lon is not intended; and, in the absence of all evidence in favour of any other place, it is safest to take the place which is most generally knowu and mentioned by that name. Both the epistles of Peter ex- press the noble vehemence and fervour of his spirit; hia full knowledge of the genius and tendency of Christianity, and his strong assurance of the truth and certainty of all he taught. (See preface to the letters of Peter in Life op Peter, pp. 213, 214, by Am. S. S. Union.) PETHOR. (Deut. xxiii. 4.) A city of Mesojxitamia, and the residence ol^ the prophet Balaam. (Num. xxii. 5.) PHARAOH. (Gen. xii. 15.) 494 PHA An Egyptian word signifying &/«£•, adopted into the Hebrew, ancf applied to eight or ten (litferent persons mentioned in' llie Bible as kings of Egypt. (Gen. xii. 17; xxxix. 1. Lx. 1.8. 11. 1 Kings iii. 1 ; xi. 19 —21. 2 Kings xxiii. 29. Jer. xliv. 30.) After tlie subjuga- tion of Egyi'i, the word Pto- lemy was substituted. The Pharaoh who is distinguished as the oppressor of Israel, anil the object of such signal judg- ment's from the Almighty, is supposed to have reigned from B. c. 1493 to 1473. Ii is said by the sacred historian that God hardened his heart, (Ex. iv. 21 ;) by which we are to understand simply that he did not impose upon him those providential gracious restraints Dy which men are often kept from the commission of crimes, but suffered him to become the slave of his own heart's lusts, (Ex.' viii. 15,) and to be led captive by Satan at his will. To one tiius abandoned, all the dealings and dispensations of God serve only as occasions of increasing obduracy, and pride, and obstinacy, and pre- sumption. In the case of Pharaoh, God simply let him alone; forebore to extend to him the gracious influences of his Spirit, and suffered his character to develope itself under the circumstances in which he was placed. PHARAOH-HOPHRAH, against whom several of Eze- kiel's prophecies are uttered, (Ezek. xxix. xxxii.,) and with whom Zedekiah formed an alliance against Nebuchad- nezzar king of Babylon, reign- ed over Egypt twenty -five rears. The prophecy against him (Jer. xliv. 30) was lite- rally fulfilled. He was unfor- tunate in an expedition against Cyrene, and his army was dis- contented. Amasis, one of his generals, was sent to suppress PHE a rebellion which had broken out; tut, instead of submitting to his expostulations, the army made him king,and he march- ed at their head against Pha- raoh, and finally took him pri- soner. Amasis was disposed to save him; but the enraged soldiery forced the unhappy monarch from under his pro- tection, and strangled him. PHARISEES. (Matt, xxiii. 26.) A famous sect which arose among the Jews after their return from their long captivity in Babylon. Their name is derived from a He- brew word which signifies to separate ; but the history of their origin is buried in obscu- rity. Pride and hypocrisy were their prominent cha- racteristics. They affected un- common sanctity, and abound- ed in rites of purification, which they received on the authority of tradition, (Matt. ix. 11 ;) but in many cases they made void the law of God by their super stiiious observance of the com- mandments of men, and were the slaves of lust, and avarice, and pride. They were re- proved by our Saviour, par- ticularly for ostentation in their prayers and alms, (Matt, vi. 2. 5;) for pride in dress, salutations, titles, broad phy- lacteries, and taking the high- est seats at feasts and in the synagogues. (Matt, xxiii. 2 — 36.) On account of the de- tection of their hypocrisy and the open denunciation of their crimes, they became almost universally the bitter enemies of Christ. Their the- ological opinions were more correct than those of the Saddu- cees ; as they believed in the resurrection of the body, and in a future slate of rewards and punishments, as also in the existence of angels and spirits. (Acts xxiii. 8.) PHARPAR. (SeeABANA.) PHEBE. (Rom. xvi. 1.) A 495 PHI distinguished member of the church at Cenchrea, a city of Corinth. She is called a ser- vant of the church, (see Dea- con;) and the strong com- mendation of the apostle shows her to have been prominent in works of faith and labours of love. PHENICE.(Actsxxvii.l2.)A winter harbour on the southern shore of Crete. (See Crete.) PHENICIA. (Acts xxi. 2.) A f)rovince of Syria, and, in the argest extent of the term, em- bracing a strip of lani»l adjoin- ing the eastern coast of the Mediterranean, eighty miles long ami twelve broad. Pro- perly, however, it included only the territories of Tyre and Sidon. The Phenicians were descendants of the C'a- naanites, and a Syro-pheni- cian was a Phenician of Syria. Phenicia was also subject to the Greek government in the lime of our Saviour, and hence Tyre and Sidon might be re- farded as Greek cities. (Comp. datt. XV. 22. Mark vii. 2G.) The Jews regarded all the rest of the world as Greeks. (See Greece.) Phenicia is how subject to the Turks, and is included in the pashalic of Acre. Phenicia is considered as the birthplace of commerce, if not of letters. The soil is siiU fertile, producing a rich variety of grains and fruits; but all the enterprise and prosperity of the people is blasted by the despotism of the government. Carthage was established by a colony'of Phenicians; and Cadiz, in Spain, is also sup- posed to have been settled by the same people about one thousand years bpfore Christ. PHILADELPHIA. (Rev. iii. 7—13.) A city of the province of Lydia, in Asia Minor, about seventy miles east of Smyrna. Its modern name is Allah- PHI shehr, or Alah-sher, {city of God.) It contains a popula- tion of about fifteen thousand, one-twelfth of vrhom are nomi nal Christians. This church was highly commended ; more than any of the seven churchep of Asia, and while her sister cities have fallen into decay, she still survives, with the remains of her Christian tem- ples and worship. Her popu- lation is said to be the purest in Asia Minor. Even Gibbon says of her : " Among the Greek colonies and churches of Asia, Philadelphia is still erect— a column in a scene of ruins. ' This place was visited by Messrs. Fisk and Parsons, American missionaries, in the autumn of 1820. The inha- bitants pretend to show the church in which the disciples, tC R-hom the message of John was addressed, formerly as» sembled. PHILEMON (Phile. 1) is generally supposed to have been a resident at Colosse, and a Christian of some distinction^ who was probably convertea under Paul's preaching. (Phile. 19.) Epistle to, was written by Paul from Rome, where he was detained as a prisoner, Onesimus, a servant of Phile- mon, had lied to that city, and was there converted to the faith of the gospel. Being about to return to Philemon, Paul wrote this letter, chiefly with a design to conciliate the feelings of Philemon towards his penitent servant, and now fellow dis- ciple. The letter has been regarded by learned critics as a master-piece of epistolary composition. An eminent cri- tic of ancient days says of it: "The apostle craves pardon in behalf of a fugitive and pil- fering slave, whom he senda back to his master; but while pleading his cause, he dis- courses with so much weighl 496 PHI respecting the rules of Chris- tian kindness, that he seems to be consulting for the whole church, rather than managing the business of a particular individual. He intercedes for the humble man so modestly and submissively, as to show, more clearly than almost any- where else, the gentleness of his nature, which is here drawn to the life." PHILIP, (1.) THE APOSTLE, (John i. 43,) was a native of Bethsaida, and a firm believer in the messiahship of Christ. (John i. 45.) (2.) The evangelist, (Acts xxi. 8,) one of the seven per- sons appointed to the office of deacon in the primitive church in Jerusalem, (Acts vi. 3—5,) and who afterwards went to Samaria, and there preached the gospel with great success. (Acts viii. 6—8.) While in Samaria, Philip received a divine intimation (comp. Acts viii. 26. 29 and 39) to go south- ward from Samaria, to the road leading from Jerusalem to Ga- za. In the course of this jour- ney, he found a distinguished Ethiopian traveller, on his way home from Jerusalem. He was, probably, either a Jew or a proselyte to the Jewish reli- gion ; and had been to the city of their solemnities to celebrate some feast. He was an officer of high rank, in the court of Candace, queen of Ethiopia; and as he was silting in his chariot, in the leisurely pur- suit of his journey, he read aloud a portion of "the Jewish Scriptures. At this time Phi- lip saw him, and was divinely admonished to approach him. Philip, without hesitation, obeyed the suggestion, and ran to overtake the chariot. He overheard him reading Isa. liii. 7, 8, and immediately inquired of him if he under- stood the force and scope of the passage. The traveller 42* PHI meekly acknowledged his need of instruction, and in- vited Philip to take a seat with him in the chariot. The latter improved the opportu- nity to explain the great sub- ject of redemption, to which the passage so naturally led ; and the result was, that the traveller became a convert to the faith of the gospel, and was baptized. Philip, again divinely directed, immediately separated himself from the tra- veller, who pursued his jour- ney towards rlgypt, while he himself proceeded to Azotus, about forty miles from Gaza, in the opposite direction. He afterwards settled, it is sup- posed, in Cesarea. (Acts xxi. 8.) He had four daughters, who were endued with gifts of prophecy. (Acts xxi. 9.) 3. The tetrarch. (Luke iii. 1. See Herod.) 4. The husband of Hero- DiAS. (Matt. xiv. 3. See Hb- ROD.) PHILIPPI. (Acts xvi. 12.) A city of Macedonia, formerly called Dathos; but being re- built and greatly magnified by Philip, father of Alexander the Great, it took from him the name Philippi. It is at the head of the Egean Sea, nine or ten miles north-west of Ne- apolis, and its modern name is Diliba. It is a place of great celebrity in profane history, and is called the chief or first^ city of that part of Macedonia^ and a colony. The latter ex- pression denotes that it enjoyed the privileges of a Roman co- lony, a fact established by ancient medals; and the for- mer may mean either that Philippi was the first city they arrived at in that part of Mace- donia, or that it was the chief city of that district of the coun- try. About A. D. 50, a chych was gathered in Philippi by Paul and Silas, the former of^whom PHI addressed to them the affec- tionate and frrateful letter called the EpisUe to the Plii- lippians. This was the first apostolic labour on European ground. At Philippi, Lydia was con- verted under Paul's preaching, (Acts xvi. 14—16,) and hospita- bly entertained the apostles at her house. The populace became excited against them, however, and they suffereu scourging and ihiprisonment in the most cruel form. By miraculous power the pri- son doors were all opened at midnight, and the bands of the prisoners were all loosed, though none escaped. The jailer, fearing that the prison- ers had escaped, and knowing that death might be the pe- nalty for his seeming neglect, (Acts xii. 19,) was about to commit suicide. At Paul's entreaty he desisted, and im- mediately applied to the apos- tles to teach him the way of salvation. This they did, and their teaching being made effectual by the Spirit of God, he and all his were imme- diately baptized. (Acts xvi. 22—34.) At the solicitation of the magistrates, they soon after left the city. Two American missionaries visited tiie site of Philippi in May, 1834. They describe some of the monuments of the for- mer magnificence of the city. They saw the ruins of what might have been the forum or market-place, where the apos- tles were beaten, (Acts xvi. 19;) and, also, the fragments of a splendid palace. The road by which Paul went from Neapolis to Philippi, they think, is the same that is now travelled, as it is cut through the most difficult passes of the mountains, and IS now naved throughout. PlilLlPPIANS, EPISTLE TO, is the elevi'nth in the order of PHI the books of the New Testa- ment, and was addressed by Paul to the Christians at Phi- lippi. It was probably writ- ten about A. D. 62, when Paul was a prisoner at Kon^.e. (Phil, iv. 22.) The Philippians had kindly ministered to his ne- cessities, by sending Epaphro- diius to him with the fruits of their benevolence. (Phil, iv. 18.) On his return to Phi- lippi, Paul acknowledged their kindness in grateful and affect- ing terms, and mingled with his thanks some of the most sublime and animating exhi- bitions of divine truth that are to be found in the sacred pages. PHILISTIA, (Ps. Ix. 8,) or the land of the Philistines, (Ex. xiii. 17,) was situated on the coast of the Mediterra- nean, between Joppa and the border of Egypt. It is sup- posed that the Philistines were of Egyptian origin, (Gen. x. 14,) and that they came to Canaan from Caphto?; or Crete, (Amos ix. 7,) whence they are called Caphlorims. (Deut. ii. 23.) Wiien the Hebrews took possession of Canaan, Philistia was divided into five districts, or satrapies. (Josh. xiii. 3.) The historical lxx)ks of the Old Testament abound with ac- counts of the conflicts of the Piiilislines and the Hebrews, and their alternate victories and defeats. (1 .Sam. iv. vii. xvii. 2 Sam. v. 17; viii. 1; xxiii. y. 2 Kings xviii. & 2Chron. xxi. 16; xxvi. 6, 7; xxviii. 18. Isa. xx. 1.) They are the subject of several remark- able prophecies, (Jer. xlvii. Ezek. XXV. 15—17. Amos i. 6—8. Zech. ix. 5,) which were fulfilled to the very letter ; and they are scarcely mentioned as a distinct people after the destruction of Gaza by Alex- ander the Great. Volney describes the former land of the Philistines par- ticularly, and he says, that 49S PHR except the immediate environs of a few villages, tiie wliole country is a desert abandoned to tlie Bedouin Arabs, wlio feed their tloclis on it. (Zeph. ii. 5, 6.) Another traveller tells us, that while Gaza still sub- 8ists,and Ashkelon and Ashdod retain their names in their ruins, the very name of Ekron is missing. (Zeph. ii. 4.) PHILOSOPHY. (Col. ii. 8.) This term denotes the system of opinions embraced by va- rious sects, both amon^Jews and Gentiles, as the Epicu- reans, Stoics, &c., in the apos- tolic age. (Acts xvii. 18.) As their system was framed ac- cording to human traditions and the principles of worldly science, and not according to the doctrine of Christ, it was vain and false, and therefore a proper subject of caution. (1 Tim. vi. 20.) PHINEHAS. 1. (lSam.i.3.) A son of Eli, and noted for his wickedness. (.See Eli.) 2. (Ex. vi.25.) AsonofEle- azar and grandson of Aaron. He filled ihe office of high- priest of the Jews for nearly twenty years. His zeal and jjTomptitude in punishing the sin of Zimri, a distinguished Simeonite, turned away the anger of the Lord against the nation, and secured to him and his family the right of perpe- tual succe.ssion in the Jewish priesthood. This promise was fulfilled; for, except the in- terval from Eli to Zadok, the f)rie8thood continued in the amily of Phinehas until the destruction of the temple and the captivity of the nation. Phinehas was remarkable for his zealous attachment to the purity and integrity of the Jew- ish church. (Niun. xxv. 7. Josn. xxii. 3(|, 31. See Eleazar.) PHRYGIA. (Acts ii.lO.) The largest province of Asia Minor, having Bylhinia north, and PHY Lycia south. Its chief town."* were Colosse, Laodicea, anU Hierapolis. Some of its inha- bitants were at Jerusalem, and among the converts, on the day of Pentecost. The pro- vince was more than once vi- sited by the apostle Paul. (Acta xvi. 6; xviii. 23.) PHUT, (Gen. x. 6,) or PUT, (Nah. iii. 9,) was the third son of Ham; and his descendants, sometimes called Libyans, are supposed to be the Mauritani- ans, or Moors of modern times. They served the Egyptians and Tyrians as soldiers. (Jer. xlvi, 9. Ezek. xxvii. 10; xxx. 5; xxxviii. 5.) PHYLACTERIES. (Malt, xxiii. 5.) The original word i\eno\.es preservation; and may indicate either the preserving of the words of the law in the memory, or the preservation of the person from danger, as by the amulets or charms of modern superstition. The practice of using phy- lacteries was founded on a lite- ral interpretation of that pas- sage, where God commands the Hebrews to have the law as a sign on their foreheads, and as frontlets between their eyes. (Ex.xiii. 16. Comp.Prov. iii. 1. 3 ; vi. 21.) It is probable that the use of phylacteries came in late with other super- siitions ; but it should be re- membered, that our Lord does not censure the Pharisees for wearing them, but for making them broad, out of ostentation ; and it is still uncertain svhether the words referred to ought not to be taken literally. One kind of phylactery was called a froJitlet, and was composed of four pieces of parchment; oa the first of which was written, Ex. xii. 2—10; on the second, Ex. xiii. 11—21; on the third, Deut.vi.4 — 9; and on the fourth, Deut.xi. 18— 21. These pieces of parchment, thus inscribed, " they enclosed in a piece of 499 PHY tough skin, making a square, on one side of which is placed the Hebrew letter shin, a*, and bound them round their fore- heads with a thong or riband, when they went to the syna- gogue. Some wore them eve- ning and morning; and others only at the morning prayer. As the token upon the hand was required, as well as the frontlets between the eyes, the Jews made two rolls of^ parch- ment, written in square letters, with an ink made on purpose, and with much care. They were rolled up to a point, and en- closed in a sort of case of black calfskin. They then were put upon a square bit of the same leather, whence hung a thong of the same, of about a finger in breadth, and about two feet long. These rolls were placed PIL at the bending of the left arm, and after one end of the thong had been made into a little knot in the form of the Hebrew letter yod, >, it was wound about the arm in a spiral line, which ended at the top of the middle finger. (See Omar, p. 23. by Am.^S. S.Union.) PHYSICIAN. (Mark V. 26.) Physicians are mentioned in the time of Joseph, (Gen. 1.2;) and many suppose that medi- cine was among the professions of Egypt, and that Moses was learned in it. There is abun- dant evidence that the healing art, in some branches, was a profession. (2Chron. xvi. 12. Prov. xvii.22. Jer.viii.22; xlvi. 11. Ezek.xxx.21. Matt. ix. 12. Luke iv. 23. Col. iv. 14.) PIBESETH. (Ezek.xxx. 17.) The Bubastis of modern geo- graphers, the ruins of which are supposed to be discernible between Cairo and Sin, or Pe- lusium. PIGEON. (See Dove.) PILATE, (John xix. 1,) or PONTIUS PILATE, (Matt, xxvii. 2,) was appointed the Ro- man governor or procurator of Judea, A. D. 29, and was inoflSce at the time of Christ's trial, and some years after. His proper residence was Cesarea; but he went up to Jerusalem at stated periods, and though his chief duly respected the revenues, he exercised his judicial authority there (John xix. 10) in a palace or government house provided for the purpose. (Johnxviii.28.) His administration was exceed- ingly offensive. Profane history tells us that he was accustomed to sell justice, and, for money, to pronounce any sentence thai was desired. It mentions his rapines, his injuries, his mur- ders, the torments he inflicted on the innocent, and the per sons he put to death wiinou* form or process. In short, he seems to have been a man that exercised excessive cru PIL dty during all the time of his government. (Luke xiii. 1.) He was finally recalled, and banished, and died in exile, probably by suicide. The character of Pilate ren- ders more remarkable the fact, that when Jesus was arraigned before him, he was not only anxious to avoid trying him, (Luke xxiii. 4. 7,) but he once and again, in the inost solemn and impressive manner, even in presence of liis malicious and bloodthirsty persecutors, declared his conviction of his fierfect innocence. (Lukexxi4i. 4. John xix. 6.) He even re- monstrated with them on the iniquity and unreasonableness of their conduct, and would fain throw upon them the whole responsibility of the deed they were about to perpetrate. This they assumed in the most dread- ful imprecaticn ever uttered by human lips- (Matt, xxvii. 25.) Pilate, moved probably by a fear of losing his office, (John xix. 12,) notwithstanding his full conviction of his inno- cence, scourged him, and tiien resigned him to the hands of the enraged multitude to be crucified. He directed the form of in- scription which was placed on the cross ; and when the Jews would persuade him to alter the phraseology, so as to re- present him claiming to be king of the Jews, and not as being so in fact, Pilate, con- scious probably of having al- ready sacrificed justice to ex- pediency or popularity, pe- remptorily refused to do it. (John xix. 19—22.) He gave Joseph the privilege of remov- ing the body from the cross, and placing it in his own tomb; and, at the solicitation of tlie Jews, he appointed a guard to protect it from violation. (Malt. xxvii. 57—66.) PILLAR. (Ex. xiii. 21.) This word is used in the Bible for PIN the most part metaphorically. Thus a pillar of fire, cloud, smoke, &c., denote a fire, a cloud, or a column of smoke in the form of a pillar. (Ex. xiii. 21. Judg. XX. 40.) It was com- mon to erect a pillar as a mo- nument of some distinguished person or event. (Geii. xxviii. 18; XXXV. 20. Josh. xxiv. 26.) Pillar OF SALT. (See Salt.) Pillar OF Absalom. (2 Sam. xviii. 18.) This proud prince, during his own life, erected in the valley of Jehoshaphat a pillar, or column, as a monu- ment to himself, to perpetuate the remembrance of his name ; as at that time he had no chil- dren to preserve it. PILLED. (Gen. XXX. 37.) The same vilih peeled. PILLOWS. (Ezek. xiii.18.) In this passage those women are intended who utter false prophecies, and use every art and device to allure to luxury and voluptuousness. 'Wo to those who sew or embroider luxurious cushions for all arms, making pillows, bolsters, head- coverings, &c., for persons of every stature, age, and condi- tions: so nicely adapted in their dimensions as to suit all leaning arms, and produce their full voluptuous effect, thus making effeminacy more effeminate. These are like toils and snares, by which hunters secure their game.' (Comp. Amos vi. 4.) PINE. (Neh. viii. 15.) The original word denotes a class of oily or gummy plants or trees, and probably means here the cypress, or some tree of that family. The pine is a state- ly and beaut iful tree, and hence is used as an emblem of the flourishing slate of a church, (Isa. xli. 19; Ix. IS.) PINNACLE. (Matt. iv. 5.) The word translated pinnacle signifies not a summit, but a wing ; and the part of the tem- 501 PIT pie to which our Lord was taken by Salan, was probably the elevation over the roof of Solomon's porch, to which there was a passage by stairs, and which overlooked the val- ley of the east, and had be- neath a perpendicular depth of six or seven hundred feet; for at this part of the valley a wall had been carried up to a level with the ground on which the temple stood, (some histo- rians say seven hundred and fifiy feel.) PIPE. (See Flute.) PISGAH. (SeeABABiM.) PISIDIA. (Acts xiii. 14.) A province of Asia Minor, north ofPamphylia. Anlioch, though within the province of Phrygia, belonged to Pisidia, and was called Antioch in (or of) Pisi- dia, to distinguish it from Anti- och in Syria. Paul laboured in the gospel not only at Antioch, but throughout the province. (Acts xiv. 24.) PIT. (Gen. xxxvii. 20.) This is spoken of an empty cistern, or a reservoir, which the east- ern people are in the hatil of preparing in those regions where there are few or no springs, for the purpose of pre- serving rain water for travel- lers and cattle. These cisterns and trenches are often without water, no supply being to be had for them, except from the rain. It was in such a dry cistern that Joseph was cast. In old decayed cisterns, the water leaks out, or becomes slimy. (Jer. ii. 13.) The word is often used for the grave, (Ps. xxviii. 1 ; XXX. 3. 9; Ixxxviii. 4,) and for the place used to entrap game. (Ezek. xix. 8.) The pit here spoken of is used at this day in all wild' countries. A deep hole in the earth is covered very slightly with boughs or shrubs, upon which is placed a living lamb, which by its cries allures the lion or PIT wolf; and when the beast makes a sudden spring upon his prey, he is caught in the pit below. This affords a sig- nificant figure of the devices of crafty men and devils. (Ps cxix. 85. Prov. xxvi.27. Ezek. xix. 4. See Biblical Anti^., ch. vii. § 2, by Am. S. Union.) PITCH. (See after Pitcher.) PITCHER. (Gen. xxiv. 14.) The custom of drawing water in pitchers still prevails in the east, an earthen vessel with two handles being used for the purpose ; and the letting down of the pitcher upon the hand (Gen. xxiv. 18) justifies the in- ference that it was carried upon the head, or left shoulder, 502 PLA and balanced wiih the right hand, and, when presented, was rested on the left hand. The preceding cut of an an- cient pilcher shows their size, shape, and beauty of workman- StCH. (Gen. vi. 14.) This word is supposed to be used in the above passage, and in Ex. ii. 3, for a sort of bitumen or asphaltuni, elsewhere called slime. (Gen. xi. 3; xiv. 10.) It is obtained in a soft or liquid state, in pits, and on the sur- face of the Dead Sea, (hence called the lake of Asphaltites,) and becomes dry and hard, like mortar, when exposed to the weather. It is found at this day in masses of wall and other ruins on the supposed site of Babylon, and is now employed for the like purpose in that part of the world. PITHOM. (Ex. i. 11.) One of Pharaoh's treasure - cities, public granaries, or places for the storage of grain. It is sup- posed, from its relative situa- tion, to be the Po/omotos of the Greeks, inasmuch as the faci- lities of access to it, and trans- portation from it, would lead to its selection for this purpose. PLAGUE. (Ex. xi. 1.) An eminently contagious and de- structive diseajse, prevalent ia the east from the earliest ages. It has ranged over the princi- pal parts of the habitable world, and sometimes for many suc- cessive years. The sacred writers employ the word to express any terrific and deso- latmg disease, (Lev. xiii. 3. 1 Kings viii. 37 ;) and not un- frequently as a general term for the judgment of God. (Ex. ix. 14.) It is also used to denote any severe calamity orscourse. (Mark v. 29. 34. Luke vii. 2\.) The judgments of God on Pha- raoh are'called plagues. (See Pharaoh. See also Biblical ANTIQ.UITIES, ch. vii. § 6, by Am. S. S. Union.) PLO 1 PLAIN. (Deut.~ll; U 8.) j This word is often used alone» j leaving the particular plain intended to be inferred, as in the above passages, from the ' connexion. So of Gen. xiii. 12. j 2 Kings XX v. 4, &c., where the plain of Jordan is obviously in- tended. PLAITING. (IPet. iii. 3.) I Weaving or braiding the hair. ; The business of dressing the \ hair is mentioned by Jewish writers as an art by itself, prac- tised by women. It was folded up in curls, tied up in knots, and put into the form of horns I and towers, made by theii crisping-pins, with their cauls and round tires, like the moon, (Isa. iii. 18 — 22,) as was the custom of those times, and still is. PLANETS. (See Stars.) PLATTED. (Matt. xxviL 29.) Woven together. PLEDGE. (Ezek. xxxiii. 15.) That which is given as security for the {icrformance of a 'coo- tract. The Jewish law con- tained many wise and Isenevo- lent provisions on this subject, (Ex. xxii. 25,26. Deut. xxiv. 6. 10. 12. 17;) and any thing like oppression in respect to pledges was severely reprobated. (Job xxii. 6 ; xxiv. 3. 7.) For a Jfew to he obliged to give these pledges, anH then to see them used by idolaters in their vain worship, was a sore grief to him. (Amos ii. 8.) PLEIADES. (Job ix. 9; xxxviii.31.) A cluster of stars, placed in modern times in the neck or near the shoulder of the constellation Taurus. They appear about the middle of April, and hence are associated with the return of spring, the season of sweet influences. PLOUGH. (Luke ix.62.) The process of ploughing is men- tioned so early as the lime of Job. It is also mentioned ia Gen. xlv. 6 ; for earing proper ly means ploughing:, and th* ,=in3 POE original ^Yord is elsewhere translated so. (1 Sam. viii. 12.) Considering the shape of the ^are and coulter, we may see fcat the prophecy, Isa. ii. 4, and Joel iii. 10, might well have been literally fulfilled. The proper direction of so light a plough requires constant and Close attention; and the least diversion of the husbandman from his work would not only make a crooked furrow, but probably his whole weight was tequired to secure the entrance of so light an implement into the soil. Hence the figure in the above passage from Luke. In the first instance the plough was probably nothing more than the bough of a tree, from which another limb or piece projected, which was POM sharpened, and tore up th« earth in a rude manner. At the present day they have in east* em countries ploughs which are entirely wooden. Travel- lers describe ploughs of the former construction as usual iQ Syria. They are drawn chiefly by cows and asses. In Persia one ox or one ass is used. The next improvement was the ad- dition of handles or stilts, by which it might be more easily directed. In process of time, the various forms of the imple- ment, as known among our- selves, were added; though U is probable that the best of an- cient ploughs was inferior to the worst which we have evet seen. The following cut represents the form, &c. "of the ecistem plough. PLUMB-LINE, (Amosvii.7, 8,) PLUMMET. (Isa. xxviii. 17.) A line by which a plum- met or leaden weisht hangs, and by the application of which, the exactness of perpen- dicularity may be ascertained. POETS. (Acts xvii. 28.) The poet referred to in this verse is supposed to be Aratus, a citizen of Cilicia, and of course a townsman of Paul. Aratus was speakiag of a hea- Uien deity as the author and upholder of all things ; and Paul attempts to persuade them Chat, if this sentiment is true, (as it emphatically is when ap- plied to the true God,) we ^ould worship him, and not a senseless image, graven by art and man's device^ POLL, POLLED. (Num. iii. 47.) When used as a noun, poll means a head ; and when used as a verb, it means to cut the hair from the head. (2 Sam. xiv. 26.) POLLUX. (See Castor.) PO.MEGRANATE, (Num. xiii. 2-3,) or granate apple, grows wild in Palestine, (Num. XX. 5. Deut. viii.8. ISam. xiv, 2,) and Syria, as well as in Persia, Arabia, Egypt, and some pans of Europe. Africa, and theUnited Stales. The fruit is of the size of an orange, flat tened at the ends like an ap- ple; and when cultivated, ts 501 POO «>f a beautiful colour, (Sol. Song iv. 3; vi. 7,) and of a highly grateful flavour. (Sol. Song iv. 13.) It was sometimes used, perhaps, as lemon-juice is at the present day, to which re- ference may be had in Sol. Song viii. 2. The rind is at first green; but, in August and September, when the fruit is ripe, it assumes a brownish-red colour, becomes thick and hard , yet easily brolink, with skinny partitions ike those of the ora iige; abounds with a juice which is both sweet and acid, and a great multitude of little white and purplish-red seeds. Henry IV. of Spain chose this fruit fir his royal arms, with the motto, "Sour, yet sweet;" intimating that in a good king severity should be thus tempered with mildness. Figures resembl i ng th e pome- granate in appearance were worked into the high-priest's robe, (Ex. xxviii. 33,) and were alao used in the ornamental work of architecture. (1 Kings vii. 18. For a full description and beautiful engravins of the FDmegranate, see Youth's RiEND for Nov. 1329, by Am. S. S. Union.) PONTUS. (IPet. i. 1.) The north-eastern province of Asia Minor, lying along the Black Sea, having Colchis on the east, Caf^adocia south, and Paphla- eonia west. Many Jews resided here in the time of Christ, (Acts ii. 9,) and the gospel was early introduced and entertained by many, whom Peter addresses in his first epistle. Aquila, Paul's companion, wais of this province. (Acts xviii. 2.) It became a province of Rome in the timeof Pompey. POOLS OF WATER. (Eccl. ii. 6. See Cisterns, Water.) POOLS OF SOLOMON. (See Solomon.) 43 POR POOR. (Matt. xxvi. 11.) Un- der the Jewish dispensation, God accommodated almost every kind of offering to the case of the poor; he seems to take special notice of them ; he appointed the gleanings of fields and vineyards, ana the increase of the seventh year, and part of the third lithe, to be Iheir's. (Lev. xix. 10; xxv. 25—47.) Christians are alsc charged to provide for them; and a blessing is promised on such as wisely consider their case and help them. (Ps. xli. 1—3. Gal. ii. 10.) Judges are charged to do them justice, but not unjustly to favour them for their poverty. (Ex. xxiii. 6. Lev. xix. 15. Ps. Ixxxii. 4.) God claims to be the special protector of them. (Prov. xiv. 31.) POPLAR. (Hos. iv. 13.) Pro- bably the white poplar, com- mon in the south of Europe, is here meant, as it is a hand- some shade-tree; and hence might be chosen for idolatrous worship. PORCH. (See Dwellings.) Solomon's porch. (See Temple.) PORTERS. (1 Chron. xvi. 42.) Such as attend the gate of a cily or house, to open and shut it. (2 Sam. xviii. 26. 2 Kings vii. 10.) The temple had fnir thousand of them. (1 Chron. xxiii. 5.) They were classified, and had leaders or directors. (ICliron. xxvi. 1— 13. 2 Chron. viii. 14.) PORTION. (Neh. viii. 10.) Among the Egyptians, Greeks, and Hebrews oiancient times, the portion of food intended for every guest was set before him separately. Something of the same kind is common at the court of Persia. Wlien it was intended lo confer special honour upon any one, a por tion much greater than com mon was given to him. (Gen. 505 POS xliii. 340 A worthy porhon | (I Sam. i. 5) means, literally, a double portimi. POSSESSED. (Matt, iv.24.) | The possession of devils, which is often mentioned in the sa- cred Scriptures, is generally regarded as an actual and complete possession of the faculties, held by one or more evil spirits, and manifesting itself in various diseases of the mind and body, such as melan- choly, madness, epilepsy, &c. They are represented as going oiit of persons, and entering into them. They speak and are spoken to, ask and answer questions, express their know- ledge and fear of Christ, are threatened and commanded, and, indeed, are always treated and regarded as living, active, sensibfe beings. The same degree of power which was given to Satan in the case of Job, may be exercised in various forms, and with greater or less malignity, on others. Nor is there any thing more irrational or anomalous (so far as we know) in the fact that evil spirits should have power, under the government of God, to execute his will in one form, than that holy angels should be employed to minister to his purposes in another. (Heb. i. 14.) It is much more difficult 10 reconcile the language of the sacred writers with the idea that possessions so called were merely bodily diseases affecting the mind, and lead- ing the sufierer to suppose himself possessed, than it is to admit that the possession was real ; though an entire ignorance of the nature of spi- ritual existences prevents us from understandin'g how it could be. (Comp. Matt. x. 1. Mark vi. 12, 13. Luke ix. 38- 42; x. 17—20. See Biblical ANTiauiTiES, vol. i. ch. vii. § 1, by Am. S. S. Union.) POST. (Job ix. 25.) A mes- POT senger or bearer of tidings (2 Sam. xviii. 27. Jer li. 31."* There is reason to believe that persons, fleet of foot, were trained to the business of run- ning; and we are told, by pro- fane historians, of those who travelled from Tyre to Jerusa- lem, a distance of one hundred miles, in twenty-four succes- sive hours. To convey intel- ligence quickly, the rersian kings had sentinels placed al proper distances, who, by cry- ing one to another, gave notice of public occurrences. This method, however, was imprac- ticable for secret intelligence. Cyrus therefore settled posts that rode night and day, in the manner of our expresses. (Esth. iii. 13.) Nothing swifter wa8 known for a journey by land. The expression (Ezek. xliii 8) that the Jews set up their posts by (rot/'spos/, figurative- ly alludes to their valuing and observing their idolatries and traditions equally with his statutes and worship. POT. (Jobxli.20.) The word here translated «o< is trans- lated basket, (Jer. xxiv. 2.) kettle, (1 Sam. ii. 14,) and cal- dron. (2Chron. xxxv. 13.) In Ps. Ixxxi. 6, reference is pro- bably had to the close-wrought baskets which the eastern labourers now use as we do the hod for carrying mortar. The same vessel is probably intended inJudg.vi. 19. 2Kingf X. 7. Jer. vi. 9. Ranges for pots (Lev. li 35) probably means the ex cavaiions for the fire over whick the pots were placed. Sucl er^cavations are still found if Persia and Arabia, and arf used i n like manner. (See Oven. POTIPHAR. (Gen. xxxvii. 36.) A dislingui,shed officer in Pharaoh's court, whfl elevated Joseph to a place of trust, and commitied to him the charge of the household. POTI-PHERAH. (Gen. xli 506 PRa 45.) A priest or prince of On, and falher-in-law of Joseph. POTSHERD. Cisa. xlv. 9.) The fragment of an earthen vessel. (Job ii. 8.) When such fragments are brought into col- lision, being alike brittle, each breaks the other into pieces. Not so in the unequal contest between man and liis Maker. POTTAGE. (Gen. xxv. 29.) At this day, in many parts of the east, lentiles are boiled or stewed like beans with oil and garlic, and make a dish of a chocolate cclour,which is eaten as pottage. Other ingredients were used, as in soups of mo- dern times. (2 Kings iv. 39.) POTTER. (Rom. ix. 21.) A manufacturer of earthen ware. The manner of working the clay into shape is alluded to by the prophet, (Jer. xviii. 3,) and may be seen in some branches of the modern manu- facture. The freedom of the potter to make what sort of vessel he chooses, and to mould or mar it at his pleasure, is used as an illusiratiou of God's dominion over the works of his hands. (Ps. ii. 9. See also the passages before cited from Jeremiah and Romans.) POTTER'S FIELD. (See AcELDAiMA. See also Selu- MiEL, pp. 187—194, by Am. S. S. Union.) POUND. (See Measures.) PRAISE. (Ps. xxxiii. 1.) In the ordinary Scripture use of the term, it denotes an act of worship, and is often used synonymously with thanks- giving. It is called forth by the contemplation of the cha- racter and attributes of God, however they are displayed; and it implies a grateful sense and acknowledgment of past mercies. Expressions of praise abound in the Psalms of David, in almost every variety of force and beauty; and the nature of the duty, as well as the pro- per manner of its performance, PRE may be best ascertained by a diligent study of his language and spirit. PRAYER (2Sam. vii.27) is the expression of our desires unto God. It is a privilege with which our Maker has favoured us, and a necessary part of that obedience which he has required of us, to pray without ceasing; in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, letting our requesi.s be made known unto God ; praying always with all prayer and supplication. (Eph. \l 18. Phil. iv. 6. 1 Thess. v. 17.) Condidered as a duty of worship, prayer has been re- garded as consisting of invoca- tion, (Ps. v. 2 ;) adoration, (2 Chron. xx. 6 ;) confession, (Ezra ix. 6;) petition, (Ps. vii. 1;) pleading, (Jer. xii. 1 ;) profes- sion or self-dedication, (Ps Ixxiii. 25 ;) thanksgiving, (Ps. cxlvii. ITim. ii. 1;) blessing. (Ps. ciii. 20-22.) God is the only object of prayer. His throne of grace is to be approached by sinful and dying men, through Christ the one Mediator between God and man, and in entire dependence on the Holy Spirit to help our infirmities. This ia not the place to enter upon the con- sideration of the kinds, forms, and postures of prayer. (For postures in prayer, with illus- trative cuts, see Youth's Friend for Aug. 1836, by Am. S. S. Union.) PREACH. (Isa. Ixi. 1.) To preach is to discourse publicly on religious subjects. From the earliest period of associa- tions for the worship of God, preaching has been the chief instrument by which the know- ledge of the truth has been spread, (2 Pet. ii. 5. Jude 14, 15 ;) and is still to be so. (1 Cor. i. 21.) We have a beautiful account of the ancient mode of preaching in Neh. viii., from which timelill the appearance 5O7 PRE of Christ, public preaching was universal : synagogues were multiplied and well attended, and officers were duly appoint- ed for the purpose of order and instruction. John the Baptist was especially commissioned to preach the coming of Christ, the great teacher sent from God. Since the introduction of the gospel, the preaching of it has been generally re- garded as a sacred profession, and has, for the most part, been confined to an appointed order of men. PREPARATION. (Matt, xxvii. 62.) Tlie first day of the feast of the passover was called the day of preparation, because all things were on that day made ready for the solem- nities of the paschal week. (See Passover.) PRESBYTERY. (1 Tim. iv. 14.) A court or council of ec- clesiastics, for ordaining offi- cers, and governing the church. PRESENTS. (1 Sam. ix. 7.) \ Gifts or otferings with which men in authority or hi|h esteem are approached. In many eastern countries at this day, even the common people, in their familiar visits, take a flower, or an orange, or some other token of respect, to the person visited. PRESSES, (Isa. xvi. 10,) or PRESSFATS, (Hag. ii. 16,) were vessels or cisterns placed in the side of a hill, into which the juice of grapes flowed when it was pressed out by treading them with the feet, or by pressing them with a machine. (Prov. iii. 10. Matt. xxi.33.) Such are now used in Persia. The upper vessel, being eight feet square and four deep, is 'used to press out the juice, which runs into another cistern below. (Spb Wine.) PRETORIUM. (Mark xv. 16.) The palace in Jerusalem where the pretor or Roman governor resided, and in the PRI I hall of which he sat to admJ nister justice. (Comp. Malt, xxvii. 27. John xviii. 28. 33.) There was a similar place at Cesarea. (Acts xxiii. So.) PRICKS, (Acts ix. 5;) or goads. Long, sharp-pomted sticks, which were used to drive cattle, &c., by pricking them. The expression in this passage was a proverb, and originated in this, that restive oxen often push themselves or kick back against the goa»1s, and thus wound themselves the more deeply. Hence the the proverb is used to denote the folly and madnessof resist- ing lawful authority. A great number of heathen writers use the proverb familiarly, and always to signify the abstu"dity of such rebellion. PRIEST. (Gen. xiv. 18.) This is the general name for minis- ters of religion in all ages and countries. In the sacred Scrip- tures it denotes one who off"ers sacrifice. Previous to the Mo- saic ritual, the ofFeringof sacri- fices pertained to private indi- viduals. Fathers were the priests of their own families. Perhaps a more general priestly office existed, such as that ex- ercised by Melchizedek. But when the dispensation by Mo- ses was introduced, a particu- lar order of men were appointed to that special service, (Ex. xxvii i.) with very solemn and imposing ceremonies ; and from that time the offering of sacri- fices was chiefly restricted to those who were duly invested with the priestly office. (2 Chron. xxvi. 18.) All the male descendants of Aaron were priests; and the first-born of every family of his descend- ants in succession sustained the dignified and important office of high-priest. (See High- priest.) "The principal em ployments of the priests, next to attending on the sacrifices and the temple service, con- 508 PRO sisted in the instruction of the people and the deciding of controversies and questions arising under the administra- tion of the Jewish law, which were very numerous. In time of war their duty was to carry the ark of the covenant; to consult the Lord ; to sound the holy trumpets, a nd to encourage the army. (Num. x. 8, 9. Deut. XX. 2. For a full account of the manner of their consecra- tion, dress, duties, &c. see Ex. xxix. 1—35. Lev. viii. 1—36. See also Biblical ANxiaui- TiES, ch. iv. § ii. and iii., and Evening Recreations, vol. iv. pp. 26 — 43, both by Am. S. S. Union.) PROPHECY, (Matt. xiii. \4,) PROPHETS, (1 Sam. x. 5,) or SEERS. (ISam. ix. 9.) To prophesy is to foretell, under divine inspiration, certain things which are to happen. Of course prophecy is a reve- lation from God, made through man to man, respecting future events. (2 Pet. i. 2i.) In a strict sense, a prophet is one to whom tlie knowledge of secret things is revealed, whe- ther past, (John iv. 19,) present, (2 Kings V. 26,) or to come. (Lnke i. 76—79.) Different modes seem to have been employed to convey to the prophets the knowledge of future events. Some sup- pose that the events passed before their minds like a pic- ture or panorama, and that they describe its parts in suc- cession, as one would an ex- tended landscape. This, it is supposed, will account for llieir often speaking of the occur- rences which they predict as passing at the moment, or al- ready passed : as, for instance, in the liii. chapter of Isaiah. Objects and symbols were pre- sented to the prophetic eye waking and sleepin?, and someiinies there was probably »n articulate audible voice; 43* PRO but in whatever form the com- munication was made, the im- pression was doubtless as dis- tinct and vivid as were objects of ocular vision. The spirit of prophecy, seating itself in the rational powers, informed, enlightened, and employed them to understand and de- clare to others the will of God. Some think it uncertain whether the prophets always or even generally knew the time of the future events, or the meaning of what was com- municated to them. Hence it is said that Daniel and John made inquiries as to the mean- ing of certain portions of their revelations, and they were distinctly explained to them. (Dan. viii. 15, &c. Rev. xvii. 7, &c. Comp. Dan. xii. 8, 9. IPet. i. 11.) Others, on the contrary, maintain that there is no sufficient ground for this opi- nion, and "that there is every reason to believe that the fa- culties of the prophets were purified, strengthened, and ele- vated, in a supernatural de- gree; that they understood dis- tinctly the subject of prophetic revelation; and that the ob- scurity in which the prophetic writings are involved in our view, arises from our imperfect conceptions, and not from any want of clearness in the pro- phecies themselves. The predictions were some- times announced by the pro phets to the people, both in assemblies and by writing. (Isa. viii. 2; Iviii. 1, &c. Jer. vii. 2.) Sometimes they were posted up on the public gates, and sometimes an- nounced with the most affect- ing tokens upon the persons or in the conduct of the pro- phets, that the predictions they uttered were true. (Isa. xx. Jer. xix. and xxvii.) The heathen poets are called prophets, because it was sup- 509 PRO posed they wrote under the influence of the gods. (Tit. i. 12.) Aaron is called the pro- phet of Moses, (Ex. vii. 1,) because he declared the com- munications of Moses to the j)eople. The term prophesy is also used analogically, (1 Cor. xi. 4, 5; xiv. l,&c.,) probably because those who exercised these func- tions were regarded as under the direction oT the Holy Spirit. So it is said that Judas and Silas were prophets; and in Acts xiii. 1, that there were in the church at Antioch cer- tain prophets and teachers; that is, official instruciers. (Comp. 1 Cor. xii. 28. See also Acts xxi. 9. Eph. ii. 20. Rev. xviii. 20.) It is also applied to the sacred musicians. (iChron. XXV. 1.) Ii may be only because Miriam led the concert (Ex. XV. 20, 21) that she is reckoned as a prophetess. Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel are called the greater prophets from the size of their books, and the extent and importance of their prophe- cies. The others are called the minor or lesser prophets. The supposed chronological arrangement of the prophe- cies, and the order in which they may be most intelligibly read, is as follows. Jonah . -B.C. 856—784 Amos • • - 810—785 Hosea- - - 810—725 Isaiah • . - 810—698 Joel - . . 810—660 Micah • • • 758-699 Nahum • 720—698 Zephaniah • • 640—609 Jereii.iah - - 628—586 Habakkuk - . 613—698 Daniel • . 606—534 Obad:ah- • . 588— 5«3 Ezekiel • . 595—536 Hag23i • • . 620-518 Zechariah - - 520—518 Maiaclii- - . 436—420 A useful classification of the prophets assigns the first eischt to the period 'before the Baby- lonian captivity ; ihe five next PRO to a period near to and during the captivity ; and the three last after the return of the Jews from Babylon. The historical books of these three periods il- lustrate the prophetical. They were all uttered within a pe- riod of about four liundred years. The prophets were the di- vines, the philosophers, the in- structers, and the guides of the Hebrews in piety and virtue. They generally lived retired. Their habitations and mode of life were plain, ani' simple, and consistent. Sons of the prophets. C2. Kings ii. 3. 5.) Probably pu- pils of the prophets, trained up by them in a knowledge of re- ligion, and in habits of devotion and piety. Periiaps they were employed as assisiants to the prophets, and stood in the rela- tion which evangelists are sup- posed by some to have borne to the apostles. The phrase, that it might be fulfilled ichich was spoken, Sec, (Matt. i. 22,) does not al- ways mean that the event hap- pened, or was brought about, in order to make good the predic- tion ; but often merely that thus, or in this manner, a certain prophecy was accom- plished. (See P ULFILLED.) PROPHETESS. (Ex.xv.20.) Prophetess signifies not only the wife of a proj)het, (Isa. viii. 3,) but also a woman thai has the gift of prophecy. Among these were Miriam, Deborah, Hannah, and Anna. PROPITIATION. (Rom. iii. 25.) The word, wherever it oc- curs in our Scriptures, (1 John ii. 2; iv. 10,) is of like deriva- tion, and denotes, in the origi- nal use of it, the action of a person who in some appointed way averts the wrath of a de- ity, or pacifies an offended party. A word of kindred ori- gin is elsewhere translated sin-qfferifig, (Ezek. xliv. 27 510 PRO and xlv, 19 ;) and atonement, Num. V, 8;) the mercy-seat, (Heb. ix. 5 ;) or the place or instrument of propitiation, where the blood of the sin-of- fering was sprinked by the high-priest to make an atone- ment for sin. (Lev. xvi. 14.) PROSELYTE. (Matt.xxiii. 15.) A name given by the Jews to such as were converted from heathenism to the Jewish faith. The Jewish Rabbins mention ftt least two classes. Proselytes •)f righteousness, who fully em- braced the Jewish religion, were admitted to the enjoy- ments of all its rites and ordi- nances; (proselytes of this class are described in Ezra vi. 21 ;) and proselytes of the gate, who renounced heathen- ism, and conformed in some respects to the Jewish religion, and were allowed only limited privileges. (See Biblical An- TiauiTiEs, vol. ii. ch. vii., by Am. S. S. Union.) It seems to be the better opinion, however, that this distinction is without authority, and that the only proselytes were such as em- braceci the whole system of Jewish worship. PROVERB. (1 Sam. x. 12.) This word is sometimes used as synonymous with parable. (John xvi. 29.) Strictly speak- ing, a proverb is a short moral sentence, expressing an im- portant principle in a striking and forcible manner. The Provkrbs of Solomon constitute an important por- tion (and the twentieth in order of the books) of the Old Testament. It is a collection of wise maxims or sayings, chiefly of Solomon, concern- ing almost every duty and re- lation of life. It is indeed a storehouse of wisdom, and abounds with the most plain and practical rules for the re- gulation of the life and heart. The first ten chapters con- tain cautions and exhortations PSA on a variety of subjects. From ch. X. to ch. xxii. 16, we find what are, strictly speaking, pro- verbs. From ch. xxii. 17, to ch. xxiii. we have important instruction addressed in a con- nected form to a pupil supposed to be present. Cii. xxiii. — xxix. constitute a collection of in- spired proverbs, which there is some reason to believe were derived not exclusively from the lips of Solomon. Ch. xxx. contains the admonitions of Agur, and ch. xxxi. the coun- sels given to king Lemuel by his mother. The general simi- larity of the matter which con- stitutes the book of Proverbs may well account for the mingling of authors, without resorting to the presumption that Agur and Lemuel were none other than Solomon him- self, under a fictitious name. It is said by judicious critics that the canonical authority of no part of the Old Testament is better ratified by the evi- dence of apostolic quotations than the book of Proverbs. PSALMS, (Luke xxiv. 44,) or holy songs. A psalm is a poetic composition adapted to music, vocal or instrumental, but especially the latter. When psalms, hymns, and spiritual sotigs are mentioned together, psalms may denote such as were sung on instruments ; hymns, such as contain only matter of praise ; and spiritual songs, such as contain doc- trines, history, and prophecy for men's instruction. (Eph. v. 19.) The Psalms of David con- stitute the nineteenth in the order of the books of the Old Testament, and their right to a place in the canon has never been disputed. They consist of inspired hymns and songs, meditations and prayers, chief- ly of David. It is" supposed they were collected into one book by Ezra, though without oil PSA MV regard to chronological oraer. They are a complete and perfect manual of devo- tional exercises; and there is scarcely a grief or disease of the soul, for'which there is not in this divine book a present comfortable remedy always to be found by those who rightly seek it. They are sometimes called The Psalter, from the psaltery, a musical instrument used to accompany them when sung. The titles of the Psalms sometimes have reference to a thoiceof tunes, or instruments, or contain some directions to persons appointed to set them to music, or to the leaders of the choir, or something pecu- liar in the subject, season, or style of the composition. The conjectures as to their meaning are various. This book was once publish- ed in five parts, each conclud- ing with a do.\-ology, viz.i. — xli.; xlii.— Ixxii.; Ixxiii.— Ixxxix. ; xc— cvi; cvii.— cl.; but it is cited as one book, Luke xx. 42. The original collection would seem to have comprised psalms i.— Ixxii. (See the subscription, Ps. Ixxii. 20. And for a chro- nological arrangement of the Psalms, with the occasion which led to the composition of them, see Life of David, hy Am. S. S. Union, pp. 273—275.) PSALTERY (Ps. xxxiii. 2) was a Babylonish instrument. In our version of the Bible the name is given to other instru- ments: but the genuine psal- tery was a stringed instrument, as far as we can learn, like the len-stringed lyre, or harp. (See Harp.) The modern instrument call- ed psaltery is flat, and in the form of a trapezium, or triangle cut off at the top, and is strung with thirteen strings. It is Btruck with a plectrum, or •mall iron rod. PUR PTOLEMAIS. (SeeAccHO.) PUBLICAN. (Matt, xviii. 17.) An inferior collector of the Roman tribute. The prin- cipal farmers of this revenue were men of great credit and influence ; but the under-farm- ers, or publicans, were remark- able for their rapacity and ex- tortion, and were accounted as oppressive thieves and pick- pockets. Hence it is even said that the Jews would not allow them to enter the temple, or the synagogues ; to partake of the public prayers, or offices of judicature ; or to give testi- mony in a court of justice. There were many publicans in Judea in the time of our Sa- viour. Zaccheus, probably, was one of the principal receivers, since he is callecl chief among the publicans, (Luke xix. 2;) but Matthew was only an in- ferior publican. (Luke v. 27.) The Jews reproached Jesus with being a ^ricncZ of publi- cans and sinners, and eating with them. (Luke vii. 34.) PUL. (2 Kings XV. 19.) The first king of Assyria, who in- vaded Canaan, and by a pre- sent of one thousand talents of silver, (equivalent to nearly two millions of dollars in our day,) was prevailed on by Me- nahem to withdraw his troops, and recognise the title of that wicked visurper. This is the first mention of Assyria in the sacred history after the days of Nimrod, and Pul was the first Assyrian invader of Judea. A town of this name is mentioned Isa. Ixvi. 19; which is sup- posed, without authority, to be the island of Philoe, in the Nile, not far from Syene, where are found magnificent ruins. PULSE. (2 Sam. xvii. 23.) Coarse grain, as peas, beans, and the like. (Dan. i. 12. 16.) PUR, or PURIM, feast of. (See Feasts.) PURPLE. (Ex. XXV. 4.) Thp purple dye, so famous among 512 PTJR the orientals in ancient days, was much used by the Babylo- nians. (Jer. X. 9. Ezek. xxiii. 15; xxvii. 16.) The hangings of the temple and some of the oriesis' garments were of this colour. "(Ex. XXV. 4 ; xxxv. 6; xxxix.29. 2Chron. iii. 14.) It was imported from some coun- try beyond Persia, and there is good reason to believe that it was obtained from the body of an insect. The robes of royalty and distinction were of purple, and hence the intended gross- ness of the insult and mockery of our Saviour. (John xix. 2. 5.) The colour called purple was probably scarlet. The term {mrple was applied to any co- our into which red entered. PURSE. (Mark vi. 8.) A son of girdle, such as is often found at the present day in eastern countries. A part of the girdle, sufficient to encom- pass the body, is sewed double, and fastened with a buckle. The residue is wound around above or below the first fold, and tucked under. The first fold has an opening, closed witii a leathern cover and strap, through which the contents of the purse are passed. (See Clothes.) A modern traveller says— " I bought to-day in the bazaar a woollen girdle, whose con- struction amply explains the PYG phrase so often occurring ^n orh ental tales, of " carrying mo- ney in the belt.'^ On one end being passed once round the waist, it is fastened by a buckle; and this entire portion, being sewed double all round, con- tains the money, which is extracted by means of a small opening in the front, closed with a leathern cover and strap. This being secured, the remainder of the zone is folded around the body till tlie suc- cessi ve envelopemems take up all the cloth, the end of which is then tucked in at the side so as to secure the folds." The word translated /)!frses, in Matt. x. 9, signifies literally girdles ; and from their adap- tation to the use pointed out by our Saviour, were undoubtedly of the same fashion with that which is above described. PUTEOLI, (Actsxxviii. 13,) or the wells, now Pozztioli, a city eight miles north-west from Naples, containing about ten thousand inhabitants, for- merly celebrated for its warm baths and springs. The har- bour was once re^garded as the best in Italy. PYGARG (Deut. xiv. 5) is the name of a bird of the eagle kind ; but here, probably, de- notes a beautiful species of the gazelle, or the mountain goat, found in Africa and Asia. QUA pvUAILS, (Ex. xvi. 13,) or \dI, partridges, as they are called in some parts of the United Stales, were a part of the food miraculously supplied to the Israeliies in ilie wilder- ness. (Ps. Ixxviii. 27.) Quails are still common in the deserts of Arabia, and are brought to the market at Jerusalem iiy thousands. The supply to the Israelites was furnishecf on two occasions. (Ex. xvi. 13. Num. QUA xi. 31.) Both were at *.ne sea son when the quails pass from Asia into Europe, and are found in immense flocks on the coast of the Mediterranean and Red Sea. That they were thrown in such vast quantities into the camp of ihe Israelites as to sulfice fir the food of perhaps a million of persons for more than a month, is cer- tainly supernatural. The de- scription of the quantity is lia 513 QUA QUI ble to misapprehension. The original does not represent the exact height, as our translation does ; and some suppose it has ao reference at all to quantity ; xior does it mean that the least amount gathered was exactly a homer/In the latter instance a large but indefinite quantity is intended. They were proba- bly dried in the sun and salted, as many kinds of provisions are at this day. Hence the ex- pression, they spread them abroad for themselves round about the camp. (Num. xi. 32.) QUATERNION. (Acts xii. 4.) When Peter is said to have been delivered to four quater- nions of soldiers, it is to be un- derstood that he was guarded by four men at a time, viz. two in the prison with him,(ver. 6,) and two before the doors, and that they were relieved every three hours, or at each suc- cessive watch of the night, by four others ; making in all six- teen men. (See Life of Pe- ter, pp. 194—196, by Am. S. S. Union.) Common Quail QUEEN OF HEAVEN (Jer. vii. 18.) The t-ile under which the moon was worship- ped by the heathens. Cakes having the image of the moon stamped on them are supposed to have been presented in sa- crifice, as a pan of their idola- trous worship. QUICKSANDS. (Actsxxvii. 17 ) Reference is had in this passage (as it is supposed) to two very dangerous sandbars on the coast of Africa, over against Sicily, which were con- tinually shifting their position, and forming powerful currents, by which ships were drawn from their course. QUIVER. (Ps. cxxvii. 5.) The box or case for arrows. The word is often used figura- tively. (Isa. xlix. 2. Lam. iij. 2.) In Jer. v. 16, the slaugh- ter and desolation which should be brought upon the Israelites by the invasion of the Chal deans, is expressed by calling their quivers an open sepul- chre, or their arrows certain death. (See Armour.) RAA RA.VMAH. (Ezek.xxvii,22.) A country or district of Arabia, trading with Tyre in spices, stones, and gold ; and is supposed to have been settled by tne descendants of Raamah, grandson of Ham. (Gen. x. 7.) RAA RAAMSES or RAMESES (Gen. xlvii. 11. Ex. xii. 37 Num. xxxiii. 3.) One of Pharaoh's treasure-cities, or public granaries, probablj* for lifted for the security of the Travellers tell lu of a 614 RAC mass of ruins found at the mo- dern villaee of Aben-keyshid, about forty miles from Suez, and near the canal connecting that city with the Nile. The central and convenient loca- tion of this place points it out as the probable site of the an- cient city. (See Pithom.) RABBATH, of the children cf Amnion, (Deut. iii. 11,) was the chief city of the land of the ; Ammonites, and was situated in the mountains of Gilead, not far from the source of the Ar- non. It was here that Uriah ' lost his life in the siege of the city by Joab, (2 Sam. xi. 17;) and afterwards i'. was captured, David himself taking the head of the army. (2 Sam. xii. 29.) As the capital of the Amnion- ites, the severest judgments are denounced against it in several propheciesr (Jer. xlix. 1—3. Ezek. xxi. 20; xxv. 5.) Its modern name is Ajmnon, about twenty miles south-east of Szalt, where extensive ruins arenowf>und. (S^e Ammonites.) RA BBATH-MOAB. (See Ar.) RABBI. (Malt, xxiii. 7.) A title of dignity, literally signi- fying grejat or cfiief. It was given bj*lhe Jews to distin- guished teachers of their law. RABBUNI. (John xx. 16.) A Hebrew word signifying my master, and Tezardea as the highest title of honour among .hte Jews. RABSHAKEH, (2 Kings xviii. 17,) or the chief butler or cv.p-bearer, was sent with Rab- saris, or the chief of the eu- nuclis, and Tartan, messengers of the king of Assyria, to Heze- kiah, Bum'moning him, in the most indecent and blasphe- mous manner, to surrender his capital. The history is record- ed in 2 Kines xviii. 17—37. RACA. (l\Iatt. v. 22.) A Sy- riac term denoting perfect con- tempi of the individual to whom it is applied. RACE. (1 Cor. ix. 21.) The RAC word which is rendered race (Ps. xix. 5) signifies tray, road, or path. Races were known to the Hebrews. (Eccl. ix. 11.) The eastern couriers are usu- ally taken from among the strong or distinguished officers of the king's Tforces. Hence the sun, in the above passage from Psalms, is represented as an officer honoured by the Al- mighty to bear the announce- ment of his power through every clime of his dominion, in language silent, but expres- sive, and" equally intelligible to all. When the word occurs in the New Testament, it alludes to the Grecian games for the trial of strength' and skill in running on foot or horseback, or in chariots. To win a prize at these games was considered as the highest honour to be at- tained o'n earth. The most strict and laborious preparation was made for it, (1 Cor. ix. 24— 27,) and the contest was go- verned by established rules. (2 Tim. ii. 5.) Those who con- tended for the prize were di- vested of clothing; every im- pediment was removed; the prize was in full view ; and the crown was placed upon the conqueror's head the moment the issue was proclaimed. (Phil, iii. 12—14. 2Tim. iv.6— 8. Heb. xii. 1.) RACHEL. (Gen. xxix. 6.) The daughter of Laban, the wife of the patriarch Jacob, and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin. (See Jacob.) The name of Rachel is used by the prophet (Jer. xxxi. 15) figura^ lively, as the maternal ancestor of the tribes of Ephraim and IManasseh; and the prophecy he uttered is supposed to have been fulfilled when those tribes were carried into captivity be- yond the Euphrates. A similar use is made of her name by the evangelist, (Malt. ii. 18,) where Rachel, who was buried in tha* 515 vicinity, is supposed to renew her lamenlalions at the slaugh- ter of so many of her descend- ants ELS fell under the barbarous edict of Herod. (See Rama.) RAGUEL. (See Jethro.) RAHAB. (Josh.ii. 1.) A wo- man of Jericho, who kept a public house, and, as some supr pose, was of depraved charac- ter. She had heard of the Israel- ites, and of the favour of God towards them, (Josh, ii.8— 11 ;) and when the two spies sent out by Joshua came to Jericho to explore the land of promise, she concealed them from the officers who were sent in search of them, and at a convenient lime let them down by a cord, upon the outside of the city wall, to which her house joined ; and following her directions, they escaped. It was agreed between her and the spies, that she should take a scarlet thread and fasten it in the window or aperture through which they had escaped ; and when the city was destroyed, her house and all that were in it should be protected. (Josh. ii. 17—23.) The intelligence received from Rahab induced Joshua to go forward at once to the siege of Jericho ; and when the city was taken and burnt, Rahab and her family were rescued and preserved, accord- ing to the premise of the spies. (Josh. vi. 1/— 2.5.) The faith of Rahab is commended, (Heb. xi. 31. James ii. -25 ;) and it is supposed she married into a nobl3 family of the tribe of Judah. (Malt. i. 5.) The term Rahab is used poetically as descriptive of Egypt, in Ps. lxxxvii.4; Ixxxix. 10. Isa. Ii. 9. (See Egypt.) RAIMENT. (See Clothes.) RAIN. (Gen. ii. 5.) The force of the various allusions to this subject cannot be appre- hended without some know- ledge of the seasons in Judea. (See Seasons.) Bain falls RAT very frequently during what we call the cold months, from November to April. Sometimes it rains powerfully for several days, with thunder and light- ning, and a strong wind. In the summer season, from INIay to October, the earth is parched, verdure is destroyed, and vege- tation lanjniishes. The first rain after the summer drought usually falls in October, and is called the former or au- tumnal rain, because it pre- ceded seed-time, and prepares the earth for cultivation. The latter rain falls in April, just before liarvest, and perfects the fruits of the earth. (Hos. vi. 3. Joel ii. 23. See Evening Recreations, vol. i. p. 82, and Bedouin Arabs, ch. i. ; twth by Am. S. S. Union.) RAINBOW. (Rev.iv.3.) A natural phenomenon which consists of two arches, and is always formed in the part of the sky which is opposite to the sun. It is never seen ex- cept when the sun shines while rain is falling, through which the rays of the sun pass, and are so reflected as to produce the rainbow. The jame phe- nomenon is produmi by the spray of a water-fall, and even by throwing water up from a brush or syringe, when the sun's rays can ]5as3 through, and be reflected on an opposite surface. The same laws by which this effect is produced were probably in operation be- fore the delude, and we may suppose, thereljre, that the bow was then employed or appoint- ed as a sign of the covenant that the earth should not be again destroyed by a flood The phrase, / do set my bow in the clouds, (Gen. ix. 13,) might with equal propriety be translated, / have set, &c. The language of the covenant would be In substance, 'As surely as that bow is the result of established »ws wliich must 616 RAM continue as long aa the sun and atmosphere endure, so sure- ly shall the world be preserved from destruction by a deluge. Its preservation shall be as ne- cessary an effect of my promise aa that bow is the necessary effect of the shining of the sun upon the falling drops of rain.' RAISINS. (See Grapes.) RAM. (Mic. vi. 7.) A clean animal by the ceremonial law, and used for sacrifice. (Gen. XV. 9.) In prophetic language the ram denotes power and wealth, and also cruelty and oppression. The rum of consecration, (Ex. xxix. 26,) was sacrificed when the priests were invested with their office ; and the put- ting of part of the blood of this sacrifice on the three extremi- ties of the body, aptly denoted the consecration of the whole body to the service of the Lord. RAM SKINS. (Ex. XXV. 5.) Probably the beautiful article common at this day in Asiatic Turkey and Morocco, made of goat skins and dyed red. CComp. 2Kines iii. 4.) RAM, MATTERING. (See Battering Ram.) RAMA, (Matt. ii. 18,) or RA- MAH, (1 Sam. i. 19,) was a small town, situated on an eminence in the territory of Benjamin, (Josh, xviii. 25,) and about six miles north of Jeru- salem, on the way to Bethel. The name Rama, or Ramoth, signifies an eminence, and hence is a constituent part of the names of several places, and is sometimes used gene- rally for any high place. It waa here that the Jews were assembled after the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuzara- dan, (Jer. xl. 1,) to take their departure from their beloved country, and to go as captives into a land of strangers, if not of tyrants. It waslhis place that Baasha, king of Israel, once possessed and fortified; 44 RAM but tlie king of Judah \>j str»> tagem wrested it from him. (1 Kings XV. 17.) Near to Ra- mah Rachel w^as buried ; and she is represented by the pro- phet (Jer. xxxi. 15) as weep- ing over the loss of her chil- dren, and refusing to be com- forted because of their cap- tivity. This, though called Ramathaim-zophim, was also the place of Samuel's birth, residence, death, and burial, and where he anointed Saul as king. (ISam. i. 1. 19; ii. II; vii. 17; viii. 4; xix. 18; xxv. 1.) Ramah, or Ramathaim, or Ramathaim-zophim of the Old, is the Arimathea of the New Testament, where dwelt Jo- seph, in whose tomb the body of Christ was buried. (John xix. 38.) There is now a vil- lage on the hill which was the site of Ramah, called Samuele by the Arabs. Jerusalem is easily seen from this height. There was another Rama in Naphiali. (Josh. xix. 36.) Mr. King, an American missionary, was at Arimathea, now Romba, in February, 1824, and sold to the Arabs several copies of the Bible in Arabic ; and Mr.Whit- ing, another American mission- ary, was there in April, 1835. He says, " The situation is exceed- ingly beautiful. It is about two hours distant from Jerusa- lem, to the north-west, on an eminence commanding a view of a wide extent of beautifully diversified country. Hills, plains, and valleys, highly cultivated fields of wheat and barley, vineyards and olive- yards, are spread out before you as on a map ; and nume- rous villages are scattered here and there over the whole view. To the west and north-west, beyond the hill-country, ap- pears the vast plain of SJriaron, and farther still you look out upon the great and wide sea. It occurred to me as not impro- bable that in the days of David 517 RAM and Solomon, this place may have been a favourite retreat during the lieat of summer; and that here the former may have often struck his sacred lyre. Some of the psalms, or at least one of them, (see Ps. civ. 25,) seem to have been composed in some place which commanded a view of the Me- diterranean; and this is the only place, I believe, in the vicmiiy of Jerusalem, that af- fords such a view." Ramah was once a strongly fortified city, but there is "no city here at present. A half- ruined Mohammedan mosque, which was originally a Chris- tian church, stands over the tomb of the prophet; besides which, a few miserable dwell- ings are the only buildings that remain on this once celebrated spot. There is a town about thirty miles nor! h- west of Jerusalem, on the road to Joppa,now called Ramla, or Ramie, which is de- scribetl by many geographers, and some of the best maps, as ihe Rama of Samuel, and the Arimathea of Joseph. It com> manded a view of the whole valley of Sharon, from the mountains of Jerusalem to the sea, and from the foot of Car- mel to the hills of Gaza. RAMATHAIM-ZOPHIM. (See Rama.) RAMESES. (SeeRAAMSES.) RAMO I'H, CJosh. xx. 8,) or RAMOTH-GILEAD, (1 KinM xxii. 29,) or KAMATH MIZ- PEH, (Josh. xiii. 26,) or watcfi- tower, li was a famous city in the mountains of Gilead, within the territory of Gad, about fifi?en miles from Rab- bah. It 'VJis appointed for one of the ci.ies of refuge. (Deut. iv. 43.) During the reigns of the later kings of Israel, this place wa:> the occasion of seve- ral wars Ijptween them and the kings of Damascus, who had coiiauered it, %nd from whom RAV I the kings of Israel endeavoured I to regam it. (1 Kinss xvii. 9 Kin^s viii. 28, 29. See OsiAii, p. 137, by Am. S. S. Union.) South Ramoth (1 Sam. xxx. 27) is probably so called to dis- tinguish it from Ramoth beyond JorBan. RANSOM. (Matt. xx. 28. Mark x. 45.) The price paid to purchase the freedom of a captive or slave. (1 Cor. vi. 19, 20. 1 Tim. ii. 6.) Under the Levitical law, an ofTering was required of every Israelite over twenty years of age, at the time the census was taken. This ofTering is called a ransom, or atonement money. (Ex. xxx. 12 —16.) It amounted to half a she- kel, or about twenty-five cents. It was to be made upon penalty of the plague ; and every per- son, rich or poor, was required to give that sum, and neither more or less. (1 Pet. i. 18, 19.) RAVEN. (Gen. viii. 7.) A bird of prey, resembling the common crow of the United States in size, shape, and co- lour, and ceremonially un- clean, (Lev. xi. 15:) and de- lighting in deserted and soli- tary places. (Isa. "xxxiv. 11.) When about to feed upon a dead body, it is said to seize first upon the eyes. Hence the allusion, Prov. xxx. 17, imply- ing the exposure of the body in the open field, than which nothing was regarded as more disgraceful. (See Burial.) The young of the raven leave the nest early, before they are able to supply themselves with food. This fact is alluded to, Job xxxviii. 41. Ps. cxlvii.9. Luke xii. 24. Whether the raven sent out of the ark by Noah ever returned to him, is not agreed : according to the litpjal reading of the Hebrew, also of the Samaritan text, and the Chaldee, it did; but a differ ent opinion is supported by the LXX., the Syriac, the Latin, and most of the faihere. (Gen 518 REB viii. 7.) There is also some i difference of opinion respecting the ravens by which Elijah 1 was fed at the brook Cheriih. [ An ingenious writer has dis- covered that in that region j there was a village called JEro- 1 bi, and a brook called Coriih, | and he conjectures that the i ^robites supplied the prophet [ with food : but if they supplied him with food, why not with ' water, when the brook failed 7 ] and why, in that case, could not Ahab find him ? (I Kinjis xvii. 4—7) There seems to 6e no good reason to doubt that the natural and commonly re- ceived impression of the history is just, (For cut and explana- tion, see Youth's Friend for April, 1S29, by Am. S. S. Union.) REBEKAH. (Gen. xxiv. 15.) The sister of Laban and wife of Isaac. The circumstances of her marriage with Isaac con- stitute one of the most simple and beautiful passages of the sacred history. ((Jen. xxiv. See Christian Politeness, pp.40— 45, and Story ofIsaac, pp. 65—76 ; both by Am. S. S. Union.) After she had been married twenty years, she be- came the mother of Jacob and Esau, and at the same time re- ceived a remarkable divine intimation concerning the fu- ture destiny of the infants. When they grew up, Jacob became the favourite of his mother, and this undue par- tiality was the source of much mischief. (See Jacob.) She died before Isaac, and was buried in Abraham's tomb. (Gen. xlix.31.) RECHAB, RECHABITES. (Jer. XXXV. 16, 18. TheRechab- jtes were a tribe of Kenites or Midianiles, (1 Chron. ii. 55,) descended from Jonadab, or Jehonadab, the son or descend- ant of Rechab, (2 Kings x. 15,) from which last they derive their name. (Comp. Num. x. kEC 29—32, with Judg. i. 16, and iv. 11.) Jonadab appears to have been zealous for the pure wor- ship of God, and was associated with Jehu in the destruction of the idolatrous house of Ahab. He established a rule for his pos- terity, that they should possess neither land nor houses, but should live in tents ; and should drink no wine or strong drink. In obedience to this rule, the Rechabites continued a sepa- rate but peaceable people, liv- ing in tents, and removing from place to place, as circum- stances required. When Ju- dea was first invaded by Nebu- chadnezzar they fled to Jeru- salem for safety, where it pleased God, by the prophet Jeremiah, to exhibit them to the wicked inhabitants of Jeru- salem, as an example of con- stancy in their obedience to the mandates of an earthly fa- ther. (Jer. XXXV. 2—19.) Some highly interesting facts are known respecting the pre- sent condition of the Rechab- ites. They still dwell in the mountainous tropical country to the north-east of Medina. They are called Beni Khaibr, sons of Heber ; and their land is called Khaibr. They have no inter- course with their brethren, the Jews, who are dispersed over Asia; and are esteemed as/aZse brethren, because they observe not the law. These persons cannot accompany a caravan, because their religion permits them not to travel on the Sab- bath; yet their country is so surrounded by deserts, that unless in a caravan, it can nei- ther be entered or left safely. A late traveller inquired of a Jew about them, and whether , they ever came to Jerusalem ' and the Jew proved that they came to that city in the time of Jeremiah, by reading ch. XXXV. of his prophecy. This Jew stated that these persons, who were unquestionably tha 519 1 NOPH or MEMPHIS 2 SAIS or SIN 3 ON or HELIOPOLIS 4 RAMESES 5 Succoth 6 Etham 7 Migdol 8 BAAL-ZEPHON 9 Marah 10 £iim 11 Dophkab 12 Aiush 13 Repbidim 14 Kibroth-hattaavah 15 Hazeroth 16 Rithmab 17 Rimmon-parez 18 Libnah 19 Kadesh-barnea 20 Rissah 21 Kebelatbah 23 Haradali 24 Makeloth 25 Taliath 26 Tarah 27 Mithcah 2S Hashmonah 29 Moserolh 30 Bene-jaakam 31 Hor-hasidgad 32 JolbatMh_ 33 Ebronah 43 Beer 53 Abarim 34 Elath 44 Almon-diblathaim 54 JERICHO 35 EZION-GEBER 45 Matianah 55 Bethlehem 36 Kadesh 46 Nahaliel 66 HEBRON 37 Zalmonah 47 Bamoth r>7 Hor 38 Punoc 48 Pis?ah 58 GAZA 39 Oboth 49 Nebo 59 ASCALON 40 Ije-abarim 50 Zarad or Bcnthammed 60 ASHUOD 41 Aroer 51 Joktheel 61 EKRON 42 DIBON 52 HESHBON @ JERUSALEM 44« 521 RED descendants of the Rechabites, are now known to drink no wine; to fiave neither vine- yards, fiehl, nor seed ; and to be wandering nomades, dwell- ing like Arabs in tents ; and they have never wanted a man to stand before the Lord, but have maintained strictly and constantly the worship of the true God. RECONCILE, (Enh. ii. 16,) RECONCILLITION: (Heb. ii. 17.) These terms, as used by the sacred ^vriters, imply the restoration of man to the favour and grace of God, through the atonement made by Jesus Christ. (2 Cor. v. 19.) They suppose a previous stale of va- riance and hostility, such as must necessarily exist between beings so perfectly opposite in character elS the holy God and his fallen, sinful creature, man. (Rom. vii. 5—25.) RED SEA. (Ex. xiii. 18.) A gulf setting up eleven hundred and sixty miles from the Ara- bian Sea, through the straits of Babelmandel, nearly to Cairo on the Nile. Its mean breadth is about one hundred and twenty miles. It derives its name pro- bably from the fact that it was bordered by the possessions of Edom, (which signifies red.) The original is supposed to mean weedy sea ; but the sig- nificancy of this name is still more obscure; for a modern traveller tells us that the wa- ter of the Red Sea is so very clear, that he read on the wooden stock of an anchor the name of the ship, at the depth of twenty-five fathoms, (one hundred and fifty feet.) Still, the bottom is covered with coral reefs; and if examined in calm weather, has the ap- pearance of verdant meadows and submarine forests. Hence it is supposed the Jews and Arabs have called it the sea of green weeds. The northern extremity of KED the Red Sea is divided into two gulfs, Akaba and Suez. The latter was crossed by the Israel- ites in their passage from Egypt to Canaan. The precise point at which this miraculous event happened is not certainly known. The remembrance of this memorable transaction is pre- served in the local tradili ns of the inhabitants. The Wells of Closes {Ayoun Mousa) and the Baths of Pharaoh (Ham- mam Faraoun) are associated with the names of the Jewish deliverer and the Egyptian monarch; and the superstitious Arabs call the sulf the Dahr of Kolzoum, or Sea of Destruc- tion; in whose roaring waters they still pretend to hear the cries and wailin^s of the ghosts of the drowned Egyptians. Diodorus seems distinctly to allude to the passage of the Israelites : "It has been an an- cient report among iUe Ichthy- ophagi, continued down to them from their forefathers, that by a mighty reflux of the watera, which happened in former days, the whole gulf became dry land, and appeared green all over, the water overflowing the opposite shore ; and thau all the ground being thus left bare to the very lowest bottom of the gulf, the sea, by an ex- traordinary high tide, returned again into its ancient chan- nel." It is not unimportant to find a heathen writer uncon- sciously bearing testimony to the truth of Scripture history. The passage of the Red Sea has been attributed to the pe- culiarities of the tides, aided by the winds ; but this is no less the act of God than an immediate or supernatural in terposition. It is well known, say the skeptical, that in the Arabian Gulf, the Persian Gulf, the Ganges, and other open ings into^the great ocean, tlies* tides are often overwhelming. 522 REE So that the Hebrews, whose knowledge was confined to the limits of Ihe tideless sea, were sirondy impressed by an event which caused the destruction of their enemies upon ground which they had passed dry- shod, m consequence of a re- ceding tide, assisted by a strong east wind all that night. This interpretation, however, is entirely gratuitous and fanciful. The inspired historian declares explicitly c/.at the children of Israel wen* through the midst of the sea. The waters were a wall unto them on the right hand and on the left. The whole account gives the impression of a stupendous miracle. (See Life of Moses, ch. xi., and Evening Recreations, vol. iii. pp. 96—104; both by Am. S. S. Union.) REDEEM, (Luke i. 68,) RE- DEEMER. (Jobxix. 25.) To redeem a person is to purchase his liberty for him. The price paid is called the ransom. (See Ransom.) Sinners are in bondage to sin, and of course Ihey are in the bondage of condemnation. The Lord Jesus Christ having given his life or his blood a ransom for them, he redeems them, and is therefore called their Redeem- er. (Matt. XX. 28. 1 Pet. i. 18.) This ransom, though sufficient to redeem all men from capti- vity, avails only for the re- demption of such as are in Christ Jesus, and walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (See First Lessons, pp. 63—73, and Sister Ma- ry's Stories, No. vi.; both by Am. S. S. Union.) REED. (Job xl. 21.) A plant of the grass family. The bam- boo and common cane are species of the reed, and so are the calamus and flag. Fish- poles, canes, and rods (Malt, xxvii. 29) are formed of it. 'rhese plants flourish in marsh- REF es or in the vicinity of water- courses: hence the allusioD} Job xl. 21—23. It is often used by the sacred writers to illus- trate weakness and fragility. (2 Kinss xviii. 21. Isa. xxxvi. 6 ; xliirs. Ezek. xxix. 6. Matt, xii. 20.) Reeds were also used as pens are now, (see Pen,) and also as measuring rods. (Ezek. xl. 5. See Measures.) From their height and slender shape, plants of this kind are moved by the slightest breath of wind, (I Kings xiv. 15,) and hence nothing could be more unim- portant in itself than such a motion, and nothing more strikingly illustrative of fickle- ness and instability. (Comp. Matt. xi.7. Lukevii.24. Eph. iv. 14.) Measuring reed. (See Measures.) REFINER. (Mai. iii. 3.) This word is often used figuratively by the sacred writers. Its pe- culiar force in the passage cited will be seen, when it is remem- bered that refiners of silver sit with their eyes steadily fixed on the furnace, that they may watch the process ; and that the process is complete and perfected only when the re- finer sees his own image in the melted mass. WTien Christ sees his image perfectly re- flected in the holy life and conversation of his people, the object of the refining process is accomplished. REFUGE. (See City.) REGENERATION. (Matt, xix. 28. Tit. iii. 5.) This term occurs in no other passages of the Bible. It signifies being born ao:ain. As used by Mat- I thew, the meaning of the word will depend on the punctuation of the passage, and will either 1 refer to the new-birth which ; the followers of Christ had j undergone, or to the renovation or consummation of all things ' at Christ's second ad vent, when 523 REG there shall be 7iew heaveyis and a new eartk. The last is the most naluFiil construction. By the waslUng of regeneration, in the latter passage, is to be understood what is understood by other words conveying pre- cisely the same idea,and which are of frequent occurrence. Our Saviour says to Nicodemus,£x- cept a i7ian be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John iii. 3.) Christians are described as born of God, (John i. 12, 13. IJohn ii. 29; v. 1. 4.) They are also represented as begotten of God, or by the word of God. (James i. 18. 1 Pet. i. 3. 23.) And the same thing, in substance, is present- ed under the idea of a new cre- ation, (2 Cor. V. 17;) a renew- ing of the mind, (Rom. xii. 2;) a renewing of the Holy Ghost, (Titus iii. 5;) a resurrection from the dead, (Eph. ii. 6;) a being quickened, &c. (Eph. ii. 1,5.) Regeneration, tlten, may be regarded as the commu- nication of spiritual life to a soul previously dead in tres- passes and sins, by the almighty energy of tlie Holy Spirit, mak- ing use of the word of truth as the instrument: in consequence of which divine operation the soul begins to apprehend spi- ritual thing3 in a new light; to believe Them in a new man- ner ; to love them with an af- fection not before felt ; and to act henceforth from new mo- tives and to new ends. The effects of regeneration cannot but be very perceptible, in the bumble penitence and contri- tion for sin which is produced : in the ardent breathings after the knowledge of God ; after conformity to his holiness, and communion with him through Christ Jesus; and in the kind and fraternal feelings which spontaneously flow from the regenerated soul towards all men, and especially towards the household of faith : for to the REH brethren of Christ the soul bora of God cannot but entertain an affection of peculiar strength and tenderness; both because they belong to Christ, and be- cause they possess and mani- fest something of the lovely image of Him that hath begot- ten them anew. REHOB. (Num. xiii. 2l.yPro- bably the same wiihBeth-rehob, (Judg. xviii. 28,) a ciiy of .Syria, north of Cesarea Philippi, ana near Dan. It belonged to the tribe of Asher. (Josh. xix. 28.) REHOBOAM, (1 Kings xiv. 21,) son and successor oT Solo- mon, ascended the throne of Judah at the age of forty-one, and reigned seventeen years. At the commencement of his career, he had an opportunity to conciliate the prejudices and discontents which had been ex- cited by the closing acts of hi? father's reign; but rejecting the wise counsel of the aged, and adopting the precipitate counsel of the young, he in- flamed his subjects by the most insolent and tyrannical reply to their petitions and repre- sentations, (2Chron. x. 1—14,) and hastened a division of the kingdom. Tenof the tribes re- volted, (see Jeroboam.) leav- ing Judah and Benjamin alone in their allegiance to Rehobo- am. The latter proposed at once to employ force for the purpose of reducing the rebels, but was divinely admonished to forbear. (1 Kings xii. 24.) Continual wars prevailed, how ever, between the two parties (2Chron. xii. 15.) In about three years after the division of the kingdom, the tribes of Judah followed the tribes of Israel in their idolatrous prac- tices ; and for this they suffered the invasion of Shisliak, king of Egypt, who desolated the country, and threatened the utter destruction of their city, but upon their repentance, the scourge was stayed, though REM they suffered immense loss, and were made tributary to the invader. (2Chron. xii. 2 — 12.) We are told that a his- tory of Rehoboam's reign was written by Shemaiah and Iddo, (2Chron. xii. 15,) but it has not been preserved. A distinguish- ed modern antiquary has fur- nished evidence that on the remains of edifices believed to have been erected by this very Shishak, he has discovered se- veral effigies of captive kings, and among them one of Reho- fcoam, the son and successor of Solomon. REHOBOTH (Gen. x. 11; meaning ample room, Gen. xxvl. 22) is supposed to ex- press, in the passage cited, either the spaciousness of the streets or the extent of the city of Nineveh. If it was a city, we have no knowledge of its site. Rehoboth by the kiver, (Gen. xxxvi. 37,) the birth- place of Saul the Idumean king, was probably a town on the Euphrates, the site of which is supposed to be occupied by khe modern town of Errachabi. Rehoboth is also the name of a famous well of Isaac, near to Gerar. (Gen. xxvi. 22.) REINS. (Job xvi. 13.) This word, which properly signifies the loins, or region of the kid- neys, is used "figuratively by the sacred writers, to denote the seat of the affections and dispositions. REMPHAN. (Acts vii. 43.) Probably a name given to some planet (perhaps Saturn) which was regarded as an object of worship. The image of the object of their idolatry, being enclosed in a small tabernacle or portable case, was carried about from place to place like other baggage. Such were the shrines. Acts xix. 24. (Comp. Isa. xlvi. 7.) What the pro- Shet calls Chiun, (Amos v. 26,) le martyr calls Remphan. EEP I Probably the words signify the same thing in different lan- guages. REND. (Gen. xxxvu. 29— 34.) To rend the garments, or tare them, (2 Sam. xiii.31,) was from the earliest period a sign of ^rief or penitence. Jacob anu David did it on various occasions; and so did Joshua, (Josh. vii. 6,) and Hezekiah. (2 Kings xix. 1.) The high- priest was forbidden to rend his clothes, (Lev. x. G ; xxi. 10,) probably meaning his sacred garments. Perhaps those re- ferred to, Matt. xxvi. 65, were such as were ordinarily worn, or merely judicial and not pon- tifical garments. Sometimes it denoted anger or indignation, mingled with sorrow. (Isa. xxxvi. 22; xxxvii. 1. Acts xiv. 14.) The phrase to rend the face (Jer. i v. 30) alludes to the practice of introducing paints j into the flesh, particularly the eyelids. (See Eyelids.) KENEW, RENEWING. (See Regeneration.) REPENT, REPENTANCE, (Ezek. xiv, 6. Matt. ix. 13,) is a change of mind, accompa- nied with regret and sorrow for something done, and an earn- est wish that it was undone. Such was the repentance of Judas, (Matt, xxvii. 3;) and so it is said that Esau found no place of repentance in his fa- ther Isaac, although he sought it with tears, (Heb. xii. 17 ;) i.e. Isaac would not change what he had done, and revoke the blessing given to Jacob. (Gen. xxvii. 34—40.) Repentance unto life is sor- row for sin, grief for having committed it, and a turning away from it with abhorrence accompanied with sincere en deavours, in reliance on God's grace and the aid of the Holy Spirit, to live in humble and holy obedience to the com- mands and will of God. (Jer. iii. 10. Matt. iii. 8. Acts v. 31 ; REF x\. IS. 23. 2 Cor. vii. &-10. 2 Tim. ii. 25.) This is thai repentance to which is pro- mised the free forgiveness of ein through the merits of Jesus Christ. The expression in Rom. xi. 29, denotes geiiei-ally the sta- bility and unchangeableness of God's commands and pur- poses, which w ill not be chang- ed or revoked from any change of mind or purpose in him ; and particularly in relation to the Jews, that God was mind- ful of his covenant with them, and that it was firm and irre- vocable. When God is said to repent, it does not imply any change or sorrow, for he is of one mind, (1 Sam. XV. 29. Job xxiii. 13. Jer. xviii. 7—10 ;) but it denotes a course of proceeding which, if pursued by men, "vould be indicative of repentance or change of purpose. For exam- Ele, if one attempts to build a ouse, and because he is un- successful, or disappointed in the appearance or construction of it, pulls it down, such a course indicates regret and sorrow. So when it is said of God, that when he saw the great wickedness of the world, It repented him that he had made man on the earth, (Gen. vi. 6,) the expression is to be regarded in this figurative eea^e, as denoting an emotion which in man is called re- pentance, but of which in that sense the divine mind is inca- pable. The purpose of God comprehends all the apparent chanses in his dispensations. REPETITIONS, vain, (Matt. vi. 7,) were short forms or particular expressions in prayer, which the Jews were accustomed to repeat a certain number of times. There are eiill iho.=:e who repeat the Lord's prayer, and other prayers, a great number of times, and REP vainly think that the oftener the prayer is repeated,the more efficacious it is ; i. e. if repeat- ed two hundred times, it will be twice as good as if repeated only one hundred times. It was a maxim among the Jews that he who multiplies prayer must be heard ; but as their prayers were in words or for form merely, they were justly liable to the censure which this passase implies. REPHAIM, (-2 Sam. xxiii. 13,) or valley of the giatits. (Josh. XV. 8; xviii. 16.) A remark- ably fertile valley (Isa. xvii. 5) ■ between Bethlehem and Jeru- salem, formerly inhabited by a race of giants, (Gen. xiv. 5,) and remarkable for two of Da- vid's victories over the Philis- tines. (2 Sam. V. 18—22. IChron. xi. 14; xiv. 9— 11.) REPHIDIM. (Ex. xvii. 1.) One of the stations of the Is raelites, on the western arm of the Red Sea. It is distin guished as the place where water was miraculously sup- plied to the murmuring people, (Ex. xvii. 6;) and, also, for Joshua's victory over Amalek. (Ex. xvii. 8—10.) Here, too, Jethro and his family came to visit Moses, and united with the elders of Israel in acts of worship. (Ex. xviii. 1—12. Comp. Ex. iii. 12.) This place is called Meribah (strife or contention) from the circumstance of the conduct of the Israelites above men- tioned. Modern travellers tell us that the supposed rock from which the water was sup- plied is a beautiful granite, about fifteen feet in height and breadth, and quite insu- lated in a narrow valley, which opens directly into a vast plain; that the Arabs reverence it, and stuff shrubs into the fissures, which become impregnated, as they say, with medicinal vir- tues and of which the camels 526 RES are made to eat when they are sick, for the purpose of restor- ing them. REPROBATE, (Jer. vi.30,) CASTAWAY, (ICor. ix. 27,) or REJECTED, (Heb. vi. 8,) are nearly synonymous. As used, Tit. i. 16, it may mean either that the persons de- scribed are without knowledge, (comp. Jer. iv. 22. Rom. i. 28;) or that, so far as any good works are concerned, they are reject- ed ; or that their sujjposed good works, like base coin, are spu- rious and uncurrent. (2 Cor. xiii. 5—7.) To be reprobate conreming the faith, (2 Tim. iii. 8,) is to prove corrupt, false, or unsound as to the true faiih. RESURRECTION. (1 Cor. XV. 21.) That there shall be a resurrection or raising of the dead, both of the just and un- just, is a fundamental doctrine of the Christian faith, and one of unspeakable importance. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised ; and if Christ is not raised, then is our faith vain ; we are yet in our sins. No truth is more clearly and forcibly presented in the Scriptures, than the resurrection of Jesus Christ. (I.) It was prophesied. (Ps. xvi. 10, 11. Acts ii. 25—32.) (2.) Christ himself repeatedly and distinctly foretold it. (3.) The precautions of his enemies to prevent it; the failure of all these precau- tions, and the measures taken to disprove the event. (4.) The abundant, decided, and con- sistent testimony of witnesses who could not be deceived, and who had no inducement to deceive others, and all this in the face of every danger. (5.) The change which took place in the minds and con- duct of the apostles imme- diately after and in conse- quence of his resurrection ; and (6.) The supernatural evidence RE U arising from the fulfilment of the j)romise that the Holy Spi- rit should be poured out on them. Thus the resurrection of Christ from the dead is clearly proved; and bein? proved, it ratifies and confirms, in the fullest manner, the truth and divinity of his character and mission; shows the efficacy of his atonement; is an evi- dence, earnest, and example of tlie resurrection of his peo- ple (John xiv. 19,) and inv ports that all judgment ia committed into his hand. (Acta xvii. 30, 31.) It is a sufficient answer to the cavils of infidels on this subject, that there is no evidence from reason or the analogy of nature against the resurrection of the dead, while there is much — very much — from both these sources in its favour. Indeed, so deep-rooted is the natural conviction of the human mind on this point, thai no nation, people, or tribe have ever yet been found who do not, in some form, recognise the doctrine of a state of exist- ence after the death of the body ; and this conviction is satisfactorily met only by the simple and sublime doctrine of our holy religion, which brings life and immortality to light. (John V. 28. For a "full and simple exposition of this whole subject, see Susan Ell- maker, or, an ansiter to the question, if a man die, shall HE LIVE AGAIN 1 by Am. S. S. Union.) REUBEN, (Gen. xxix. M,) signifying behold a son, was the eldest son of Jacob and Leah. He lost the privileges of birthright in consequence of a grievous sin, (Gen. xxxv. !S; xlix. 3, 4,) and his poste.- rity WM neither numerous nor powerful. Tribe of, took their portion of the promised land east of Jordan, between Arnon on the REV south, and Jazer on the north, and Gilead east, and Jordan west. It is the same district that is now called Belkah, and is still famous for its pas- turage. REVELATION. (1 Cor. xiv. 26.) An extraordinary and Bupernatural disclosure made by dream, vision, or otherwise. (Dan. ii. 19.) The apostle Paul was favoured with many spe- cial revelations, (2 Cor. xii. 1. Gal. i. 120 but the most full and complete communication of this character was made to the apostle John, when he was a prisoner upon the isle of Patmos ; and it is hence some- times called by way of emi- nence The Book op the Revela- tion. This is the last in the order of the books of the Bible, and is commonly called the Apocalypse, from a Greek word wnich signifies revelation. It is supposed to have been writ- ten about the years 95—96. It is the design of this book to present the prophetic his- tory of the church, until the end of the world ; and it is called the revelation of St. John the divine, because to him was more fully revealed the divine counsels than to any other prophet under the Christian dispensation. It has been ob- served that hardly any one book has received more early, more auihenlic, and more lasting attestations to its ge- nuineness than this; and trie gradual accomplishment of its mysterious predictions are well calculated to afford, in every succeeding age, additional tes- timony to the ilivine origin of the sacred canon. REVENGE, (Jer. xv. 15,) or returnins evil for evil, is e.Y- pressly forbidden by the divine law. (Lev. xix. 17, 18. 1 Pet. iii. 9.) When God is spoken of as a revenger, it is m the iatne sense in which he is said RHO to be furious, or to be a jealous God, or to repent. He does that in infinite justice and holiness, which sinful man does from anger and malice, or other unholy passion or emotion. The term is used to denote the effect of God's dealings, and not the motive. (See Avenge.) REVENGER. (See A- vengb.) REZEPH. (2Kingsxix. 12.) Probably it stood where At' sqffix now is, from twenty to thirty miles west of the Eu- phrates. Rabshakeh mentions It among the cities conquered by the Assyrians. (Isa. xxxvii. REZON, (1 Kings xi.23,) son of Eliadah, revolted from Ha- dadezer, and having enlisted a company of ad venturers, and after making several incur- sions into the country around Damascus, finally succeeded in obtaining the crown, and became a sore vexation to Israel in the days of David and Solomon. RHEGIUM, (Actsxxviii. 13,) now Reggio, is a maritime city of Italy,on the souih-west point, about ten miles from Messina in Sicily, where Paul tarried a day on his way to Rome. In 1782, it was nearly destroyed by an earthquake. It is now a considerable town, with a population of sixteen thousand, and flourishing manufactures. RHODES. (Acts xxi. 1.) An island in the Levant, off the south-west point of Asia Mi- nor, containing a city of the same name. It is forty milea long, and fifteen broad, having a population of eighteen thou- sancl, anciently celebrated for its schools, and for the flou- rishing slate of the arts and sciences, as well as for a co- lossal statue one hundred and five feet in height, standing astride of the harbour's mouth, so that vessels could pass undei RIG It. It stood fifty-six years, and was then overthrown by an earthquake, and the braiss of it loaded nine hundred camels, and weighed seven h und red ana twenty thousand pounds. In the fifteenth century it was the residence of the knights of St. John of Jerusalem. At this island Paul touched, on his way from Miletus to Jeru- salem. It is supposed by some that the name Rhodes is de- rived from the multitude of roses produced on the island. The modern town occupies about a quarter of the site of the ancient city. One of its harbours is still called Rhodes, but no traces of the glory of Rhodes are discernible. RIBLAH. (Num.xxxiv.il.) Probably th« Rebla mentioned by modern travellers on the Orontes, thirty miles south of Hamath. This must at least have been the neighbourhood, as it was on the north-east border of the land, and not far from Hamath. It was doubtless a pleasant place, and therefore chosen by the kings of Babylon as a resi- dence. Pharaoh-necho stoppetJ here, on his return from Car- chemish, (2 Kings xxiii. 33,) and deposed Jehoahaz, put- tine Jehoiakim in his place; and here Nebuchadnezzar abode while Nebuzaradan, his chief commander, laid siege to Jerusalem. Hither the prison- ers were brought, when Ze- dekiah's children and many others were put to death, and that king himself deprived of his eyes and cast into prison. RIGHTEOUSNESS (Isa. xlv. 23) is an essential attri- bute of the divine nature; and as it is frequently used, is near- ly allied to, if not trie same with, justice, holiness, and faithfulness. (Ps.cxix. 142. Isa. xlvi. 13; li. 5, 6. 8; Ivi, 1.) It is also used to denote the per- fect obedience of the Son of 45, RIM God. (Rom. V. 18, 19.) The righteousness ichich is of faith (Rom. x. 6) is the right- eousness which is obtained by the grace of Gud through faith in Jesus Christ, (lirom. iii. 21— 26; X. 4. 10. 2Cor. V. 21. Gal. ii.21.) Righteousness is very commonly ^used for upright- ness and just dealing between man and man, as in Isa. Ix. 17 ; and for holiness of life and conversation, as in Dan. iv. 27. Luke i. 6. Rom. xiv. 17. Eph. V. 9. RIGHT HAND. (Ps.xxi.8.) The right hand is the sym- bol of power and strength; whence the effects of the di- vine omnipotence are often ascribed to the right hand of the Most High. (Ex. xv. 6. Ps. Ixxvii. 10.) The riuht hand commonly denotes the soulh, as the left hand denotes the north. (Gen. xiv. 15.) It is said to have been the custom among the Jews to swear by the right hand, and that this is implied in Isa. Ixii. 8. It was certainly common to swear by the hand. (Gen. xiv. 22. Deut. xxxii. 40.) To give the right hand was a mark of friendship. (Gal. ii. 9.) Hence the force of the expression, (Ps. cxliv. 8,) their right hand is a right hand of falsehood. The right hand lieing a most useful member of the body, especially to labouring men, to cut it off implies the greatest sacrifice. (Matt. v. 30.) To be seated at the right hand is a token of peculiar honour, (1 Kings i*i. 19;) and when the expression is used respecting Christ, (Acts vii. 55,) it implies his unequalled dignity and ex- altation. RIMMON, (Josh. XV. 32,) off- REMMON. (Josh. xix. 7.) l.A city south of Jerusalem, in Ju- dah, belonging to Simeon, re- built after the captivity. 2. RIMMON, or RIMMON- METHOAR. (Josh. xix. 13. RIZ , Chron. vi. 77.) A city of Zebulun, belonging lo tlie L&- viies. 3. (Zech. xiv. 10.) A town m the southern section of Ju- dea, first belonging to Judah, and afterwards to Simeon. (1 Chron. iv. 32.) There were other places in Judea of this nan-e. 1 (2 Kings V. 18.) The name of an idol "worshipped in Da- mascus. Naaman, who was in the habit of attending the king in his idolatrous services in the temple of Rimmon. seems to have been perplexea about a question of duty as to continuing this practice. (See Naaman.) RINGS (Isa. iii. 21) were used for ornaments (James ii. 2) and for seals. (1 Kings xxi. S."* That tlioy were sometimes used formerly as they are in modern times isobvious,(Ezek. ivi. 12;) and we are told that the servant save a golden ear- ring of halt a shekel or a ciuarter of an ounce weight to Kebekah. (Gen. xxiv. 22.) Rings were doubtless worn as ornaments for the hands. (Isa. iii. 20, 21. Luke xv. 22. James ii. 2.) The ring was also a token of authority, and the giving a ring the sign of im- parling auth'oriiv. (Gen. xii. 42. Esth. iii. 10.' 12. Dan. vi. 17. See Clothi.ng.) RING-STRKAKED. (Gen. XXX. 35.) Circularly streaked. RIVER, THE. (Gen. .xxxi. 21 .) The Nile is called by way of pre-eminence the river ; but the term is often used un- connected with any specific name, (Ex. iv. 9;) in which cases the particular river in- tended is to be determined by reference to the place and sub- ject-matter of narration. It is used figuratively to denote freat abundance. (Isa. xlviii. 8. See Egypt, river op.) RIZPAH. (2 Sam. iii. 7.) A concubine of Saul. A very ROM atTipcting evidence of the strength of maternal fu-eling was given by her, when she watched day and niizht, for many months, (probably from March to October,) over tke bodies of iter two sons, who had been put to a violent death by the Gibeonites. (2 Sam. xxi.) KOBE. (See Clothes.) ROD, (Gen. xxx. 37,) or staff. This word has various signifi- cations in the sacred writings. It means a shoot or branch of a tree, and, in this sense, is applied figuratively to Chris', (Isa. xi. 1,") and to the irilcs of Israel as springing from one rcxU, (Ps. Ixxiv. 2. Jer. x. 16;') for tliat which supports and strengthens, (Ps. xxiii. 4. Isa. iii. l."Ezek. xxix. 6;) for power and authority, (Ps. ii. 9; ex. 2; cxxv. 3. Jer. xlviii. 17. Ezek. xix. 14. 1 Cor. iv. 21. Rev. ii. 27;) and afflictions with which Gvxl disciplines his people. (Job ix. 34. Conifi. Heb. xii. 6, 7.) Passing under the bod. (Ezek. XX. 37.) It was the custom of the Jews to select the tenth of their sheep (Lev. xxvii. 32) after this manner. The lamlis were separatenl from the dams, and enclosed in a sheepcote, with only one narrow way out : the dams were at the entrance. On open- ing the gate, the lambs has- tened to join their dams, and a man placed at the entrance with a rod dipped in ochrey touched every tenth lamb, and so marked it witli his rod, say- ing, Let this be holy in the name of the tenth. Aaron's ROD. (See Aaron.) ROE. (See Hart.) ROGEL. (See Enrogel.) ROLL. (Soft Books.) ROLLS, HOUSE OF. (See Hol'sb.) ROMANS, EPISTLE OP Pa PL TO, is the sixth in order of the books of the New Testament It was written at Corinth, a. d 530 fh ROM 57—59, just as he was leaving thai cily for Jerusalem. (Rom. XV. 25. Coinp. Acts xx. 2, 3. 16. Rom. xvi. 11.2:3. 1 Cor. i. 14. 2 Tim. iv. 2U.) The Iloman church was composed partly of converted heathens and nly of Jewish Christians. he Gentile converts claimed the same Christian privileses with the Christian Jews; Fjut refused to submit to tiiose cere- monies which the members of the Jewish church were per- mitted to retain,— such as cir- cumcision, abstinence from Krticular meats, Sec. ice. The wfl also had very false no- tions of the doctrine of justifi- cation through faith. They Bupposeil that their former co- venant relation to God, their knowledge of the Leviiical law, and their obedience to the riles and ceremonies it im- posed, constituted some part of the ground of their acceptance with God. This epistle is designed to correct these mi.sapprehen- sions, and to show that the whole system of Jewish rites and ceremonies is done away by the ffospel dispensation, and that the way of salvation through Christ is opened alike to Jews and Gentiles, and that whosoever will may lake of the water of life freely. RO.ME. (Acts xxviii. 16.) The capital of the Roman em- pire, and once the meiroplished by Coverdale, one of Tyndale's assistants; and Tyndale himself was strangled and burnt in 1.536. In the reisn of Henry VIII. the possession of a copy of Tyndale's translation of the New Testament was sufficient to convict the individual of 550 SCR neresy, and subject bim to the flames. Still, the desire to possess it was so strong that some gave a load of hay for a few chapters of James or Paul's epistles in English. " It was wonderful," says a writer, " to see with what joy this book of God was received, not only among the learned sort, and those who were noted for lovers of the reformation, but gene- rally all England over, among all the vulgar and common people ; and'with what greedi- ness God's word was read, and what resort to places where the reading of it was. Every- body that could, bought the book. 7T ousily read it, or got othera to read i to them," if thev could not themselves; and divers more elderly peo- ple learned to read on purpose, and even little boys flocked among the rest to hpar por- tions of the Holy Scriptures read." In 1537, a revised edi- tion of Tyndale's Bible was published on the continent; and two years afterwards it was also published in England. In 1540 a copy of this Bible was required by law to be placed in every parish church ; but in two years more the papist power succeeded in suppressing it. It was soon re- stored again, and before 1570, was quite common. In 1603, Dr. John Reynolds of Oxford proposed a new trans- lation, and the king (James I.) favoured the suggestion, and appointed fifty-four learned men to do the service. Only forty-seven engaged in the la- bour. They divided themselves into six companies, and assign- ed a portion to each. Each In- dividual of each company was directed to take the same por- tion, and having translated or amended it by himself as he thought good, all were to meet together auJ report what ihey had done, and decide SCR what should stand. When a book was finished by one com- pany, it was to be sent to the rest'to be considered and exa- mined. If a book thus sent was disapproved in any part, it was to be returned to the company, with the objections and proposed alterations noted, and the reasons assigned. If the force of the objections was not perceived, the matter was to be adjusted at the general meeting of all the translator* In cases of special obscurity letters were to be directed, by authority, to any learned men in the land, for their judgment upon the passages. Letters were directed by the bishops to such of their clergy as had the reputation of being skilful in the languages, to send their observations to the translators. In addition to this provision, the vice-chancellors of the uni versities of Cambridge and Ox- ford chose each, at the com- mand of the king, several of the most eminent divines, as general assistants and over- seers of the translation. Great praise has been justly awarded to James for the ex- cellent selection he made for the discharge of a trust so mo- mentous. It was universally al- lowed that the persons chosen were, for the most part, recom mended equally by their skill in the oriental languages, and by a character for judicious dis crimination. Among these, Dr. Reynolds held the first rank; and, indeed, he appears to have been so eminently and vari- ously gifted, that he would have found few equals in any age. His memory was almost rriiraculous, not only for its comprehensiveness, but for the astonishing minuteness of its power, which enabled him to refer not only to pages and paragraphs, but even to the lines of the books he had occa- sion 10 quote. He was pro 551 SCR foundly skilled in the learning and languages of the east ; and from his knowledge of the dia- lects spoken in Judea in the days 01 our Saviour, was admi- rably qualified to furnish cor- rect and natural versions of expressions otherwise obscure. To these great endowments he added sincere and ardent piety, and the most exemplary humility. The regulations under which he work was to be prosecuted were very strictly observed ; the Bible then used in the church being the standard, and not to be altered, even in a letter, unless the sense of the original could be more accu- rately conveyed. For three years the transla- tors were closely engaged ; but of the incidents of their labour little can be gathered from con- temporaneous history, and little was probably known beyond the circle of the translators. A passing remark of Selden fur- nishes nearly all that can now be known of what may be termed the private history of our English Bible : " When they met together, one read the translation, the rest hold- ing in their hands some Bible, either of Greek, or Hebrew, or French, Italian, or Spanish. If they found any fault, they spoke ; and if not, he read on." Three copies of the transla- tion being prepared, they were committed to six persons, se- lected from the translators, who were to review the whole, and select one copy for the press. This service occupied them daily for nine months. The copy thus revised was again examined entirely by two of the most eminent of the trans- lators, viz. the bishop of Win- chester and Dr. Smith, the lat- ter of whom wrote the learned and devout preface which is found in many of our common Bibles. SCR In 1611, the Bible was a* length published, after having been long impatiently expect ed by the people, whose inte- rest in the undertaking can hardly be conceived. Anfl with all proper allowance for thp limited extent of general and especially biblical science in that day, it will probably nevei cease to be regarded as a very honourable monument of the labour, learning, and failhfu> ness of the translators. The title-page of the Old Testament was engraved on copper, and that of the New Testament on wood. The first edition was printed in black letter, folio size ; but a quart© edition, in Roman type, was published as early as 1612. This is the common English translation of the present-day. It is called king James's ves- sion ; and it may be proper to state that among other testi- monials from learned divines of different communions, of its general correctness, are those of Selden, Lowth, Horsley, Walton, Middleton, Geddes, Doddridge, Beattie, Scott, Clarke, and a host of others. Bibles in the United States. The first Bible printed on the continent of America was in native Indian— the New Testa- ment in 1661, and the Old in 1663, both by Rev. John Eliou They were published at Can>- bridge, Mass. The second was in German, a quarto edi- tion, published at German- town, near Philadelphia, by Christopher Sower, in 1676. The first American edition of the Bible in English was printed by Kneeland and Green, at Boston, in 1752, in small quarto, 700 or 800 copies. It was published by Hench- man, a bookseller, but to avoid a prosecution by those who had a patent from "the king, they reprinted the whole title-page of the English copy, incli " SCR flie London imprint. The next edition was by Robert Aitken, ofPhiladelphia, in 1781—2. He sent a memorial to congress graying for their patronage, [is memorial was referred to a committee, who obtained the opinion of the chaplains of :ongress, as to its general typo- graphical accuracy, and there- upon a resolution was passed (Sept. 12, 1782) recommending this edition of the Bible to the people of the United States. The Bible is regarded by all Protestant Christians as the only infallible rule of faith and practice. Having been origin- ally composed by holy men of God, who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost, (2 Pet. i. 21,) and bearing in its own history and character con- clusive testimony that it is so given by inspiration of God, and is not only profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correc- tion, for instruction in right- eousness, but able also to make men wise unto salvation, through faitli that is in Christ Jesus, (2 Tim. iii. 15, 16;) the distribution of it all over the world, in the various tongues spoken by the inhabitants, be- comes an imperative duty. The Christian church general- ly regard it as a true and just translation from the languages in which these sacred books were at first written, and of course receive them as having like authority with the ori- ginals. As to the evidences of the mith of the Bible, the inquirer 18 referred to Alexander's Evidences, The Bible is True, The Infidel Class, and Family Conversations, all published by the Am. S. S. Union. It has been well said of the sacred writings, that the divine authority, majesty, wis- dom, holiness, and goodness discovered therein ; the depth, Hv'- 'amity, purity, and benevo- 47 SCR lence of their matter; their scope, to render all to the glory of God, and crush the corrupt inclinations of man ; the Iran- scendant loftiness of their stylet, even when suited to the capa- city of the weak ; the obvious candour of the writers, in re- lating the weaknesses and faults of themselves and their nation ; their amazing har- mony, though of very ditferent stations and ages, and pub- lishing things contrary to the natural inclinations of menj the attestation of these writ* ings by vast numbers of im- portant, public, and incontest- able miracles ; the joyful suf- ferings of millions for their steadfast adherence thereto; the marvellous preservation of them, and the signal strokes of divine vengeance on such as attempted to destroy them ; their amazing success, pre- vailing over the lusts of men, and furious opposition of world ly power, to the civilizing of nations, and to convince, con- vert, and comfort liie hearts of millions, the most obstinate; the exact fulfilment of the nu- merous, the particular and cir- cumstantial predictions there^- of,— are infallible proofs that they only are the word of God, able to make us wise unto sal- vation. Much interest has been felt in the efforts in modern times to translate and circulate the Scriptures in the various lan- guages of the earth. The num- ber of these lanauajres is esti- mated at 3000, only 80 of which are supposed to be strictly ori- ginal languages, the rest being dialect.s. Of tiiese 1200 are spoken in America, 278 in Af- rica, 545 in Europe, and 1000 in Asia and its islands. The Scriptures are already trans lated into nearly 175. Amon^ these are the English, whicb is spoken by nearly 50,000,000, and partially spoken by 553 SCR 150,000,000; Chinese, which is spoken by 3G0,000,000; Bur- mese, which is spoken by 15 or 20,000,000; and various others. So that probably more than one-hal f of the inhabitants of the world might now read the Bible in their own lan- guage if they could be furnish- ed with it; and it is ready to be sent. The idf a of the formation of the British and Foreign Bible Society, which was organized in 1804, was first suggested by Rev. Thomas Charles, of Bala. He was labouring in connexion with the Welch Methodists, and being on a visit to London in 1802, and feeling very great- ly the need of Bibles to supply Sunday schools, proposed an association f)r the purpose. Such an association was form- ed under the name of the British and Foreign Bible So- ciety. It was called the Bible Society because its object was to distribute the simple Bible without note or comment; British, because its first atten- tion was directed to the supply of Great Britain ; and Foreign, because it proposed, as far as its means would allow, to send the Bible in all languages to all parts of the world. And there are now (1837) more than 5000 kindred institutions, of which 3000 are in Great Bri- tain and Ireland. The society has printed the Scriptures In 121 languages and dialects, in 72 of which they had never before been published. It is now engaged in 56 other trans- lations." Since its establish ment it has circulated nearly 10,000,000 of copies of the sa- dred Scriptures, and has ex pended nearly « 10,000,000. The i.ssues from its depository during the years 1835—6, were at the rate of one copy every minute, and its expenditures exceeded half a million of dol- lars. And yet upwards of SCR 500,000,000 of immortal beingg are without the knowledge of even the existence of this bless- ed volume. The first Bible society in America is said to have been established in 1804, by a fevr Baptists in New York. A Bi- ble was stolen from a pew in a church, and this started the inquiry whether a person might not desire to possess the volume for the sake of reading it, wl» would not wait to get it ho neslly ; and at any rate, whe ther there mi^ht not be a great destitution of the sacred vo lume. A society was formed to purchase and loan Bibles for a month at a time. Many of the public institutions were sup- plied on this plan. The Phila- delphia Bible Society was in- stituted May 8, 1808, and foi many years was the only source of supply for gratuitous distri- bution. It had auxiliaries in several states, and acted as the centre of Bible distribution in this country, till the American Bible Society was formed in ISIG, which has issued (1837) upwards of two millions of Bi- bles and Testaments, or parta of them, and in eleven differ ent languages. Canm qT Scripture. The Scriptures, or sacred writings, were published in separate books, and at different periods, through a space of fifteen hun- dred years. They were col- lected in a volume for conve- nience. In determining their genuineness, each part or book must be examined by itself. In other words, what writings properly constitute the sacred Scriptures'? The word canon literally signifies a rule, and was early used by the Chris- tian fathers to denote the Scriptures, because they form a perfect rule or standard of faith and duty, which Chris- tians regard eis authoritative ; or perhaps because they were 554 SCR legistered in the ecclesiastical canons as genuine. It is gene- rally adiniued that the canon of the Old Testament was set- tled soon after the return of the Jews from Babylon, or about five hundred years before Christ. The following are the ca- nonical books of the Bible, ar- SCR ranged in the order m whick they are published, with the number of chapters in each, and the chronological order according to many critics. It is not pretended, however, that this arrangement is chronolo- gically accurate, nor indeed is it always adopted under the distinct articles in this volume. IN THE OLD TESTAMENT. No. of Chapters Date. No. of Chaptera. Date. Genesis . . 56 . . B.C. 1491 Proverbs 31 . B. C. 1000 Exodus . . 40 . . 1491 Ecclesiastes . 12 . . 975 Leviticus . 27 . . 1490 Song of Solomon 8 . 1013 Numbers . . 36 . , 1451 Isaiah . 66 . . 698 Deuteronomy . 34 . . . 1451 Jeremiah . 62 . . . 688 Joshua . . 24 . . . 1427 Lamentations 5 . . 688 Judges . . 21 . . . 1406 Ezekiel 48 . . 674 Rath . . 4 . . 1312 Daniel . . . 634 1 Samuel . 31 . . . 1055 Hosea . . . 740 2 Samuel . 24 . . . 1018 Joel . . . 800 1 Kings . 22 i.-xi . 1002 Amos . . 787 xii. &c . . 897 Obadiah . 687 2 Kings . . 25 . . 590 Jonah . . 862 1 Chronicles . 29 . . 1015 Micah . . . 750 2 Chronicles . 36 i.-ix . 1004 Nahum . 7)3 X.&C. . 623 Habbakuk . . 626 Ezra . . 10 . . . 457 Zepbaniah . . 630 Nehemiah . 13 . . . 434 Haggai . . . 620 Esther . . 10 . . . 509 Zechariah . 14 .* .* . 620 Job , . . 42 . . Uncertain. Malachi . 4 . . 397 Psalms ; . 150 . . do. IN THE NEW TESTAMENT. Matthew . . 28 . A.D. 38 1 Timothy . 6 . A. D. 64 Mark . . 16 . . . 65 2 Timothy 4 . . . 65 Luke . . 24 . . . 63 Titus. . 3 . 64 John . . 21 . . 97 Philemon . 1 , ee Acb 28 . . . 64 Hebrews . 13 . 63 Romans . 16 . . . 58 James 5 . 61 1 Corinthians . 16 . . . 56 1 Peter . 5 . 64 2 Corinthians . 13 . . . 57 2 Peter . 3 . 65 6 . . . 52 1 John , 5 . 69 Ephesians 6 . . . 61 2 John . 1 . 69 Philippians . Colossians 4 . . . 62 3 John . 1 . 69 4 . . . 62 Jude . 1 . 70 1 Thessalonians 6 . . . 52 Revelation 22 . 96 2 Thessalonians 3 . . , 62 Divisions of the Bible. The dividing of the Old Testament into chapters, as they still stand in our translation, is at- tributed to Cardinal Hugo, who lived about the middle of the thirteenth century, and who did it for convenience of refer- ence in a Latin concordance he was preparing. To refer more easily to a particular sen- tence, he placed the first seven letters of the alphabet along the margin of each page. Rat> bi Nathan, a Jew, for the same convenience of reference to his Hebrew concordance, adopted, in 1438, Hugo's chap- ters, and marked every fifth verse with a figure. In 1661, Athias, a Jew of Amsterdam, in his edition of the Hebrew Old Testament, divided the sections of Hugo into verses, as 556 SCR we now have them. Robert | Stephens, a French printer, | had previously (1551) divided the New Testament into verses as they now stand in the va- rious versions. This division into verses, though very convenient, is not to govern the sense ; and there are several instances in which the sense is injured, if not de- stroyed, by an improper divi- sion. Very often the chapter breaks off in the midst of a nar- rative, and if the reader stops because the chapter ends, he loses the connexion. (Matt. x. 42; xii. 1. Luke xix. 41 — 48; xx.l— 8. Actsxxi.; xxii.; xxiii. Gal.i.23; ii.l.) Sometimes the break is altogether inthe wrong place, and separates two sen- tences which must be taken together in order to be under- stood. (1 Cor. xii. 31 ; xiii. 1. 2Cor. vi. 18; vii.l. Eph.iv.31, 32; v.;, 2. Phil. iii. 2l;iv.l.) Again, the verses often divide a sentence into two different paragraphs, when there ought scarcely to be a comma be- tween them. (Luke iii. 21,22. 2 Cor. vi. 6, 7, &c. 1 Pet. i. 3, 4, &c.) And sometimes a frag- ment of a subject is separated from its proper place, and put where it is without any con- nexion. (Col. iii. 25 ; iv. 1.) The punctuation of the Bible was probably introduced as lately as the ninth century. Contents of the Bible. The numberof books in the OldTes- tament is 39, and in the New 27— total, 66 books. The Old Testament has 929 chapters. New " " 260 " Old Testament, 23.214 New « 7,959 OldTestamen:, 592,439 words. New " 181,253 " SCR Old Testament, 2,728,100 letter*. The word Jehovah, or Lord occurs in the Old Testamem 6855 times. The middle chapter of tne Bible, and the shortest, is Ps. cxvii. ; the middle verse is Fs. cxviii. 8. The middle book of the Old Testament is Pro- verbs ; the middle chapter, Job xxix. ; middle verse, 2 Chron. XX. 17 ; least verse, 1 Chron. i. 25. Middle book of the New Testament is 2 Thess. ; middle verse, Acts xvii. 17; least verse, John xi. 35. Ezra vii. 21, has all the letters of the alphabet. To read the Bible through in a year, we have only to read three chapters every week- day, and five every Lord's-day ; and if we read two chapters in the Old and one in the New every week-day, and six in the Old and four in the New every Sabbath, we shall read the Ola Testament once and the New twice in the year. The Apocri/pha, which is sometimes bound up with the Bible, is a collection of books which were declared to be sanctioned by divine authority as lately as 1550, at a council held at Trent, under the influ- ence of pope Pius IV. The evidence by which their au- thority is supported is so dip ferent from that on which the received books rest, that they are generally rejected as spu- rious, whatever may be tha intrinsic value of their con tents. Jetcish traditionary Scrip- tures. About the year a. d. 180 Jehuda, a Jewish Rabbi, wrote out the received trad itionsof the fathers. This was nearly 1700 years after the giving of the law; and it should be remarked that no force or authority is given to these traditions in the intervening period, during 556 SEA •which Joshua, Samuel, Ezra, and the prophets lived. This work of Jehuua is called the Mishna ; the comnienlary up- on it is called the Gemara ; and these together constitute the Ihimud, which is more highly reverenced by the Jews than even the Old Testament. That traditions are not to be received as of divine authority, is sufficiently clear from our Saviour's language in Mark vii. 1-13. SCROLL. (See Book.) SCURVY. (Lev. xxi. 20, and xxii. 22.) The disease known by this name, in modern times, is usually caused by long con- finement in cold and damp climates, without fresh pro- visions. In the progress of it, the skin becomes dry and scaly, and livid spots appear. Probably, this appearance of the skin is all that is denoted by the use of the word scurvy in the passages cited. SCYTHIANS. (Col. iii. 11.) A name used indefinitely by ancient writers, sometimes to denote all the nomadic tribes that roamed over the countries north of the Black and Cas- pian seas, and sometimes to a f)articular people remarkable or their rude and barbarous condition. SEA. (Isa. xi.15.) This term is applied, by the sacred writ- ers, to lakes, rivers, and any large collection of water, as well as to seas properly so called. (Isa. xxi. 1. Jer. li. 36.) In the passage from Isaiah first above cited, it is used for the Nile at that point which is called the Delta. The sea and the west denoted the same thing to the Hebrews, on ac- count of their position in re- gard to the Mediterranean. (See Salt Sea.) Great Sea, (Num. xxxiv. 60 or Sea of the Philistines, jEx. xxiii. 31,) is the Mediler- jranean or Western Sea, a large 47* SEA body ol water between the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa, (whence its name, which signifies Mid-land.) On its northern shore are several gulfs or seas, as the Adriatic, the Ionian, the Egean, &c. Its length from east to west is about two thousand miles ; and its breadth varies from four to eight hundred miles. About midway, on its eastern shore, was the land of Canaan. Sea of the plain, or Salt SEA, called also the East Sea, and Sea of Sodoin. (See Salt Sea.) Sea op Merom. (See Me- ROM.) Sea, brazen. (See Laver.) SEAL. (1 Kings xxi. 8.) This was usually employed to au- thenticate public or private papers. (Jer. xxxii. 10.) If a door or box was to be sealed, it was first fastened with some ligament, upon which clay or wax was spread, and then im- pressed with a seal or signet. Frequently a ring with some inscription on it was used as a seal, by the del i very or trans- fer of which the highest offices of the kingdom were bestowed. (Gen. xli. 42. Esth. iii. 10.) In sealing the sepulchre, (Matt, xxvii. 66,) it is probable that the fastening of the stone which secured the entrance . was covered with clay, cr wax, and so impressed with a public or private seal, tb it any violation of it could De discovered at once. (See Li t- TERS.) IModern travellers describe the seals used in the east, at the present day, as made of cornelian, or agate, with the name or title of the writer, or some verse of the Koran, or other motto, engraved upon it. (2 Tim. ii. 19.) It is fastened into a ring, and worn on the hand. (Sol. Song viii. 6.) "When used, it is either applied to the wax, or is covered with some 557 SEA substance, which, being stamp- ed on the paper, leaves the desired impression. The fol- lowing is a cut of an eastern signet, or seal-ring. The word seal is used figu- ratively in the Bible, to denote an act, or token, or process of confirmation. (Rom. iv. 11. Eph. iv. 30.) SEARED. (ITim. iv. 2.) To sear tiesh is to cauterize or burn it, and thus deprive it of the power of sensation. As used in the passage cited, it denotes the effect of habitual sin, by which the conscience becomes so hardened and stu- pified, as to be insensible to the most enormous guilt and the most fearful threatenings of punishment. SEASONS. (Gen. i. 14.) The year is very conveniently di- vided by Hebrew writers into six seasons, which are all men- tioned in the promise made to Noah : seed-time, harvest, cold, heat, summer, icinter. (Gen. viii. 22.) There is the same division among the Arabs at this day. The first season, or harvest, is from the middle of April u. .til near the middle of June. D iring this period the sky is clear, the air warm, -rd even hot in the valleys and on the coast, very much like the be- ginning of summer with us. As it proceeds, the heat in the plains is severe. The second season, or the heat, is from the middle of June to the middle of August. The Arabs call this the vernal summer. The heat now in- creases, and the nights are so warm that the people sleep in SEA the open air upon the roofs of their houses. The third season, or s«7?t- mer, (season of fruits,) is from the middle of August to the middle of November. The intensity of the heat is greater, almost intolerable. Towards the end ©f summer the nights begin to be cool. During these three periods, up to the beginning or middle of September, there are no showers, rain being as scarce in summer as snow. (1 Sam. xii. 17.) Hence the proverb, Prov. xxvi. 1. From the end of April until September no* a cloud is to be seen upon the face of the heavens. During all this time the earth is moist ened by the dew, which is, therefore, a frequent emblem of Divine grace and goodness. Sometimes a cloud appears in the morning; but it disappears with the dew as soon as the sun exerts its power. (Hos. vi. 4.) The dry grass of the fields sometimes takes fire, and pro- duces desolating conflagration ; and the parched earth is cleft and broken into chasms. This is more particularly the case when the east wind blows. (.Gen. xli. 6. Hos. xiii. 15.) Between the middle of Sep- tember and the middle of Oc- tober there are two or three days of rain, which suffices to refresh all nature, so that the whole land is clad in verdure. This prepares the earth for The fourth season, or seed- time,\^\\\ch includes from early in October until early in De- cember. This begins with the former or early rain, which is so needful for tlie sower. In the early part of this period it is still quite hot, so that all jour- neys are made by night, as the temperature is then agreeable, and the sky is clear. As the year advances, however, there are alternations of heat and cold, as with us in autumn. The 658 SEA weather becomes unsettled, and there are fogs and clouds, even when there is no rain. In the mountains, snow some- times falls towards ihe middle of December. The streams are still small, and many of their channels altoeether dry. In the latter part orNovember the trees lose their foliage, and fires are made towards the last days of seed-time. The fifth season, or whiter, includes from the middle of December until the middle of February. Snow falls, but sel- dom lies ui5on the ground a day, except in the mountains. (Ps. cxlvii. 17.) In shady places the ice will occasion- ally bear a man's weight, but thaws as soon as the sun rises upon it. The roads are very bad. (Matt. xxiv. 20.) The eevere cold lasts about forty days, from the 12th of Decetri- ber to the 20th of January. The north wind is now exceed- ingly penetrating. (Gen. xxxi. 40.) Yet, in the level coun- try, when the sun shines, it is Siite warm. Josephus says at in his day it was as warm at Cesarea, on the coast, in winter, as at other places in summer. In this season hail and thunder storms are com- mon ; the brooks rise, and all the streams fill their chan- nels. Towards the end of January the fields become green, and there is every appearance of approaching spring. In the early part of February the trees are in leaf; and before the middle of the month some fruit trees are in blossom, first the almond, then the apricot, peach, and plum. Other trees blossom in March. The sixth and last season, or the cold, includes from the middle of February until the middle of April. It is still cold, but less so, and the spring may be said to have arrived. The heats of noon are greater SEA and greater, especially m the flat country. The rains con- tinue, but in smaller and smaller quantities. Thunder and hail are more frequent. Towards the close of this pe- riod the rains cease, and the last fails in the early part of April, and is called the latter rain, which seems to give strength to the filling grain. The crops of gram are as much advanced in February as with us in May and June. The wheat and barley have at this time nearly attained their height. The grain has fully ripened in the southern part of Pales- tine by the middle of April, and in the northern and moun- tainous parts three weeks later; and sometimes when the sowing has been in Janu- ary, the grain does not come to maturity before July or August. tJpon the sixteenth day after the first new moon in April, there was a solemn presenta- tion made to the Lord of the first sheaf of ripe barley. The grain, however, as we may readily suppose, was mature, sometimes earlier and some- times later. It was common to reckon four months from seed-time to harvest. The cutting and securing the grain was carried on for about seven weeks, that is, from the Pass* over until Pentecost, which last is therefore called the feast of weeks. This was a season of very great enjoyment and festivity, when the harvest had been plentiful. The reap- ers, that is to say, the children, slaves, and other domestics, indulged in mirth, joined in songs suitable to the occasion, and" in congratulations to the master of "the harvest. (Ps. cxxvi. Isa. ix. 3.) The grain was then gathered and bound into sheaves, as with us. (See Biblical Antiq,0ities, vol, i 559 SEA ch. i. § 3, and Evening Recre- ATioNS, vol. i. pp. 78—82, both by Am. S. S. Union.) SEATS. (Malt.xxi. 12.) The nations of the east seat them- selves upon the mats or car- pets with which their floors are covered. In the houses of the rich there are spread pillows, or cushions, stuffed with cotton ; or in some cases, a broad, but very low, sofa or divan, with arms, stuffed cushions, and cosily orna- ments. Upon these divans, as well as upon the floor or grouud, they sit with the legs bent under, and crossed, in a half- kneeling posture. (Seep. 561.) The ancient Hebrews used the posture which has just been described. After the captivity, however, the rich and noble adopted the Persian method of lying down at table upon couch- es, (Amos vi. 4,) which was like- wise practised by the Greeks and Romans. In the passage of Amos, it is said of the luxurious sinners who lived nearly eight hundred years before Christ, they lie upon beds of ivory ^ and stretch themselves upon their couches. These beds of ivory were probably divans, such as those above mentioned, but richly decorated with ivory. They used at table very low and broad divans, and the guests stretched themselves at full length. Each divan held three persons. The back was supported by a cushion, and the face so turned towards the table, that the head was held up with the left hand upon another cushion. The right hand was thus free to reach the food. The second person lay with the back part of his head towards the breast of the former; and the third, in like manner, with the back part of his head towards the second. Thus they lay, so to speak, in the bosoms of their neighbours. (.Luke xvi. 23. John xiii. 23.) SEA This was the ordinary posture at meals, and the feet of the guests were distant from the table. Hence we can readily form an idea of the scene in Luke vii. 38. The following cut shows the reclining position; and those on the next page show the present Turkish method of sitting at meal and in conver- sation. In the eating room there were commonly three such divans: the middle place of the middle divan was account- ed most honourable. This was the seat which the Pharisees so much affected at feasts. (I Sam. ix. 22. Matt, xxiii. 6. Luke xiv. 8, 9.) At the pre- sent day, the corner of the bed-divan is the seat of dig- nity, and so it was in ancient times among the Hebrews, at least upon ordinary occasions. (Amos iii. 12.) This manner of reclining at meals, it ja believed, was not imitated by the women, tliough some doubt upon this point is suggested by Esih. vii. 8. It is to "be re- membered in this connexion, that the Hebrew women, like those of Greece, ate in a sepa- rate apartment. (Esih. i. 9.) Moses' seat (Malt, xxiii. 2) is a figurative expression, de- noting" the assumption of the same authority or office as Le- longed to Moses. 560 SEB SEB SEBA. (Isa. xliii. 3.) A pe- ninsular district of African Ethiopia, deriving its name from the eldest son of Cush, (Gen. X. 7,) who is supposed to have been the progenitor of the Ethiopians. It is called Seba by the Hebrews, and by the Romans, Mero6. Its wealth is alluded to by the sacred writ- ers, (Ps. Ixxii. 10;) and this circumstance, as well as the remarkable stature of the peo- ple, (Isa. xlv, 14,) is confirmed by profane history. (See She- BA.) 561 SEL SEBAT, or SHEBAT. (See Month.) SECT, (Acts V. 17,) or party, not necessarily implying any fundamental error of doctrine. Christianity was originally con- sidered as a new sect of Juda- ism; lienceTenulUis, accusing Paul before Felix, says that he wad chief of the seditious sect of the Nazarenes, (Acts xxiv. 5;) and the Jews of Rome said to the apostle, when he arrived in that city, that as to this sect, it was everywhere spoken against. (Acts xxviii. 22.) The word heresy in Acts xxiv. 14, is the same in the original with the word sect in Acts xxiv. 5; so that the apostle replies di- rectly to the argument of Ter- tuUus, and admits that, after the manner of a sect, produc- ing division and schism, as my persecutors say, so worship 1 the God of my fathers. SEED, MINGLED. (Lev. xix. 19.) Travellers tell us that wo- men are employed in Aleppo and elsewhere in cleansing the mingled seed from all admix- ture, to prepare it for sowing. SEED-TlIVlE.(SeeSEASONs.) SEIR, MOUNT. 1. (Gen. xiv. 6.) A most rugged and desolate chain of mountains, stretching from the southern shore of the Dead Sea to the eastern gulf of the Red Sea. Mount Hor was one of its summits; and the Hivites are mentioned among its inhabiunts, and one of this people was named Seir. (See Edom, Hor.) 2. (Josh. XV. 10.) Another mount Seir was situated near Kirjath-iearim. SELA,orSELAH. (SeeJoK- THEEL.) SELAH. (Hab. iii. 3. 9. 13.) This word, which occurs no less than seventy-four times in the Hebrew text of the Psalms, is generally construed to be a note of admiration, demanding a solemn pause. It is usual- ly placed at some remarkable SEP passage, and seems designed to excite and quicken the at- tention and observation. If, as is very probable,the tunes were expressly composed for the words, such pauses and chang es of voice would be observed as were most adapted to pye them proper emphasis; and the most impressive and important passages would naturally be repeated. SELEUCIA. (Acts xiii. 4) A city of Syria, on the shores of the Mediterranean, west of Antioch, and near the mouth of the Orontes. SENATE. (Acts v. 21.) An assembly of aged and experi- enced men, not membera of the general council, but called in on a particular emergency. They may have been the same class with those called elders of Israel, (Acts iv. 8,) and elders g^ tlie Jews. (Acts xxv. 15.) Such persons are called sena- tors, Ps. cv. 22. SENNACHERIB (2 Kings xviii. 13) was king of Assyria when Hezekiah reigned in Ju- dah. He was the son and suc- cessor of Shalmaneser; and having invaded and laid waste much of the kingdom of Judah, was contemplating an attack on the capital. Hezekiah, in this extremity, proposed to ca- pitulate on certain terms ; but Sennacherib treated his em- bassy with the utmost inso- lence. Hezekiah made sap- plication to God for deliver- ance, and his prayer was an- swered, (2 Kings xix. 20;) for the Assyrian army was mira- culously cut off, Sennacherib hastily retreated to Nineveh, and was finally assassinated by his own sons while he was eneaeed in idolatrous worship. (2Kih2Sxix. 37.) SEPHARVAIM. (2 Kings xvii. 24.) A province of Meso- potamia, whence colonies emi- grated to Canaan after the la raelites were carried beyoad 562 SER the Euphrates by Shalmane- eer. The Sepharvaim of the Bible is supposed to be the same with the Siphara of pro- fane hisiory. SEPULCHRE. (See Buri- al.) SERAPHIM. (Isa. vi. 2. 6.) This is the name given by the prophet to the spirits which waited by the throne of the Lord, as they appeared in his sublime and wonderful vision. The number of them is not etated ; but the description, their appearance, their song of praise, the effect produced upon and within the temple by the voice of one of them, the office which another exe- cuted towards the prophet him- eelf, and, indeed, the whole Bcene, justifies the opinion that they were from the most ex- alted order of the angelic host. (Heb. i. 7.) SERGEANTS. (Acts xvl 35. 38.) This was a class of public officers under the Roman go- vernment. They were appoint- ed to carry the fasces, or bun- dle of rods, before the supreme magistrates, and to inflict the Eunishment of scourging and eheadins upon criminals. SERGIUS PAULUS (Acts xiii. 7) was proconsul or deputy- governor of the island of Cy- prus, a province of the Roman empire. He was a man of in- telligence and candour, (for this the word prudent imports,) and sought to hear the gospel from the apostles who were at the island— probably from curi- osity, or from a laudable desire to obtain information of the new religion from its advocates and professors. An impostor of considerable influence, named Elymais, finding his own occu- pation in danger, attempted to controvert the doctrines of the apostles, and to divert or pre- judice the mind of the govern- or. For his sin in this respect. be was severely rebuked ana SER punished by the immediate in- terposition of Providence, (see Barjesus;) and such was the effect of the whole scene upon the mind of the governor, that he embraced the faith of the gospel. SERPENT. (Gen. iii. 1.) An animal distinguished for its subtlety, (Matt. x. 16,) as well as for the instinctive dread which it inspires in man and in most animals. Three hun- dred species are known, the largest of which are indeed terrific in their power and venom. About one-sixth of all the species known are venom- ous. The devil is called the ser- pent, and the old serpent, (Rev. xii. 9. 14, 15,) probably in allu- sion to his subtlety and malice, and also to the fact that in tempting our first parents to disobey God, he employed a serpent, or assumed the form of one. (2 Cor. xi. 3.) The serpent is used by the sacred writers as an emblem of wickedness, (Matt, xxiii.33,) cruelly, (Ps.lviii. 4. Prov. xxiii. 32. Eccl. X. II .) and treachery. (Gen. xlix. 17.) Serpent, brazen, (Num. xxi. 9,) was erected by Moses in the camp of Israel, at the express command of Jehovah. As a punishment fur their mur- muring and rebellion, God sent into the midst of the camp a venomous serpent, called Jicry probably from the effect of its bite. Modern travellers who have passed through the valley where this judgment was suf- fered by the Israelites, assure us from the Arabs and from their own observation, that a I vast number of serpents infes» it. The destruction of life was fearful, and the people sought to Moses to intercede for their deliverance. To tpst the sin- cerity of their penitence. Mo- ses was commanded to make a serpent of brass, resembling 563 SER the serpents which were among them, and put it upon a pole, thai it might be seen from all parts of the camp; and then whoever was bitten should be healed by simply looking at the brazen figure : and it was accordingly done, and all the promised'effecis followed. This Eassage of history is alluded to y our Saviour in the most in- terestiner and instructive man- ner. (John iii. 14, 15. For a fiill illustration of this subject, Bee The Brazen Serpent, by Am. S. S. Union.) In Egypt and other eastern countries, the serpent was the common symbol of power. Hence it was embroidered on the robes of kings. It was also an object of religious worship; and is often seen on ancient medals and relics, as symboli- cal of power. Rites were de- vised and temples built to its honour; and priests were ap- pointed to conduct the ceremo- nies. These miserable idola- ters appeared before the altars of their contemptible deity in gorgeous vestments,their heads adorned with serpents, or with the figures of serpents embroi- dered on their tiaras, when the creatures tliemselves were not to be had ; and in their frantic exclamations cried out; in evi- dent allusion to the triumph which the old serpent obtained over our first mother, Eva,Eva. So completely was Satan per- mitted to insult our fallen race, that the serpent, his chosen agent in accomplishing our ruin, was actually raised to the first place among the dei- ties of the heathen world, and reverenced by the most solemn acts of worship. The figure of the serpent adorned the portals of the proudest temples in the east. Serpent-worship in its origin was probably depreca- tory; suETgesied by traditionary fears, which regarded the ser- pent as the personification of SER all evil. They worshipped his ima^e to avert the evil he might do them. The following cuts and that under the article Pitcher ex- emplify the forms in which the image of the serpent was anciently preserved in the east. t The cut on the following page is copied from the altar of an idol god found in the 664 SER SER ruins of Herculaneum. The serpent is represented as glid- ing round tlie altar, and con- Buming the figs or other fruits Ihat are offered in sacrifice. SERVANT. (Gen. ix. 26.) The Hebrews had several kinds of servants: (1.) Bond- men and bondwomen, pro- cured from the heathen. (Lev. XXV. 44 — 46.) The Gibeoniies were cursed with a perpetual bondage to a particular service, (Josh- ix. 23,) as a punish- nient for the deception which they practised on Joshua and the elders of Israel. It seems reasonable to suppose that every proselyted and circum- tised servant obtained his liberty on the same conditions 83 a Hebrew servant. The 48 Mosaic law provided that ser- vants and prisoners, of all de- scriptions, went out free at the jubilee; and the punish- ment of one who should steal a fellow being, to seil him for a slave, was death. <^Ex.xxi.l6. See art. Feasts, IF Jubilee.'* (2.) The second class of ser- vants among the Hebrews were bondmen and boiidmaidens of their brethren. The term of service for these could, in no event, be longer than six years ; unless in the case of the ser- vant, who expressed an utter unwillingness to leave his mas- ter. (See"Ex. xxi. 5, 6.) (3.) The third class of Hebrew servants were hirelings, whose ordinary time of service seems to have been three years, as ia 565 SER Inferred from its being said that the bondman of six years was worth a double hired servant. (Deut. XV. 18.) But this seems to be a slender foundation for Buch an opinion. It might, indeed, have been customary to hire for three years; but of this there is no intimation besides in the whole Bible. Hired servants, therefore, were probably employed, as was customary in the lime of Christ, by the day, by the month, by the year, or for any term of years that might be agreed upon. It can scarcely be denied that there were persons held in involuntary servitude by the Hebrews, from the earli- est times. The government of the master was strictly patriarchal, and secured the safety and comfort of his nu- merous retinue. Great care was taken to secure for them civil and religious privileges. (Ex. XX. 10. Ex. xxi. 20. 26^27. Deut. xii. 18; xvi. 11.) Involun- tary servitude originated, pro- bably, in one or more of the following ways: 1. By being taken captive in war, which is by many sup- posed to have been the earliest kind of servitude. (Deut. xx. 14; xxi. 10.) 2. By becoming insolvent debtors. (2Kinesiv. 1. Isa. 1. 1. Matt, xviii. 2o.) 3. By the crime of theft, when the offender's property did not amount to the lawful equivalent. (Ex. xxii. 3. Neh. V. 4, 5.) 4. By man-stealing,a9 when free men, by deceit or violence, were made slaves. In Ex. xxi. 16, death is fixed as the punish- ment of this crime; but the pe- nalty is more fully expounded in Deut. xxiv. 7, and restricted to the case where the thief, by offering the slave for sale, or keeping him confined, evinces SEV his determination not to libe- rate him. 5. By being descended from a married slave. Such slaves were called home-born, boinin the house, son of the bondwo- man, or son of the house. Abra- ham had noless than three hun- dred and eighteen. (Gen. xiv. 14; XV. 3; xvii. 23; xxi. 10.) 6. By sale, as when a free man, who could not get a live- lihood, sold himself as a slave. A Hebrew might thus sell him- self, not only to a rich man of his own nation, but also to a foreigner residing in Palestine, though not for a longer term than six years, as already in- timated. The condition of such a one was plainly dis- tinguished from that of other slaves. (Lev. xxv. 39.) Even captives in war seem to have been sold, and those who had a right to the booty received only the price. (Num. xxxi- 12. 26-28.) In the east, during a meal, the servants stand with great silence and respectful demean- our before the master of the house, receiving hia tokens and obeying his orders. By eastern custom the commands of the master are communi- cated chiefly by signs, and these are regarded with singu- lar earnestness and attention by domestics. This illustrates the words of the psalmist. (Ps. cxxiii. 2.) Hence also the expressiveness of the phrase to stand before the Lord, that is to serve hitn. SERVITOR. (2Kingsiv.43.) A servant. SETH, (Gen. v. 3,) son of Adam and Eve, was born when Adam was one hundred and thirty years old, and lived nine hundred and twelve years. Tradition ascribes to Seth the invention of letters. SEVEN. (Gen. xli. 2.) As from the beginning this was (•66 SHA ihe number of days in the week, so it has ever in Scrip- ture a sort of emphasis attached to it, and is very often and generally used as a round number, or, as some would say, a. perfect number. Clean leasts were taken into the ark ty sevens. (Gen. vii. 2.) Theyears of plenty and famine in Eeypt were marked by seven's. (Gen. xli. 2, 3.) With the Jews, not only was there a seventh day sabbath, but every seventh year was a sabbath, and every seven times seventh year was a jubilee. Their sreat feasts of unleavened bread and of tabernacles were observed for seven days; the number of animals in many of their sacrifices was limited to seven. The golden candlestick had sevenhra.nches. Seven priests with seven trumpets went around the walls of Jericho seven days; and seven times on the seventh day. In the Apocalypse we find seveji churches addressed, seven can- dlesticks, seven spirits, seven stars, seven seals, seven trum- pets, seven thunders, seve7i vials, seven plagues, and seve?i angels to pour them out. Seven is often put for any round or whole number, just as we use ten, or a dozen ; so in 1 Sam. ii. 5. Job v. 19. Prov. xxvi. 16. 25. Isa. iv. 1. Jer. xv. 9. Matt. xii. 45. In like man- ner seven times, or seven-fold, means often, abundantly, com- pletely. (Gen. iv. 15. 24. Lev. xxvi. 24. Ps. xii. 6; Ixxix. 12. Matt, xviii. 21.) KnA seventy times seven is still a higher superlative. (Malt.xviiL21,22.) SHAARAIM. 1. (I Chron. iv. 31.) A city of Simeon, and probably the same with Sha- raim, which at first belonged to Judah. (Josh. xv. 36.) 2. (1 Chron. viii. 8.) A de- scendant of Benjamin, and the ancestor of a numerous and powerful people. (1 Chron, viii. 8-28.) SHADOW. (Heb.x.l.) Sha- dows or types signify those events or institutions by which some other future event or institution is represented to us. The thing thus represent- ed to us is called the anti-type. For example — the slaying of the paschal lamb for the sins of the Jewish worshippers was a broad and striking repre- sentation of the sacrifice of the Lamb of God for the sins of th world. In determining wha is typical, there is no safe rule but the declaration of the inspired writers themselves. When they authorize a typical construction, it may be safely applied, but not otherwise. (See Types.) SHADRACH. (See Abed- NEGO.) SHALLUM. (2Kinssxv. 10.) The murderer of Zachariah kingof Judah, and the usurper of his crown. At the end of the first month of his reign, he was himself murdered by Men- ahem. SHALIWAN. (See Shal- MANESER.) SHALMANESEK, (2 Kings xvii. 3,) king of Assyria, was probably the son of Tielath- pileser. He commenced his reign b. c. 724, and reiened fourteen years. He found the countries of Israel and Judah entirely open to invasion. He had compelled Hoshea, king of Israel, to pay him an annual tribute: but. at last, being weary of this exaction, Hoshea combined secretly with the king of Egypt to resist it. Shalmaneser brought an army against him, ravaged Samaria, besieged Hoshea in his capi- tal, and notwithstanding his lone resistance of three years, (2 Kings xvii.— xviii. 9—12,) he took the city, put Hoshea into bonds, and carried away the 567 SHA people beyond the Euphrates. He thus ruined the city and kingdom of Samaria, which had subsisted two hundred and fifty-four years, (iKings xviii. 9, 10,) from b. c. 970 to 717. He was succeeded by his son Sennacherib. Some suppose that Shahnan (Hos. x. 14) is the same with Shalmaneser. SHAMBLES. (1 Cor. x. 25.) A meat market. SHARON. (IChron. xxvii. 29.) An exceedingly beauti- ful and fertile plain stretching along the Mediterraneanshore, south of mount Carmel, from Cesarea to Joppa. Its fertility and beauty are often alluded to by the sacred writers. (1 Chron. v. 16; xxvii. 29. SoL Song ii. 1. Isa. xxxiii. 9; xxxv. 2.) In the spring of 1834, Mr. Thompson, an American mis- sionary, passed over this plain. The view of it from a high tower in Ramla is thus de- scribed : " The whole valley of Sha- ron, from the mountains of Jerusalem to the sea, and from the foot of Carmel to the hills of Gaza, is spread before you like a painted map, and is ex- tremely beautiful, especially at evenins, when the last rays of the setting sun gild the dis- tant mountain tops, the weary husbandman returns from his labour, and the bleating flocks come frisking and joyful to their fold. At such a time I eaw it, and lingered long in jiensive meditation until the stars looked out from the sky, and the cool breezes of eve- ning began to shed soft dew.s on the feverish land. What a paradise was here when Solo- mon reigned in Jerusalem, and eang of the roses of Sharcm ! And what a heaven upon earth will be here again, when He that is greater than Solomon shall ait on the throne of David hia father; for in his days shall SHE the righteous flourish, and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth." SHA VHE. (Num. vi. 9.) The custom of shaving the head as a token of deep affliction is very ancient. (Job i. 20.) It seems, however, to have been generally significant of repent- ance and humiliation for sin, or of bondage and reproach. (Jer. xlviii. 37.) SHEAR. (See Sheep.) SHEBA, (1 Kings x. 1,) or the Saba of prolane history. A province in the northern gart of Arabia, between the .ed Sea and the Indian Ocean. It was probably settled by Sheba, a descendant of Shem, and the inhabitants are called Sabeans. (Job i. 15.) The queen of Sheba may well be supposed to have some traditional know- ledge of true religion; and, in the commercial intercourse of her country with that of the Hebrews, might have heard much of the wisdom and piety of Solomon, the wisest man and one of the greatest kings that ever lived on the earth. To see and converse with him, she undertook a journey from what was then regarded as the uttermost parts of the earth. (Matt. xii. 42.) Of this jour- ney the present Ethiopians or Abyssines, who are Christians of the Greek church, have very ancient traditions. Among the princely presents she made to Solomon, were gold, ivory, and spices; and the Sabeans were celebrated, on account of their important commerce in these very products, among the Greeks also. (Ps. Ixxii. 1(£ 15. Isa. Ix. 6. Jer. vi. 20. Ezek. xxvii. 22. Joel iii. 8.) SHECHEM, 1. A PLACB, (Gen. xxxiii. 18,) or SYCHEM, (Acts vii. 16,) or SYCHAR, (John iv. 5,) was one of the most ancient cities of Canaan. The change tOiS'//fAar(aSyrJac word signifying drunkenness 563 SHE and falsehood) was made by the Jews to stigmatize the vices of the place, which were drunk- enness, lying, and idolatry. Its more modern name is Ne- apdis, and it is at present known as Nabloiise, or Nap- lotise. It is situated from thirty- five to forty miles northerly from Jerusalem, and was made the capital of the kingdom of Israel in the reign of Jeroboam. Shechem is associated with some of the most interesting events of patriarchal times, (Gen. xlix. 29— 3-2; 1.13. Josh. xxiv. 1. 32. Judg. ix. 46-49;; and also for one of the most interesting of our Lord's dis- courses, (John iv. 4—42,) the result of which was the con- version of several of the Sa- maritans to the true faith. (Johniv. 39. 41.) Shechem is situated between mount Ebal on the north and Gerizim on the south. The modern town has two long streets runnin" paral'.el with the valley. Nothing can be finer, travellers assure us, than the view of the city from the heights around it. As it is ap- proached from the hills, it ap- pears luxuriantly emljosomed in the most delishiful and fragrant bowers, half concealed by rich gardens and by stately trees, collected into groves, all around the bold and beautiful valley in which it stands. It contains six mosques, a church of the Greek Christians, pub- lic baths, and a variety of manu- feclories of soap, clothes, &c. The population is estimated at eight or ten thousand, gene- rally Mohammedans. A dozen or fifteen Jews are found there ; fifty to one hundred Greek Christians, and, perhaps, forty Samaritans. These last have a synagogue, where they have service every Saturday. They have also a school, where their language is taught. They de- fend their worship on Geri- 4S* SHE zim by Deut. xxvii. 4, where, for the word Ebal, they put Gerizim, alleging that the Jews fraudulently inserted Ebal in their Scriptures, out of contempt and prejudice towards their nation. The Samaritans, notwith- standing their enmity against the Jews, joined them in their revolt again.st the Komans, and, in the issue, eleven thou- sand of them were put to the sword by the Romans on mount Gerizim, where they had posted themselves, trust- ing, like the Jews, to the pro- tection of their temple. Under the emperor Justinian, another revolt took place, in the course of which one hundred thou- sand of them were slain, or sold as slaves, converting their once fertile province into a wilderness. A remnant, how- ever, rallied on mount Geri- zim, and are still found there. In 1811, it was estimated that not more than two hundred Samaritans were known at the then present day; and that these reside partly at Shechem and partly at Joppa. It is said they have synagogues in Da- mascus, Cairo, &c. ; but it is not on authentic evidence. In their manners, rites, and reli- gious ceremonies, they adhere strictly to the Mosaic law. Instead of the temple at Jeru- salem, they worship on mount Gerizim, where, in more pros- perous limes, they celebrated their festivals, and offered sa- crifices. The worship of one God, circumcision, the purifi- cations, and feasts, (except the Purim and the feast of the dedication,) they have in com- mon with the Jews. They be- lieve in the existence of an- gels, in a resurrection and future retribution, and expect the coming of a Messiah, in whom they look only for a pro- phet. Their priests are of the tribe of Levi, and are treated 569 SHE as superiors. On account of their poverty, their only sacri- fice is a lamb on the feast of Pentecost. In the synagogue, the Samaritan dialect is used ; but they generally speak Ara- bic, and they are distinguished by a white turban. They sup- Srt themselves by mechanical 3our, and by money deal- ings. They avoid any con- nexions with other sects, and marry only among their own nation. Each man is allowed two wives on his first mar- riage ; but on the death of one of "them, he cannot marry again. In case both of them die, he is suffered to have one wife. (SpeEBAL, Samaritans.) The Samaritans at Shechem were visited by Mr. Fisk, an American missionary, in the autumn of 1S23. He says, " We went to visit the Sa- maritans, having first sent to the kohen, or priest, to know if a visit would be agreeable. He received us in a neat apart- ment, and we immediately en- tered into conversation. Ten or twel ve other members of the sect soon came in. Our con- versation was in Arabic. They represent the number of their houses to be twenty or thirty. They all speak Arabic, but their books and public prayers are in Samaritan. They call their language Hebrew, and that which we call Hebrew they call Jewish ; for they say their language is the true He- brew in which the law was given. The difl'erence con- sists in the use of a different alphabet and diflerent pro- nunciation. They go three times a year to mount Gerizim to worship; but do not offer sacrifices there now, as they did formerly, lest they should be molested by the Turks. But they offer their sacrifices, in a more private way, in the ty. On the former occasions tl ley meet before sunrise, and SHE continue reading the law until noon. We understood them to say, that they have no dail^ sacrifice. We visited their synagogue. It is a small, dark, but rieat room, with an altar, but without seals. We were obliged, before entering, to pull off not only our over-shoes, but also our slippers, which are not prohibited even in mosques. They expect a Messiah, who is to be a prophet and king, but a mere man, to live one hundred and twenty years, as Moses did, and to reign at Naplouse over all the world. Those who do not receive him are to be destroyed with the sword. The promise concern- ing the woman's seed does not, they believe, refer to the Mes- siah ; but that concernins a prophet like unto Moses does refer to him, as does also that concerning Siuloh. (Gen. xlix. 10.) They admit the sense of this passage as given in our translation, and try to show that there is still a sceptre somewhere in the hands of Judah. The Messiah will come when Israel repent. They say the story of^ the separation between Israel and Judah, under Jeroboam and Rehoboam, is a lie of the Jews. The city of Luz or Bethel, they say, was on mount Ge- rizim. (Gen. xxviii. 19) Je- bus, they say, was also on this mount, and that Judg. xix. 10, as it stands in our copies, is not true. AVe had requested to see their ancient copy of the law. The kohen objected, but after much persuadine, and indirectly presenting the motive which generally pre- vails in this country, i. e. the offer of money, he at last con- sented to show it to us this morning. In order to do it, he said he must first bathe, and then put on a parJcular dress for the occasion. On our arrival at the synagogue, we 570 SHE waitevf a short lime, and he appeared, entered the syna- f)gue, approached the altar, neeled and put his face to the floor, then opened the little closet which contained the holjr book, kneeled and put his face to the floor again, then brought out the brass case which contained the roll, and opened it so as to show us the manuscript, but we were not allowed to touch it. It is in the Samaritan character, and the kohen says it was written by Abishua, the grandson of Aaron, thirteen years after the death of Bloses, and three thousand two hundred and eixty years ago. (1 Chron. vi. 4.) Another brass case stood near this, containing an exact copy of the original manu- script, said to have been made eight hundred years ago. On a shelf, in the synagogue, were a considerable number of co- pies of the Samaritan Penta- teuch. The Bible of the Sa- maritans contains only the five books of Moses. They have, however, Joshua and Judges, but in separate books. They say that since Joshua there has been no prophet. He was the disciple of Muses, and inferior to him. David was king in Jerusalem, but not a prophet. We inquired whether the Samaritans held it lawful to read the books of Christians. They said there was no law against it, and we left with them one Testament in Arabic, and another in He- brew." (See Evening Recre- ations, vol. ii. pp. 27—30, by Am. S. S. Union.) 2. A PERSON. (See Dinah.) SHEEP, (Gen. iv. 2,) SHEP- HERD,(Gen.xlvi.32,) SHEEP- MASTER, (2 Kinss iii. 4,) SHEEPCOTE, (ISam. xxiv. 3,) SHEEPFOLD, &c. (John X. 1.) As these terms are inti- mately blended in the sacred writings, they are treated of SHE under one head. Sheep often constituted the chief wealth of a man in patriarchal times; and hence with the Jews the care of sheep was among the earliest and most respectable employments, (Gen. iv. 2. Ex. iii. 1. iSam. xvi. 11,) though it was odious to the Egyptians. (Gen. xlvi. 34.) The passage 1 Sam. xvii. 20, is the only in- stance in which the hired ser- vant is distinguished from the master, or one of his family, as a shepherd. Doeg had charge of the whole pastoral establish- ment of Saul. (1 Sam. xxi. 7.) The ofiice of chief herdman was abolished, and the duties divided. (1 Chron. xxvii. 29.) The cffice of chief shepherd (Heb. xiii. 20, and 1 Pet. v. 4) is often mentioned by heathen writers. It was an office of great trust and responsibility, as well as of distinguished honour. (2 Kings iii. 4.) Char- dm saw a clan of Turcoman shepherds, whose flocks con- sisted of four hundred thousand beasts of carriage, such aa camels, horses, oxen, cows, and asses, and three million of sheep and goats. Dr. Shaw confirms his statement. The shepherd or sheep-mas- ter was constantly with his flocks by night and by day, to number, gather, feed, con- duct, and guard them, (Gen. xxxi. 39. Luke ii. 8;) and was often attended with a dog. (Job XXX. 1.) His care of the sheep was constant and tender, and his power over them very great. (Isa. xl. 11. John x. 1—16.) Rev. John Hartley, a missionary i» Greece, tells us that he was once passing by a flock of sheep, and, having heard it said that they would obey the shepherd's voice, he a.sked him to call one of his sheep, which inslanlly left its pas- turage, and approached the. hand of the shepherd with a prompt obedience which he 5/ 1 SHE never saw in any olher animal. It is also universally true in that country that a stranger tliey will not follow. They flee from him ; for they know not the voice of a stranger. It is said that the shepherds of Judea gave each lamb a distinct name, and that they promptly obeyed the voice of the shepherd, coming and going daily at his call. An kncient Jewish writer, born and bred in Egypt, states that the sheep, in "the season of shearing, would run to the shepherd at his call, and, stooping a little, put them- selves into his hands to be shorn, and stand quietly until he had done. The docility, timidity, and liability to wander, all which are among the characteristics of this animal, are often figu- ratively employfid by the sa- cred writers, as 2Chron. xviii. 16. Ps. cxix. 176. Tsa.xi.6; liii. 6, 7. Mic. V. 8. Matt. ix. 36.) In the Old Testament, the word shepherd is used figu- ratively for Jehovah, (Ps. Ixxx. 1. Jer. xxxi. 10,) and for kings, (Ezek. xxxiv. 10;) but in the New Testament it denotes Christ, (John x. 11, &c. Heb. xiii. 20. 1 Pet. v. 4,) and also those teachers who presided in the synagogues. This use of the word gave rise to the ap- plication of the word shepherd or pastor, in modern times, to ministers of the gospel, and those under their spiritual care are called the/oZd ox Jlock. It was the business of the shepherd to count the sheep daily, perhaps oftener, and he was accountable for any that were missing. (Gen. xxxi. 38, 39. Ex.xxii. 12, 13. Lev.xxvii! 32. Jer. xxxiii. 13. See PvOD.) The ram, on the call of the shepherd, came forth, and pre- ceded the flock in their march as leader or principal. (Jer. 1. SHE 8.) Hence the expressions in Ps. Ixxx. 1. Jer. xxv. 34,35. Sometimes a lamb was taken into the tent, and brought up like a dog. (2Sam. xii. 3.) It is common in Armenia to see shepherds carrying in their bosoms the lambs of the flocks they were tending. They were too feeble to roam with their dams; and nothing evinces more tenderness and care than gently leading such as have young lambs to which they give suck. (Isa. xl. II.) Messrs. Smith and Dwight, American missionaries, tell us that while travelling in Ar- menia, they passed several shepherds, probably from the neighbouring villages, carry- ing in their" bosoms the lambs of the flocks they tended. The same scene had already fre- quently interested them, by presenting the source of the beautiful imagery of the pro- phet. It is exhibited only at one season of the year; when lambs are frequently brought forth during the day at a dis- tance from the fold. The new- comers, being too weak to fol- low the flock in its rovings after grass, are carried in the bosom of the shepherd, and notunfrequently they multiply so as to fill his arms before night. They are then taken to the fold, and guarded there until sufficiently strong to ram- ble with their dams. One of these enclosures, when the sheep return anxiously bleat- ing in the evening from their day's pasture, and scores of hungry young ones are con- ducted, by shepherd's boys each to its own mother, pre- sents an amusing scene. The time of sliparing was a season of great festivity. (1 Sam. xxv. 8. 11. 2 Sam. xiii. 23.) The flock was collected in an uncovered enclosure called a sheepfold or sheepcote. (Num. 572 SHE xxxii. 16. 2 Sam. vii. 8. Jer. xxiii. 3. Zeph. ii. 6. John x. 16.) Here iheir legs were lied together; and the shearing- house (2 Kings x. 12. 14) lite- rally means the tie-house. They were never housed at any season of the year. A watch-house was often erected in the vicinity of the flocks, from which the ap- proacii of danger could be easily descried. This is called the tower of the flock. (Mic. iv. 8.) The wool of the sheej) was probably made into cloth (Lev. xiii. 47. Deut. xxii. 11) by women. (Prov. xxxi. 13.) It formed part of the tribute paid by the ]\Ioabites to Israel, (2 Kings iii. 4,) and was a com- mon article of merchandise. (Ezek. xxvii. 18.) SHEETS, (Judg. xiv. 12, 13,) or shirts, as it is in the margin ; or spoils, or apparel, as in \erse 19 and margin; or fijie linen, as it is rendered in Prov. xxxi. 24, and Isa. iii. 23: all which are from the same He- brew word. The word which corresponds with this in Greek is translated linen cloth in Matt, xxvii. 59; fine linen, (Mark xv.46.)and linen. (Luke xxiii. 53.) The word doubtless means a bed-covering, as well as a garment, (see Clothes,) and corresponds with the hyke of the Arabs. These hykes, or blankets, as we should call them, are of different sizes. and of different qualities and fineness. The usual size of them is six yards long, and five or six feet broad, serving the Kabyle or Arab £is a com- plete dress in the day; and, as they sleep in their raiment, as the Israelites did of old, (Deut. xxiv. 13,) it served like- wise for his bed and covering by night. The plaid of the Highlander of Scotland is the very same. SHEKEL. (See Measures.) SHEM. (Gen. vi. 10.) Second SHI I son of Noah, from whom de- scended the Jews, and through I ihem the Messiah. He had five sons, who peopled the finest provinces of the east. The languages of these nations are still caUed the Shemitish languages, including the He- brew, Chaldee, SyriaC; Arabic, Ethiopic, &c. SHEMINITH. (See Harp.) SHENIR. (SeeHERMON.) SHKPHERD. (See Sheep.) SHESHAGH. (See Baby- lon.) SHEW-BREAD. (See Bread.) SHIBBOLETH. (.Tudg. xii. 6.) In the course of a war between the Ephraimiies and the Gileadites, the former were routed, and fled towards the Jordan. The Gileadites had taken care to post a parly at the fords, and when an Ephra- imite who had escaped came to the river side, and desired to pass over, they asked him if he were not an Ephraimiie. If he said, No, they bade him pronounce shibboleth, (signi- fying a stream ;) and if he pro- nounced it sibboleth, accord- ing to the dialect of the Ephra- imiies, they killed him. Thus fell forty-two thousand Ephra- imiies in a single day. (Comp. Malt. xxvi. 73.) SHIELD. (See Armour.) SHIGGAION. (Ps. vii. title.) The plural of this word occurs in Hab. iii. 1. We find various conjectures as to the import of it, but they are all very unsatis- factory, nor is the knowledge of it important. It probably means a song or ode of praise. SHIHOR. (See Egvpt, ri- ver OF.) SHILOAH. (SeeSiLOAM.) SHILOH, 1. (Josh, xviii. 1,) where Samuel began to prophe- sy, (ISani. iii. 2r,) and where Abijah lived, (1 Kings xiv. 2,) was a city of Ephraim, between Lebanon and Bethel, ten miles southof Shecheni, and twenty 673 SHI five north of Jerusalem. Here Joshua erected the tabernacle, and divided the land of pro- mise, by lot, among the tribes. The tabernacle remained at Shiloh upwards of three hun- dred years, and was then re- moved thence during the ad- ministration of Eli, and taken by the Philistines. Its ruinous condition was proverbial in after times. (Jer. vii. 13—15 ; xxvi. 6—9.) 2. (Gen. xlix. 10.) A title of Messiah the king ; but •whether it signifies one who is sent, or one whose right it is to reign, or the peace-maker, or him in whom the kingdom of Judah should have an"end, is not agreed. All these in- terpretations have been given to it by different writers, and ail of them are significant and appropriate. That the Mes- siah is intended is evident from the literal fulfilment of the prophecy. Within a single generation after the death of Christ, the temple and the city of Jerusalem were destroyed, their whole civil and ecclesi- astical government subverted, and the people themselves scattered abroad over the earth, a poor, weak, despised, and oppressed remnant of a great nation. Thus the sceptre de- parted from Judah, where it had remained until the Mes- siah came, and has never been restored. SHIMEI. (2 Sam. xvi. 5.) A relative of Saul, who met Da- vid as he was leaving Jerusa- lem, in the time of Absalom's revolt, and treated him and his retinue with the grossest in- dignity. (2 Sam. xvi. 6—13.) For this offence Shimei after- wards sought David's forgive- ness, who not only spared his life then, but covenanted with him never to put him to death. (2 Sam. xix. 23.) On his deaih- Ded, however, he charged So- .omou to remember Shimei as SHI a guilty man, who, having re ceived such a charge, forbade him to leave Jerusalem on pain of death. This prohibi- tion he violated, by going to Gath in search of two fugitive servants, and suffered the threatened penalty. SHINAR. (Gen. x. 10.) An extensive and fertile plain, ly ing between Mesopotamia on the west and Persia on the east, and watered by the Eu phraies. It was upon this plain that Noah's posterity attempted to build the tower of Babel, and the site of the great city of Babylon was also here. (Dan. i. 1,2.) The territory ia now within the pashalic of Bagdad, but its ancient bounds are not known. SHIPS. (Gen. xlix. 13.) Some of the ancient ships were very large. An account of one is given by Athenseus, which was nearly five hundred feet in length, and sixty in breadth. Upwards of four thousand row- ers, and at least three thou sand other persons, were em- ployed in the navigation of it. The art of navigation was, how- ever, but little understood. The Phenicians were principally concerned in it, (Ezek. xxvii. xxviii.,) and had ports of their own in almost every country, (Isa. xxiii.,) the most famous of which were Carthage and Tarshish in Spain. The ships from Tarshish undertook dis- tant voyages, and hence any vessels that were capable of such voyages were called sAijps of Tarshish. (Isa. xxiii. 1.) The galley is a low, flat-buill vessel, navigated with oars and sails, and used particularly in the Mediterranean. The expression in Isa. xxxiii. 21, denotes that Jerusalem would be a glorious city, though des. titute of the commercial ad vantages enjoyed by most othei cities. SHISHAK. (1 Kings xiv. 25.) 574 SHI A king of Egypt, and supposed to be the Sesostris of profane history. In the rei^n of Reho- boam, he invaded Judea with an immense army, look pos- Bcssion of Jerusalem, pillaged the temple, and bore off the treasures of the king. (1 Kings xiv. 26. 2Chron. xii. 9.) The Scripture account of this invasion is confirmed in the most satisfactory manner, by recent discoveries in Egypt. Upon a ruined colonnade at Thebes is a representation of Shishak dragging at the feet of the Egyptian sods more than thirty "vanquished nations, among which is written, at full length, in the oriental lan- guage, The kingdom of the Jews, or qfJiidah. Other inscriptions give a particular list of \.he fenced ci- ties mentioned in 2 Chron. xii. 4, as having been taken in this expedition; and exhibit, also, various effigies commemora- live of the "victory over the Jews, and even the name of Ihe conquered Rehoboam is etill preserved in Egyptian sculpture, after the lapse of 8700 years. SHITTIM. (Joel iii. 18.) This term, as used in this pas- Bage, probably denoted some valley well known as abound- ing in shittim-wood ; or it may be poetically used to denote any barren or uncultivated place. Shittim wood, (Ex. xxv. 5.) 'rom the Shittah tree, (Isa. 3tli. 19,) is a tough and very durable wood, much used in the structure and furniture of the tabernacle. It is generally supposed to be a species of the acacia, which abounds in all deserts from northern Arabia to Ethiopia, and from which is obtained our gum-arabic. It is a beautiful tree, with spreading branches and fragrant flowers, and hence is figuratively em- ployed by the p'rophet, in the SHO above-cited passage, to repre sent the happy influence of a general diffusion of divine knowledge. SHOCOH, (1 Sam. xvii. ],) or SOCOH, (Josh. xv. 35,) or SHOCO. (2Chron. xi. 7.) There were probably two places to which one or more of these names was applied. Both of them were in Judah, and in one of them, near Azekah, Da- vid gave battle to Goliath. SHOES. (Acts vii. 33.) In addition to what is said under the article Clothes, it may be remarked that to take oflf the shoes in token of reverence was an early custom, (Josh. v. 15 ;) and as no mention is made of them in the articles of the high-priest's official dress, it is interred that they officiated with the feet unco- vered. To remove the shoe was also a token of humiliation and subjection. (2 Sam. xv. 30. Isa. XX. 2—4. Ezek. xxiv. 17.) Hence the expression, Ps. Ix. 8; cviii. 9, imports the subjuga- tion of the country over which the shoe is cast. The pluck- ing off one's shoe and giving it to anoilier was a significant token of a surrendered right of privilege. (Deut. xxv. 9. Ruth iv. 7. See Youth's Friend, April, 1837, and The Affec- tionate Daughter-in-law, 44-47, both by Am. S. S niort.) The phrase (Deut. xxxiii.25) thy shoes shall be iron and brass is prophetical of the abundance of precious metals with which the soil of Asher's inheritance should be supplied. Shoe latchet. (See Clothes.) SHOSHANNIM, (Ps. xlv. Ixix. title,) or SHOSHANNIM- EDUTH, (Ps. Ixxx. title,) pro bably signifies a particular musical "instrument. Some have regarded it as the title of a bridal song ; and if it onlv occurred in Ps. xlv., we migh't 575 K SHU admit this interpretation ; but surely nothing can be farther from a song oi delight and fes- tivity than the other two psalms which have a corres- ponding title. SHOULDER. (Gen. xlix. 15.) To bare the shoulder is significant of servitude, and to withdraw it denotes rebellion. (Noh. ix. 29.) To bear upon the shoulder is to sustain. (Isa. ix. 6; xxii. 22.) SHRINE. (See Diana.) SHUHITE. (SeeBiLDAD.) SHULAMITE. (Sol. Song, vi. 13.) A poetical figurative title of the church personified. SHUNAMMITE. (SeeSHU- NEM.) SHUNEM. (Josh. xix. 18.) A town in the territory of Issa- c4iar, and a little south of Nain. It is associated with several important incidents of Jewish history, (1 Sam. xxviii. 4. 1 Kings i. 3. 2 Kings viii. 1—16,) and especially as the place where Elisha tarried on his journeys between Gilsal and Carmel, and where he per- formed a miracle under cir- cumstances of unusual interest. (2 Kings iv. 8-37.) The inha- bitants were called Shmiam- mites. SHUR. (Ex. XV. 22.) The name of a wilderness (and perhaps a town also) lying north-east of the gulf of Suez, into which the children of Is- rael entered after the passage of the Red Sea. It is now call- ed J)j()far. SHDSHAN. (Neh. i. 1.) An ancient, extensive, and mag- nificent city, (called by the Oreeks Susa, or the city of lilies,) situated on the river Ulai, (now A'er;a/i.) It was in the province of Elam, in Per- sia, now known as Khusistan, and formerly as Susiana. Shu- shan was the capital, and the residence of the kings, (Esth. i, 5. Dan. viii. 2,) and is said to have been fifteen miles in SHU circumference. It is ucv a heap of ruins, about thirty miles west of Shousier, the present capital of the province of Khusistan, occupy inga space of from six to twelve miles in extent, and consisting of hil- locks of earth and rubbish, co- vered with broken pieces of brick and coloured tile. The largest is a mile in circumfe- rence, and nearly one hundred feet in height. They are form- ed of clay and pieces of tile, with irregular layers of brick and mortar, five or six feet in thickness, to serve, as it should seem, as a kind of prop to the mass. Large blocks of mar- ble, covered with hierogly- phics, are not unfrequently nere discovered by the Arabs, when digging in search of hid- den treasure ; and at the foot of the most elevated of the ruins, stands the tomb of Da- niel, a small and apparently a modern building, erected on the spot where the relics of that prophet are said to rest. Intelligent modern travellers are of the opinion that these are no other than the ruins of the ancient Shushan. One of the most intelligent of them (Sir John Malcom) observes of the tomb of Daniel, that " It serves to shelter some der vishes who watch the supposed relics of the prophet, and are supported by the alms of pil- grims ; that these dervishes are the only inhabitants of th© place ; and that every species of wild beast roams at large over the spot on which some of the proudest palaces ever raised by human art once stood." (See Elam.) Shushan-eduth. (Ps. Ix. title.) The same with Sho- shannim. (See Shoshannim.; SHUTTLE. (Jobvii. 6.) A well known instrument, used by weavers for throwing the thread of the woof across the warp. As it moves with grea* 576 SID swiftness from one side to Ihs other, so as scarcely to be seen In its passage, it is used figu- ratively to denote the rapid flight of lime. giBBOLETH. (See Shib- boleth.) SIBMAH, (Isa. xvi. 8, 9,) or SHIBMAH. (Num. xxxii. 38.) A city of Reuben, near by Hesh- bon, celebrated for the luxuri- ant growth of the vine. (Jer. xlviil 32.) It fell into the hands of the Moabiies after the cap- tivity of Reuben, Gad, and Ma- nasseh by Tiglath-pileser ; and hence the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah weep for Moab, be- cause the spoiler had broken the vines of Sibmah. Probably the expression in the passage from Jeremiah re- fers either to the universal reputation of the vines of Sib- mah, or it is poetically used to denote the luxuriance of their growth. The sea of Jazer was perhaps fifteen or twenty miles from Sibmah. SICHEM. (See Shechem.) SICKLE. (Deui. xvi. 9.) We have preserved in Egyptian monuments the form of the an- cient sickle, and it bears a very close resemblance to that implement in modern times. SIDDIM,VALE OF, (Gen. xi v. 3,) now covered by the waters of the Dead Sea, is supposed to have been the site of Sodom and Gomorrah. SIDON, (Matt. xi. 21,) or ZI- DON. (Judg. i. 31.) A city of Phenicia, deriving its name probably from Sidon, the eld- est son of Caanan. (Gen. x. 1.5 ; xlix. 13.) It was situated at the north-west angle of the land of Canaan, about 20 or 30 miles north of Tyre. It was assigned to Asher, (Judg. xviii. 28,) but the aborigines were never wholly expelled, (Judg. i. 31,) and proved an annoy- ance to the Israelites. (Judg. X. 12.) Its position on tire shore of tlie Mediterranean, 49 SID I the fame of its timber, and I skilful workmen, and its ejt- ' cellence in many ingenious and useful arts, made its com- mercial advantages peculiar; and they are noliced in pro- fane history. Their prosperous and luxurious habits led them into a careless and secure mode of life, which is alluded to, Judg. xviii. 7. It is called Great Zidon. (Josh. xi. 8; xix. 28.) This city is the subject of some very remarkable pro- phecies. (Isa. xxiii.4— 18. Jer. XXV. 17—38. Ezek. xxviii. 21—24.) It was subdued suc- cessively by the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Romans, the latter of whom deprived it of its freedom. Messrs. Fisk and King, Ame rican missionaries, "p^^ssed through Sidon in the summer of 1823, and eslimaied the po pulatio'n, as others have esti- mated it, at eight or ten thou sand ; but Mr. Goodell, anolhei American missionary, took up his residence there in June, 1624, for the purpose of study- ing the Armenian language with a bishoj) of the Arme- nian church who lives there, and of course had far better opportunities to know the sta- tisiics of the place. He tells us there are six Mohammedan mosques, a Jewish synagogue, a Maroniie, Laiin, and Greek church. The number of inha- bitants may he estimated al three thousand, of whom one- half may be Mussulmans. From Tyre and Sidon it was^ that part of that great multi- tude was made up, who, on one occasion, came to Jesus, havin" heard what great things he did. (IMark iii. 8.) And on these coasts it was that the woman of Canaan manifested a faith which received the approba- tion of the Saviour, anci which will be told for a memorial of her wherever the gospel shall be preached. (Mark via. 577 SIE J4— 30.) "For several days," rays Mr. Goodell, " I ha%'e been much affecied with the con- eideralion, that probably no such individual can now be found here ; thai there is firo- bably no one who knows any thin^ of the spirit of adoption, or ofcommunion with God in prayer ; and have endeavoured to intercede for them, as if the way to the throne of grace was known to no other, and every thing was depending upon the prayers which I made. May all who love to read of tliis Syrophenician by valion, lift up their hearts in prayer, that the Lord Jesus may again pass this way, and again mani- fest his glory on these coasts, in giving sight to the blind, health to the sick, and life to the dead." The apostle Paul visited Si- don on his voyage to Rome. (Acts xxvii. 3.) At present the name of the place is Saide. It is a trading town of some importance. The harbour is rendered comparatively use- leaa, however, by sandbars, and the town itself is badly built, and very dirty. The in- habitants are called Sidonians. (Deut. iii. 9) SIEGE. (Deut. xx. 19.) The surrounding of a city or castle ■with an army, in order to starve or for»:e the inhabitants to sur- render. The sieges of Sama- ria, Nineveh, Babylon, Jerusa- lem, and Tyre are most noted. The judgments of God, reduc- ing men to great hardships, are figuratively called sieges. (Isa. xxix. 3.) SIEVE. (Isa. XXX. 23.) The bolter, or sieve, which is so ne- cessary an article in our day, in the preparation of meal for bread, &c., was in ancient times made of rushes, or papyrus. Ancient writers say that only the Gauls had sieves of horse hair. What was left in the bolter wa^ put into the mill a STL second time. Sieves of various degrees of fineness were no doubt used, for the same au- thors tell us of four dillerent qualities of meal. SIGNET. (See Seal.) SIGNS (John iv. 48) and tconders (as they are usually connected) sometimes denote those proofs or demonstrations of power and authority which were furnished by miracles, and by other tokens of the di- vine presence, as in Acts ii.22. And at other times those un- usual appearances which be- token the approach of a great event, as in Luke xxi. U. 25. SIHON. (Num. xxi. 21-31.) A king of the Amonies, who lost his dominions in cons(v quence of his refusal to permit the Hebrews to pass through them on their way from Egypi to Canaan. Sihon himself was slain in battle, his army was routed, Heshbon his capital Wcis taken, and his country dis iributed among the Israelites. (Ps. cxxxv. 10—12: cxxxvi. 18, 19.) SIHOR. (See Egypt, rivkr OF.) SILAS, (Acts XV. 40,) con- tracted from SYLVANUS, (S Cor. i. 19,) is called one of the chief of the brethren, (Acts xv. 22,) and a faithful brother. (1 Pet. V. 12.) He is supposed lo have been a native of Antioch, and a member of the Christian church there. (Actsxv. 37—41.) He was the associate of Paul in several of his missionary lours, and his fellow prisonei at Philippi. (Acts xv. 40 ; xvi. 25.29; xvii. 4. 10. 15.) He is called a prophet, (Acts xv. 32;J but what was the precise na- ture of this office in the day« of the apostles is not clear. SILK. (Prov. xxxi. 22.) Per- haps the ancient Hebrews knew nothing of silk; and the word may signify cotton, or JiTiefiax. ' (Isa. xix. 9.) In Ezek. xvi. 10. 13, an arli- 678 SIL cle called picked silk, is doubt- less inienued ; and Pliny says thai silk was brought from Eastern Asia to Greece, in robes which were only half silk, and was then unravelled or picked out, and made up again into earments of entire silk. (Revr.xviii. 12.) SILOAH, (Neh. iii. 15,) or SILOAM, (John ix. 7. 11,) or SHILOAH. (Isa. viii.6.) A ri- vulet on the south-east of Jeru- salem, at the foot of Zion and Moriali ; supposed by some to be the same with En-rogel and Gihon. There seem to have been two pools, the upjier, (Isa. vii. 3,) or ki7t^'s jmoI, (Neh. ii. 14,) and the lutcer pool. (Isa. xxii. 9. See Condiut.) A modern traveller says, " We passed the Jewish burying ground, south-east of the city of Jerusalem, and came to the pool of Siloam, whose icatersgo softly: they have a current, but it is almost iin])erceptible. I alighted to descend more than twenty steps, and taste the waters of this fountain, at which, in ancient times, the Jews were wont to celebrate a festival, singing the twelfth chapter of Isaiah. On the other side of the projecting hill, (Ophel.) after passing under ground two or three hundred feet, these waters re-appear; and here they are drawn otf to irrigate a lovely spot, consist- ing'of gardens and small fields. These gardens are in summer often frequented by the Turks. Over asrainst the pool, on the slope of a lofty mountain, is a village they call Siloa." Messrs. Fisk and King, Ame- rican missionaries, visited the pool of Siloam in the spring of 1S23, and thus describe it: " Near the south-east corner of the city, at the foot of Zion and Moriah, is the pool of Si- loah, whose waters flow with penile murmur from under the holy mountain of Zion, or rather SIL j from under Ophel, having Zion ' on the west, and Moriah on the ' north. The very fountain is- [ sues from a rock, twenty or I thirty feel below the surface of : the ground, to which we de- scended by two flights of steps. Here it flows out without a sin- I gle murmur, and appears clear I as crystal. From this place if winds its way several rods un der the mountain, then makes its appearance with gentle gur- gling, and, forming a beautiful rill, "takes its way down into the valley, towards tlie south- I east. (See Selumiel, ch. vi., i by Am. S. S. Union.) 1 Tower in Siloam (Luke xiii. 4) was probably a high I wall or tower, contiguous to the I pool of Siloam, by the sudden fall of which eighteen lives were lost. This being a noto- 1 torious event, as the like inci- dent in New York or Philadel- phia would be now in our coun- try, it was alluded to by our Saviour to illustrate the fact that such events are not al- ways to be regarded as special judgments for an unusual de- gree" of guilt. SILVER. (Gen. xiii. 2.) A well known precious metal, obtained chiefly from South America. Many suppose that the Tarshish of the Old Testa- ment was in Spain, and hence that we obtain a portion of our silver from the same mines which furnished it in the days of Solomon. (1 Kings x. 22.) That silver was known at a very early period is evident. (Gen. xliv. 2. Ex. xi.2;xxv. 3. Job xxviii. 1.) And the reason probably is, that like gold, it is often found in a stale of purity in the earth, and therefore easily discovered. It was used in the construction of tlie temple, (Ex. xxvi. 19. 32,) and for its furniture, (1 Chron. xxviii. 14—17;) and also for musical instruments, (Num. X. 2,) and fur adorning idols. 579 SIM (Isa. xl. 19.) And that it was i abundant in tiiat day appears from 1 Kings x. 27. Silver constituted the chief medium of trade, though it was not coined, but used by weight. (Gen. xxiii. 16.) The pieces of silver (thirty of which were given as the price of innocent blood, Matt. xxvi. 15 ; xxvii. 3) were probably shekels of sil- ver, worth fifty cents each. The silverling (Isa. vii. 23) is supposed to have been of like value. SIMEON. 1. (Gen. xxix. 33.) Son of Jacob and Leah. Ac- cording to the prediction of Ja- cob, (Gen. xlix. 5—7,) and as a punishment fur his offence in the matter of the Shechemites, (Gen. xxxiv.— see Dinah,) his posterity dwindled, (comp. Num. i. 22; xxvi. 14, 15,) and their inheritance was only a dismembered portion of the territory of Judah. (Josh.xix. 1.) Tribe of, occupied nineteen cities, within the boundsof Ju- dah, principally south of Dan, on the coast. (Josh. xix. 2—7.) In Hezekiah's time they pos- Bessed parts of mount Seir. (1 Chron. iv. 42.) 2. (Luke ii. 25.) A man of singular piety, residing at Je- rusalem. He had been favour- ed with a divine intimation that he should live to see the incarnateRedeemer, the Lord's Christ. And being led by the Spirit into the temple at the particular time whpn the in- fant Jesus was brought thither by his parents, according to the requirement of the law, (Ex. xiii. 12; xxii. 29,) he took him up in his arms and uttered the most devout thanksgivings to God, accompanied with a remarkable prediction respect- ing the various effects of his advent. 3. (Acts xiii. 1.) Was amons the prophets and teachers of the Christian church at Anil- och. Some have supposed SIN (though without warrant) that he is the same with Simon the Cyrenian. (Matt, xxvii. 32.) 4. (Acts XV. 14.) Simeon is a Hebrew name, and in this passage is the same with Si- mon. SIMON. (Act3viii.9.) A na- tive of Samaria, and a famous sorcerer, who professed to be a convert to the Christian faith, and was baptized as such by Philip ; but was severely re- buked by Peter as a hypocrite, because, under the influence of mercenary motives, he de- sired apostolic gifts. Hence the buying and selling of ec- clesiastical rights, benefits, or privileges, is^called simony, a high offence against the pu- rity and integrity of the Chris- tian faith, and one of which the seller and buyer is equally guilty. G.SimonPetek. (See Peter.) 7. Simon the Canaanite, (Matt. X. 4,) or Simon Zelotes, (or the zealous,) one of the twelve disciples, was perhaps a native of Cana ; though some suppose the word Canaan ite, like Zelotes, denotes his cha- racteristic zeal. Several other persons of this name are men- tioned, as the Pharisee, (Luke vii. 36,) the leper, (Matt. xxvi. 6,) the father of Judas Iscariot, (John vi. 71,) and the tanner at Joppa, with whom Peier la1|ed. (Acts ix. 43.) SIN (Gen. iv. 7) is the trans- gression of the law of God. (1 John ill. 4.) Any departure in thought, word, or deed, from the rule of conduct which re- quires us to love the Lord our (jod with all the heart, and soul, and mind, and strength, and our neighbours as our- selves, is sin. (I John v. 17.'> The word is sometimes used for a sin-offering, as in Hos. iv. 8. Rom. viii. 3. 2Cor. v.21. In the text first, cited, referencp is had to the eating of that which was brought as a sin-of SIN fering, either from greoJinpss, or in violation of the lavv. The disobedience ofour first parents to the positive command of God introduced sin with all its dreadful.consequences into our world. Tlie sin not unto death, and the sin unto death, (1 John V. 16,) have been variously interpreted. As there are of- fences under human govern- ments which are capital, in- volving the certain penalty of death without the hope of par- don, so under the divine gn- vernment there are si lis of such malignancy and aggravation, evincing an impious and unal- terable determination to reject the offered mercy of God, that we have little, if any ground, for the prayer of fa'ith, or even for the hope that the offender may be forgiven. It seems difficult to suppose a case, however, in the existing state of God's government, in which the character of a sin can be so determined by any human tribunal, as to make him who commits it no longer a subject of praver. (John iii. 15. Acts xvii. So. 2 Pet. iii. 9.) Some have supposed that ex- clusive reference is had to a distinction in the Jewish law between offences capital and not capital ; or to the civil law of some particular place, by which some offences were pu- nishable with death, without the possibility of pardon. These were sins unto death, for no entreaty availed to avert the punishment. But there were other capital cases in which the law authorized a commu- tation of punishment, if the circumstances ju.stified it. These were sins not unto death; for the powerful intercession of friends for the offender might save him. Whether what is called the unpardonable sin (Matt. xii. 31, 32) can be com- luitied except hy such as were 40* SIN witnesses of the mighty worTis wrouHht by Christ, and by his apostles through the power of tlie Holy Ghost, is considered doubtful by many. From the connexion of the above cited passage from Matthew we have a very explicit illustration of one species of this sin; and perhaps the unpardonable sin is the same with the sin unto death. (See SACRnpiCE.) Sin (Ezek. xxx. 15, 16) is the Pelusium of the Greeks^ and is called the stre?tgth of Egypt because of its position as a bulwark. The ruins of it are supposed to have been dis- covered by the French army, in the invasion of Egypt under Bonaparte. Sin, desert of, or wilder- ness OF, (Num. xxxiii. 11,) was entered by the Israelites imme- diately after they passed the Red Sea. (Ex. xvi. 1.) It was between Elim and Sinai, and was the i)lace where manua was supplied. (See Zin.) SIN-OFFERINGS. (See Sa- crifice.) SIN-MONEY. (2 Kings xii. 16.) Money sent by persona at a distance, with which to buy the required offerings; and as there was usually some sur- plus, it was the i)erquisite of the priest, and was called sin- money, or sin- offering money (Num. xviii. 9.) SINAI. (Ex. xvi. 1.) We have already given, under the article Hokeb, a general view of the district of Arabia ia which Sinai is situated. We subjoin a description of the as- cent and position of this sin- gular spot, associated with one of the most sublime and mo- mentous events recorded in sa- cred history; which, connected with the former article, furnish- es a clear view of the whole legion. (See Map, pp. 520, 521.) An English missionary who visited mount Sinai in the summer of 1834, says, "Wo 581 SIN SIN look our dinner on a high plain, where was much ver- dure; and we had very inte- resting views on every side; the whole country being filled with bold granite mountains, from which, in a certain revo- lution in our earth, the water appears to have washed all the cultivatable earth down into the valleys : for you see on the mountains nothing but bare granite; except here and there, in a recess, some fertile ground, covered with shrubs. We first ascended a little; then descend- ed very much into a deep val- ley, shut up on every side by high mountains. Here the tem- perature was raised to such a height at once, that I do not recollect ever to have felt so great a heal; but we passed this valley in less than a quar- ter of an hour. In the middle of this passage, through which our camels passed, but with great danger, we took some re- pose in a small ravine, where we found a well with very good water, and a few small palm trees. We took our dinner here, under the shade of a rock ; and then again ascend- ed, until we had reached, I think, the height of one thou- sand feet above the level of the sea. Here we found our- selves in a fine large plain, situated between two high ridg- es of mountains on both sides, between which it runs, south- ward, to the foot of the moun- tains of Horeb. In my humble opinion, this must have been the place where the Israelites made their encampment dur- ing their stay at mount Sinai ; because none of the surround- ing valleys which we observed there were so fit to receive so large an army for a whole year. In front of this plain, to the south, was a cluster of mountains, which I think are the mountains of Horeb. From the circumsia nee that the Scrip- tures speali of mount Sinai only on one occasion— that of the giving of the law,— while, on the contrary, the name of Ho- reb is mentioned on different occasions, I infer, that Horeb is applied by Scripture to thp 582 SIN whole collection of niounlains which stand here togetiier, as the common name; and the name of Sinai to one mountain only, namely, that on the top of which liie law was given. As we are in so many instances led into mistalces by tradition, 80 I think here, also, a mistake has taken place. The name of Horeb ha.s been applied, by tradition, to one mount only, namely, that which I should consider to be mount Sinai, because it faces the valley where the Israelites lay. If we suppose that this was the case, then the whole array could witness the important transaction, and receive the most powerful impression from it; whereas the s»/5Joseii mount Sinai, or(77e6e/Afoi/sa,although a little higher than the former, is yet solfar situated behind, that whatever passed on the top of it could only be seen by that part of the army which lay at the utmost distance, where, through a space left between what is called mount Horeb and mount Catherine, they could have seen the top of djebel Mousu. " The first view I enjoyed Cff mount Sinai made the deepest impression upon my mind. I felt myself, els it were, iran.'sported among the Israel- ites, whom the Lord here had separated from the rest of the world, and led into this soli- tude, in order to declare them his chosen people. I saw, as it were, Jehovah in the pil- lar of cloud, on the summit of that bold mountain; and when he lifted his voice, saying, / am the Lord thy God, the thun- der of his voice re-echoed from all the surrounding mountains. " The convent of St. Cathe- rine lies in a small valley to the east of Horeb, where the basis of djebel Mousa joins that of the so called mount Horeb. Before we arrived at it, we SIN passed the garden belonging to it, surrounded with a high wall, in which an abundance of Eu- ropean and Asiatic plants grow, particularly a quantity of fine cypresses. The convent, from without, looks like a castle, and, from within, like a small town. It has no entrance be- low, except one that is shut up with stones, and is opened only at the arrival of a new bishop for the convent. On our arri- val, some friars, standing at a large window above, and ob- serving us, let down a rope, to which we first fixed our letters of recommendation : these were taken up and looked at. An- other rope was then let down for our baggage ; and, at last, one for oiu-se'lves, which we had to put round our bodies; whereuiDon we made an aerial passage, forty feet high ; and entered the conveni through the window, at which the su perior waited to give us a friendly welcome. " We went up to the moun tain by steps which have been made on purpose for the pil- grims, by putting stone upon stone from the bottom to the top of the mountain, except at a few even places, where no stairs are necessary. On our way upward, we found several fine spots, where fountains of sweet water refreshed us. We soon arrived at the chapel de- dicated to Eiias the prophet, where is shown the place oi his taking refuge from Jeze- bel. Near this ciiapel we saw what is called Elias' well, where there is a valley, from which the tops of severed mountains diverge ; and also the place where Moses is said to have sat with Aaron and Hur during the battle with the Amalekites ; the steep and small valley which isoJMerved below this, being the supposed valley of Rephidim." (See Bedouin Arabs, ch. xiv. : see 583 SMY also engraving and descrip- tion in Youth's Friend for June, 1829, and May, 1833; all Dy Am. S. S. Union.) SINCERITY (2 Cor. i. 12) stands opposed to dissimula- lion or hypocrisy, and implies the entire correspondence of the heart with the expressions of the lips. The original word refers to the bright and pene- trating light of "the sun, and denotes such things as, on being examined by the bright- est lisht, are found pure and unadulterated. SION. (See Zion.) SIRION. (See Hermon.) SISERA. (See Barak, De- borah, Jael.) SIVAN. (See Month.) SKINS. (See Clothing.) SLAVE. (See Servant.) SLIME. (See Pitch.) SLING. (See Arms.) SMYRNA. (Rev. ii. 8—10.) A celebrated Ionian city, and one of the finest of the Levant, is situated about fifty miles north of Ephesus, and the same distance from the coyst, on a bay formed by the river Melas, on the western coast of Asia Minor. It was extolled by the ancients as the crown of Ionia, the jewel of Asia, overflowing with wealth, and beautiful in works of art. It has been overthrown at least six times by earthquakes, lost sixty thousand inhabitants by the plague in 1814, and was severely scourged by the cho- lera in 1831. It is now called by the Turks Ismir, and is about four miles in circum- ference. The harbour is capa- cious, and affords the finest anchorage for ships of the larg- est class. The city contains a population of from 100,000 to 130,000 ; among whom are up- wards of 20,000 to 30,000 Greeks, 10,000 Jews, 8000 Armenians; and the residue principally Turks. The city has twenty mosques, besides churches and SO monasteries; and some of the ruins of hs former magnificence are still visible. The church in this place is one of the seven addressed in the Apocalypse. And in the efforts of the present day to evangelize the world, Smyrna is one of the most important centres of action. Several newspapers are published, one or two of which are decidedly religious in their character: and the schools, presses, and agencies established by (Chris- tian benevolence in this inte- resting city promise well for religion. SNAIL. (Lev. xi. 30.) A species of worm. In the pas- sage alx)ve cited, the original word is thought to denote some species of lizard. And in Ps. Iviii. 8, the only place besides in which it occurs, reference may be had to the common snail, or slug, which is found in cellars and damp places, and which seems to waste itself by covering its path with a thick shining slime. SNOW. (2 Sam. xxiii. 20.) Vapour congealed in the air, ana often falling in large broad flakes resembling wool. (Fs. cxlvii. 16.) The allusion to snow in the sacred writings, especially to its whiteness, are frequent. (Ex. iv.6. Num. xii. 10. 2 Kings v. 27. Fs. li.7. Isa. i. 18.) The comparison in Prov. XXV. 13, has reference to the use of snow brought from the mountains to cool the drink of the reapers in the heat of har- vest, as we use ice. Snow water is softer and more deter- gent than common water; hence the allusion. Job ix. 30. Mr. Fisk, an American mis sionary, found snow on mount Lebanon upwards of two feet deep, Oct. 4, 1823 ; and hence concludes that it lies through the year. SO. (2 Kings xvii. 4.) An Ethiopian king, and supposed 554 SOL to be the same with Sabacus or Sabacon of profane history. He is called king of Egypt in the above passage because he invaded Egypt, and reigned for a term of years over that coun- try, during which time he re- ceived the proposition of an alliance from Hoshea, king of Israel; which incensed Shal- raaneser, king of Assyria, to attack the country. SOAP. (See Nitre.) SOCHOH. (See Shocoh.") SODOM (Gen. xiii. 13) and Gomorrah, two of the cities of the plain which were mira- culously destroyed because of the deep and almost universal corruption of theinhabitants. (See Salt Sea. See also Ev. Recreations, vol. ii. pp. 46—50. by Am. S. S. Union.) SOLDIERS. (See Armies.) SOLOMON, (2 Sam. v. 14,) king of Israel, was the son and successor of David. His cha- racter, and the general condi- tion of the country during his reign, were predicted in re- markable terms, (I Chron. xxii. 9, 10 ;) and especially remark- able, as the prediction is sup- posed to have ultimate and more comprehensive reference to the Messiah and his reign. Soon after the birth of Solo- mon, the prophet Nathan was sent by divine authority to give him the name of Jedidiah, sig- nifying beloved of the Lord. Towards the close of David's life, a conspiracy was detected to place Adonijah on the throne. To settle the government in the order of the divine appoint- ment, David caused Sulomon lo be invested with the robes of royalty, and resigned to him voluntarily the sceptre of go- vernment, giving him a solemn charge respectin^g the adminis- tration of it. The early part of his reign was exceedingly orosperous, and was markedljy several public acts which dis- played his wisdom and piety. SOL (1 Kings ii. 19.27.31; iiJ. 1.9. 16—28.) He was also favoured with a remarkable promise of the divine favour. (1 Kings iii. 12—14.) His court was distin- guished for its magnificence; his dominions and revenue were vast; his personal cha- racter exalted ; his wisdom pro- verbial; and his capital and palace renowned for wealth and splendour. (1 Kings iv. and X.) The great event of his reign, however, was the erection of the temple in Jeru- salem, (hence called Solomon's temple,) which was designed by David his father. (I Chron. xxii. 1— 11.) The plan and materials of the house, and the furniture, as well as of the royal palace, are minutely de- scribed, 1 Kings vi. vii., (see Temple,) as a^re also the ser- vices at the dedication of it, 1 Kings viii. After this, Solo- mon received a renewed as- surance of tVie divine favour, and of a gracious answer lo his prayers and supplications ; and at the same time, one of the most fearful denunciations of wrath in case they should for- sake God's law. (1 Kings ix. 1— 10.) In the latter part of Solomon's reign, he was led into the practice of idolatry and other abominable sins, which drew upon him and the country heavV judgments. (1 Kings xi.) We are told that the Arabs call the southern side of tlie mount of Olives the mount of Solomon, because his idolatrous altars were built here. It is called the mount of Corruption (2 Kings xxiii. 13) from the same cause. He reigned forty years, and was succeeded by his son Rehobo- am. (1 Kings xi. 42, 43. See Life of David, ch. xxiv. ; by Am. S. S. Union.) We are told of the book of the acts of Solomon, (1 Kings xi. 41,) and elsewhere that his acts were written in the book 585 SOL of Nathan, the prophecy of A.hijah, and the visions of Idilo against Jeroboam, (2Chron. ix. 29;) but no other knowledge of these books has come down to us ; and perhaps they were chiefly genealogical, and were destroyed with other Jewish wriiings in the frequent revo- lutions of the country. Pools of. (Eccl. ii. 6.) We have from Mr. Whiting, an American missionary, the fol- lowing description of what are called the pools of Solomon, upon the sup'^osition that they were erected by him. " These pools are on the road to He- bron, about three miles south- west of Bethlehem, in a nar- row sloping valley. They are three in number, placed one above another in the valley. They are immensely large cis- terns, built of stone and moriar, and plastered within. The length of the uppermost is one hundred and sixty yards, the second we estimated at two hundred yards in length, and the third is still longer. The width cf the three is nearly the same, and is perhaps somewhat less than one hundred yards. They may be thirty feet in depth. At the distance of thirty or forty rods from the upper pool are the subterra- nean sprinss, sometimes call- ed the Seafed Fountains, from which the pools are supplied. Descending through a small hole, like the mouth of a well, to the depth of ten or twelve feet, you find yourself in an excavated, vaulted room, or rather two rooms connected by a door, at one side of which the water flows out of the rock in a copious and pure stream, and descends by an underground conduit to the poohs. From the pools it is conveyed by an aqueduct around on tlie sides of the hills to Jerusalem. The tradition is that these pools were built by Solomon, which SOL is perhaps not improbable They certainly are ancient. It is somewhat remarkable that no history extant informs us of their origin, or makes any evident mention of them. If we consider them the work of the Jewish monarch, and that this valley was once adorned with gardens, groves, and palaces, it'must have been a delightful retreat. A short distance below the pools, in the valley, there are still some beautiful gardens, watered from the aqueduct." Proverbs of. (See Pro- verbs.) Solomon's porch. (See Temple.) Song of Solomon. This )a the twenty-second in the order of the books of the Old Testa- ment. A Greek translation of it is extant, which is ascribed without contradiction to the authors of the Septuagint. who lived about two centuries before Christ. The ancient Jews, with- out exception, regarded it as a sacred book ; Josephus inserts it in his catalogue of sacred books ; and it is cited as of di- vine authority, from the earlies* period of the (Christian church. That it is in the highest degree figurative,must be allowed; but whether it is to be regarded as a poem, or a series of poems, or as a nuptial dialogue, or as a drama, is not determined. The prevailing opinion is, that the book consists of twelve distinct poems or idyls, such as are common among Arabian poets- and that it should be divided thus : Idyl 1 Chap. i. 1-S. 2 • - i.9-ii.7. 3 - - ii. 8-17. 4 - - iii. 1—5. 5 - - iii. 6— iv. 7. 6 . . iv. 8— V. 1. 7 . . V. 2— vi. 10 8 . - vi. 11—13. 9 - • vii. 1—9. 10 • • vii. lU— viii. 4 n . - viii. 5— 7. 12 . viii. 8-14. SON The allusions with which this book abounds are made to scenes and cusioins of which our knowledge is very imper- fect; and hence much per- plexity must attend any at- tempt to analyze the truths it teaclies; and much care and judgment are necessary so to use'this part of divine truth as not to abuse it. SON OF MAN. (Matt. viii. 20.) This title is given to our Saviour eighty times in the New Testament, and in thir- ty instances he ap[)lies it to himself. It is also applied to him by Daniel, (vii. 13.) The Jews uerfectly understood it to denote the Messiah. It pro- bably denotes his peculiar and intimate relation to mankind in his incarnate slate, as the phrase Son of Gud denotes his peculiar relation to the Divine Being. The term Son of man is ap- plied to Ezekiel not less than eighty-nine times, and may be Recounted for on the ground that this prophet was, in many respects, an eminent typs of Christ. Son of God. (Dan. iii. 25.) This is one of the titles of our Divine Redeemer, and is ap- plied to none else, except in a connexion which shows the eense. It is applied to angels, (Job xxxviii. 7,) and tc Adam, (Luke iii. -38,) as created imme- diately by his hand, and to be- liever's, (Rom. viii. 14, 15. 2 (Jor. vi. 18p as adopted into God's sf'intual family ; but when applied to Christ, it is in a peculiar and exalted sense, which cannot be mistaken. Sons of God. (Gen. vi. 2.) The original word, translated God in this passage, is some- limes renJered piinces, or dis- tinguisle-i persons; and the reading iiiight properly be, • sons of ih'e patriarchs,' or eminent men mentioned in SOR ' the preceding chapter. (See ' Adoption.) 1 SOOTHSAYER (Dan. ii. 27) j was one who pretended to fore- tell future events. The ori- ginal word is su})posed to de- I note that they dissected the entrails of animals, for the pur- ' pose of discerning what would come to pass. The Pliilistinea ! appear to have been n iiorious for their practice of this magic imposition. (Isa. ii. 6.) This was a common mode of divin- ing among the Romans. SOP. (John xiii. 26.) Our ordinary table utensils were unknown among the Hebrews. Hence in eating broth or milk, it was either taken with the hollow of the hand, or the bread was dipped into it. This is at present the usage in all the oriental countries, even at the table of the Perdiaa king. Thus the reapers of Boaz dip- ped their morsel hi the vine- far, (Ruth ii. 14;) and thus our aviour dipped the sop or mor- sel, and gave it to tlie traitor Judas. SORCERY. (Acts viii. 9; xiii. 6.) One of the arts of the ' magicians, (Ex. vii. 11, hence I called sorcerers,) by the use I of which they pretended te I predict future events, cure diseases, work miracles, &c. The practice of sorcery, or any confidence in it, is threats ened with the severest judg- ments. (Mai. iii. 5. Rev. xxi. 8; xxii. 15.) SOREK. (Judg. xvi. 4.) A brook and vale in the south of the territory of Dan, where Delilah dwelt. It probably derived its name from its choice grapes, and was but a mile or two from Eshcol. The brook empties into the Medi- terranean near Askehm. SORROWS OF HELL, and SORROWS OF DEATH, (Ps. xviii. 4, 5,) signifies pangs, or pahis, as in Acts ii. 24. lu both 587 SPA passages the word cords may be read. Death is personified in many systems of pao;an wor- ship. There is a Hindoo deity Yama, or the catcher of the sotils of men, whose image is represented as holding a cord or snare, which he throws over his victim, and thus secures him. SOSIPATER, (Rom. xvi.21,) or SOPATER. (Acts xx. 4.) A native of Eerea, and a kins- man of Paul. SOSTHENES. (Acts xviii. [7.) A ruler of the Jewish synagogue at Corinth. He was seized and beaten by a party of Greeks in that city, who were excited thus to acts of violence by what they thought the unjustifiable and malicious persecution of Paul. It is thought that he afterwards be- came a convert to the Chris- tian faith. (1 Cor. i. 1, 2.) SOUL. (Gen. ii. 7.) The Scriptures evidently distin- guish between the spirit and soul. (1 Thess. v. 23. Heb. iv. 12.) The word which we call soul is used to denote mere animal life, the seat of sensa- tions, appetites, and passions. (Gen. i. 20.) Here the word translated life is the same with that which is elsewhere trans- lated soul. Hence it may be inferred, that as we have our bodies and animal life in com- mon with brutes, it must be the spirit which was created in the likeness or image of God, and which raises man above the brutes that perish, and makes him a rational and accountable being. We can- not comjuehend tfie exact con- nexion and relation of these various parts of our being; but that they exist is the declara- tion of Scripture, fully sup- ported by observation and ex- perience. SPAIN. (Rom. XV. 24.) For- merly this term included the whole Spanish peninsula, em- SPI bracing Portugal. In Paul's time it was subject to Rome, and the resort of many Jews. It is uncertain whether that apostle's intention to visit Spain was ever executed. (See Life of Paul, chap, xxi., by Am. S. S. Union.) SPAN. (See Measures.) SPARROW (Ps. Ixxxiv. 3) is well known to be one of the smallest and least valuable of all birds. Hence the force of the allusion, Matt. x. 29. Luke xii. 6. The original word is generic, and means a bird generally, as in Ps. cii. 7. The probable allusion in Ps. Ixxxiv. 3, may be better under- stood by placing the former part of the third verse in a parenthesis, and thus connect- ing the latter part with the second verse, thus, My soul longeth,yea, even fainteth, for the courts of the Lord : my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God, ( Yea, the sparrow hathfouyid a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young,) even thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King^ and my God. Then the desire of the psalmist to go up to the courts of the Lord's house is beautifully compared with the instinctive desire of the bird for its nest— its home. SPEAR. (See Armour.) SPICES. (Gen. xliii. II.) This term, as used by the sa- cred writers, is much more comprehensive than the mo- dern use of it. With them it includes not only fragrant gums, as myrrh, and also roots and barks, as cassia, cinna- mon, cane, &c., but the odours of flowers and various per- fumes. (Sol. Song iv. 14, 15.) Spices were imported into Judea chiefly from southern Arabia. Sweet spices (Mark xvi. 1) are merely aromatic substances used in embalm ing. The word spices fully 588 SPI expressed the meaning of the ' original word wittioul ilie ad- ieciive. SPIDER. (Job viii. 14.) A well known insect of very singular structure and habits. Its method of weaving its web, — the thinness and Trailty of which are strikingly emble- matical of a false hope, and of the schemes of wicked men, (Isa. lix. 5,)— and the remark- able construction of iis foot so as to resemble a part of the human hand, will be found fully illustrated with engrav- ings, &c. in Bible Natural History, art. Spider, by Am. S. S. Union. The expression in Prov. XXX. -28, is supposed by some to refer to some other and larger animal ; but the strik- ing correspondence between the construction of the spider's foot and the terms usecl to ex- press its method of working, goes far to establish the cor- rectness of the present render- ing. SPIKENARD. (Johnxii. 3—5.) A plant of the grass kind, of strong aromatic taste and smell, and found chiefly in India. The ointment made of the genuine Indian nard ■was very precious, (Mark xiv. 3,) a single pound costing, in ooir Saviour's day, what, in the modern value of money, would be upwards of forty dollars. Profane history tells us that the crude vegetable was worth one hundred denarii (or nearly forty-five dollars) a pound, at Rome, in the time of Christ. Like other unguents and perfumes, it was carried in a box closely sealed, so as to be air-tight. Opening this seal is called breakmg the box. SPIRIT. (Gen. vi. 3.) This term is often employed figu- ratively by the sacred writers, and its import may be gene- rally determined by its con- aexioQ. 50 SPR The Holy Spirit is the title of that divine Agent— the Com- forter, the Holy Ghost, plainly distinguished from the Father and the Son, (John xiv. 26; xvi. 7, 8;) by whose influence the truth is received, under- stood, believed and obeyed. Ke quickens those who are dead in trespasses and sins, purifies and sanctifies them, and thus prepares them to glo- rify God and enjoy him for ever. (John xv. 1—6. Rom. v. 5 ; viii. 16. See Discernujo OF SPIRITS.) SPIRITUAL BODY. (1 Cor. XV. 44.) We are probably to understand by this that the body which will be raised will be divested of all sensual and animal apr^etites; and while it will retain a bodily shape or form, it will be perfectly fitted for pure spiritual exercises and enjoyments, in perfect unison with the redeemed and sanc- tified soul. SPOIL. (Ex. iii. 22.) The original word in this passage means to recover property taken away by violence. (1 Sam. XXX. 22.) SPONGE. (Matt, xxvii. 48.) A submarine substance, com- posed of fibres interwoven in a surprising manner, and sur- rounded by thin membranes, which arrange themselves in a cellular form. It imbibes a great quantity of fluid, and parts with it upon a strong pressure. Drink could be easily conveyed in this form where cups could not be used. It is inhabited by animals, like the coral, who use the openings of the sponge to suck in and tftrow out water. SPRINKLING, BLOOD op. (Heb. xii. 24.) The Jewish high-priest, on the great day of atonement, carried blood into the inner sanctuary, and sprinkled it upon the mercv- seat. It was by this sprink- ling of blood that an atonement 5(39 STA was made for the holy place, because of tlie inideanness of the children of Israel. (Lev. xvi. 16.) The blood of sprink- ling was typical of the aton- ing blood of Christ. When this has been applied to the Boul of the believer, he may approach the presence of a holy God, in the name of the great Advocate and Redeemer, confident of a gracious recep- tion. The blood of Abel, al- luded to in the above passage from Hebrews, called only for vengeance, (Gen. iv. 10, 11;) but the blood of Christ speaks of pardon, peace, and eternal STACTE. (Ex. ^xx. 34.) One of the prescribed ingre- dients of the sacred incense. It is the Greek name for the purest myrrh ; or that which flows freely from the tree with- out incision. STARS. (Deut. iv. 19.) Un- der the name of stars, the He- brews comprehended all con- stellations, planets, and hea- venly bodies; all luminaries, except the sun and moon. The psalmist, to exalt the power and omniscience of God, (Ps. cxlvii. 4,) describes him tak- ing a survey of the stars, as a king taking a review of his army, and knowing the name of every one of his soldiers. To express a very extraordi- nary increase and multiplica- tion, the sacred writers use the similitude of the stars of heaven, or of the sands of the sea. (Gen. xv. 5; xxii. 17; xxvi. 4. Ex. xxxii. 13, &;c.) No part of the visible crea- tion exhibits the glory of the Creator more illustriously than ■the sinrry heavens. (Ps. xix. I.) When we seriously con- template the moon and stars, the work of the fingers of God, we cannot but be'astonished that he should condescend to pay any attention to men. (Ps. viii. 3.) STE The star of Bethlehem, which appeared to the Magi, to direct them to the birthplace ol the Messiah, was not a natural phe- nomenon, but evidently' mi- raculous, and, when it had an- swered its purpose, it vanished. It is a fact, however, that of the fixed stars some have entirely disappeared; while others not marked in any catalogue have become visible, where they could not have existed before without being noticed. Jesus Christ is called the Morning Star, (Rev. xxii. 16,) as he introduced the light of the gospel day, and made a fuller manifestation of the truths of God than the pro- phets, whose predictions are now accomplished. STEEL. (Ps. xviii.34.) The degree of strength and agility which one possessed was often shown among the ancient na- tions in the use of the lx)w. The word rendered steel in this passage might (according to some critics) be more pro- perly rendered copper. So of Job XX. 24. (Comp. Jer. xv. 12. Ezek. xxvii. 19.) STEPHANAS (1 Cor. i. 16) was one of the earliest con- verts to Christianity in Corinth, (1 Cor. xvi. 15,) and received baptism at the hands of Paul. STEPHEN, (Acts vi. 5,) usually known as the first martyr, was one of the seven men of honest report who were elected, at the suggestion of the twelve apostles, to relieve them of a particular class of their labours. His character is given by the sacred historian as a man full of faiih and of the Holy Ghost; and he was en- dowed, in a remarkable de- gree, with divine power and grace. (Acts vi. 8. 10.) His defence against the false and malicious charges of hisopfo- nents, (Acts viiTa— 53,) amon/7-to»' Cliristiuns, because they use the ancient Syriac in their forms of worship; and they possess the New Testament in this language. At present the Arabic language prevails in Syria, and the Bible is there- fore within their power. Syria is one of the most in teresting fields of missionary effort known in our times. Within its limits are to be found nine-tenths of the scenes of the sacred history. It was the only home for the church for thousands of years: it was the candlestick for the only light which shined in a dark world for nearly twenty cen luries : all pans of it have been trodden by the feet of the Son of God, or by his prophets and apostles: scarcely a hill or a valley but has resounded with the songs of Moses, of David, and of Isaiah ; while, above all, here was shed that blood which taketh away the sin of the tcorld. The whole country is one vast livin? commentary on the word of God, spread out for the perusal of every age, and for the confusion of every skeptic. And if these countries are unrivalled in the thrilling in- terest of their past history, they are equally so in the singular features of their present con- dition, and in the solemnity of their future expectations. Palestine, robbed and spoiled, sits in desolate widowhood amidst the dusl and ruins of 598 SYR her former greatness ; and the remnant of the Jewish nation, once the entire church of God, live lilce aliens and bond-ser- vants in the land of their fa- thers. But if we have not read the word of God in vain, there is much of unfulfilled prophecy and promise scattered along the whole track of revelation, which, touching and glancing on every age, throw a strong and cheering light over the bappy future ; and faith rests assured, that " These ruins shall be built aeaiD, And all this dust shall rise." The present number of in- habitants is variously estimated SYR I from 800,000 to 2,500,000. Pro- bably it does not dilfer far from 1,CKX),000. This last estimate is somewhat confirmed by that part of the census which has already been taken by the present new government. Several missionary stations have been advantageously taken. Nine male mission- aries are now (1S37) on the ground; tenor twelve schools are established ; and the suc- cess of their proceedings is encouraging. Syria~-Maachah. Thesame with Aram-Maachah. (See Aram.) SYRO-PHENICIA. (See Phenicia.) TAB TAANACH, (Josh. xii.21,) or TANACH, (Josh. xxi. 25,) waaa city of Manasseh, though within the boundaries of Issa- char. It was not far from Me- giddo, in connexion with which It is usually mentioned. TABEKAH. (Num. xi. 3.) An encampment of the Israel- ites in the wilderness of Haran. This name was given to it to commemorate the" judgment by fire that came on the people for their murmurings at this place. (Num. xi. 3—34.) TABERNACLE (Ex. xxv. 9) properly means a tent, or moveable dwelling-place. In this sense it is used. Num. xxiv. 5. Job xi. I4; xxii. 23. Matt. xvii. 4; but, in the Scriptures generally, it is ap- plied to the structure which was prepared by Moses, under the divine direction, for the Jews to worship in. The tr^ bemacle of the congregation (Ex. xxxiii. 7) was erected by Mosea f)r his own use. In it he gave audience to the people, heard and decided controver- sies, and sought divine direc- tion. Probably the public TAB offices of religion were also performed here, and hence the name. Another tabernacle was erected by David for the reception of the ark. (2 Sam. vi. 17. IChron. xvi. 1.) Bui the tabernacle, pre-eminently 80 called, was built, as above intimated, by Moses for (rod, partly to be the palace of his presence as the King of Israel, and partly as the place of the most solemn acts of public worship. It was constructed with extraordinary magnifi- cence in every part, according to the express instruction of Jehovah, and evidently with typical design and use. (Heb. ix. 1 — 8.) The means of build- ing it were furnished in super- abundance by the voluntary contributions of the people, (Ex. xxxv. 4 — 9; xxxvi. 3 — 7^ who had enriched themselves with the spoils of the Egyp- tians, which they were directed to take as a remuneration for their labour. (Ex. iii. 21,22. See Spoil.) The oversight of the work was intrusted to Be zaleel and Aholiab, who were endued with supernatural skill 599 TAB for that purpose. (Ex. xxxi. i — 6.) The plan, size, materials, furniture, &c., to the most mi- nute particular, were revealed to Moses in mount Sinai. (Ex. XXV. 9—40.) The whole sp»ace enclosed for the tabernacle was one hundred and fifty feet by seventy-five. This space was surrounded by fine linen curtains, nearly eight feet in height, and hung from brazen (or copper) pillars. They were secured by rods or cords at- TAB lached to the top, and stretched 80 as to fasten to wooden or metal pins in the ground, as represented in the annexed cut. Twenty of these pillara or columns were on each side, and ten on each end. The entrance or gate of the court was closed with a curtain of different colour and texture from the rest, stretched on four of the pillars, and so hung as to be drawn up or let down at pleasure. (Ex. xxvii. 9—18.) At the upper part of this enclosure, and facing the en- trance, was the tabernacle properly so called ; represent- ed in its proper place in the above cut, and in a more dis- tinct form on the following Eage. This was forty-five by fteen foet, and fifteen feet high. The sides and rear were enclosed with boards, and the front was open. Over the top was thrown a rich, gorgeous fabric, of various ma- terials, the connexion and dis- position of which, as well as of the other parts of the cover- ing, are prescribed with thd utmost minuteness. (Ex. xxvi. 1—30.) The entrance or door of the tabernacle was covered with a beautifully embroidered curtain, suspended on five columns. The interior was subdivided into two apart- ments, and separated, each from the other, by a richly wrought curtain hanging en- tirely across, and reaching from the top to the bottom. This was called the veil, or second veil, (Heb. ix. 3,) be- cause the first entrance was also curtained. The outer 600 TAB TAB apartment was called the holy piace, or sanctuary, or \.\\e first tabernacle, and the inner was the second tabernacle, or the most holy place, or the holiest qfall. (Heb. ix. 2—8.) As to the furniture of the court, there were— (1.) The altar of burnt-offering, which stood near the centre of the en- closure. (See Altar.) (2.) The brazen laver, (Ex. xxx. 18, cor- responding to the molten sea, 1 Kings vii. 23,) which stood between the altar and the tabernacle, in its shape re- sembling an urn. It contained water for washing the hands and feet of the priests, when they were about to enter the sanctuary. As to the furniture of the tabernacle itself, there was — (I.) The golden candlestick, standing on the left of a person entering the sanctuary. (See Candlestick.) (2.) The table qf shew-bread, opposite to the candlestick. (See Bread.) (3.) The altar of incense, be- tween the shew-bread and the 51 candlestick, and in front of the ark, (see Altar;) and (4.) The ark of the covenant. (See Ark.) The tabernacle and its court were finished with perfect ex- actness, according to the pat tern or model supernaturally revealed to Moses. (Heb. viii. 5.) And it is estimated that the silver and gold used in its I construction (to say nothing of the brass or copper, the wood, the curtains and ca- nopies, the furniture, &c.) amounted to nearly one mil- lion dollars, at the present value of the precious metals. When it was finished, it was consecrated, with very solemn and imposing rites, to the service of Jehovah. (Ex. xxx. 23-33; xl. 9-11. Heb. ix. 21.) While passing through the wilderness, the tabernacle was always pitched in the midst of the camp. The tents of the priests and Levites surrounded It in appointed order; and, at some distance from them, the 601 TAB residue of the tribes in four great divisions, consisting of uiree tribes each, and each division with its appropriate name and standard or ban- ner. (Num. ii. 2—29.) The tabernacle and its furniture were so constructed as to be conveniently taken down, transported, and set up again; And particular individuals or classes had their respective dutiesassignedtothem. Every encampment and removal, and (Sven the order of the march, were directed expressly by ichovah. On the day the ta- bernacle was completed, God revealed himself in a cloud, which overshadowed and filled it. By this cloud assuming the shape of a pillar or column, their subsequent course was governed. When it rested over the tent, the people always rested ; and when it moved, the tabernacle was taken down, and the whole host followed wherever it led. In the niehi this cloud became bright like a pillar of fire, and preceded them in like manner. (Ex. xl. 35-38. Num. ix. 15—23.) When the journeyings of the people •were ended, and they entered Canaan, the tabernacle was erected at Gilgal, (Josh. iv. 19,) where it continued until the country was subdued, and then it was removed to Shiloh, (ISam. i. 3,) where it stood between three hundred and our hundred years. It was thence removed to Nob, (1 Sam. xxi. 1—9,) and thence, in the reign of David, to Gibeon, (1 Chron. xxi. 29,) where it was at the commencement of Solo- mon's reign, (2 Chron. i. 1—13,) and when the temple was finished, the sacred fabric, with its vessels and furniture, was removed into it. (See Temple. See also Biblical ANTiaui- liES, vol. ii. chap, ii., Scrip- ture Illustrations, vol. i. pp. 68—123, and Evendig Eb- TAB CREATIONS, vol. iv. pp. 16—26. all by Am. S. S. Union.) The worshippers of the hea- then gods had tabernacles, (Amos v. 26,) the idea of which they probably took from the Jews. These tabernacles were probably portable, carried upon the shoulders, and contained the idol. Tabernacle of witness, (Num.xvii. 7,8,) Tabernacle OF TESTIMONY. (Ex. XXXViii, 21.) These terms may refer to the law, which was deposited in the tabernacle, and which testified to God's authority and holiness, (Ex. xxv.21 ;) or they may refer to the revelations which God made of himself in the tabernacle, and by which he testified his presence and majesty in the most sublime and mysterious manner. Tabernacles, feast of. (See Feasts.) TABITHA,or DORCAS. (Acts ix. 36.) An exemplary disciple of Christ at Joppa, wliose deeds of benevolence had greatly endeared her to the people. (Acts ix. 39) After she was dead, and her body prepared for the grave, she was mira- culously restored to life through the instrumentality of Peter. TABLE. (ISam. xx. 29.) The table of ancient times was nothing but a circular skin, or piece of leather, spread upon the matted or carpeted floor ; and this, at home as well as by the way, answers for table and cloth. Near the edges of this leathern tray, there areholes, or loops, through which, when the meal is com- pleted, a cord is drawn, by means of which the whole at fair is compressed into a small compass,and hung upon a nail. Some have thought that this is the pavilion mentioned inJer. xliii. 10. (See Bread.) The nearest approach to what we call a table is a mere stool, which is placed in the TAB centre of the leather we have I mentioned. This mi^ht be | intended in Judg. i. 7. Its only iLse is to hold "the principal dish, or dishes. There have been seen among the Arabian nobles, and in cities, long ta- bles. These, however, were only a span high, and not a yard wide, and were entirply uncovered, and usually held nothing but the dishes. More frequently all such conve- niences are wanting, and the dishes stand on the leather. Instead of a table cloth, there is spread round the leathern tray, a long cloth, or two such cloths, of a dark colour, which prevent the soiling of the car- pet. Among poorer people there is nothing of the kind, and every one uses his hand- kerchief, by way of napkin. Instead of plates, there are set thin, round cakes, of a coarse kind. (See Omar, pp. 30, 31, by Am. S. S. Union.) After the captivity, raised tables like ours became com- mon, and the Persian practice of reclining on couches at meals was introduced. (For the manner of sitting, see Seats, Eat.) To SERVE TABLES. (ActS vl. 2.) This expression may de- note attention to the pecuniary or secular affairs of the church, (Matt. xxi. 12, and xxv. 27,) or it may relate to the oversight of the distribution of the cha- rityof the church for the relief of the poor. Writing TABLE. (See Book.) TABLET. (See Book.) TABOR, mount. (Judg. iv. 6.) A limestone mountain which rises on the northern border ofthe plain of Esdraelon, about fifty miles north of Jeru- salem, and six from Nazareth. Its shape resembles a cone with the point struck off, the summit presenting a level area a quarter of a mile in length, and the eighth of a TAB mile in breadth. This area was once enclosed, and pro- bably fortified, as there are the ruins of a thick wall of solid masonry and bastions all around the circumference of it, and the foundations of pi i- vale dwellings within. The height of the mount is va- riously estimated from one thousand feet to three miles. By some the estimate is made from the time taken to ascend, and by others from the actual measurement of the circuitoi.3 path, which may be pursuea on horseback even to the summit. The declivities on every side are covered to the very top with verdure, and clumps of trees, (oaks, olives, and sycamores.) inter- spersed with a rich variety of plants and flowers. The view irom the summit of Tabor is described by all travellers in terms of the highest admira- tion. It overtops all the neigh- bouring hills. (Jer. xlvi. f8.) On the west is the noble ex- panse of the Mediterranean. Beneath are spread the beau- tiful plains of Esdraelon and Galilee, while in the distance appear Carmel, and the heights of Samaria and Gilboa. East- ward, thirty miles off, is the sea of Tiberias ; and north are the snow-covered peaks of Lebanon. The modern name of Tabor is djebel Toor. On this mountain, Barak encamped with ten thousand of the men of Zebulon and , Naphtali, on the eve of tha battle with Sisera, (Judg. iv. 6. 12. 14;) and here, according I to tradition, was the wonderful scene of the transfiguration of Christ. (Matt. xvii. 1.) Mr. King, an American mis- sionary, ascended this moun- tain in the autumn of 1823, and speaks of the summit as "a lovely spot, and one on which every man, even if without any feelings of devotion, would love 603 TAD to linger. It resembles the centre of one immense gar- den." The woody parts of the mountain abound in some spe- cies of wild beasts, and have ever been a resort for hunters and fowlers. (Hos. v. 1. For a more particulardescriptionand accurate engraving of this cele- brated mountain, see Views of Palestine, p. 20; see also Evening Recreations, vol. ii. pp. 13—18, and ElisaiMa, pp. 143-145, all by Am. S. S. Union.) TABRET, (Gen. xxxi. 27,) an instrument of music used in the east at the present day, and called dift, was formed and played like the modern tam- bourine. TACHES (Ex. xxvi. 6. 11) were hooks or clasps of gold and copper, used in connect- ing the curtains of the taber- nacle. TACKLING. (Isa. xxxiii. 23. Acts xxvii. 19.) Strictly, in the former passage, it is used for the ropes attached to the mast; in the latter, it is used loosely, and imports the sails, cordage, baggage, and indeed all the instruments of sailing except the anchors, or what was indispensable to the preservation of the ship. TADMOR, (1 Kings ix. 18,) signifying palm tree. An an- cient city, said to have been founded by Solomon, and one of the finest and most magnifi- cent cities of the world. It was situated about one hundred miles east of Damascus, twenty west of the Euphrates, and one hundred and twenty from Aleppo, on a kind of island, separated from the habitable earth by an ocean of barren sands. Alexander the Great, who conquered it, gave it the name of Palmyra, oithe city of palms, because of its position amid palm groves. There is extant a folio volume with fifty plates, illustrating the ruins TAD of this ancient city. Its deso. late situation in the midst of a vast and arid plain ; its high antiquity, and its almost count- less remains of architectural splendour, claim for it the first attention among the famous monuments of past ages. At present, it may be said to con- sist of a forest of Corinthian pillars, erect and fallen. So numerous are they, that the spectator is at a loss to reduce them to any order, or to con- ceive for what purpose they were designed. "In the space covered by these ruins," says a celebrated modern traveller, " we sometimes find a palace of which nothing remains but the court and the walls ; som.e- times, a temple whose peristyle is half thrown down ; and then a portico or gallery, or triumph- al arch. Here stood groups of columns whose symmetry is destroyed by the fall of some of them ; there we see them ranged in rows of such length, that like rows of trees they de- ceive the sight, and assume the appearance of solid walls. And if we cast our eyes on the ground, we behold nothing but subverted shafts, some above others shattered to pieces, or dislocated in their jomts. And whichever way we look, the earth is strewed with vast stones half buried with broken entablatures, mutilated friezes, disfigured relics, effaced sculp- tures, violated tombs, and al- tars defiled by dust." Of all the ruins those of the temple of the sun are the most mag- nificent. Situated on the great com- mercial thoroughfare between Syria and Mesopotamia, it is probable that Tadmor was a place of importance long be- fore the time of Solomon, and was used by him for purposes of commercial enterpnise. It is very obvious that the present ruins belong to different and 604 TAR far distant ages. The place is now occupie3 by some twenty or thirty huts, or hovels, which afford shelter to a few wild Arabs. TAHAPANES, (Jer. ii. 16,) TEHAPHNEHES,(Ezek.xxx. 18,) TAHPANHES, (Jer. xliii. 7,) or HANES. (Isa. xxx. 4.) These several names were given to an Egyptian city, known to the Greeks as Daph- ne, not far from Pelusium. It seems to have been an import- ant place, containing a palace ofthekin^. (Jer. xliii. 9.) Thi- ther the Jews under Johanan fled from the Chaldeans, after the destruction of Jerusalem ; butwere pursued by Nebuchad- nezzar, king of Babylon, who established his throne there, in accordance with Jeremiah's prophecy. Jeremiah is sup- posed to have died there. TALENT. (See Measures.) TALITHA CUMI. (Mark v. 41.) A phrase in the Syrian- Chaldaic language, the literal translation of which is given by the evangelist: Damsel, (or maiden,) arise. TAMMUZ. (Ezek. viii. 14.) Probably the same with the Adonis of Grecian mythology ; a pagan idol, the rites of whose worship were in the highest de- gree obscene. (See Jealousy, IDOL OF. Month.) TAPESTRY. (Prov. xxxi. 22.) Cloth woven or wrought with fisnires. TAPPUAH. (Josh. XV. 34.) There were evidently two ci- ties of this name; one in the low country of Judah, towards the Mediterranean ; the other belonging to Ephraim, on the border of Manasseh, and most Sirobably the En-tappuah of osh. xvii. 7. TARES. (Matt. xiii. 25.) This term, as used in the Bible, is supposed to mean the darnel grass, now known in eastern countries. Its resemblance to wheat is very exact, but some 51* TAR of its properties are highly let nicious. Travellers describe the process of pulling up this grass, and separating it from the genuine grain, and their descriptions perfectly accord with the language of our Sa- viour in the parable. Perhaps, however, he referred to any noxious weed which is suffered to grow with the grain for the sake of the latter, until the time of harvest, and is then sure to be separated and cast away. TARGET. (See Armour.) TARSHISH, (Isa. xxiii. 1,) or THARSHISH. (1 Kings x. 22.) It is supposed that some place of this name existed on the eastern coast of Africa, or among the southern ports of Asia, with which the ships of Hiram and Solomon traded in gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (2Chron. ix. 21.) It is said that once in every three years these ships completed a voyage, and brought home their merchan- dise. Hence, it is inferred, the place with which they traded must have been distant from Judea ; or (what may be con- firmed by the variety which was imported) that after visit- ing Tarshish, and procuring what it furnished, they traded with other and more distant ports, and accomplished the whole in three years. The - more rational hypothesis is, that in that age of the world, in those seas, and on that coast, a voyage of three years would not necessarily imply a great, distance from port to port Ophir was perhaps in the land of Tarshish ; ana it is not im- probable, that from the value of its productions, and the ex- tent of its commerce, vessels trading in that direction, and always touching there, would be called ships of Tarshish. The vessels given by Hiram to Solomon, and those built by 605 TAR Jehoshaphat, fo^orce from him a favourable judgment in the parallel case of Absalom. Da- vid, however, detected the hand of Joab in the whole device. WiLDERNRSs OF, was in the same region, and constituted 606 TEM Eart of the wilderness of Judah. [ere Jehoshaphat defeated the Ammonites and Moabites. (2 Chron. xx. 20.) TELABIB. (Ezek. iii. 15.) A town on the river Chebar, where Ezekiel and many of the Jewish exiles dwelt. Its site is supposed to be occupied by the modern Thelabar. TEM AN. (Amos i. 12.) A city of Edom, not far from Joktheel, supposed to have been settled by Teman, grand- son of Esau. (Gen. xxxvi. 11.) In Hab. iii. 3, allusion is made, in the highest grade of poetic imagery, to the removal of the symbols of the divine presence from the land of Teman and Paran to Sinai. (Ex. xix. See Edom.) TEMPLE. (1 Sam. i. 9.) The sacred edifice erected at Jeru- salem as a permanent place of worship for the Jewish church. In lis general form it resembled the tabernacle, for which it was substituted, and it was the centre of the same great system of ceremonial worship. (See Tabernacle.) The temple was built on mount Moriah. (2 Chron. iii. 1.) Thiswasone summit of a range of hills, the general name of which was mount Zion. (Ps. cxxxii. 13, 14. SeeJERUsALEji.) The idea of building it was suggested to the mind of David, (1 Chron. xvii. 1,) and became a subject of his lively and unceasing in- terest. He collected what was equal to forty-eight thousand tons of cold and silver, or, as some Rave estimated the amount, «35,520,000,0(X), (the lowest estimates give one-fifth of this amount;) besides im- mense quantities of brass, iron, stone, limber, &c. ; and he secured skilful mecha- nics and artificers for every branch of the work. (1 Chron. xxii. 14; xxix. 4. 7.) He also furnished the design, plan, and location of the building, in all TEM which he was divinely in- structed. (1 Chron. xxi. ; xxii. ; xxviii. 11—19.) He was not permitted, however, to see a single step taken in its erec- tion. (1 Kings v. 3.) The su- perintendence of the building was committed to Solomon, the son and successor of David, who in the fourth year of hia reign commenced the work. Tliere were 183,600 Jews and strangers employed on it ; of Je\vs,"30,000, by rotation 10,000 a month; of Clanaanites, 153,600, of whom 70,(K)0 were bearers of burdens, 80,000 were hewers of wood and stone, and 3600 overseers. The parts were all prepared at a distance from the site of the building, and when they were brought toge- ther, the whole immen"se struc- ture was erected without the sound of hammer, axe, or any tool of iron, (1 Kings vi.7,) and at the end of seven and a half years it stood complete in all its splendour, the glory of Jeru- salem, and the most magnificent edifice in the world. The temple, like the taber-^ nacle, had its front towards the east. The porch, or portico, ex- tended across the whole fi-ont, projecting fifteen feet from the main building, and rising to the height of one hundred and eighty feet. Upon the sides and rear of the main building was an additional building oT three stories, each nearly eight feet high. This structure was about half the height of the temple, and though bui It against the walls, was not fastenei into them. (1 Kings vi. 6.) It was divided into apartments like chambers, which opened into the gallery thatsurrounded it. There was a flight of stairs on the south side^which led into the second story, and an- other leading from the second to the third, (f Kings vi. 8.) The whole building and its envi- rons were entered by two Pourl& G07 TEJM TEM The subjoined engraving re- I oug courla, as described by Jew presents ihetemple and its vari- ( ish historians and antiquaries. West. .B. A ,13 , ,-B, BF ]■:.[.:.[ c^ uDiri ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■■ ■ ■■ -a — ■ — a— i- . ■ ■ ■ I I I " " ■ • I L_J ID Q 3? .^.. M ■^-.■ , ,YZ:i^ 1? 3) East. TEM A The outer will. B iTie gates in the outer wall. C The gale Shushan, which is called the gate of the ting. (I Chron. ix. 18.) D Gate of Huldah. E Another gate of the same name. F The gate Tedi. G Solomon's porch. (John i. 23.) H Court of the Gentiles. I The enclosure, or outer verge of the court, within which none but Jews might come, called the outer court, or court of the women. K The temple itself. L The foundation of the temple. M The flight of steps to the temple, N The columns called Jachin and TEM P Tlie vestibule, or porch of the temple. Q The holy place. R The most holy place. S A court on each side of the temple, which separated the people from the court of the priests. V The brazen laver. : W Ten brazen vessels, five on each side, (I Kings vii. 38, 39,) where thesa. crifices were washed before they were brought to the altar. ' X The ereat altar of burnt-offerings. : Y Twenty-four rings, to which the ani. i mals were fastened that were de- I signed for sacrifice. ; Z Eight marble tables, on which th« j slain animals were laid to be pre- I pared for the altar. C Eight small marble columns,on which the slain animals were suspended. t Gazitb, the room or court where the great sanhedrim or Jewish court held its sessions. C Another part of the same court, where the priests' courses were distributed by lot. d The place where was distributed all the wood required for the use of the temple. e The court or chamber of the wheels, where the water for the officers of the temple to drink was drawn up by means of a wheel. 'The gate of burnt-ofFeriag, through which the wood was brought. g The gate of firstlings, through which the firstlings were brought to be of- fered up. h The water gate. t Barriers to prevent the overlooking of the temple. ft Thekitchen,in whichthatportionof the sacrifices which were desisned for the priests wasprepared for their use. The court of the lambs, where eight lambs were kept for the daily sacri- fice. m The court of fire, where fire was constantly preserved. n The court of shew-hread, where the shew, bread was prepared in the evening before the Sabbath. 0 The court in which was distributed oil or wine for the sacrifices. p The fire gate, leading to the place where the guards of the priests were, and where was a fire for the priests' use. q The gate of sacrifices, through which the sacrifices were carried into the inner court, r The gate of the singers, near to the singing Levites. * The washing gale, where the sacrifices were washed preparatory to being taken to the altar. t Parbar, or court ga'e, where the skins of animals were taken off and salted, u The chamber of salt. w The court of the priests, twenty-five feet wide and two hundred and sixty long. X Two tables, one of silver and the other of marble, near the altar of burnt- offering, containing ninety-thiee golden vessels. yAsh vessels, designed to receive the ashes of the consumed sacrifices, z A cistern of water. 1 The court of the Israelites. 2 The throne of Solomon. (2 Chron. vi. 13.) 5 The place where the half shekel tax was received. (Ex. xxx. 13.) 4 The outer court of the women. 6 The gate of Nicanor, called the higher gate, (2 Kings xv. 35.) and the new gite. (Jer. xxxvi. 10.) 6 A co-jrt for the feast of tabernacles. 7 Pulpit of the high-priest, from which a part of the law was read at the feast of propitiation. t The great golden candlesticks. • Places between the columns for receiv- ing gifts. JO The court of the Nazaritcs. j 11 The court of wood, where wood was I selected for the burnt-offerings, j 12 The court where the lepers showed i themselves to the priests before of- f fering their sacrifices. I 13 The court where oil and wine were \ deposited for the daily sacrifices, I and for the lamps. (Ex. xxvii. 20 ) ' 14 Synagogue where the law was ex- '. plained on the Sabbatb. and feast { davs. , 5 15 The beautiful gate of the temple. ' 16 The flight of steps on which the Le- vites stood and sung the fifteen psalms, from cxx. to cxxxiv. in elusive, at the feast of tabernacles. 17 Openings for the passage nf smoke. 609 TEM The inner court, called tlie court before the temple, or the court of the priests, correspond- ed generally with the court of the tabernacle, as did also the eacred apartments, furniture, and utensils. The temple of Solomon stood altogether four hundred and twenty-four years ; but in the Bhort space of thirty years after its completion, it was plunder- ed by S'hishak, king of Egypt. (1 Kings xiv. 25, 26.) After this it was frequently profaned and Sillaiged, and was at last broken own and destroyed by the king of Babylon, b. c. 588, and the nation itself carried into captivity. In fifty-two years after these events, a number of the Jews returned, and the rebuilding of the temple was commenced under the superin- tendence of Zerubbabel, the Jewish governor, and Jeshua, or Joshua, the high-priest. They were permitted and en- couraged to undertake it by Cyrus, the Persian emperor, to whom Judea had now become tributary. (Isa. xliv.28; xlv.13.) Much interruption and delay attended the enterprise, of •which we have a full account in the book of Ezra. It was completed, however, and dedi- cated B. c. 515, or about seven- ty-three years after the destruc- tion of it ; and though inferior in many respects to the first temple, having no ark, no mer- cy-seat, no visible revelation of the divine glory, no sacred fire, no urim and thummim, and no spirit of prophecy, (Ezra iii. 12, 13;) still it was in breadth and height twice the size of Solomon's. It furnished a fixed place of worship for the nation, and ultimately became the theatre of far more glorious illustrations of the divine glory than the first temple ever wit- nessed. (Has. 11. 6—9. Mai. ill. 1. Col. 11.^9. ITirn. iil.16.) The temple of Zerubbabel had TEM stood nearly fivehundred years, and was much decayed, when Herod the Great, with a view to secure the favour of the Jews, and obtain to himself a great name, undertook to re- build it; so that It was not a new edifice, strictly speaking, but rather a complete repair of the second temple. He began the work only seventeen years before the birth of Christ, and completed the main building in less than ten years, so that it was fit for the service. The whole work occupied forty-six years. (John ii. 20.) We shall describe it as it stood in the davs of our Saviour. The outer wall, which en- closed the buildings, was about one-eighth of a mile square, and nearly forty feet above the summit of the mount. This wall was built up from the val- ley beneath, and was in some places from six hundred to se- ven hundred feet high. It is supposed to have been from this height (or pinnacle) that our Saviour was urged to cast himself (Matt. iv. 5—7.) In these walls were seven mas- sive and costly gates, each fif- teen feet wide, and thirty feet high. These were in addltioa to the beautiful gate, (Acts iii. 2,) which was on the east side, and was called beautiful be- cause it was of the finest brass, (copper,) seventy-five feet in height, highly polished, and richly adorned. Between the gates, along the inside of the wall, were piazzas supported partly by the wall itself, and partly by a double row of co- lumns, except on the south side, where were three rows of columns. The porch on the east side was called Solomon's, (John x. 23,) because he built It, or at least the stupendous wall on which it rested. All within the area which these walls enclosed was called the temple. 610 TEM The larger part of the area was vacant ground, completely Saved with marble, and was istinguished as the court of theGentiles, because all classes of persons might enter it. But beyond the wall which sepa- rated this from the next court no uncircumcised person was permitted to pass. A prohibi- tion to that effect was inscribed upon the gate-post. (Eph. ii. \3, 14 ) Around this outer court the stock for the supply of the temple service was kept, and the money-changers had their places of business. The second court was enclosed by a wall. It was called the new court, (2 Chron. xx. 5,) the outer court, (Ezek. xlvi. 21,) or court of the toomen, because women were not allowed to go beyond it to- ward the sanctuary, unless when they brought a sacrifice. In this court men and women performed their ordinary wor- ship unaccompanied witli sa- crifices. (Luke xviii. 10—14. Acts iii. 1 ; xxi. 26—30.) Here also was the treasury, (Mark xii. 41,) where the gifts for the service of the temple were de- posited in small chests or cof- fers, fixed in the surrounding wall ; and this was the place where some of our Saviour's most impressive discourses were delivered. (John viii.20.) The next court towards the sanctuary was the court of Is- rael. The outer half of this court was entered by common Israelites to attend on particu- lar services of religion; but the inner half, next to the sanctu- ary, was called the court of the priests, and they were sepa- rated from each other by a low railing. Our Saviour, being of the tribe of Judah, had no privileges in th»temple above any other Israelite. Hence whatever he is said to have done in the temple must be intended of the courts of the temple. TEM "Within the court of th priests stood the altar ofbtimt- offering and the brazen laver, and not even an Israelite could on any condition pass the rail- ing that enclosed them, unless when he came to offer his sa- crifice before the altar. Next came tlie sanctuary, the materials of which were beautiful and costly beyond de- scription. (Mark xiii. I.) The porch extended one hundred and fifty feet across Ine front of the main building. It was tliirty feet wide, and rose at the highest elevation to nearly one hundred and eighty feet. The entrance to this porch was one hundred and thirty-five feet by thirty-seven. It had no door. The sanctuary itself was ninety feet high, ninety feet long, and thirty feet wide. Around it, except in front, was a structure of three stories high, like that attached to the first temple as Ijefore described. The sanctuary had two apart- ments, separated from each other by a curtain or veil, (Matt, xxvii. 51,) viz. the holy place, which occupied sixty feet of the whole length, and in which were the altar of in- cense, the golden candlestick, and the table of shew-bread ; and the 7nost holy place, which measured thirty ieei every way. It is worthy of remark, that in our translation of the Bible, when these apartments are mentioned by these terms, the word place is generally, if not always, supplied by the trans- lators. This temple was razed to its foundation by the Romans, A. D. 70—71, and the site of it was made like a ploughed field. (Jer. xxvi. 18. Matt. xxiv. 2.) It is now occupied by a Turk- ish mosque, which neither Jew nor Christian was until lately permitted to enter. The veneration with which the temple was regarded by the TEN Jews appears from the manner »a which they treated any sup- posed disrespectful allusion to It. (Matt. xxvi. 61. John ii. 19, 20. Acts xxi. 28, 29; xxiv. 6; XXV. 8. See Jerusalem. For a full account of the temple, and its imposing services, see Selumiel, ch. iv., Scripture Illustrations, part ii., Elisa- MA, ch. viii.— X., and Biblical ANTiauiTiEs, vol. ii. ch. iii.— v., all by Am. S. S. Union.) TEMPT, (Matt. xxii. 18,) TEMPTATION. (Luke iv.I3.) These words are used in va- rious senses by the sacred writ- ers. The ordinary import of them is allurement or entice- ment to sin. Hence our great adversary the devil is called the tempter. (Matt. iv. 3.) These words sometimes denote the trial of a person's faith or obedience, (Gen. xxii. 1. James i. 2, 3,) or the trial of God's patience and forbearance, (Ex. xvii. 2. 1 Cor. x. 9 ;) but gene- rally they signify that which persuades to sin, The prayer lead us not i?ito temptation (Matt. vi. 13) does not imply that God leads us into tempta- tion, (James i. 13, 14.) but n is a prayer that we may not be suffered to fall into temptation. When it is said that the law- yer and others tempted our Saviour, (Matt. xvi. 1 ; xix. 3. Mark x. 2. Luke x. 25,) it is meant that they tried to en- snare him, or lead him into the commission ofsomeotfence. (See th is subject plai nly treated in the House of Refuge, ch. y. and vi., by Am. S. S. Union.) TENT. (See Dwellings. See also Bedouin Arabs, ch. v. and viii., by Am. S. S. Union.) Tent-maker. (Acts xviii. 8.) This is said to have been Paul's trade ; but it is supposed to refer to the manufacture of tent-cloth rather than to the preparing of tents. Some sup- pose that he made military TES tents, the material of which was goatskins. TENTH DEAL. (See Mea- sures.) TERAH. (Gen. xi. 31,32.) The father of Abraham, who accompanied him to Haran, in Mesopotamia, where he died at the age of two hundred and five, Abraham being then se- venty-five years of age. TERAPHIM. (Judg.xvii.5.) From comparing Gen. xxxi. 19. 30, ii would seem tnatthis word sometimes denotes household idol gods or images. Perhaps it was also applied to the forms or instruments of astrology, and so might be found in pos- session of those who were not idolaters. As it is used by the prophet in relation to the stale of the Jews, (Hos. iii. 4,) it pro- bably means that that unhappy nation should be without any god, true or false; not only without sacrifice and ephod, which belonged to their reli- gious system, but also without images and teraphim, which were parts of their idolatry. TEKTULLUS. (Acts xxiv. 1.) Probably a Roman lawyer, who acted as prosecutor in the case of Paul before Felix. The Jews, being ignorant of the Ro- man forms of law, &c., would naturally employ a person ac- quainted with them to manage their causes. TESTAMENT. (Heb. ii. 15.) The word testament, when applied toour Scriptures, (as the Old and New Testa- ment,) is used in the same sense with covenant. The old cove- nant is sjwken of i n Ex. xxiv. 8, and the new in Matt. xxvi. 28. The former was ratified by the blood of sacrifices, and the lat- ter (of which the other was a type) was ratified by the blood of Christ. According to some critics, the word testament is also used by the sacred writers, as it is in 612 THA modem times, to signify the in- ■Irunient by which a man di- rects what disposition shall be made of his properly after his death. (Heb. ix. 16) It is well known that such an instrument takes effect only at the death of the testator, (or he who makes the testament.) Hence the apos- tle, in allusion to this fact, says in substance, that the death of Christ has the same effect on the covenant of redemption, which is the new testament, as the death of the testator has on his last will and testament, viz. gives it force and validity. Others, however, have sup- posed that the apostle refers to the ancient custom of confirm- ing covenants by sacrifices, (Gen. XV. 8, 9,) in reference to which it is true that a covenant was of no force so long as the victim by whose death it was to be confirmed was living- TESTIMONY, TESTIMO- NIES. (Ps.cxix.88.99.) These terms sometimes denote the whole revelation of God's will. They frequently occur in this sense in the above Psalm. They also refer to the tables of stone, which were part of the cove- nant between God and the people of Israel, (Ex. xxv. 16;) and hence the ark in which they were deposited is called Xhe ark of the testimony . (Ex. XXV. 22. See Ark.) The gos- pel is also called the testimony in ICor. i. 6. Rev. i. 2, and elsewhere. (See Witness.) TETRARCH. (Matt. xiv. 1.) This title was given to a sove- reign prince, and strictly de- notes one who governs the fourth pan of a province or kingdom. In our Scriptures, however, it is applied to any •ne who governed a province •f the Roman empire, what- ever portion of the territory might be within his jurisdic- lion. The tetrarch had the title of kin". (Matt. xiv. 9.) THADDEUS. (SeeJuDE.) 52 THE THAMMUZ. (See Tam- MUZ.) THANK-OFFERING. (See Offerings.) THARSHISH. (See Tar. SHISH.) THEATRE. (Acts xix. 29. 31 .) A place of public amuse- ment, where popular assem- blies, courts, elections, &C., were often held. THEBEZ. (Jud^. ix. 50.) A city north-east oiShechem, within the territory of Ephra- im, celebrated as the place where Abimelech was slain. (See Abimelech.) THEOFHILUS. (Luke i. 3.) A distinguished individual, probably of Greece or Rome, to whom, as his particular friend or patron, Luke address- ed both his gospel and his his- tory of the Acts of the Apostles. Tiie title most excellent pro- bably denotes official dignity. (Acts xxiii. 26; xxiv. 3, and ^THESSALONICA. (Acts xxvii. 2.) The capital of one of the pretorial districts of Ma- cedonia. It is now called Sa- loniki, and is situated in Eu- ropean Turkey, at the northerL extremity of the gulf of Salo- niki, (formerly the Thermaic gulf,) two hundred and seven- ty-two miles west of Constan- tinople; and, of the towns of European Turkey, is, in point of commerce, second only to that city. Its population is estimated at 70,000, of whom 30,000 to 35,000 are Turks, 10,000 or 12,000 Greeks, 20,000 to 30,000 Jews, and a few hun dred Franks. The Jews are the principal business men. The ancient walls are nearly entire, and are five or six mileis in circuit. The Greeks have twenty-six churches, eighteen of which are spacious; and the Jews have seventy-six syna- gogues, thirty-six of which are small, and connected with private dwellings. 613 THI Messrs. Dwight and Schauf- fler, American missionaries, visited Thessalonica in the spring of 1834. They speak 01 the Jews as in a miserable condition, and as having fully })reserved the spirit of their brefathers respecting Chris- tianity. (Acts xvii. 5.) Paul and his associates, Timotheus and Silas, (1 Thess. i. 1; ii. 1, 2,) planted a church here about the year a. d. 52 ; and Aris- tarchus and Secundus were among the converts to the faith. (Acts xx. 4, and xxvii. 2.) Two of his letters are ad- dressed to the disciples of Christ in this city. THESSALONIANS, epis- tles TO. These constitute the thirteenth and fourteenth in erder of the books of the New Testament. They were writ- ten by the apostle Paul to the church of the Thessalonians. (See Thessalonica.) The first epistle was probably writ- ten near the close of a. d. 52 or beginning of 53 ; and its de- sign is to establish the follow- ers of Christ there in all those graces for which they were so conspicuous, and encourage them, by the most affectionate and pointed exhortations, in seeking for higher attainments and richer consolations in the divine life. The fourth chap- ter is remarkable for the dis- tinctness with which it reveals the order of the general resur- rection. The second epistle was writ- ten soon after the first, and seems to have been designed to correct some misapprehen- sions which had occurred re- specting the first; and, at the same time, still farther to esta- t^ish and encourage them in the works of faith and labours of love. The second chapter contains a very full prophecy respecting the revelation of antichrist, TKIGH. (Gen.xxiv.2.) The THI practice of putting the hand under the thigh might denote the obedience or subjection of the individual, or it might be connected with the rile of cir cumcision as a token of God'l faithfulness. The inscription upon the thigh (Rev. xix. 16) alludes to the custom of in- scribing the names and deeda of conc[uerors on their garm.enta and weapons. The name might be inscribed on the sword, which was girded on the thigh, or on that part of the dreFS which covered the thigh. Jacob's ihieh was smit- ten by the angel, "(Gen. xxxii. 25,) to show that he had super- natural power, and that he yielded in mercy, and not from necessity. (See Jacob, Uk- COVER.) THISTLES AND THORNS. (Gen. iii. 18.) These terms are generally connected in the Scriptures, and probably often denote any kind of useless or noxious plants that grow spon- taneously, to the annoyance of the husbandman, and the great i njury. of his crops. The figurative use of these terms denotes desolation, (Prov. xxiv. 31. Isa.v,6. Hos.ii.6; ix.6; x. 8;) the visitations of Provi- dence, (Num. xxxiii.55. Judg. ii. 3. 2Cor. xii.7;) difficulties and hinderances.(Prov. XV. 19 ;) and troubles. (Prov. xxii. 5.) The crowning with thorns (Matt, xxvii. 29) was probably the wanton invention of the Roman soldiery, and made no part of the established punish- ment. We are not certain as to the kind of thorns used; some suppose the white thorn, which grows in abundance near Jerusalem; some the acacia, and others the acan- thus, which blossoms in March. The object of the soldiers was to ridicule the idea of (Christ being a king, and also to aggra- vate his sufferings. The passage (Hos. ii. 6) above 614 THR cited is forcibly illustrated by ihe remark of a modern tra- veller in Judea. "As we rode through Riphah, we perceived it to be a setllenieni of about fifty dwellings, all very mean in their appearance, anil every one fenced in front with ihorn- bushes, while a barrier of the same kind encircled the whole of the town. This was one of the most effectual defences which they could have raised against the incursions of horse Arabs, the only enemies whom they have to dread, as neither will the horse approach to entangle himself in these thickets of brier, nor cuuld the rider, even if he dismounted, get over them, or remove them to clear a passage, without assistance from some one within." THOMAS, (John xx. 24,) one of the twelve apostles, was also called Didymus, (the twin.) We know little of his history. He seems to have been of singular temperament. (Johnxi. IG; xiv. 5; xx. 20— 29.) It is supposed he was actively engaged in propa- gating the gospel, and suffered martyrdom. THORNS. (See Thistles.) THREE TAVERNS. (Acts xxviii, 15.) A place so called, perhaps,from thecircumslance that three houses of public en- tertainment were established there. It was about thirty -three miles from Rome , and Paul was met at that place, when on his way to Rome as a pri- soner, by some brethren from that city, who had heard of his approarh. THRESH, (Isa. xli. 15,) THRESHING FLOOR. (Gen. 1.10.) The ancient threshing- floors were selected on the hiiihest summits, open on every side to the wind. Though calle-13. Prov. xxiv. 31. Sol. Song ii. 15. Matt. xxi. 33. See Tower.) The Hebrews devoted as much care to their vineyards as to their agriculture. When Isaiah predicts the invasion of the Assyrians, he declares that the vineyard where there were a thousand vines for a thou- sand pieces of silver, shall bo even for briers and thonis. (Isa. vii. 23.) "^Tien he would represent sorrow, he says. The new tcifie moumeth, the xme !anguisheth,and all the merry- hearted do sigh. (Isa. xxiv. 7.) SoZechariah (viii. 12) foretells future prosperity thus : 77ie seed shall he prosperous, the vine shall give her fruit. (See also Hab. iii. 17. Mai. iii. 11.) The pruning of the vine is a famili xr operation, which we VIN all know to be necessary in order to its fruitfulness. The law which forbade the Israel- ites to gather the grapes of tho first three years, (Lev. xix. 23,) gave occasion to the more care- ful and unsparing use of the pruning knife; "hence the young stock came to much greater strength. A traveller mentions a custom of the vine- dressers to prune their vines thrice in the year; the first time in March ; and when clus- ters begin to form, they again lop off those twigs which have no fniit; the stock puts out new twigs in April, some of which form clusters, and those which have none are again cut off in May ; the vine shoots a third time, and the new branches have a third set of clusters. (See John xv. 2, in which passage the word purg- eth may be rendered pruneth.") What remains of the culture of the vine is very simple. Once or twice in the season the ploush was run through the vineyard, to loosen the earth, and free it from weeds; the stones were gathered out, and a proper direction was given to the growing branches. (Isa. V. 2.) The vinedressers, or keepers of the vineyard, formed a distinct branch of labourers. (2 Kings XXV. 12.) The regular vintage begins in Syria about the middle of September, and lasts about two months. (Lev. xxvi. 5. Amos ix. 13.) Ripe clusters, however, are found in Pales- tine as early as June and JUy, although the regular vintage begins in September. This dif- ference may arise from the threefold growth of the vine already mentioned. The first gathered in Canaan is probably meant in Num. xiii. 20. The vintage was celebrated by the Hebrews with still more festivity than the harvest, (Isa vow xvi. 9,) and was someiimes a season of wicked mirth. (Judg. ix. 27.) VINTAGE. (See Wine, Vine.) VIOL. (Amos vi. 5.) This was an instrument of music, and supposed to be the same with the psaltery. (See Music.) Chanting to the sound of it was to make like sounds with the voice, modulating the tones so as to correspond with the sounds of the instrument. VIPER. (Job XX. 16.) A ve- nomous serpent, from two to five feet in length. Its bite is extremely painful, and, in many species, quickly and certainly fatal ; so that it was anciently regarded as a special judgment from heaven to be bitten by one. (Acts xxviii. 1—6.) Hence the viper is an emblem of whatever is deceit- ful and destructive. (Matt. iii. 7; xii. 34; xxiii. 33. Luke iii. 7. See Cockatrice.) VISION. (Num.xxiv. 4.) In former times God was pleased to reveal himself, and commu- nicate his will in what were called visions, which were caused either in the night in ordinary sleep, (Dan. vii. 1,) or by day in a temporary trance. (Acts xxvi, 13. See Dream, Trance.) VOW. (Num. vi. 2.) In the ficriptural use, this word means a solemn religious promise, or covenant, by which one binds himself to do or suffer certain things, depending on God for power to accomplish it. Hence vows were made with prayer, and paid with thanksgiving. (Num. vi. 2-21. Judg. xi. 30, VUL 31. Ps. Ixi. 5. Acts xviii. la See Nazarite. See also Bib- lical Antiquities, vol. ii. ch. V. § 1, by Arn. S. S. Union.) VULTURE. (Lev. xi. 14.) A filthy, rapacious bird, un- clean by the ceremonial law, (Deut. xiv. 13,) but useful for destroying substances which might otherwise produce pes- tilence. They flock to fields of battle to satiate themselves upon the unburied. (Isa. xxxiv. 6.15.) The extreme acuteness of the sense of sight in the vulture enables it to discern its prey at a great distance : and it is a striking instance in the accu- racy of the Scripture writers, that while common sentiment attributes to the sense of smell- ing the peculiar faculties of this bird, its Hebrew name means seeing. And in the re- cital of God's wonders in the animal creation, in the book of Job, the characteristic of the eagle (one of the same tribe with the \'tilture) is, that her eyes behold afar off. The same peculiarity is referred to, Job xxviii. 7, there is a path which the vulture^s eye hath not seen; implying that its vision is most acute and penetrating. Recent experiments by a natu- ralist in South Carolina, where vultures abound, prove satis- factorily that this bird is guided solely by its sight in the pur- suit of its prey, and that its powers of vision are very extra- ordinary: thus sustaining the truth of Scripture, even in mat- ters not of a religious or moral character; and this, in contra- diction to the common opinion of mankind. V S27 WAL WAL WAFER. (Ex. xvl. 31.) A thia cake of fine flour, used in various offerings anoint- ed with oil. v.See Manna.) "WAGON. (Gen. xlv. 19.) Wagons, and similar vehicles, which are considered by us so indispensable in transporta- tion, are not used at this day in the east, or in Egypt. Niebuhr states that he saw nothing of the kind either in Arabia or Egypt. In ancient times, how- ever, they were well known, and frequently employed. (Num. vii. 3. Amos ii. 13.) We have figures of rude vehi- cles of this kind on monu- ments, supposed to be as an- cient as the age succeeding that of Joseph. WAIL. (Ezek. xxxii. 18.) To mourn with loud and vio- lent expressions of distress and despair. WALLS. (Gen. xlix. G.) The walls of ancient limes were generally built of earth, or clay, mixed with straw, and hardened in the sun. Hence it was necessary to build them of great thickness, in order to ensure their permanency. When any breach took place in such a mass of earth, either by heavy rains or some defect in the foundation, the conse- quences were very serious. (Ps. Ixii. 3. Isa. xxx. 13.) The fact that bricks were made in such a rude and perishable manner gives force to the con- trast presented in Isa. ix. 10; and as considerable straw en- tered into their composition, and the ea.nh of which they were made wCs dry and porous, it is not surprising that they could be destroyed by fire, (Amos i. 7. 10. 14.) The expression in Job xxiv. 11, is supposed by some to refer to the low walls which were built in vineyards for the vines to run upon ; and they maintain that the passage should read thus— 'They work at midday among their walls on rows of vines.' It may be that olive- yards were enclosed with walls, as we know vineyards were, and then the passage would be plain as it stands. The walls of vineyards were temporary, being probably de- signed chiefly to guard the enclosure against the jackals, which were numerous in Pales- tine, especially during the vintage, often destroying whole vineyards and fields of cucum- bers. Hence the bitterness of the sarcasm of Tobiah, (Neh. iv. 3,) as if the wall the Jews were buildingforthe protection of their capital, was scarcely better or stronger than a tem- porary vineyard wall to bar out jackals or foxes. A fenced wall (Isa. il. 15) is a fortified wall. (See Cities.) WAR. (Gen. xiv. 2.) We read of vast armies in the land of Palestine. (2Chron. xiii. 3; xiv. 8, 9; xvii. 14—18; xxv. 5—7; xxvi. 11—15.) From the nature of the arms and the customs of the an- cients, their battles were truly murderous. In those times, heroes sought through the whole field for their personal enemies. Scarcely ever was any quarter given, except where the vanquished was re- tained as a slave, and conse- quently the number of killed was often immense. (2Chron. xiii. 17.) Although the military art was comparatively simple, yet ingenious stratagems of various kinds were practised. Ene- mies were then, as now, sur- prised and overcome by unex- pected divisions of the forces, by ambushes, and by false retreats. (Gen. xiv. 15. Josh, viii. 12. Judg. xx. 36—39. 2 Kings vii. 12.) WAR Previously to the invention of fire-arms, it was found ne- cessary to resort to many com- plicated and unwieldy ma- chines for casting heavy stones, and other destructive missiles. We find, however, little allu- sion to these in the Bible. About the end of the ninth or the beginning of the eighth WAR century before Christ, Uzziah made in Jerusalem engines invented by cunning meji, to be on the towers and bulwarks to shoot arrows and great stones withal. (2Chron. xxvi. 15.) These were obviously similar to those in use by the Greeks and Romans. Among these was the batter WAR ing-rain. (Ezek. iv. 1,2; xxi. 22,) This was nothing more than a long beam of strong wood, usually oak. It was ^tended to batter down walls, and the end with which the assault was made was armed with a mass of heavy metal, in the shape of a ram's head. Occasionally they were sharp- ly pointed at this end. These great beams were at first car- ried by the soldiers, and driven against the walls; afterwards tiiey were placed upon wheels ; WAR I but in process of lime, they were suspended by heavy chains, so that a comparatively small force would impel them with vast etfect against a forti- fication. The meii who worked the battering-ram were pro- lected by a covering or roof, spread with somethilig damp and tough, (as wet hides,) to resist the fire and the weapons of the besieged. The crow was also the name of an instrument of war, a figure of which is here given. It is supposed that Hushai (2 Sam. xvii. 13) alluded to a machine like the crow, when he said to Absalom, If David be in a city, then shall all Is- rael bring ropes to that city, and tee will draw it into the river, until there be not one sinall stone found there. The crow could only be effective where the walls of a town were not in good condition, or not well defended; and then if the besiegers were sufficient- ■y numerous to work it, by ap- plying a great number of ropes to the same beam, they could soon open a way for the be- sieging army. There certainly is "reason to conclude that Hushai's proposition arose from his knowmg that king David was almost deserted, and that the hearts of the men of Israel tcere after Absalom, and that the plan, though injudicious in itself, alluded to the use of some weapon of attack similar to the crow,wiiich was worked by means of ropes, so pointedly WAR mentioned in this otherwise obscure passage. But there was no part of the ancient military preparations which was more terrible than the chariot. (Ex. xiv. 7. Deut. XX. 1. Josh. xvii. 16. Judg. iv. 3.) They were in common use wherever there was any cavalry. (2 Sam. x. IS. 1 Chron. xviii. 4. 2Chron. xii. 3; xiv. 9. See Chariot.) Walls and towers were used in fortifications, and the latter were guarded by soldiers, and are called garrisons. (2 Sam. viii. 6. Ezek. xxvi. 11. See Ward.) As to the order of battle, we have no certain knowledge. The prophet alludes to it. (Jer. xlvi. 3, 4.) Among all ancient nations, it was customary to take previous refreshment of food, in order to give strength to the army. T?he soldiers, and especially the command- ers, arrayed themselves in their costliest garments and fairest armour, except in cases where disguise was attempted. (1 Kings xxii. 30.) Various passages lead to the opinion that divisions of the army were common, as in modern times. (Gen. xiv. 15. Judg. vii. 16. ISam. xi. 11.) The most frequent division of the host was into tens, hun- dreds, and thousands; and each of these had its com- mander, or captain. (Judg. xx. 10. ISam. viii. 12. 2 Kings xi. 4.) This is an ancient metiiod, and is still common in Persia. Among the Hebrews these di- visions had some reference to the several families, and were under the heads of fami- lies, as their officers. (2 Chron. XXV. 5 ; xxvi. 12.) The cap- tains of hundreds and of thou- sands were of high rank, or (so to speak) staff-officers, who were admitted to share in the councils of war. (1 Chron. xiii. 1.) The whole army had its WAR commander-in-chief, or cap- tain, who was over the hosi, and its scribe, or keeper of the muster-roll. (1 Kings iv. 4. 1 Chron. xviii. 15, 16; xxvii. 32—34. 2 Chron. xvii. 14; xxvi. 1 1.) In Isa. xxxiii. 18, the words translated he that counted the towers probably indicate what we should call a chief en- gineer. Under David, the army of 288,000 men was divided into twelve corps, each of which was consequenlly24,000 strong; and had its own general. (1 Chron. xxvii.) Under Je- hoshaphat this was altered, and there were five unequal corps, under as many com- manders. (2 Chron. xvii. 14 — 19.) The cohort had five or six hundred men, and the legion embraced ten cohorts. The light troops were pro- vided with arms which they used at some distance from the enemy. They are designated 2 Chron. xiv. 8; while the heavy armed were those who bore shield and spear. (IChron. xii. 24.) The light troops were taken principally from the tribe of Benjamin, as appears from the last cited texts. Kings and generals had ar- mour-bearers, selected from the bravest of their favourites, and who not only carried their armour, which was in those days a necessary service, but stood by them in the hour of danger, carried their orders, and were not unlike modern adjutants. (1 Sam. xxxi. 4.) The troops were excited tc ardour and bravery by address- es from their priests, who were commanded to appeal to them (Deut. XX. 2.) In later times . kings themselves were accus tomed to harangue their ar mies. (2Chron. xiii. 4.) Final ly (perhaps after the sacrifices had been offered) the summons was given by the holy trum 631 WAS> pets. (Num. x. 9, 10. 2 Chron. xlii. 12-14.) It was the practice of the Greeks, when ihey were with- in half a mile of the enemy, to sing their war-song. A simi- lar custom probablyprevailed •■ Jews. 21.) among the , (2 Chron. xx. Next followed the shout, or tcar-cry, which the Romans accompanied with the noise of shields and spears struck violently together. This war- cry was common in the east, as it is to this day among the Turks. It was the alarm or shout so often mentioned in Scripture. (1 Sam. xvii. 52. 2 Chron. xlii. 15. Job xxxix.25. Jer. iv. 19.) The frequent figurative allu- Bions to the art and weapons of war, used by the sacred writers, are obvious without explanation. The practice of offensive war ia modern times cannot be de- fended by reference to sacred history. We have a new and better dispensation, which breathes forgiveness and for- iDearance ; and the tendency and promised fruit of which is to banish wars and fightings from the earth, and make it the abode of peace and love. (For further information on this sub- ject, see Arms, Ahmour. See also Omak, ch. iii.— v., and Biblical Antiq,tiities, vol. i. ch. ix. § 6, both by Am. S. S. Union.) WARD. (Gen. xl. 3. Acts xii. 10.) A prison, or an apart- ment thereof. Also a garrison or military post, (Neh. xii. 25,) or a class or detachment of persons for any particular ser- vice. (1 Ciiron. ix. 23; xxv. 8. Neh. xiii. 30.) WARDROBE. (2Kingsxxii. 14.) The place where the royal robes or priests' vest- ments were deposited. WASHING. (See Feet.) WASHPOT. (Ps. Ix. 8.) This WAT word in its connexion signifies that the lAIoabiies should be reduced to the most abject and degrading servitude. WATCH. (Ex.xiv.24.) The original division of the night was into the first, middle, and morning walch; but after the captivity, the Jews adopted the custom of Romeand Greece, which divided the twelve hours of the night into four watches, beginning with six in the after- noon. (!»Iark xiii. 35. See CocK-cRowiNG.) The time that passed between the watch- es seems to a person that sleeps soundly as but a single mo- ment. (Ps. xc. 4.) WATCHER. (Dan. iv. 17. 23.) This word is supposed to denote either the Divine Being himself (ver. 24) or his holy messengers, (ver. 13.) It im- ports the special universal pro- vidence of God, by which the affairs of the universe are or- dered, and the rise and fall of kings and empires controlled. The twelve superior gods of the Chaldeans were called counsellor gods, and were sup- posed to watch over and inte- rest themselves in the minutest affairs of men. WATCHMAN. (Sol. Song V. 7. Isa. xxi. 11.) In Persia, the watchmen were required to indemnify those who were robbed in the streets, and hence they were extremely vigilant to give the alarm, and protect the city and its inhabitants from violence. (Ezek. xxxiii. 2-6.) The watchman was also required to call the hours of the night in a loud voice, as he patrolled the streets. This is customary at the present day in some large cities. In time of danger the watchmen were postedln towers over the gates of the city. (Isa. xxi. 8 ; Ixii. 6.) WATER. (Gen. xviii. 4.) The scarcity of water is orte of the calamities of the eastern world, and the distress which WAT is often experienced by man and beasl for want of it is indescribable. Park, the Af- rican iraveller, tells us that after several days of privation, he had fallen asleep, and his fancy would carry him to the banks of some clear and beau- tiful river, which he surveyed with transport, and eagerly hastened to quench his parch- ing thirst, and the fancied effort would wake him to the dreadful disappointment. How admirably does this illustrate Isa. xxix. 8. In Prov. xxi. 1, the original term rendered rivers signifies divisions, partitions, sediotut, and refers to the ancient ori- ental methods of conveying water to orchards and gardens. This was by means of canals, or rivulets flowing in artificial channels, called in Hebrew divisions, i. e. cvts or trenchen, which distributed the water in everydirection,to irrigateabun- danlly their otherwise parched and barren soil. With a simi- lar allusion, the psalmist (Ps. i. 3) says of the godly man, the lover of the divine law, that he shall be like a tree platited by the rivers of water, (divi- sions or sections of water,) that bringeth forth his fruit in his season, and his leaf shall not toither. The reference is doubt- less to trees nourished by arti- ficial irrigation, like those in the neighbourhood of Damas- cus. The gardens are thick- set with fruit trees of all kinds, kept fresh and verdant by the waters of the Barady. This river, as soon as it issues out from the cleft of the mountain into the plain, is immediately divided into three streams, of which the middlemost and largest runs directly to Damas- cus", through a large open field called the Ager Daniascenus, and is distributed to all the cisterns and fountains in tne city. The other two, which are WAT I taken to be the work of art, ar I drawn round, the one to the j right hand, and the other to the left, {as the rivers of water I are turned,) on the borders of the gardens, into which they are let out as they pass, by little currents, (divisions,) and so dispersed all over the vast wood; insomuch that there is j not a garden but has a fine I c^uick stream running through it. A traveller describing the orange garden of the emir of Beyroot, observes that " it con- tains a large quadrangular plat of ground, divided into sixteen lesser squares, four in a row, with walks between them. The walks are shaded with orange trees, of a large spread- ing size. Every one of these sixteen lesser squares in the garden was bordered with stone ; and in the stone work were troughs very artificially contrived,~for conveying the water all over the garden: there being little outlets cut at every tree, for the stream, as it passed by. to flow ont and water it." With these items of oriental custom be- fore us, we perceive at once the point of the comparison in the passage, Prov. xxi. 1. la Deut. xi. 10, it is said of the land of promise, T7t,e land whi- ther thou goest in to possess it, is not as the land of Egypt, front whence ye came out, where thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst it with thy foot, as a garden of herbs. The phrase watering with the foot may refer to the construction of channels and water-courses like those above mentioned, which was accomplished by the action of the foot in dig- ging. So also in SKingsxix. 24, / have digged and drunk strange waters, and with the sole of my feet have I dried up all the rivers of besieged \ places ; i. e. I have digged new i channels by the labours of the 633 WAT spade, have turned the rivers out of their ancient courses, which consequently were dried up, and tiius have made my army to drink of strange wa- ters, flowing in channels to which they had never before been accustomed. It would with us be a very bold figure to say that Cyrus dried up the Euphrates, the river of Baby- lon, with his foot; but when understood, as now explained, of dig^inganew channel, which was aone with proper imple- ments by the agency of many thousand feet, the expression would be by no means high- wrought to the imagination of an oriental. Anoth'er, and as some think, much more natu- ral opinion is, that allusion is made to the machinery for drawing up water, by means of a rope or string of buckets at- tached to a wheel, which was turned like a modern tread- mill; a description and cut of which may be seen in Scrip- ture Illustrations, part i. pp. 22—39, by Am. S. S. Union. In the hot countries of the east the assuaging of thirst is one of the most delightful sensations that can be felt, and hence the frequent allusions to it in the sacred writings. (Ps. cxliii. 6. Prov. XXV. 25, &c.) Every at- tention which humanity and hospitality can suggest is paid at the present day to furnishing travellers with water. We are told that public reservoirs or pools are opened in Arabia and Egypt; and in the Moham- medan villages of Palestine, bread and water were furnished by the inhabitants gratuitously. In India, at this day, the na- tives offer water to weary tra- vellers, in honour of their gods. Hence the force and beauty of the allusion; Matt. x. 42. Water was commonly drawn out of wells by females, and transported, upon the shoulder »r head, in large leathern or WEE earthen vessels. (See Con DuiT. See Evening Recrea TioNS, vol. ii. pp. 110—114, and Bedouin Arabs, ch. ii., both by Am. S. S. Union.) Water-spouts. (Ps.xlii.7.) This surprising phenomenon was not unfrequently i^een on the Syriac and Jewish coasts. It is forcibly alluded to by the psalmist in the passage above cited. He represents the ca- lamities that came upon him, according to the prediction, (2 Sam. xii. 11,) as like a vio- lent storm at sea, where the torrents that pour down from above meet the columns of water that ascend from the depths beneath; the clouds above calling to the waters below, and exciting each other to join their force and over- whelm the despairing sufferer in hopeless destruction. WAX. (Ps. xxii. 14.) A well known substance, easily soft- ened and dissolved by heat. (Ps, Ixviii. 2: xcvii. 5. Mic. i.4.) WEASEL. (Lev, xi.29.) Ge- nerally agreed to mean the mole. (See Mole.) WEATHER. (Job xxxvii 22.) The words fair weather might better be rendered gold- en splendour, and then the allusion to the aurora borealis is obvious. WEDDING GARMENT. (Matt.xxii.il.) The wedding garments were furnished hy the host, and were required to be worn by those who were admitted as guests at marriage- suppers. So holiness and right- eousness are called the gar- ments in which the guests must appear at the marriage supper of the Lamb. (See Marriage.) -WEEK. (Gen.xxix.27.) The word in this passage means the term of seven days, during which the marriage festival lasted, as if Laban had said, 'Attend to the ceremonies of 631 WEL the present marriage first, and then commence another term of seven years service for Ra- chel.' The division of time into portions of seven days had its origin at the beginning of the creation, (Gen. vii. 4— 10; viii. 10. 12,) and traces of it are found in every quarter of the world. It is to be ob- served that this is not a divi- sion of lime suggested, like the day, month, or year, by the revolutions of the heavenly bodies. It is perfectly arbi- trary, and yet in all the coun- tries of the east, among ancient nations, before they had any knowledge of the sacred his- tory, or even in the unculti- vated tribes of Africa, this division is recognised, and the days of the week named. The Jews save no names for the days of the week, but sim- ply the number, as the first, 6econd,or third day. And this practice is adopted by many persons at the present day, especially by the society of Friends. The names of the days in modern use are de- rived from the Saxon language, in which they have a mytho- logical signification. Besides weeks of seven days, which were rendered from one Sabbath to another, they had a week of years, or seven years, and a week of seven times ■even years, which brought in the fiftieth or jubilee year. Feast of weeks. (See FSASTS ^ WEIGHTS. (See Mea- sures.) WELLS. (Ex. XV. 27.) These were very essential in a coun- try of flocks and herds, and were generally provided at each place of pasturage. They were deep, (John iv. 11,) and expensive to dig and preserve, and hence were a valuable part of the husbandman's pro- perty. (Num. XX. 17—19.) They were sometimes owned in com- f„i WHE mon. (Gen.xxix.2,3.) To protect them from the sand, and from being used by others, they were covered usually with a stone. (Gen.xxix. 2.8.) To slop them up was, and still is, regarded as an act of hostility, (Gen, xxvi. 15;) and to invade the ri^ht of property in them Wcis often the cause of sore con tention. (Gen. xxi. 25.) In a country where water was so valuable, and so difficult to be procured, it was an appro- priate emblem of rich bless- ings. (Jer. ii. 13; xvii. 13.) ^Jacob's well. (See Omar, 110-114, by Am. S. S. nion ) WHALE. (Job vii. 12.) In the IMosaic account of the ere alion, we are told that on the fifth day God created great whales. (Gen. i. 21.) The word probably means no particular species of animals, but the largest classof creeping things, whether inhabiting the land^or the water. The geological in- vestigations of the present day determine such to have exist- ed, of a character diflerenl from any now known; and comparative anatomy proves their nature to he niosl accu- rately described by the term great creeping things. This use of a general word lu denote some huge monster is supposed by some to occur in Ps. civ. 26. Ezek. xxxii. 2, compared with Matt. xii. 40, and also Job vii. 12. (See Jonah.) WHEAT. (Judff. vi. 11.) This most useful and imjKirtanl of all grains was produced abundantly in the land of Canaan. In our translation it is often mentioned under the general name of corn. (See Corn. For a particular de- scription of the grain, and a cut illustrative of it, see Scrip- ture Illustrations, part i. pp.11— 15, by Am. S.S.Union.) The cut referred to shows the appearance of the erain, and 633 WIL is probably not more rank and full tlian the common crop of Egyptian wheat, and it shows also that Pharaoh's dream about seven ears of corn com- ing up upon one stalk (Gen. xli. 5) was according to the course of nature. The figurative allusions to this erain (Ps. Ixxxi. 16. Jer. xii. 13. Joel ii. 24. Matt. iii. 12) are sufficiently obvious. WHISPERERS. (Rom. i. 29.) Such as secretly excite suspi- cions against others, and pro- pagate an evil report with an affected desire to speak of it only in a whisper. WHiTED Sepulchres. (Matt, xxiii. 27.) It was cus- tomary to whitewash the Jew- ish sepulchres annually, that they might be distinctly seen and avoided, inasmuch as com- ing in contact with them was the occasion of ceremonial de- filement. (Num. xix. 16) This Eractice gave them a neat and eautiful appearance, and pre- sented a striking contrast to the dark and offensive mass of putrefaction within. WIDOW. (1 Tim. v. 4.) By the Jewish law, (Deut. xxv. 5,) if a married man died leaving uo children, his brother was required to marry the widow, in order— first, that the estate might be kept in the family; and second, that he might in their descendants perpetuate the name. There is reason to believe that more distant rela- tives were permitted to enter into the same relation for like purposes, as in the case of Boaz and Ruth. WIFE. (See Marriage.) WILDERNESS (Ex. xiv. 3) and desert. These words do not necessarily import a mere waste, but rather extensive tracts not under cultivation, but affording rich and abun- dant pasturage. (Josh. xv. 61. Isa. xlii. 11.) Tlie principal WIN tracts of this description were the wilderness of Jericho, Ju- dah, Engedi, Ziph-maon, Beer- sheba, Tekoa, Gibeon, and Beihaven. (See these under their respective heads.) WILD HONEY. (See Ho- ney.) WILL OF GOD (Mark iii, 35) signifies either his purpose or pleasure, (Eph. i. 11,) or his laws, (Matt. vii. 21,) or his re- vealed will contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament. (Rom. xii. 2.) WILL WORSHIP (Col. ii. 23) means the practice of such expedients for serving and pleasing God as are not re- quired nor sanctioned by di- vine authority ; but are such as man chooses for himself, in- dependently of revelation, as deism, and the whole system of idolatry. WILLOW. (Lev. xxiii. 40.) A well known tree, which flourishes best in marshy ground, and on the borders of water-courses. (Job xl. 22. Isa. XV. 7; xliv. 4. Ezek. xvii. 5.) The beautiful species known to us as the weeping willow, is called the Babylonian wil- low, in allusion to Ps. cxxxvii. 2. WIMPLES. (Isa. iii. 22.) Supposed by some to mean a broad full mantle, or shawl, like the veil which Ruth had, (Ruth iii. 15 :) and by others a veil, coif, or nood, and this last is its German signification at the present day. WIND. (Ex. XV. 10.) The east wind was injurious to ve- getation, and dangerous at sea. (Ps. xlviii. 7.) The south wind brought heat, (Luke xii. 55;) the south-west and the north fair weather. (Job xxxvii. 9. 22, Prov. XXV. 23.) The character of the east wind may be infer- red from Gen. xli. 6. Job i. 19, Ps. xi. 6. Isa. xxvii. 8. Jer. iv. 11-13. Ezek. xvii. 10: xix. 12; 636 WIN xxvii. 26. Hos. xiii. 15. (See EUROCLYDON.) WINDOW. (Gen. vi. 16.) In eastern houses the windows open upon the court within, and not upon the street with- out. (See Dwellings.) One of the objects in view is to es- cape the dust of the narrow eastern streets. This gives a melancholy aspect to the streets, as nothing but an un- broken line of blind walls is eeen on either side. There is Bometimes a projecting balco- ny, or porch, in front of the house, carefully closed by lat- tices of what is called Venetian work, and opened principally upon some festival. From such a place Jezebel is supposed to have been looking out when Bhe was seized and put to death by Jehu. (2 Kings ix. 30.) And this was probably called the casement. (Prov. vii. 6. See also Sol. Song ii. 9.) Glazed windows were entirely un- known among the Hebrews, and are scarcely ever seen in the east at the present day. This is not wonderful, for in later limes glass has been as costly as gold, and it was not until long after the Christian era that glass windows were used. WINE. (Gen. xiv. 18.) There has been some controversy as to the nature and qualities of the liquor which is called wine LQ our Scriptures. The plain reader of the Bible will be sa- tisfied, however, that it was unquestionably an intoxicating drink. (Lev. x. 9. Eph. v. 18. 1 Pet. iv. 3.) TheancientEgyptiansdrank no wine, unless w? give that name to the sweet, unlermented juice of the grape ; such as Pharaoh's butler was accus- tomed to express into the cup in the king's hand, (Gen. xl. 9—11,) and which was mixed with water. Fermented wine they considered as the inven- 54 WIN tion ol an evil spirit, and It waa nc t oflfered to their god.s Yet in very early limes they had learned the art of brewing a kind of beer from barley, which, according lo the Greek histo- rians, was called barley wine. This beer is said to have been cosily, and little, if at all, in ferior lo wine. It was also known to the Hebrews, who, however, had liie less need of it, as their land was productive of the richest vintage. Like all other countries, Ca- naan had wines of various strength ; and a distinguished writer on Jewish antiquities observes, "the wines in those countries cannot easily be used without water." Another an- cient author says, that "the wine at Aleppo resembles that of Cyprus, and is so fiery that when drunk unmixed it causes great inconvenience." It is very clear, however, that in- temperance prevailed among the Jews, (Isa. v. 11; xxviii. 1—8; Ivi. 12;) and it is not inconsistent with any known facts to supposelhat their wines generally had the intoxicating principle. Whether the wine into which our Saviour mira- culously changed the water at Cana (John ii."3) possessed this principle or not we cannot know, nor would a decision of the question in the least degree affect the character of the trans- action, any more than it would affect the prescription of the apostle to Timothy. (1 Tim, v. 23.) The process by which the juice of grapes, apples, pears, &c., becomes an intoxi- cating drink, is as kindly and benevolently provided as the process by which those fruits themselves come lo maturity. And so far as the use of the liquid, after this process has taken place, tenuo clirecUv or indirectly to the injury of boay or soul, so far are we forbidden to use it on any pretence or WIN consideration whatever. The inquiry, therefore, what the wine 01 the Bible was in this respect, seems to be without any practical advantage, inas- much as the injurious use of it isforbiddeninathousandforrns; and when it possesses the in- toxicating quality, the unne- cessary use of it is inexpedient, if not sinful. (See Drink.) In the east casks were un- known. Tiie wine was kept 'n jugs, or flagons, and im- proved by age, (Luke v. 39,) and by standing on the lees. (Isa. XXV. 6.) "The original word rendered lees signifies preservers. The mixed wine, often men- tioned by the sacred writers, (Ps. Ixxv. 8. Frov. xxiii. 30,) was not diluted with water, but on the contrary was in- creased in strength, or improv- ed in flavour and colour, by a mixture of drugs, herbs, and spices. (Sol. Song viii. 2.) Saf- fron is used at this day among the Persians to give a deep co- lour to theirwines. Some sup- pose, however, that the phrase mixed icinc denotes wine ren- dered stronger by being shaken up and mingled'vvith the lees. It was necessary for the li- quor to remain on the lees for a time after the fermentation has ceased. Whenever this first fermentation has been deficient, the wine will have a richer and sweeter taste. Unless, however, it un- dergo a farther fermentation, the lying upon the lees will not secure strength or flavour, but after repeated partial fer- mentation, will run into a thin acid. This beautifully explains Jer. xlviii. 11. Wine vessels. The He- brews, as well as the Greeks, preserved their wine in large earthen vessels, or jars, which were buried up to their necks in the ground. (See Cellar.) These jars are quite large, con- WIN taining eften as much as one of our barrels. The must, or new wine, after being poured into such vessels, is stirred for about twenty days, thrice a day, with wooden rods. When wine is to be transported, the Per- sians sometimes decant it into flasks, or bottles, but skins are in common use, as they were among the ancients. The He- brews poured even the must, or new wine, into skins; but for this purpose they used such as were fresh and flexible, and therefore not liable to be broken by the fermentation of I he liquor. (Matt. ix. 17.) By 7iein wine (Joel i. 5) is in- tended sweet wine, which was purer and stronger, and more capable of preservation, and of course more inebriating. (Isa. xlix. 26. Acts ii. 13.) Red wine is more esteemed in eastern countriesthan while. The wines of Lebanon and of Helbon, near Damascus, were celebrated for their ex- cellence, (Ezek. xxvii. 18. Hos. xiv. 7,) and the former retains its character to this day. Drinking wine in bowls (Amos vi. 6) is supposed to re- fer to the richness and magni- ficence of the vessel, and not to the quantity of wine drank. Wine-presses (Job xxiv. 11) were cavities in the ground, (Matt. xxi. 33,) built up or lined with mason work. They are now found in this form in Persia, eight feet square and four feet deep. In Isa. v. 2. and Mark xii. 1, the term wine- press rather means the open place or vessel which received the expressed juice from the v/ine-press. It was in one of these cavities that Gideon worked. (Judg. vi. 11.) Eastern travellers tell us that the first vintage usually begins in the latter part of August; that they often see the black grapes spread on the ground in beds, exposed to the sun to 638 WIS dry for raisins. While at a little distance, one or two, and sometimes as many as five men, are seen with feet and legs bare, treading the fruit in a kind of cistern, or vat, usually about eight feei square, and four feet high, with a grated aperture near the bottom,''through which the expressed juice runs into a vessel beneath. (Isa. Ixiii. 3. Hag. ii. 16.) The treaders sung and shouted, (Isa. xvi. 10,)while the red blood of the grape flowed WIS around them, and thoroughly stained their garments. (Isa- Ixiii. 1— 3. Jer. XXV. 30; xlviii, 33. Lam. i. 15. Rev. xix. IS- IS.) The ancient Egyptian mode of expressing the juice of grapes may be learned from the fol- lowing cut, from a monument in Memphis. The fruit is placed in a cloth, which is twisted and strained until tho liquor is wrung out into a ves- sel below. WINNOW, asa. XXX. 24.) The process of winnowing among the Hebrews was much like that in use al the present day. The grain was taken upon a shovel and thrown up in the wind, and the lighter chaff and straw separated, sometimes by the help of a fan. (Isa. xli. 15, 16. Malt. iii. 12. See Threshing Floor, Fan.) WINTER. (See Seasons.) WISE MEN. (Matt. ii. 1.) Men of wisdom and learning in things natural and divine ; devoted to philosophy, espe- cially to astronomy, and to the (toniemplation and worship of the Deity. They were of Per- sian origin, but had spread in Arabia and other neighbouring countries of the east ; distin- guished from other classes of their countrymen by their pe culiar habits and pursuits. They worshipped the only one God ; and so blameless did their studies and their religion appear to be, ;.hat the prophet Daniel, scrupulous as ne was, to the hazard of his life, with respect to the Jewish religion, did not refuse to accept the office which Nebuchadnezzar gave him, of being master of the Magi, and chief governor WIT over all the wise men of Baby- lon. As they thus acquired great honour and influence, Ihey were introduced inio the courts of kings, and consulted on all occasions. They also followed them in warlike ex- peditions; and so much im- portance was attached to their advice and opinions, that no- thing was attempted without their approbation. WITCHCRAFT, (ISam.xv. 23,) WITCH, (Deui. xviii. 10,) WIZARD. (Lev. xx. 27.) A man who pretends to superna- tural power, so that he can foretell future events, cure dis- eases, call up or drive away spirits, or disclose information beyond the reach of the natural powers, is called a wizard. A woman of like practices is call- ed a witch, and the evil art itself is called witchcraft. No sin is more severely denounced by the sacred writers, not only under the Mosaic dispen- sation, (Ex. xxii. 18. Deut. xviii. 11, 12,) but under the gospel. (Gal. v. 20.) Those who consult such foolish and wicked pretenders are partak- ers of their guilt, and are abo- minable in (Sod's sight. (Lev. XX. 6. Nah. iii. 4.) A famous pretender to supernatural power lived at Endor. (See Saul.) WITHS. (Judg. xvi. 7.) A band of pliable twigs, (as of the willow or osier kind,) twisted closely together while green, and used instead of ropes. The marginal reading of the above passage is sniall cords. WITNESS. (Gen. xxi. 30.) One who gives testimony. Two or more were required in judi- cial investigations, (Deut. xvii. 6,7;) and when the sentence of stoning was pronounced, they were required to com- mence the process of execu- tion. (Acts vii. 58. See Ston- ing.) The witness of the Spirit WOL with our spirit (Rom. viii. 16) denotes the consciousness,more or less distinct, of the opera- tions of the Spirit upon the mind, enlightening the under- standing, and incliningthesub- ject of them to do the will of Gk)d. The exY)xess\on faithful wit- ness (Ps. Ixxxix. 37) is sup- posed to refer to the moon, (Jer. xxxiii.20,) that rules the night, and will remain as long as the night itself, which, by the terms of God's covenant, shall not cease. (Gen. viii. 22.) John often exhibits the gos- pel in the light of a testimony, (1 John V. 9 ;) and Christ him- self is called the faithful and true witness, (Rev. i. 5 ; iii. 14,) not only to the glory and perfection of the Father, but also to his own divine mission, and to the universality and perpetuity of his kingdom. WIZARD. (See Witch.) WO. (Num. xxi. 29.) This term often denotes a feeling of com passion or sympathy,(lVratt xxiv. 19,) or a simple lamenta- tion, as " Alas for me !" (Ps. cxx. 5.) In other connexions it is equivalent to the threat- ening of punishment. (Hab. ii. 6. 9. 15. 19. Zech. xi. 17.) WOLF, (lsa.xi.6.) A fierce, cruel, ravenous animal, in size and general appearanceresem- bling a dog, and a most terrible enemy to sheep. (Isa. Ixv. 25. Matt. vii. 15; x. 16. John x. 12. Acts XX. 29.) The rapa- ciousness of the tribe of Benja- min was foretold by Jacob by a comparison with the wolf (Gen. xlix.27. See Judg. XX. and xxi.: and comp. 1 Sam. ix. 1, ana XX. 31, and Acts ix. 1. Rom. xi. 1. Phil. iii. 5.) The sacred writers also illustrate the cru- elty of Israel's oppressors by an allusion to the wolf, (Ezek. xxii. 27;) and the sallying forth of the evening wolf in search of prey (Hab. i. 8) is em blematical of the destruction fi40 WOR which awaits wicked men. (Jer. V. 5, 6.) The allusion, Zeph. iii. 3, is to the circum- stance that' the wolf in its greediness often seizes on more than it can consume. WOIMAN. (1 Cor. xi. 8, 9.) The companion and helper of man, and by express command made subject to him. (Gen. iii. 16.) The word, when used as a term of salutation, as in Matt. XV. 28, implies no disrespect, but great tenderness and cour- tesy. It was thus that our Sa- viour addressed Mary under the most touching circum- stances. (John XX. 15.) WOOL. (See Sheep.) WORD. (John i. 1.) This is one of the titles of Jesus Christ. h may denote that he is the medium by which the Father declares his word or will. The Jews commonly used this term to designate the Messiah ; and so prevalent was its use among the Gentiles also, that the evan- gelist is particular to define clearly the true doctrine re- specting him to whom it was applied ; and no language can more clearly express" the idea of eternity and self-existence than the language he employs to describe the being and attri- butes of the Messiah. The Scriptures are figuratively call- ed the word of God, (Rom. ix. 6;) the icord of righteousness, (Heb. V. 13 ;) the word qffaith, (Rom. x. 8,) and the word qf salvation. (Acts xiii. 26.) WORKS. (Ps. cxlv. 9.) The toorks qf God are the things created and governed by his wisdom and power. Good works (Eph. ii. 10) are such as proceed from love to God, and are done in obe- dience to his law, and from a regard to his glory. vVe are saved by faith ; but faith without works is dead, i. e. it is without any evidence uf life. Works constitute the 54* WOR evidence and determine the strength and character of faith. WORLD. (lSam.ii.8.) This term is used by the sacred writers in a variety of senses, each of which may ordinarily be determined by its connex- ion. Among them may be men- tioned the following : The habi- table earth, (Ps. xxxiii. 8;) time, (Isa. xlv. 17. Matt, xxviii, 20;) present existence, (John i. 9 ;) future existence, (Mark X. 30;) the nations and king- doms sul:iject to Rome in the time of our Saviour, (Luke ii. 1 ;) an indefinite number, (John xii. 19. Actsxix. 27;) close of the Jewish dispensation con- nected with the final consum- mation of all things, (Matt, xxiv. 3;) the corrupt senti- ment, disposition, and prac- tices of sinners. (James i. 27. 1 John iv. 5.) WORMS. (Ex. xvi. 20.) A large class of animals without any of the senses belonging to other animals, except feeling. From the circumstance that one or more species of worms are found in putrefying flesh, we have the figurative expres- sions in Job xix. 26; xxi. 26; xxiv. 20. Isa. xiv. 11. Owing to the constant accumulation of filth and putrefaction in a valley near Jerusalem, it was always alive with worms, and fires were maintained day and night to consume the sources of pestilence. Hence the allu- sion, Isa. lxvi.24. Mark ix.44. 46. 48. At an advanced stage of some diseases, worms are bred in the flesh. (Jobvii. 5; xvii. 14. Acts xii. 23.) The meanness of the worm, and its liability to be trodden down unnoticed, afford the illustra- tions in Job XXV. 6. Ps. xxii. 6, and Isa. xii. 14. WORMWOOD. (Deul. xxix. 18.) A plant of which there are several species, and all distinguished for intense bitter 641 WRI ness, and probably some may be not only biaer and nauseous, but positively hurtful. Hence it is often joined with or used in the same sense as gall and hemlock, to denote what is offensive or injurious. (Deut. xxix. 18. Prov. V. 4. Amos v. 7; \i. 12.) To be obliged to use it as food expresses the extreme of suffering. (Jer. ix. 15; xxiii. 15. Lam. iii. 15. 19.) WORSHIP. (Matt. ii. 2.) This word, as used in our Bi- ble, has various significations. In most instances it means simply an act of respect, (Matt. ix. 18. Acts X. 25,) and does not imply any religious emo- tion. Where the act respects the Divine Being, the only pro- per object of religious worship, the connexion shows it. (John iv. 24. Heb. i. 6. Rev. .xxii. 9.) It is used, however, in relation to idol sods. (Dan. iii. 5. 12. 14. Acts xix. 27.) WRITING. (Ex. xxxii. 16.) Writing by pictures or in hiero- glyphics is an art of very an- cient date, and is even now common in many savage na- tions. An eye represented God as the Omniscient ; an eye and sceptre, a king; a lion, courage, &c. This is common, in its most unimproved form, among our American abori- gines; and was the common method used by the Mexicans, come of whose ancient pictures of this kind are preserved. The most numerous and re- markable specimens of hiero- WRl glyphic writing exist in Egypt, they have been sought out by travellers, and copied in draw- ings and copperplates, but have balRed the ingenuity and la- bour of all ages, until within a few years, a distinguished French antiquary has succeed- ed in deciphering a great num- ber of them, and iTis labours have thrown great light upon the Scriptures, and vindicated the Mosaic history from a mul- titude of objections. It is not improbable that these pictures, which were at first accurate resemblances of objects, became at last merely signs of ideas, and that hence alphabetical writing came into use. It is the prevailing opi- nion that the Israelites were acquainted with letters when they were in Egypt as bond- men ; and when they took pos- session of the land of Canaan they found a city called Kir- jath-sepher, which means the city of books or letters, and indicates the existence of the art among that people. Through all the Mosaic history, books and writing are mentioned as in familiar use. The practice of employing an amanuensis was much more common in ancient days than now. Hence Paul notices it as a special cir- cumstance that he wrote the letter to the Galatians with his own hand. (Gal. vi. 11.) This fact also explains Rom. xvi. 22. 1 Cor. xvi. 21. Col. iv. 18, and2Thess.iii.l7. (See Book.; YAR YARN, LINEN. (1 Kings x. 28.) There is a diversity of opinion as to the meaning of this term. There is very strong reason to doubt the cor- rectness of the rendering in our translation, though we have mentioned it without comment in the article Linsn. YEA YEAR. (Gen.xvii.2l.) That space of time wherein the sun finishes his course through all the signs of the zodiac circle of the" heavens, consisting of the four seasons of spring, sum- mer, autumn, and winter. It consists of three hundred and sixty -five days five hours forty- 642 YEA nine minutes. Julius C£Esar fixed the Roman year at lliree hundred and sixty-five days and six hours, which in four years make one day, and in the fourth year is added to February, and occasions that year to be called leap-year. By this year we still reckon our time; but as it includes about eleven minutes too much, this, in one hundred and thirty years, runs the reckoning for- ward one day, and in our reck- oning had run forward the year full eleven days, till this was rectified by tiie introduction of the new style among us, as it was in several countries abroad, by pope Gregory, al- most two hundred years ago. In prophetic language, a year signifies three hundred and Bixty years, and awow^/i thirty, a t/oy being put for a year; and so three years and a half, and times, time, and half a time, or forty-two months, or twelve hundred and sixty days, denote the twelve hundred and sixty years duration of antichrist. (Rev. xi. 2,3; xii. 6. 14.) With the Jews the year was civil or sacred, solar or lunar. (See Month.) Fallow year. In the se- venth year all agricultural labour was suspended, and spontaneous productions were YOK left to the poor, the traveller, and the wild beasts. (Lev. xxv. 1—7.) This was, (1.) For the sake of the ground ; (2.) For the preservation of wild beasts; and, (.3.) To make the people provident and sensible of de- pendence. The people could fish, hunt, take care of bees and flocks, repair buildings, manufacture clothes, and cany on commerce. This year was religiously observed. (Deut. xxxi. 10—13.) Year of jubilee. (See Feast.) YOKE. (Gen.xxvii.40.) The yoke was laid upon the neck of the beast, and fastened with thongs to the animal, and to the plough-beam. It thus be- came a lively image of slavery, subjection, imprisonment, and severe rule, while the removal of the yoke indicated the cor- responding deliverance. (Jer. ii. 20.) Breaking the yoke also represents the rejection of au- thority. (Jer. V. 5. Nah. i. 13.) The following cut represents the ancient Egyptian yoke. ZAC ZAANAN. (Mic. i. 11.) Most probably a city of Judah, the same as Zenan mentioned in Josh. XV. 37, situated in the valley or plain towards the Mediterranean coast. ZA.\NA NNBI. ( Josh. xix. 33.) A city of Naphtali, in the;j/am of Zaanaim, (Judg. iv. 11,) north-east of Kedesh, near the waters of Merora. ZACCHEUS. (Luke xix. 2.) A rich Jew resident in Jericho, and chief officer of the tax or ZAC tribute collectors in that place, and hence he is called a sin ner. for the Jews regarded all publicans or tax-gatherers in this light. His curiosity to see Christ was so much excited, that he took pains to climb into a tree by the road-side, that he might have a fair view of him as' the crowd passed. Jesus, knowing his character and motives, proposed to spend the day with him, to which Zaccheus gladly assented. His 643 ZAC mind waa probably brought at »ace under the influence of the Spirit of God, and on that very day he and his family became interested in the salvation of the gospel. (Luke xix. 1—10.) The expression /o?-as??n«c/i as he also is a son of Abraham probably denotes that, he waa not only a natural descend int of the patriarch, but that he had now become a pariaker of the like faith and promises. ZACHARIAH, 1.(2 Kings xiv. 29,) waa son and siiccesior to Jeroboam II. king of Israel. He reigned but six months, and then fell by the hand of .Shallum, who took the throne. (2 Kings XV. 8—11. Comp. Amos vii. 9.) 2. (Ezra v. 1.) The prophet, was the son of Barachiah, and the grandson of Iddo. (Zech. i. 1.) The expression in Ezra is consonant to the Jewish usage of calling a descendant son or daughter, and an an- cestor father or mother, though they might be removed two "or three degrees from these rela- tions. Zechariah returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel, and prophesied contemporaneously with Haggai. Proph'ecv" of, is the last but one in the order of the books of the Old Testament. lis grand design is to encourage the Jews in the re-establishment of their national institutions. Though the language is often obscure, and the .style seemingly un- connected, it contains several animating predictions of the future glory of Christ's king- dom, in terms remarkably full and explicit. ZAC H ARIAS. 1. (Matt, xxiii. 35. See Barachias.) 2. (Luke i. 5.) A priest of the family of Abia, (see Abia,) the father of John the Bap- list. The character of him- ?elf and his wife is given .!S in ihe simplest yet "most expressive language. (Luke ZAR I i. 6.) The birth of John was announced to him in a mi- raculous manner, and seemed so beyond the range of pro- bability, that his faith failed, and he asked for some extra- ordinary sign that the promise should be accomplished. He waa immediately deprived of the power of speech, and remained dumb until the eighth day after the birth of the promised child ; when being asked to give the in- fant a name, in obedience to the angelic direction he called him John, and forthwith the power of speech was restored to him, and he employed it in a strain of the most devoitt gratitude and praise. (Luke i. 57-80.) ZADOK, (2 Sam. viii. 17,) the successor of Abiaihar in the Jewish priesthood, waa the son of Ahiiub, of the family of Eleazar. (CJomp. 1 Sam. ii 30—36. 1 Kings ii. 27. 35.) ZALMON, (Juds. ix. 48,) or SALMON. (Ps. Ifviii. 14.) A hill near to Shechem, which, it appears from the above pas- sage in Psalms, was covered with snow, li is also the name of a person. (Matt. i. 5.) ZAMZUMMIMS, (Deut. ii, 20,) or ZUZIMS. (Gen. xiv. 5.) A tribe of people of gigantic stature and strength, who in- habited the country east of the Jordan and the Dead Sea. They were attacked and routed by Chedorlaomer, and afterwards expelled by the Ammonites. ZANOAH. (Josh. xv. 34. 56.) There were probably two cities of this name, both in Judah; one in the valley or low coun- try, the other in the maun- iai7is, or interior. ZAPHON, (Josh. xiii. 27,) or SHOPHAN. (Num. xxxii. 35.) One of the cities of Gad, situ ated in the valley, lying along the east side of the Jordan. ZARED, (Num. xxi. 12,) oi ZERED. (Deut. ii. 13.) A brook 6U 2AR rising in mount Abarim, and emptying into tlie Dead Sea, south of Arnon, in ttie land of Moab. On its banlis tiie Israel- lies encamped, on their journey from Egypt to the promised land. ZAREPHATH. (See Sa- REFTA ^ ZARETAN, (Josh. iii. 16,) or ZARTANAH, (I Kings iv. 12,) orZARTHAN, (IKings vii.46,) or ZEREDA, (1 Kings xi. 26,) or ZEREDATHA, (2Chron. iv. 17,) or ZERERATH, (Judg. vii. 22,) all supposed to denote one and the same place, viz. a town on the west bank cf the Jordan, at the place where the Israel- ites crossed, when the waters were gathered into a heap on either side. It was near Belh- shean, and opposite to Succoih, and was distinguished as the birthplace of Jerotioam. ZEKOIM. (Gen. X. 19; xiv. 2.) One of tlie cities of the plain, destroyed with Sodom and Gomorrah. There was also a city and valley of tiiis name in the lot of Benjamin. (1 Sam. xiii. 18. Neh. xi. 34.) ZEBULON, (Gen. xxx. 20,) or ZABULON. (Rev. vii. 8,) the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The portion of his de- scendants in the promised land was assigned prophetically by his father and their ancestor. (Gen. xlix. 13.) Tribe op, possessed that dis- trict of Canaan which lay be^^ tween the sea of Galilee (Matt. iv. 13) and the Mediterranean; bounded south by Issachar, and north by Asher and Naphtali. This last tribe allied itself to the tribe of Zebulon, and joined the forces of Barak and Debo- rah against the army of Jabin. (Judg. V. 18.) The town of Zebulon (Josh, xix. 27) was within the terri- tory of Asher, but was probably a possession of the tribe of Ze- bulon. Elon, a judge of Israel, was of this tribe, and was bu- ZED ried within its bounds. (Judg xii. 12.) ZECHARIAH. (See Zacha RIAH.) ZEDAH, or ZEDAD. (Num. xxxi V. 8.) A comparison of this passage with Ezek. xlvii. 15, shows' the place to have been on the north-eastern frontier of the land of Israel, but its exact position is not known. ZEDEKLAH, (2 Kings xxiv. 17,) the lastkingof Judah, was the son of Josiah, and the uncle of Jehoiachin, his immediate predecessor on the throne. His proper name was Mattaniah, but Nebuchadnezzar changed ittoZedekiah. Recommenced his reisn at twenty-one, and reignedfeleven years. (2Chron. xxxvi. 11.) He is represented as a very wicked man, and the nation during his reign was remarkably bold and oljdurate in sin. For this cause the pro- phet Jeremiah was commis- sioned to threaten them with severe judgments, which were visited upon them in the most fearful manner. In the ninth year of his reign, he revolted against Nebuchadnezzar, in consequence of which the As- syrian monarch marched his army into Judea, and took all the fortified places. In the ele- venth year of his reign, on the ninth day of the fourth month, (July,) Jerusalem was taken. The king and his people endea- voured to escape by night ; but the Chaldean troops pursuing them, they were overtaken in the plain of Jericho. Zedekiah was seized and carried to Ne- buchadnezzar, then at Riblah, in Syria, who reproached him with his perfidy, caused all his children to be slain before his face, and his own eyes to be put out; and then loading him with chains of brass, he ordered him to be sent to Babylon. (2 Kings xxv. 1— 11. 2 Chron. xxxvi. 12. 20.) It is worthy of special remark, that two pro- 645 ZER pliecies, seemingly irreconcile- able, were both literally fulfil- led in ihe case of Zedekiah. (Jer. xxxii. 4, 5; xxxiv. 3. Comp. Ezek. xii. 13.) There were two or three false prophets of this name, one of whom withstood Mi- caiah in a most insolent man- ner. (1 Kings xxii. 11—37. See also Jer. xxix. 22.) ZELOTES. (See Simon.) ZEMARAIM, MOUNT, (2 Chron. xiii. 4,) was in mount Ephraim, and a city of the same name was in the southern section of the territory of Ben- jamin, near Bethel. (Josh. xviii.22.) ZENAN. (See Zaanan.) ZEPHANIAH (Zeph. i. 1) was the son of Cushi, and lived in the days of Josiah. Pkophecy of, is the thirty- sixth in the order of the books of the Old Testament. It was uttered in the early part of the ministry of Jeremiah, and is desii^ned mainly to excite the Jewish nation to repentance, in view of threatened judg- ments, and to comfort the peo- ple of God with promises of the final triumph of righteousness. (See Elisama, pp. 46, 4.7, by Am. S. S. Union.) Zephaniah, (Jer. xxix. 25,) the son of Maaseiah, who is called the second priest, (2 Kings XXV. IS, — see High- priest,) was put to death by Nebuciiadnezzar at Riblah. (2 Kings XXV. 18—21.) ZEPHATHA, VALLEY op, (2 Chron. xiv. 9—13,) was in the south-western section of the territory of Judah, near Mare- shah, and is memorable for the battle of the Jews with the Ethiopians. There was also a city of this name (Zephath) within the bounds of Simeon. (Jude. i. 17.) ZERAH. (2 Chron. xiv. 9.) An Arabian king, who, with an immense army, invaded the kingdom of Judah in the reiga ZIK of Asa. The pious king of Ju- dah, depending on the arm of the Lord, went"out against him without fear, and obtained a signal victory. The prayer of Asa on this occasion is worthy of all admiration. (2 Chron. xiv. 11.) ZERED. (See Zared.) ZEREDA. cSee Zaretan.) ZEREDATHAH. (See Za- retan.) ZERESH. (Esth.v.lO.) The wife of Haman, and his coun- sellor and instigator in ini- quity. ZERUBBABEL, (1 Chron. iii. 19,)orZOROBABEL,(Matt. i. 12,) was the leader of the first colony of Jews that re- turned from the captivity in Babylon, (Ezra ii. 2,) and was of the family of David. To him Cyrus committed the sacred vessels that were returned to Jerusalem. He laid the foun- dations of the temple, (Zech. iv. 6—10,) and was chiefly instru- mental in restoring the usual religious riles of the nation. (Ezra iii. 2—13. See Temple. See alsoELisAMA, ch. viii. and ix., by Am. S. S. Union.) ZIBA. (2 Sam. xix. 17.) A servant of Saul, whom David appointed a sort of steward to Mephibosheth. (2 Sam. ix. 2— 12.) ZIDON. (See Sidon.) ZIF. (See Month.) ZIKLAG. (Josh. xix. 5.) A city in the southern extremity of the territory of Judah, though allotted to Simeon. In the time of Saul it was in the hands of the Philistines, and Achish, their king, granted it to David as a temporary resi- dence when he was flying from the persecution of that wicked monarch. (1 Sam. xxvii. 6.) Daring the absence of David and tlie principal men on a campaign,theAmalekites burn- ed the city, and made the wo- men and children prisoners. David pursued them under di- fri6 ZIO v1iietii.-eclion,andsurpri:)edthe Aniali'kiies,and nolonl ydefeat- ed ihem, but recovered all that had been taken. (iSam. xxx.) ZILPAH. (Gen.xxx.9.) The handmaid of Leah, and the mother of Gad and Asher. ZTMRI. (See Omri.) ZIN, DESERT OF, (Num. XX. 1,) or v/iLDERNESs OF, (Num. xiii.21,') stretched southwardly, about five miles in breadth.from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea, and was once probably the val- ley of the Jordan. It is now called El G/ior. It is often mentioned in the journeyings of the Israelites,and is connect- ed with some of the most inte- restinz events of that period. ZION, (Ps. cxxxiii. 3,) or SIGN. (Deut. iv. 48.;) The last name seems to have been ap- Elied to mount Hermon. (See [ermon.) Both names are applied principally to the hill or fortress (called the castle of Zion, 1 Chron. xi. 5) which was taken from the Jebusiies by Joab, one of David's chief cap- tains. Thither David removed from Hebron, whence it was called the cily of David. (2 Sam. V.9; vi.lO.) It was the southernmost of the hills on which Jerusalem was built, having the valley of Kedron on the east, and the valley of Hinnom or Gehenna south and west, Acra to the north, and Moriah north-east. On it was erected Solomon's palace, call- ed the house of the forest of Lebanon ; and afterward the magnificent palace of Herod, destroyed by the Romans. The temple and its courts on mount Moriah were called Zion, (Ps. Ixv. 1 ; Ixxxiv. 7;) and the appellation is ap- propriated figuratively to the church, whether on earth or in heaven, as the livin" temple of Jehovah. (Isa. ii. 3. Heb. xii. 22. Rev. xiv. 1.) Messrs. Fisk and King, Ame- rican missionaries, visited ZOA mount Zion in the spring of 18-23. They describe it as partly covered with the tombs of Greek and Armenian Chris- tians. On the east and south sides it is ploughed and culti- vated. Near the summit isa little walled village, contain- ing a mosque and^a few Mus- sulmans' houses. The Jews call this village the city of Zion, and it is' generally be- lieved by them to contain the tombs of David, and Solomon, and the other kings of Israel. A modern traveller speaks of it as about a mile in circum- ference, and raised about three hundred and sixty feet. The soil, which was then being ploughed, (Mic. iii. 12,) con- sisted of stones and lime mixed with earth, which is usual in the foundations of ruined cities. (See Jerusalem.) Daughter of Zion (Isa. i. 8) means Jerusalem, and is so called because Zion was the original, or mother setilemenu Hence also the kindred expres- sions, sons of Zion, (Zech. ix. 13.) children of Zion, &c., (Joel ii. 23.) ZIPH. (Josh. XV. 24.) There were two cities of this name in the lot of Judah; one towards the coast of Edom, south-west, (Josh. XV. 55,) the other (Josh. XV. 24) a few miles east of He- bron on a hill, on the border of the wilderness of Ziph, (1 Sam. xxiii. 13—24.) into which Da- vid fled from Saul and conceal- ed himself The latter was probably the one which Reho- boam fortified. (2 Chron. xi. 8.) ZIPHRON. (Niim.xxxiv.g.) Inihe vicinity of Zedad. (See Zedad.) ZOAN. (Num. xiii. 22.) By the Greeks called Tanis, and by the Arabs San, was one of the oldest cities of the world, founded only seven years later than Hebron, and situated on the Tanailic arm of the Nile. It was evidently the residence 647 ZOP of a line of princes, (Isa. xix. 11 — 13; XXX. 4,) and probably the place where Moses wrought the Egyptian miracles. (Ps. Ixxviii. 12. 43.) Ezekiel pro- phesied against it, (Ezek. xxx. 14,) and its ruins are yet visi- ble, and present numerous pil- lars and obelisks, as evidence of its former magnificence. ZOAR. (Gen. xiv. 2.) A small city, originally called Beta, atthe southern extremity of the Dead Sea, whose king, with four others, rebelled against Chedorlaomer, and •\as conquered. It was after- ward threatened with the same destruction as Sodom, but spared at Lot's request, who fled to it for safety from the storm of divine wrath. (Gen. xix. 20. 22.) ZOBAH. (1 Sam. xiv. 47.) A town and province of Syria, lying along the Euphrates, north of Damascus, and ex- tending towards Aleppo, whose king (Hadarezer) was smitten by David, when he went to re- cover his border on the Eu- phrates. (2 Sam. viii. 3.) ZOPHAR. (Jobii. 11.) One of Job's three friends. He is called the Naamathite, proba- bly because he belonged to zuz Naamah, (Josh. xv. 41,) a town assigned to Judah. ZORAH, (Josh. xix. 41,) or ZORAN. A city belonging ori- ginally to Judah, and after- wards to Dan, near the bound ary line between them; the birthplace of Samson, (Judg. xiii. 2,) and probably fortifieli by Rehoboam. (2Chron. xi. 10.) It is called Zoreah, (Josh, xv. 33,) and its inhabitants are called Zorites, (1 Chron. ii, 54,) and Zorathites. (1 Chron. iv. 2.) ZOROBABEL. (See Zerub- BABEL.) ZUPH. (1 Sam. ix. 5.) The land of Zuph probably derived its name from Zuph, one of the ancestors of Samuel the pro- phet. (1 Chron. vi. 35.) Ra- math, which was within the province of Zuph, was thence called Ramath-zophim, or Ra- viathaim. (1 Sam. i. 1. See Rama.) ZUR. (Josh. xiii. 21.) A Midianilish prince, (Num. XXV. 15,) who was slain, with others, by the Israelites, when the Midianiles suffered the judgments of God for their sins. (Num. xxv. 17, 18.) ZUZIMS. (See Zamztjm- MIMS.) 643 THE END. Princeton Theological Seminary-Speer Library 1 1012 01124 4557