Jump to: Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia The term "besom" appears in the Bible as a metaphorical expression, primarily used to convey the idea of sweeping away or cleansing. In the context of Scripture, a besom is understood to be a broom, an instrument used for sweeping. The imagery of a besom is employed to illustrate divine judgment and the thorough removal of sin or impurity.Biblical Reference: The most notable reference to a besom is found in the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 14:23 , the prophet declares God's judgment upon Babylon: "I will make her a place for owls and swamplands; I will sweep her away with the broom of destruction," declares the LORD of Hosts. Here, the "broom of destruction" symbolizes the complete and utter devastation that God will bring upon Babylon as a consequence of its pride and wickedness. The besom, in this context, signifies the thoroughness and inevitability of divine judgment. Symbolism and Interpretation: In biblical symbolism, the besom represents the act of cleansing or purging. It is an instrument of removal, used to clear away debris, dirt, or anything deemed unclean. The use of a besom in Isaiah underscores the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, emphasizing that nothing will be left untouched or unaddressed. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of God's holiness and His intolerance of sin. From a theological perspective, the besom can also be seen as a symbol of God's purifying work in the lives of believers. Just as a broom sweeps away physical dirt, God's sanctifying power removes spiritual impurities, refining and transforming His people into vessels of honor. This process of sanctification is ongoing and necessary for those who seek to live in accordance with God's will. Historical and Cultural Context: In ancient times, a besom would have been a common household tool, made from twigs or straw bound together. Its function as a cleaning instrument would have been well understood by the original audience of Isaiah's prophecy. The use of such a familiar object to convey a profound spiritual truth would have resonated deeply with the people, making the message of judgment both relatable and impactful. Application: The imagery of the besom serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine judgment. It calls believers to examine their own lives, to seek God's cleansing, and to live in a manner that reflects His holiness. The besom also encourages the faithful to trust in God's justice, knowing that He will ultimately sweep away all that is evil and establish His righteous kingdom. In summary, the besom in Scripture is a vivid symbol of God's judgment and purification. It illustrates the thoroughness with which God deals with sin and serves as a call to holiness for all who follow Him. Easton's Bible Dictionary The rendering of a Hebrew word meaning sweeper, occurs only in Isaiah 14:23, of the sweeping away, the utter ruin, of Babylon. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A brush of twigs for sweeping; a broom; anything which sweeps away or destroys.2. (v. t.) To sweep, as with a besom. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BESOMbe'-zum: Occurs only once in Scripture: "I will sweep it with the besom of destruction" (Isaiah 14:23). Refers to what was in store for Babylon. The Hebrew word maT'ate', rendered "besom," is close of kin to the one (ti'te'thiha) rendered "sweep." In early English "besom" was synonymous with "broom," and is still so used in some parts of England. Strong's Hebrew 4292. matate -- broom, besom... 4291, 4292. matate. 4293 . broom, besom. Transliteration: matate Phonetic Spelling: (mat-at-ay') Short Definition: broom. ... besom. ... /hebrew/4292.htm - 6k Library Certain General Principles of Parabolic Interpretation These ... Concerning the Special Offices of the Gods. And as She Stood Looking Towards London, Diamond Saw that She was ... Preface. Flimsy Garments The "Sayings" of Pythagoras. The Destroyer Destroyed Remaining Books of the Old Testament. Isaiah's Cyrus, the Servant Of-The Lord {4} Thesaurus Besom (1 Occurrence)... 1. (n.) A brush of twigs for sweeping; a broom; anything which sweeps away or destroys. 2. (vt) To sweep, as with a besom. ... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BESOM. ... /b/besom.htm - 7k Besor (3 Occurrences) Besodiah (1 Occurrence) Bittern (4 Occurrences) Resources Besom: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Besom (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 14:23 Subtopics Related Terms |
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