Definition and Composition:
Niter, referred to in the Bible, is a substance that has been historically associated with cleansing and purification. In modern terms, niter is often equated with potassium nitrate, a compound used in various applications, including fertilizers and gunpowder. However, in the biblical context, niter is more accurately identified with natron, a naturally occurring mineral composed primarily of sodium carbonate decahydrate. Natron was commonly used in ancient times for cleaning purposes, as a soap-like substance, and in the mummification process in Egypt.

Biblical References:
Niter is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Proverbs. The reference highlights its cleansing properties and is used metaphorically to convey a message about the futility of certain actions.

· Proverbs 25:20 : "Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or vinegar poured on niter, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart."

In this verse, the reaction between vinegar and niter is used to illustrate the ineffectiveness and counterproductive nature of singing joyful songs to someone who is grieving. The effervescent reaction between vinegar (an acid) and niter (a base) would have been a familiar image to the original audience, symbolizing agitation and disturbance rather than comfort.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient times, niter was a valuable commodity due to its cleansing properties. It was harvested from dry lake beds and used in various domestic and industrial processes. The Israelites, like their neighbors, would have been familiar with its uses and properties. The mention of niter in Proverbs suggests an understanding of basic chemical reactions, as well as an appreciation for the practical aspects of daily life.

Theological Significance:
The use of niter in Proverbs serves as a metaphor for the importance of appropriate responses to human emotions and situations. Just as vinegar on niter produces an undesirable reaction, so too can insensitivity or inappropriate actions exacerbate a person's distress. This reflects a broader biblical principle of empathy and understanding in interpersonal relationships, encouraging believers to act with wisdom and compassion.

Symbolism and Lessons:
Niter, as a symbol of cleansing, can also be seen as a representation of spiritual purification. While the Bible does not explicitly link niter to spiritual themes, the concept of cleansing is a recurring motif throughout Scripture. Believers are called to seek purity and holiness, both in their personal lives and in their relationships with others. The metaphor of niter in Proverbs serves as a reminder of the need for discernment and sensitivity in ministering to those who are hurting.

In summary, niter in the Bible is a substance with practical applications and metaphorical significance. Its mention in Proverbs underscores the importance of understanding and responding appropriately to the needs of others, aligning with the biblical call to love and care for one another.(n.) Alt. of Nitre.

Salvation.
... Washing in "niter and much soap" will not prove effectual, but the blood of Jesus
will remove every stain. Sin reproaches, but the salvation of Jesus exalts. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter iv salvation.htm

Sin.
... Though you wash with niter, or with much soap, those deep-dyed marks of iniquity
can not be thus cleansed away. 2. Sin is deceiving. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter iii sin.htm

Healing for the Wounded
... The song of mirth will then be as a dirge in his ear. "As he that poureth vinegar
upon niter, so is he that singeth songs to a sad heart." If the man who makes ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/healing for the wounded.htm

Niter (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Alt. of Nitre. Multi-Version Concordance
Niter (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 2:22 For though thou shalt ...
/n/niter.htm - 6k

Nitre (2 Occurrences)
... See Saltpeter. 2. (n.) Native sodium carbonate; natron. 3. (n.) See Niter. Int. ...
Nitre or niter is now applied to sodium or potassium nitrate. ...
/n/nitre.htm - 9k

Vinegar (11 Occurrences)
... and American) rightly has "wine." Vinegar, like all acids, is injurious to the teeth
(Proverbs 10:26); and when it is combined with niter an effervescence is ...
/v/vinegar.htm - 13k

Nisroch (2 Occurrences)

/n/nisroch.htm - 8k

Mixture (16 Occurrences)
... each other, no matter how thoroughly and finely commingled; -- contrasted with a
compound; thus, gunpowder is a mechanical mixture of carbon, sulphur, and niter...
/m/mixture.htm - 12k

Glass (12 Occurrences)
... obtained. The potash required was obtained by burning certain marine and
other plants, and saltpeter, or niter, was also employed. ...
/g/glass.htm - 21k

Niter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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