Topical Bible: Summer: Snow In

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In the context of the Bible, the mention of snow during the summer is a metaphorical expression that highlights the rarity and unexpected nature of such an event. The Bible uses this imagery to convey messages about appropriateness, timing, and the nature of certain actions or words.

Proverbs 26:1
"Like snow in summer and rain at harvest, honor is unfit for a fool."

This proverb uses the image of snow in summer to illustrate the incongruity and inappropriateness of bestowing honor upon a fool. Just as snow is out of place in the warm season of summer, so is honor misplaced when given to someone who lacks wisdom and understanding. The verse underscores the importance of discernment and the proper allocation of respect and recognition.

Cultural and Historical Context
In the ancient Near East, where the biblical texts were written, snow was a rare occurrence, especially during the summer months. The climate in regions like Israel is typically hot and dry during the summer, making the idea of snow during this time an effective metaphor for something that is not only unexpected but also unsuitable.

Theological Implications
The use of snow in summer as a metaphor in Proverbs 26:1 serves to teach about the divine order and the wisdom inherent in God's creation. It suggests that just as there is a natural order to the seasons, there is a moral and spiritual order that should be respected. The verse encourages believers to seek wisdom and to recognize the folly of misplacing honor, which can lead to disorder and confusion.

Symbolism of Snow
In the Bible, snow is often associated with purity and cleansing (Isaiah 1:18). However, in the context of summer, its symbolism shifts to represent something that is out of place. This dual symbolism of snow highlights the multifaceted nature of biblical imagery, where the same element can convey different meanings depending on the context.

Practical Application
For believers, the metaphor of snow in summer serves as a reminder to exercise wisdom in their interactions and decisions. It calls for an awareness of the appropriate timing and context for actions and words, aligning with the broader biblical theme of living in accordance with God's wisdom and order.

In summary, the biblical reference to snow in summer is a powerful metaphor that conveys the importance of appropriateness and discernment in the allocation of honor and respect. It serves as a reminder of the divine order and the need for wisdom in navigating the complexities of life.

Nave's Topical Index

Proverbs 26:1
As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honor is not seemly for a fool.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Winter and Summer
... And His lambs in His pastures lie. When the snow and the wild sleet are driven.
Far over the lonely mere,. There is summer beyond all the summers,. ...
/.../bevan/hymns of ter steegen and others second series/winter and summer.htm

Psalm 147:2. Second Part. Summer and Winter.
... Summer and winter. ... 3 Thy changing season he ordains, Thine early and thy later rains:
His flakes of snow like wool he sends, And thus the springing corn defends ...
/.../watts/the psalms of david/psalm 147 2 0 second part summer.htm

Psalm 147 Part 2 Summer and Winter.
... LM Summer and winter. A Song for Great Britain. ... Thine early and thy latter rains;
His flakes of snow like wool he sends,. And thus the springing corn defends. ...
/.../watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/psalm 147 part 2 summer.htm

"In the Uttermost Parts of the Sea"
... to hear the melodies of songs dear to him in his home; a mild summer breeze seemed ...
the dazzling white light was not the white of a snow wall, it came from the ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/in the uttermost parts of.htm

The Transfiguration.
... The top of Hermon in summer - and it can only be ascended in summer or autumn -
is free from snow, but broad patches run down the sides expanding as they ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter i the transfiguration.htm

Jesus Healeth a Lunatic
... houses, on the roofs of which are seen the reed booths or Succoth, occupied by the
inhabitants during the oppressive heats of summer. The snow-capped ridge of ...
/.../newton/the life of jesus christ for the young/jesus healeth a lunatic.htm

On Heavenly Objects
... of justice; in the psalm: You will wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. ... of life
through the resurrection; in the psalm: You have made summer and spring. ...
/.../eucherius/the formulae of st eucherius of lyons/ii on heavenly objects.htm

When travelling lately through the Simplon
... from the snow-white mountains bounding the prospect. These "Refuges," at the time
I saw them, were empty, for it was in the beginning of summer, when everything ...
/.../the cities of refuge or the name of jesus/i when travelling lately through.htm

Early School Days
... to whisper, "Winter is coming with his cold, bleak storms to rob the earth of her
summer splendor; but he will bring his beautiful coverlet of snow to protect ...
/.../byrum/how john became a man/chapter iv early school days.htm

CG Rossetti
... We will not let Him go. Till daybreak smite our wearied sight. And summer smite
the snow: Then figs shall bud, and dove with dove. Shall coo the livelong day; ...
/.../palgrave/the treasury of sacred song/cccxxxviii c g rossetti.htm