Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, salves were commonly used for their healing properties, often made from natural ingredients such as oils, herbs, and other plant-based substances. The use of salves is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in ancient medicinal practices.Biblical References: 1. Jeremiah 8:22 : "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then has the health of the daughter of my people not been restored?" This verse references the balm of Gilead, a renowned healing ointment or salve, symbolizing hope and healing. The balm was likely a resinous substance derived from the storax tree, used for its soothing and medicinal properties. 2. Isaiah 1:6 : "From the sole of your foot to the top of your head, there is no soundness—only wounds and welts and festering sores, not cleansed or bandaged or soothed with oil." Here, the absence of salve or oil is noted as a metaphor for the spiritual and moral decay of the people, emphasizing the need for healing and restoration. 3. Revelation 3:18 : "I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich; white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not be exposed; and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see." In this passage, Jesus advises the church in Laodicea to acquire spiritual salve to anoint their eyes, symbolizing the need for spiritual insight and discernment. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, salves were an integral part of daily life, used for both medical and cosmetic purposes. They were often made from olive oil, which served as a base, mixed with various herbs and spices known for their healing properties. The process of making salves was a skilled practice, often passed down through generations. The balm of Gilead, mentioned in Jeremiah, was particularly famous and sought after for its healing qualities. It was a valuable commodity, traded extensively throughout the region. The balm's reputation for healing made it a powerful metaphor for divine healing and restoration in the biblical narrative. Theological Significance: The use of salves in the Bible often carries a deeper spiritual meaning. Physical healing through salves is frequently paralleled with spiritual healing and restoration. The metaphor of salve as a means of opening one's eyes, as seen in Revelation, underscores the importance of spiritual awareness and the need for divine intervention to heal spiritual blindness. In the broader biblical context, the concept of healing—both physical and spiritual—is central to God's relationship with His people. The use of salves symbolizes God's provision and care, offering a tangible representation of His desire to restore and heal His creation. Practical Application: For believers, the biblical references to salves serve as a reminder of the importance of seeking both physical and spiritual healing. Just as salves were used to treat physical ailments, Christians are encouraged to seek God's healing for their spiritual wounds. The metaphor of salve as a means of gaining spiritual insight challenges believers to pursue a deeper understanding of God's truth and to remain vigilant against spiritual complacency. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (interj.) Hail!2. (v. t.) To say Salve to; to greet; to salute. 3. (n.) An adhesive composition or substance to be applied to wounds or sores; a healing ointment. 4. (n.) A soothing remedy or antidote. 5. (n.) To heal by applications or medicaments; to cure by remedial treatment; to apply salve to; as, to salve a wound. 6. (n.) To heal; to remedy; to cure; to make good; to soothe, as with an ointment, especially by some device, trick, or quibble; to gloss over. 7. (v. t. & i.) To save, as a ship or goods, from the perils of the sea. Greek 2854. kollourion -- eye salve. ... eye salve. Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter Transliteration: kollourion Phonetic Spelling: (kol-loo'-ree-on) Short Definition: eye-salve Definition: eye-salve. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2854.htm - 6k 2855b. kollurion -- a small bread roll, an eye salve (shaped like ... Library Salve Regina Salve Regina Salve Regina Coelitum Salve Mater Misericordiae Hail! Holy Queen, Enthroned Above In what Way Faith is Necessary for Repentance. ... The St. Gregory Hymnal and Catholic Choir Book Ave Regina Coelorum Ave, Regina Coelorum Nuremberg Sept. 15, 1530. To the Honorable and Worthy N. , My ... Thesaurus Salve (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (interj.) Hail! 2. (vt) To say Salve to; to greet; to salute. ... Multi-Version Concordance Salve (1 Occurrence). ... /s/salve.htm - 7k Eye-salve (1 Occurrence) Nakedness (50 Occurrences) Unguent (1 Occurrence) Fired (3 Occurrences) Robes (124 Occurrences) Refined (26 Occurrences) Eyeservice (2 Occurrences) Eyesalve (1 Occurrence) Purified (44 Occurrences) Resources What was Jesus' message to the church in Laodicea in Revelation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is extreme unction / last rites? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about chanting? Should a Christian chant? | GotQuestions.org Salve: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Salve (1 Occurrence)Revelation 3:18 Subtopics Related Terms |
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