Topical Encyclopedia The term "scrapeth" is an archaic English word that appears in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, primarily used to describe the action of scraping or removing something from a surface. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the act of scraping oneself as a sign of mourning, repentance, or affliction. The Berean Standard Bible may use more contemporary language, but the concept remains significant in understanding certain biblical narratives and cultural practices.Biblical References: 1. Job 2:8 : "And Job took a piece of broken pottery to scrape himself as he sat among the ashes." In this passage, Job, a man of great faith and patience, is afflicted with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the crown of his head. The act of scraping himself with a piece of pottery is a physical manifestation of his intense suffering and a cultural expression of his deep mourning and distress. This imagery highlights the depth of Job's trials and his perseverance in faith despite immense personal loss and physical pain. 2. Leviticus 14:41 : "And he shall have the inside of the house scraped thoroughly and the plaster that is scraped off shall be dumped into an unclean place outside the city." This verse is part of the Levitical laws concerning the cleansing of a house afflicted with mildew or mold. The act of scraping the house is a ritual purification process, symbolizing the removal of impurity and the restoration of holiness. It underscores the importance of cleanliness and purity in the community of Israel, reflecting God's desire for His people to live in a state of physical and spiritual cleanliness. Cultural and Theological Significance: In biblical times, scraping oneself or an object was often associated with purification, mourning, or the removal of impurity. The act of scraping could symbolize a deeper spiritual cleansing or repentance, as seen in the practices of mourning or in the ritual laws of Leviticus. It reflects a physical manifestation of an inner spiritual reality, where the removal of dirt or disease parallels the removal of sin or impurity. Theologically, the concept of scraping can be seen as a metaphor for the sanctification process in the life of a believer. Just as physical scraping removes impurities, spiritual sanctification involves the removal of sin and the refining of one's character to align more closely with the holiness of God. This process, though often painful, is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, the practice of scraping as a form of mourning or purification was not unique to Israel but was common among various cultures. It was often accompanied by other signs of mourning, such as wearing sackcloth, sitting in ashes, or fasting. These practices were deeply embedded in the cultural and religious life of the people, serving as outward expressions of inner grief or repentance. The use of scraping in the context of Levitical law also highlights the Israelites' understanding of holiness and the need to maintain a community set apart for God. The detailed instructions for cleansing and purification reflect the seriousness with which they approached the concept of holiness and their desire to live in accordance with God's commandments. In summary, the term "scrapeth" and its associated practices in the Bible provide insight into the cultural, spiritual, and theological dimensions of ancient Israelite life. Through these practices, the biblical narrative communicates themes of suffering, repentance, purification, and the pursuit of holiness. Concordance Scrapeth (1 Occurrence)Proverbs 6:13 Thesaurus Scrapeth (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Scrapeth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 6:13 That winketh with his eyes, that speaketh with his feet, That maketh ... /s/scrapeth.htm - 6k Scrapes (1 Occurrence) Points (18 Occurrences) Scraping (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |