Topical Encyclopedia In biblical contexts, the act of spitting, or "spat," carries significant cultural and symbolic meanings. Spitting is mentioned in various passages throughout the Bible, often associated with disdain, humiliation, or ritual purification. Understanding the cultural and historical context of spitting in biblical times can provide deeper insight into its significance in Scripture.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, spitting is sometimes used as a gesture of contempt or rejection. For example, in Deuteronomy 25:9, the act of a widow spitting in the face of her brother-in-law is part of the ceremony of "halitzah," which releases him from the obligation to marry her after her husband's death. This act signifies public disgrace for the man who refuses to fulfill his duty: "Then his brother's widow shall go up to him in the presence of the elders, remove his sandal from his foot, spit in his face, and declare, 'This is what is done to the man who will not build up his brother's house.'" Spitting is also mentioned in the context of ritual impurity. In Leviticus 15:8, if a person with a discharge spits on someone who is clean, the latter must wash his clothes and bathe in water, remaining unclean until evening. This reflects the broader Levitical laws concerning purity and the transmission of uncleanness. New Testament References In the New Testament, spitting is notably present in the accounts of Jesus' passion. The act of spitting on Jesus is recorded as a form of mockery and abuse by the Roman soldiers and others who sought to humiliate Him. In Matthew 26:67, it is written: "Then they spat in His face and struck Him. Others slapped Him." This act of spitting was a profound insult, emphasizing the rejection and scorn Jesus faced during His trial and crucifixion. Conversely, spitting is also seen in the context of healing. In Mark 7:33 and 8:23, Jesus uses spittle as part of His healing miracles. In Mark 7:33, Jesus heals a deaf and mute man: "He took him aside from the crowd, privately, and put His fingers into the man's ears. Then He spat and touched the man's tongue." Similarly, in Mark 8:23, Jesus heals a blind man: "He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village. Then He spat on the man's eyes and placed His hands on him." These instances demonstrate Jesus' authority over physical ailments and His willingness to use unconventional means to restore health and wholeness. Cultural and Symbolic Significance In biblical times, spitting was a powerful non-verbal communication tool. It could convey disdain, as seen in the acts of mockery against Jesus, or serve as a means of purification and healing, as demonstrated in Jesus' miracles. The dual nature of spitting—both as an act of contempt and a medium for healing—highlights the complex cultural and symbolic layers present in biblical narratives. Understanding the use of spitting in the Bible requires an appreciation of the cultural norms and religious practices of the time. It serves as a reminder of the profound ways in which physical actions can carry deep spiritual and social meanings within the biblical text. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v.) imp. of Spit.2. (n.) A young oyster or other bivalve mollusk, both before and after it first becomes adherent, or such young, collectively. 3. (v. i. & t.) To emit spawn; to emit, as spawn. 4. (n.) A light blow with something flat. 5. (n.) Hence, a petty combat, esp. a verbal one; a little quarrel, dispute, or dissension. 6. (v. i.) To dispute. 7. (v. t.) To slap, as with the open hand; to clap together; as the hands. Greek 4429. ptuo -- to spit ... Word Origin a prim. word Definition to spit NASB Word Usage spat (1), spitting (2). spit. A primary verb (compare ptusso); to spit -- spit. see GREEK ptusso. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4429.htm - 6k 1716. emptuo -- to spit upon 4684. spatalao -- to live riotously Library John ix. 6, 7 A Group of Miracles among a Semi-Heathen Population The Deaf Stammerer Healed and Four Thousand Fed. An Awful Contrast Letter L. To Domnio. John Chapter ix The Shame and Spitting Little Sarah Howley. The Gospel According to Peter. From the Saying of Our Lord we Know that the Flesh is Weak... Thesaurus Spat (7 Occurrences)...Spat (7 Occurrences). Matthew 26:67 Then they spat in His face, and struck Him--some with the fist, some with the open hand-- (WEY NAS RSV). ... /s/spat.htm - 9k Struck (373 Occurrences) Saliva (3 Occurrences) Staff (91 Occurrences) Taking (445 Occurrences) Reed (41 Occurrences) Homage (51 Occurrences) Knee (12 Occurrences) Knees (47 Occurrences) Kneading (7 Occurrences) Resources Spat: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Spat (7 Occurrences)Matthew 26:67 Matthew 27:30 Mark 7:33 Mark 15:19 John 9:6 Numbers 12:14 Deuteronomy 25:9 Subtopics Related Terms |
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