Topical Encyclopedia Eyepaint, also referred to as eye cosmetics or eye shadow, is mentioned in the Bible as a substance used for beautification and adornment. In ancient times, eyepaint was commonly made from kohl, a mixture of soot and other ingredients, and was applied to the eyelids and lashes to enhance the eyes' appearance. This practice was prevalent in various cultures, including the Egyptians, who are well-known for their elaborate use of cosmetics.Biblical References: 1. 2 Kings 9:30 : "Now when Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel heard about it, so she painted her eyes and arranged her hair and looked out of a window." This passage describes Jezebel, the infamous queen, using eyepaint as part of her preparation to confront Jehu. Her use of cosmetics is often interpreted as a symbol of her vanity and seductive nature, reflecting her character and the moral decay associated with her reign. 2. Jeremiah 4:30 : "And you, O devastated one, what will you do? Though you dress in scarlet, though you adorn yourself with gold jewelry, though you enlarge your eyes with paint, you beautify yourself in vain. Your lovers despise you; they seek your life." Here, the prophet Jeremiah uses the imagery of a woman adorning herself with eyepaint to symbolize the futile attempts of Judah to seek alliances and security through superficial means. The use of eyepaint is depicted as an act of vanity and false security, highlighting the spiritual unfaithfulness of the people. 3. Ezekiel 23:40 : "Furthermore, you sent for men who came from far away. When they arrived, you bathed yourself for them, painted your eyes, and adorned yourself with jewelry." In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel uses the metaphor of a woman painting her eyes to describe the idolatrous practices of Jerusalem and Samaria. The application of eyepaint is associated with seduction and unfaithfulness, illustrating the spiritual adultery of the people as they turned away from God to pursue foreign alliances and idols. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near East, the use of eyepaint was not only a cosmetic practice but also held cultural and sometimes religious significance. It was believed to protect the eyes from the harsh sun and ward off evil spirits. However, in the biblical context, the use of eyepaint is often portrayed negatively, symbolizing vanity, seduction, and spiritual unfaithfulness. The biblical authors used the imagery of eyepaint to convey messages about the moral and spiritual state of individuals and nations, often in the context of judgment and warning. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the use of eyepaint in the Bible serves as a metaphor for the dangers of relying on outward appearances and superficial means rather than seeking true beauty and security in a relationship with God. The emphasis is on the inner character and faithfulness to God rather than external adornment. The biblical narrative encourages believers to focus on cultivating a heart that is pleasing to God, as reflected in passages like 1 Peter 3:3-4 : "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight." International Standard Bible Encyclopedia EYEPAINTi'-pant. Library On the Sinful Woman. Thesaurus EyepaintEyepaint. Eyelids, Eyepaint. Eyes . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia EYEPAINT. i'-pant. See ANTIMONY; EYELID; KEREN-HAPPUCH. ... /e/eyepaint.htm - 6k Eyelids (12 Occurrences) Eyes (6285 Occurrences) Paint (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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