Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, a "fanner" refers to an implement or person involved in the process of winnowing, which is the act of separating grain from chaff. This term is often used metaphorically in the Scriptures to describe God's judgment and purification process among His people.Biblical References: The concept of fanning is notably mentioned in the book of Jeremiah. In Jeremiah 15:7 , the prophet declares, "I will winnow them with a winnowing fork at the gates of the land. I will bereave them of children; I will destroy My people, for they did not turn from their ways." Here, the imagery of winnowing is used to convey God's impending judgment on the people of Judah for their persistent disobedience and idolatry. The fanner, in this context, symbolizes the divine agent of judgment, separating the faithful from the unfaithful. Another significant reference is found in Jeremiah 51:2 , where it is written, "I will send strangers to Babylon to winnow her and to empty her land; for they will come against her from every side in the day of disaster." This passage uses the metaphor of fanning to describe the destruction and desolation that will come upon Babylon as a result of God's judgment. The fanners, or "strangers," are the invading forces that God uses to execute His will. Symbolism and Interpretation: The act of fanning or winnowing in the Bible often symbolizes purification and judgment. Just as a fanner separates the valuable grain from the worthless chaff, God discerns and separates the righteous from the wicked. This process is not only a form of judgment but also a means of refining and purifying His people, ensuring that only the faithful remain. In the New Testament, the concept of winnowing is echoed in the ministry of John the Baptist. In Matthew 3:12 , John speaks of the coming Messiah, saying, "His winnowing fork is in His hand to clear His threshing floor and to gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." Here, the fanner is Christ Himself, who will ultimately separate the righteous from the unrighteous at the final judgment. Theological Significance: The imagery of the fanner serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. It underscores the reality that God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, discerning the hearts of individuals and nations. The process of winnowing, while often associated with judgment, also carries a redemptive aspect, as it purifies and prepares God's people for His purposes. In a broader theological context, the role of the fanner can be seen as part of God's redemptive plan, where judgment serves as a precursor to restoration and renewal. This dual aspect of judgment and purification is central to understanding the nature of God's dealings with His creation throughout the biblical narrative. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One who fans.2. (n.) A fan wheel; a fan blower. See under Fan. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia FAN, FANNERfan'-er: The word "fan" occurs 3 times only in the American Standard Revised Version (Jeremiah 15:7 Matthew 3:12 Luke 3:17). In Isaiah 30:24 mizreh is translated "fork," which is a much better translation if the instrument referred to was shaped like the winnowing fork used by the Syrian farmer today and still so called. In Isaiah 41:16 Jeremiah 4:11; Jeremiah 15:7, the verb zarah is rendered "winnow" in the American Standard Revised Version. In Jeremiah 51:2, the Revised Version (British and American) substitutes "strangers" for "fanners." Strong's Hebrew 2114. zuwr -- to be a stranger... come from another man, place, fanner, go away, estranger, thing, woman A primitive root; to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence ... /hebrew/2114.htm - 5k Thesaurus Fanner... FAN, FANNER. fan'-er: The word "fan" occurs 3 times only in the American Standard Revised Version (Jeremiah 15:7 Matthew 3:12 Luke 3:17). ... /f/fanner.htm - 7k Fanned (2 Occurrences) Fly (33 Occurrences) Fanners (1 Occurrence) Fan (8 Occurrences) Resources Fanner: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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