In biblical terminology, the term "bray" refers to the act of crushing or pounding, often in the context of grinding grain or other substances. This term is used metaphorically in the Scriptures to convey the idea of thoroughness or completeness in an action, particularly in the context of judgment or correction.

The most notable reference to "bray" in the Bible is found in the book of Proverbs. Proverbs 27:22 states: "Though you grind a fool in a mortar, grinding him like grain with a pestle, you will not remove his folly from him." Here, the imagery of grinding or pounding is used to illustrate the stubbornness and persistence of folly in a fool. Despite the thorough and relentless effort to correct or change the fool, the inherent foolishness remains.

This proverb highlights the biblical understanding of human nature and the limitations of external correction. It underscores the belief that true transformation is a matter of the heart and spirit, rather than merely external actions or pressures. The use of "bray" in this context serves as a vivid reminder of the depth of human folly and the need for divine intervention and wisdom.

In the broader biblical narrative, the concept of pounding or grinding can also be seen in the context of divine judgment. The imagery of being crushed or ground is sometimes used to describe the consequences of sin and the severity of God's righteous judgment. This reflects the biblical theme that God's justice is thorough and complete, leaving no aspect of sin unaddressed.

The act of braying, therefore, serves as a powerful metaphor in Scripture, illustrating both the futility of human efforts to change the heart without divine aid and the comprehensive nature of God's judgment. It calls believers to seek wisdom and transformation through God's Word and Spirit, recognizing the limitations of human effort alone.Proverbs 27:22
Though you should bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.
Nave's Topical Index

3806. kathash -- to pound, pound fine, bray
... to pound, pound fine, bray. Transliteration: kathash Phonetic Spelling: (kaw-thash')
Short Definition: pound. ... bray. A primitive root; to butt or pound -- bray. ...
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