Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the role of a fuller was essential in the preparation and maintenance of garments, particularly in the context of purification and cleansing. The process of fulling involved cleaning, whitening, and thickening cloth, especially wool, to make it suitable for use. This occupation is mentioned in several passages of Scripture, often symbolizing purification and spiritual cleansing.Malachi 3:2 : "But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He will be like a refiner’s fire, like a launderer’s soap." In this passage, the prophet Malachi uses the imagery of a launderer’s soap, akin to the work of a fuller, to describe the purifying work of the Lord. Just as a fuller cleanses garments, God purifies His people, removing impurities and refining them for His purposes. Mark 9:3 : "His clothes became radiantly white, brighter than any launderer on earth could bleach them." During the Transfiguration of Jesus, His garments are described as being whiter than any fuller could achieve. This supernatural whiteness signifies divine purity and glory, surpassing any earthly cleansing process. Isaiah 7:3 : "Then the LORD said to Isaiah, 'Go out with your son Shear-jashub to meet Ahaz at the end of the aqueduct of the Upper Pool, on the road to the Launderer’s Field.'" The mention of the Launderer’s Field in Isaiah indicates a location associated with the work of fullers. This setting underscores the everyday nature of fulling in ancient society, as well as its symbolic connection to cleansing and preparation. 2 Kings 18:17 : "Then the king of Assyria sent the Tartan, the Rabsaris, and the Rabshakeh with a great army from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. They advanced and came to Jerusalem, and they took their position by the aqueduct of the Upper Pool, which is on the road to the Launderer’s Field." This passage, like Isaiah 7:3, situates the Launderer’s Field as a notable landmark in Jerusalem. The presence of the Assyrian army at this location during a time of conflict may symbolize the need for spiritual cleansing and renewal amidst impending judgment. The work of a fuller, as depicted in these scriptures, serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual cleansing that God offers to His people. Just as a fuller meticulously cleanses garments, God is actively involved in purifying the hearts and lives of believers, preparing them for His service and presence. Nave's Topical Index Malachi 3:2But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appears? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: Nave's Topical Index Mark 9:3 Library General Principles of Interpretation. 1 Since the Bible Addresses ... The Cavils of the Pharisees Concerning Purification, and the ... The Formation of the Old Testament Canon Formation and History of the New Testament Canon. The Consensus and Dissensus of Creeds. The Unity of Revelation. 1 "Known unto God are all his Works from ... The Lord Coming to his Temple The Church in Theology and Literature. The Heresy of Tatian. The Seventh Book Resources What does it mean to pray, “Thy kingdom come”? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is it important to study the Bible in context? What is wrong with taking verses out of context? | GotQuestions.org What is Pauline Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Fuller: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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