The term "plaistered" refers to the application of plaster, a mixture used for coating walls and ceilings, to create a smooth surface. In biblical times, plastering was a common practice for both practical and aesthetic purposes. The use of plaster is mentioned in several passages of the Bible, highlighting its significance in construction and religious contexts.

Biblical References:

1. Deuteronomy 27:2-4 : "And on the day you cross the Jordan into the land the LORD your God is giving you, you are to set up large stones and coat them with plaster. Write on them all the words of this law when you have crossed over, so that you may enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD, the God of your fathers, promised you. And when you have crossed the Jordan, you are to set up these stones on Mount Ebal, as I am commanding you today, and coat them with plaster."

In this passage, the Israelites are instructed to coat stones with plaster and inscribe the law upon them. This act served as a physical and visual reminder of God's commandments as they entered the Promised Land. The plastering of stones ensured the durability and visibility of the inscriptions, symbolizing the permanence and importance of God's law.

2. Ezekiel 13:10-12 : "Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace, and because when a flimsy wall is built, they plaster it with whitewash, tell those who plaster it with whitewash that it will fall. There will be a deluge of rain, and I will send hailstones plunging down, and a windstorm will burst forth. Surely when the wall has fallen, you will not be asked, ‘Where is the whitewash with which you covered it?’"

Here, the prophet Ezekiel uses the metaphor of a plastered wall to criticize false prophets who offer deceptive assurances of peace. The whitewashed wall represents superficial and unstable promises that cannot withstand the trials and judgments of God. The imagery of plastering in this context underscores the futility of relying on false security.

3. Leviticus 14:42 : "Then they are to take other stones to replace these and take additional plaster to replaster the house."

In the laws concerning leprosy in houses, the process of removing contaminated stones and replastering the house is described. This practice was part of the ritual purification process, ensuring that the dwelling was cleansed of impurity. The use of plaster in this context highlights its role in restoration and renewal, both physically and spiritually.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern architecture, plaster was a crucial material for construction and decoration. It was made from lime or gypsum and applied to surfaces to create a smooth finish. Plastering was not only functional but also served as a medium for artistic expression, as seen in the inscriptions and decorations on walls and monuments.

The biblical use of plaster often carries symbolic meaning, representing the covering or sealing of something significant. Whether it is the inscribing of God's law, the false assurances of peace, or the purification of a dwelling, plastering serves as a metaphor for the human condition and the divine interaction with it.

Theological Implications:

The concept of plastering in the Bible can be seen as a reflection of the human tendency to cover or conceal imperfections. In a spiritual sense, it points to the need for genuine transformation rather than superficial fixes. The biblical narrative encourages believers to seek true peace and purity through adherence to God's commandments and reliance on His truth, rather than relying on outward appearances or false assurances.Plaistered (2 Occurrences)

Deuteronomy 27:2
and it hath been, in the day that ye pass over the Jordan unto the land which Jehovah thy God is giving to thee, that thou hast raised up for thee great stones, and plaistered them with plaister,
(YLT)

Deuteronomy 27:4
And it hath been, in your passing over the Jordan, ye raise up these stones which I am commanding you to-day, in mount Ebal, and thou hast plaistered them with plaister,
(YLT)

Plaistered (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Plaistered (2 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 27:2
and it hath been, in the day that ye pass over the Jordan ...
/p/plaistered.htm - 7k

Plaister (4 Occurrences)
... that ye pass over the Jordan unto the land which Jehovah thy God is giving to thee,
that thou hast raised up for thee great stones, and plaistered them with ...
/p/plaister.htm - 8k

Plaited (12 Occurrences)

/p/plaited.htm - 9k

Commanding (79 Occurrences)
... And it hath been, in your passing over the Jordan, ye raise up these stones which
I am commanding you to-day, in mount Ebal, and thou hast plaistered them with ...
/c/commanding.htm - 31k

Passing (177 Occurrences)
... And it hath been, in your passing over the Jordan, ye raise up these stones which
I am commanding you to-day, in mount Ebal, and thou hast plaistered them with ...
/p/passing.htm - 36k

Raise (175 Occurrences)
... And it hath been, in your passing over the Jordan, ye raise up these stones which
I am commanding you to-day, in mount Ebal, and thou hast plaistered them with ...
/r/raise.htm - 40k

To-day (208 Occurrences)
... And it hath been, in your passing over the Jordan, ye raise up these stones which
I am commanding you to-day, in mount Ebal, and thou hast plaistered them with ...
/t/to-day.htm - 37k

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