The term "smootheth" is an archaic English form of the verb "smooth," which appears in various translations of the Bible, including older versions like the King James Version. In the context of Scripture, "smootheth" generally refers to the act of making something even, level, or free from roughness. This concept can be both literal and metaphorical, often symbolizing preparation, refinement, or the removal of obstacles.

Biblical Context and Usage

1. Literal Smoothing: In the Bible, the act of smoothing is often associated with the preparation of paths or roads. This is seen in the prophetic literature where the imagery of making a path smooth is used to describe the preparation for the coming of the Lord. For example, Isaiah 40:3-4 states, "A voice of one calling: 'Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill made low; the uneven ground will become smooth, and the rugged land a plain.'" Here, the smoothing of the path signifies the removal of obstacles in anticipation of divine visitation.

2. Metaphorical Smoothing: The concept of smoothing also appears in a metaphorical sense, often relating to the refinement of character or the removal of sin. Proverbs 3:6 advises, "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." The idea of making paths straight or smooth is symbolic of living a life aligned with God's will, where moral and spiritual obstacles are removed through obedience and faith.

3. Idolatry and False Worship: The act of smoothing is sometimes associated with idolatry, where craftsmen would smooth wood or stone to create idols. Isaiah 44:13 describes the process: "The woodworker stretches a measuring line; he outlines it with a stylus; he shapes it with chisels and outlines it with a compass. He makes it in the form of a man, like a man in all his glory, that it may dwell in a shrine." This passage highlights the futility and deception of idol-making, contrasting the lifeless idols with the living God.

4. Divine Refinement: The process of smoothing can also be seen as a divine act of refinement, where God works to purify and perfect His people. In Malachi 3:3 , the refining process is likened to a refiner's fire and a launderer's soap, indicating the thorough and sometimes painful process of purification that leads to righteousness.

Theological Implications

The concept of smoothing in the Bible carries significant theological implications. It underscores the necessity of preparation and readiness for encountering God, whether through the literal preparation of paths or the metaphorical preparation of one's heart. It also serves as a reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of worshiping the true God. Furthermore, the idea of divine refinement through smoothing reflects God's ongoing work in the lives of believers, shaping them into the image of Christ.

In summary, "smootheth" in the biblical context is a multifaceted term that encompasses preparation, refinement, and the removal of obstacles, both in the physical and spiritual realms. It calls believers to a life of readiness, purity, and true worship, aligning their paths with the will of God.

Discouragement
... good courage. So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smootheth
with the hammer him that smote the anvil.". Shall ...
/.../smith/the god of all comfort/chapter 13 discouragement.htm

Smootheth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Smootheth (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 41:7 So the
carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smootheth...
/s/smootheth.htm - 6k

Fasteneth (2 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 41:7 So the carpenter encourageth the goldsmith, 'and' he that smootheth
with the hammer him that smiteth the anvil, saying of the soldering, It is good ...
/f/fasteneth.htm - 7k

Founder (5 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 41:7 And the artizan encouraged the founder, he that smootheth with the hammer
him that smiteth on the anvil, saying of the soldering, It is good; and ...
/f/founder.htm - 9k

Encourageth (1 Occurrence)
... Isaiah 41:7 So the carpenter encourageth the goldsmith, 'and' he that smootheth
with the hammer him that smiteth the anvil, saying of the soldering, It is good ...
/e/encourageth.htm - 6k

Artizan (7 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 41:7 And the artizan encouraged the founder, he that smootheth with the hammer
him that smiteth on the anvil, saying of the soldering, It is good; and ...
/a/artizan.htm - 8k

Sodering (1 Occurrence)
... Isaiah 41:7 So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smootheth with
the hammer him that smote the anvil, saying, It is ready for the sodering ...
/s/sodering.htm - 7k

Smoothly (2 Occurrences)

/s/smoothly.htm - 7k

Smoothest (1 Occurrence)

/s/smoothest.htm - 6k

Smooths (1 Occurrence)
... Isaiah 41:7 So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smootheth with
the hammer him that smiteth the anvil, saying of the soldering: 'It is good ...
/s/smooths.htm - 6k

Encouraged (37 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 41:7 So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smootheth with
the hammer him that smote the anvil, saying, It is ready for the sodering ...
/e/encouraged.htm - 17k

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