Topical Encyclopedia The term "suppurates" refers to the process of forming or discharging pus, often as a result of infection or inflammation. While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "suppurates," the concept is present in various descriptions of disease and affliction, particularly in the context of leprosy and other skin conditions.Biblical Context In the ancient Near East, skin diseases were often seen as both physical ailments and spiritual afflictions. The Law of Moses provided detailed instructions for diagnosing and managing such conditions, particularly in the book of Leviticus. Leviticus 13 and 14 offer comprehensive guidelines for the priests to identify and treat skin diseases, which could include suppurating wounds. Leviticus 13:18-20 states: "When a boil appears on someone's skin and it heals, and in the place of the boil there is a white swelling or a reddish-white spot, it must be shown to the priest. If the priest examines it and finds it to be deeper than the skin and the hair in it has turned white, the priest shall pronounce the person unclean. It is a defiling skin disease that has broken out where the boil was." This passage illustrates the concern for infections that could lead to suppuration, as the presence of pus or a deeper infection would render a person ceremonially unclean. The priest's role was not only to diagnose but also to ensure the community's spiritual and physical health by isolating those with contagious conditions. Spiritual Implications In biblical times, physical ailments were often seen as manifestations of spiritual issues. Suppurating wounds, therefore, could symbolize deeper spiritual corruption or impurity. The process of purification and healing was not only a physical necessity but also a spiritual one, requiring offerings and rituals to restore the afflicted person's standing within the community and before God. The New Testament continues this theme, where Jesus' healing of lepers and those with various diseases is seen as a sign of His divine authority and compassion. In Matthew 8:2-3 , a leper approaches Jesus, saying, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean." Jesus reaches out, touches the man, and says, "I am willing, be clean!" Immediately, the man is healed of his leprosy. This act demonstrates Jesus' power to cleanse both physical and spiritual impurities. Theological Reflection From a theological perspective, the imagery of suppuration can be seen as a metaphor for sin and its corrupting influence on the soul. Just as a suppurating wound requires cleansing and healing, so too does sin require repentance and divine forgiveness. The Bible emphasizes the need for spiritual purification, often using physical healing as a metaphor for the restoration of one's relationship with God. In summary, while the Bible does not directly mention "suppurates," the concept is embedded within the broader biblical narrative of disease, impurity, and the need for divine intervention. The physical healing of suppurating wounds serves as a powerful symbol of spiritual cleansing and redemption. Concordance Suppurates (1 Occurrence)Job 7:5 Thesaurus Suppurates (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Suppurates (1 Occurrence). Job 7:5 My flesh is clothed with worms and clods of dust; my skin is broken, and suppurates. (DBY). ... /s/suppurates.htm - 6k Suppress (1 Occurrence) Supremacy (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |