Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, bottles were commonly made from animal skins, particularly those of goats. These skin bottles, known as "wineskins," were used to store liquids such as water, milk, and wine. Over time, as these skins aged and were exposed to the elements, they would dry up and become brittle, losing their ability to hold liquid effectively. This imagery of dried-up bottles is used metaphorically in Scripture to describe the condition of the afflicted.The psalmist David poignantly captures this metaphor in Psalm 119:83, where he writes, "Though I am like a wineskin dried by smoke, I do not forget Your statutes" . Here, the psalmist compares his own state of affliction and weariness to a wineskin that has been dried out by smoke. The imagery suggests a sense of exhaustion and vulnerability, as the once-flexible and useful wineskin becomes rigid and fragile. This metaphor serves to illustrate the spiritual and emotional desolation experienced by those who are suffering. Just as a dried-up wineskin is no longer fit for its intended purpose, the afflicted may feel as though they are no longer able to function as they once did. Yet, despite this state of desolation, the psalmist emphasizes his steadfast commitment to God's statutes, highlighting a profound trust in God's word even amidst personal trials. The use of this imagery also underscores the transient nature of human suffering. While the wineskin may be dried up and seemingly useless, it is not beyond restoration. In the same way, those who are afflicted can find hope and renewal through faith in God. The Bible consistently affirms that God is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). In the broader biblical narrative, the metaphor of dried-up bottles can be seen as a call to reliance on God’s sustaining power. It serves as a reminder that human strength is limited, but divine strength is boundless. The afflicted are encouraged to seek refuge in God, who promises to renew and restore them, much like a new wineskin ready to be filled with new wine. In conclusion, the imagery of dried-up bottles in Scripture provides a vivid depiction of the affliction and weariness experienced by believers. It calls for a response of faith and reliance on God's enduring promises, offering hope for renewal and restoration through His divine grace. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 119:83For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget your statutes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Levi-Matthew The Shortest of the Seven Cries Psalm LXXVIII. Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Memoir of John Bunyan The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea part ii The Doctrine Resources What is servant evangelism? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bottles of Sinners Ripe for Judgment Bottles used for Holding: Milk Bottles used for Holding: Water Bottles used for Holding: Wine Bottles: (Broken) of Severe Judgments Bottles: (Dried Up) of the Afflicted Bottles: (Ready to Burst) the Impatient Bottles: Ancients often Drank From Bottles: First Mention of, in Scripture Bottles: Made of Skins: Marred by Age and Use Bottles: Made of Skins: Shrivelled and Dried by Smoke Bottles: Made of Skins: Sometimes Probably of Large Dimensions Bottles: Made of Skins: when Old, Unfit for Holding New Wine Bottles: Some, Made of Earthenware Related Terms |
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