Topical Bible: Diseases: Boils and Blains

◄ Diseases: Boils and Blains ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, boils and blains are often mentioned as afflictions that serve as divine judgments or tests of faith. These skin diseases are characterized by painful sores and inflammations, and they appear in several key narratives within the Scriptures.

Boils in the Plagues of Egypt

One of the most notable instances of boils is found in the account of the plagues of Egypt. As the sixth plague, boils were inflicted upon the Egyptians as a demonstration of God's power and a judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart. In Exodus 9:8-11 , the Lord instructs Moses and Aaron to take handfuls of soot from a furnace and scatter it toward the sky in the presence of Pharaoh. This soot becomes fine dust over the land of Egypt, causing festering boils to break out on people and animals alike. The magicians of Egypt were unable to stand before Moses because of the boils, highlighting the impotence of Egyptian deities and the supremacy of the God of Israel.

Boils in the Life of Job

The account of Job provides another significant reference to boils, illustrating a test of faith and endurance. Job, described as a blameless and upright man, is afflicted with painful boils from the soles of his feet to the crown of his head as part of a divine test permitted by God. In Job 2:7 , it is written, "So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the crown of his head." Despite his suffering, Job maintains his integrity and faithfulness, refusing to curse God. This narrative underscores the theme of unwavering faith amidst trials and the sovereignty of God over human suffering.

Blains in the Old Testament

The term "blains" is less frequently mentioned but is often associated with boils in the context of divine punishment. In Deuteronomy 28:27 , as part of the curses for disobedience, the Lord warns the Israelites that He will strike them with the boils of Egypt, tumors, festering sores, and the itch, from which they cannot be healed. This passage serves as a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where obedience brings blessings and disobedience results in curses.

Theological Implications

In the biblical narrative, boils and blains are not merely physical ailments but carry significant theological implications. They serve as instruments of divine judgment, tests of faith, and reminders of the consequences of disobedience. These afflictions highlight the themes of God's sovereignty, the reality of human suffering, and the call to faithfulness amidst trials. The accounts of boils and blains in Scripture encourage believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and purpose, even when faced with physical and spiritual adversities.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 9:10
And they took ashes of the furnace, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses sprinkled it up toward heaven; and it became a boil breaking forth with blains on man, and on beast.
Torrey's Topical Textbook