Topical Encyclopedia The term "washpot" appears in the Bible as a metaphorical expression, primarily found in the Old Testament. It is used to convey a sense of subjugation or lowliness, often in the context of God's dominion over nations. The imagery of a washpot, a vessel used for washing feet or utensils, suggests something common and humble, emphasizing the authority and supremacy of God over the nations.Biblical References: 1. Psalm 60:8 : "Moab is My washpot; upon Edom I toss My sandal; over Philistia I shout in triumph." This verse is part of a psalm attributed to David, where God speaks of His sovereignty over various nations. Here, Moab is referred to as a "washpot," symbolizing its subservient position under God's rule. The imagery of tossing a sandal over Edom further emphasizes the theme of dominance and control, as casting a sandal was a gesture of claiming ownership or asserting authority. 2. Psalm 108:9 : "Moab is My washpot; upon Edom I toss My sandal; over Philistia I shout in triumph." This verse mirrors Psalm 60:8, reiterating the same message of God's power and the subjugation of Moab and Edom. The repetition of this imagery in the Psalms underscores its significance in conveying the message of divine authority. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern culture, a washpot was a utilitarian object, often used for washing feet, a task typically performed by servants or those of lower status. The use of this metaphor in the Psalms reflects the cultural understanding of cleanliness and servitude, where the washpot represents something ordinary and unremarkable. By referring to Moab as a washpot, the text highlights the nation's humbled state in relation to God's overarching plan and purpose. Theological Significance: The metaphor of the washpot serves to illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty and the humbling of nations before Him. It reflects the biblical narrative of God's control over history and His ability to elevate or abase nations according to His will. This imagery aligns with the broader biblical theme of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes over human affairs. In the context of the Psalms, the use of such vivid metaphors serves to remind the faithful of God's power and the futility of opposing His will. It encourages believers to trust in God's providence and to recognize His authority over all creation, including the rise and fall of nations. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A pot or vessel in which anything is washed.2. (n.) A pot containing melted tin into which the plates are dipped to be coated. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia WASHPOTwosh'-pot (sir rachats, "vessel for washing"): Only Psalm 60:8 = 108:9, "Moab is my washpot"; i.e. "Moab is my chattel, to betreated contemptuously," as the vessel in which the conqueror's feet are washed. Strong's Hebrew 5518. ciyr -- a pot... 5517, 5518. ciyr. 5518a . a pot. Transliteration: ciyr Phonetic Spelling: (seer) Short Definition: caldron. caldron, fishhook, pan, washpot, thorn ... /hebrew/5518.htm - 5k 7366. rachats -- a washing Library Moab is My Washpot Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871 A Short Essay Toward the Improvement of Psalmody: The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints Thesaurus Washpot (2 Occurrences)... be coated. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. WASHPOT. wosh'-pot ... conqueror's feet are washed. Multi-Version Concordance Washpot (2 Occurrences). ... /w/washpot.htm - 7k Washbasin (2 Occurrences) Washbowl (2 Occurrences) Wash-pot (2 Occurrences) Washing-vessels (4 Occurrences) Shoe (13 Occurrences) Pot (46 Occurrences) Triumph (52 Occurrences) Sounded (66 Occurrences) Resources Washpot: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Washpot (2 Occurrences)Psalms 60:8 Psalms 108:9 Subtopics Related Terms |