Eyes in Biblical History

Bible History

Schaff's Bible Dictionary

Definitions in Biblical History
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

What are Eyes?
EYES
It was part of the cruelty which distinguished ancient warfare to put out the eyes of prisoners, particularly those who were prominent or dangerous. This custom is referred to in Jud 16:21; 1 Sam 11:2; 2 Kgs 25:7. The custom of adorning the eyelids in any way for effect is not known among us, but is often alluded to in the O.T., 2 Kgs 9:30; Jer 4:30; Eze 23:40, and prevails extensively now among Eastern women, especially among Mohammedans. The hair and edges of the eyelids are tinged with a fine black powder moistened with oil or vinegar, which causes a small black line to appear around the edge, and at a distance (and especially by candlelight) gives a heavy, dark shade to the eyes. A smooth cylindrical piece of silver or ivory, shaped like a quill and about 2 inches long, is dipped into the composition and placed within the eyelashes, which are closed over it. The figurative use of the word "eye" to indicate alacrity and vigilance occurs Eze 1:18; Eze 10:12; Rev 4:6, Rev 4:8.

Bibliography Information
Schaff, Philip, Dr. "Biblical Definition for 'eyes' in Schaffs Bible Dictionary".
bible-history.com - Schaff's

Copyright Information
© Schaff's Bible Dictionary

Schaff's Bible Dictionary Home
Bible History Online Home

Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
Online Bible (KJV)
Naves Topical Bible
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Schaff's Bible Dictionary
Fausset's Bible Dictionary
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Hitchcock's Bible Dictionary

Schaff's Bible Dictionary

Popular in the New Testament

Popular in the
New Testament