Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the painting of eyelids is often associated with themes of seduction, vanity, and idolatry. The practice of adorning the eyes with cosmetics is mentioned in several passages, reflecting cultural practices of the ancient Near East and serving as a metaphor for spiritual and moral lessons.One of the most notable references to painted eyelids is found in the book of 2 Kings, where Jezebel, the infamous queen of Israel, is described as painting her eyes. In 2 Kings 9:30 , it states, "When Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel heard about it. So she painted her eyes, arranged her hair, and looked out of a window." Jezebel's act of painting her eyes is often interpreted as an attempt to maintain her regal appearance and exert influence, even in the face of impending judgment. Her use of cosmetics is seen as symbolic of her manipulative and idolatrous character, which led Israel astray. The prophet Jeremiah also alludes to the practice in a metaphorical sense. In Jeremiah 4:30 , he writes, "And you, O devastated one, what will you do? Though you dress in scarlet, though you adorn yourself with gold jewelry, though you enlarge your eyes with paint, you beautify yourself in vain. Your lovers despise you; they seek your life." Here, the painting of the eyes is used to illustrate the futility of Judah's attempts to win favor and security through alliances with foreign nations, rather than relying on God. The imagery suggests that outward adornment cannot mask inner corruption or avert divine judgment. Ezekiel also employs the imagery of painted eyes in his prophetic denunciations. In Ezekiel 23:40 , he describes the unfaithfulness of Jerusalem and Samaria, saying, "Furthermore, you sent for men who came from far away; when they arrived, you bathed yourself for them, painted your eyes, and adorned yourself with jewelry." The act of painting the eyes is part of a broader depiction of spiritual adultery, where the cities are portrayed as unfaithful wives seeking illicit relationships with foreign powers and idols. In the biblical narrative, the painting of eyelids is not condemned as a practice in itself but is often associated with negative connotations due to the context in which it appears. It serves as a powerful symbol of the dangers of relying on external appearances and worldly allurements, rather than cultivating inner righteousness and faithfulness to God. The biblical authors use this imagery to convey messages about the importance of spiritual integrity and the consequences of turning away from divine truth. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 23:40And furthermore, that you have sent for men to come from far, to whom a messenger was sent; and, see, they came: for whom you did wash yourself, painted your eyes, and decked yourself with ornaments, Nave's Topical Index Library The Bed and Its Covering John i. 35-37 His Writings and his Character While the Foregoing Scene was Taking Place at the Vatican... "And if Christ be in You, the Body is Dead Because Sin," Meanwhile Cardinal Bonpre had once More Reached his Own Apartments ... The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea Pagan Cemeteries. Homiletical. Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources What does it mean to be the apple of God's eye? | GotQuestions.orgIs sleep paralysis the result of spiritual attack? | GotQuestions.org What is Hellenism, and how did it influence the early church? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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