Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage: Sope, often referred to as "soap" in modern terminology, is a cleansing agent mentioned in the Bible. It is primarily used in a metaphorical sense to describe purification and cleansing from sin. The term "sope" in biblical times likely referred to a substance made from natural materials, such as ashes and oils, used for washing and purification. Biblical References: The concept of sope is mentioned in the context of spiritual cleansing and purification. In the book of Jeremiah, the prophet uses the imagery of sope to illustrate the depth of Israel's sin and the need for divine cleansing: · Jeremiah 2:22 : "Although you wash with lye and use an abundance of soap, the stain of your guilt is still before Me," declares the Lord GOD. This verse highlights the insufficiency of physical cleansing agents like sope to remove the spiritual stain of sin. It underscores the need for a deeper, divine intervention for true purification. Symbolism and Theological Significance: In the Bible, sope symbolizes the human effort to achieve purity and righteousness. However, it also serves as a reminder of the limitations of human actions in achieving spiritual cleanliness. The use of sope in Scripture points to the necessity of God's grace and forgiveness for true purification. The imagery of washing and cleansing is prevalent throughout the Bible, often associated with repentance and the transformative power of God's forgiveness. The use of sope in these contexts emphasizes the need for an internal cleansing that only God can provide. Related Concepts: · Purification: The act of cleansing from impurities, both physical and spiritual. In biblical terms, purification often involves rituals and sacrifices, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the cleansing of sin. · Repentance: A turning away from sin and a turning towards God. Repentance is often accompanied by symbolic acts of washing and cleansing, representing a renewed commitment to holiness. · Forgiveness: The act of God removing the guilt and penalty of sin. Forgiveness is a central theme in the Bible, highlighting God's mercy and the transformative power of His love. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient times, sope was made from natural ingredients available in the region, such as plant ashes and animal fats. It was used for both personal hygiene and ritual purification. The process of making sope was labor-intensive, reflecting the effort required for physical cleanliness, which serves as a metaphor for the spiritual effort needed to seek God's forgiveness. Conclusion: While sope in the Bible is a physical substance used for cleansing, its deeper significance lies in its symbolic representation of the need for spiritual purification. The biblical references to sope remind believers of the limitations of human efforts and the necessity of divine intervention for true cleansing from sin. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) See Soap.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SOPEsop. Strong's Hebrew 1287. borith -- lye, alkali, potash, soap... of bor Definition lye, alkali, potash, soap NASB Word Usage soap (2). sope. Feminine of bor; vegetable alkali -- sope. see HEBREW bor. 1286, 1287. ... /hebrew/1287.htm - 6k Library The Lord Coming to his Temple Mercy's Master Motive Thesaurus SopeSope. Sop'ater, Sope. Sophereth . Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) See Soap. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SOPE. sop. See SOAP. ... /s/sope.htm - 6k Sop'ater (1 Occurrence) Sophereth (2 Occurrences) Soap (4 Occurrences) Resources Sope: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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