The meaning of Earthen Vessels in the Bible
(From International Standard Bible Encyclopedia)

urth'-'-n, (cheres, yetser; ostrakinos): These vessels were heat-resisting and were used for cooking and for boiling clothes (Leviticus 6:28; Leviticus 11:33; Leviticus 14:5, Leviticus 14:50). They were probably non-porous and took the place of the kidri or ma'ajin used in Syria today. A traveler in the interior of Palestine may still meet with the hospitality showed to David (II Samuel 17:28). The generous natives brought not only gifts of food but the necessary vessels in which to cook it. An earthen vessel was used to preserve a land deed (Jeremiah 32:14).

Figurative: In Jeremiah 19:1 breaking of an earthen vessel was symbolical of the destruction of Jerusalem. These vessels were also used to symbolize the commonness (Lamentations 4:2) and frailness of our bodies (II Corinthians 4:7).

See POTTERY.

James A. Patch

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