Wisdom of solomon 11:18 - Or new-created wild beasts, full of rage, of unknown kind, Either breathing out a blast of fiery breath, Or blowing forth from their nostrils noisome smoke, Or flashing dreadful sparkles from their eyes;

Generated Verse: Wisdom of solomon 11:18

What does "Wisdom of solomon 11:18" mean?


This verse from Wisdom of Solomon 11:18 describes a scene of divine judgment, using vivid and terrifying imagery. Let's break down the meaning:

"Or new-created wild beasts, full of rage, of unknown kind...": This introduces the image of monstrous, newly created creatures. The fact that they are "of unknown kind" emphasizes their unnatural and terrifying nature. They are not animals familiar to the reader, but beings specifically created for destruction and punishment. The "rage" indicates their destructive purpose.

"Either breathing out a blast of fiery breath...": This describes one way these creatures inflict harm. The image of "fiery breath" is a common symbol of divine wrath and destructive power, reminiscent of dragons or mythical beasts.

"Or blowing forth from their nostrils noisome smoke...": Another method of attack is described. "Noisome smoke" suggests something foul, poisonous, and suffocating. It contributes to the atmosphere of horror and plague.

"Or flashing dreadful sparkles from their eyes...": The creatures' eyes are not simply seeing, but actively contributing to the terror. "Dreadful sparkles" suggest a malevolent and dangerous gaze, capable of causing fear and destruction.

Overall Meaning:

The verse paints a picture of divine punishment through the creation of terrifying, monstrous beings. These creatures are not merely animals, but instruments of divine judgment, each possessing the power to inflict harm through fiery breath, poisonous smoke, and a terrifying gaze.

Context within the Book of Wisdom:

The Book of Wisdom is part of the Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament (or Hebrew Bible) and is considered part of the Apocrypha by Protestants. It reflects on wisdom, righteousness, and God's providence. This particular passage is part of a larger section where the author contrasts God's treatment of the Egyptians (who were punished harshly) with God's mercy towards the Israelites. The "wild beasts" are likely an exaggerated depiction of the plagues that God sent upon the Egyptians in the Book of Exodus, and are used to highlight the severity of God's judgement when it is warranted.
In essence, the verse uses powerful and frightening imagery to emphasize the consequences of wickedness and the power of God to bring about justice.

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