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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadJames Hastings Dictionary of the Bible: Nose, Nostrils
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NOSE, NOSTRILS (’aph is the usual word; nìch îrîm only in Job_41:20; nachar in Job_39:20, AV [Note: Authorized Version.] ‘nostrils,’ RV [Note: Revised Version.] , correctly, ‘snorting’).—To have a flat, or more probably ‘slit’ nose (Lev_21:16), disqualified a man for the making of offerings. The nose is the organ of the breath by which men live (Gen_2:7 etc.). The breath is easily stopped or expelled, hence the fact signifies the transiency of human life (Isa_2:22). Excited breathing, with distention of the nostrils when moved by indignation, led to the nose being used fig. for anger (Gen_27:45, and very often), Eze_8:17 refers to the custom of putting a twig to the nose, apparently in idolatrous worship, the significance of which is now obscure. For ‘nose-ring,’ see Ornaments, § 2.
W. Ewing.