* withered. or, small. thin.
6 2Ki 19:26 Ps 129:6,7 Ho 8:7 9:16 13:15
* blasted.
All the mischief done to corn or fruit by blasting, smutting,
mildew, etc. are attributed to the east wind. (See Parallel
Passages.) In Egypt it is peculiarly destructive, because it
comes through the parched deserts of Arabia, often destroying
vast numbers of people. The destructive nature of the {Sam,
Simoom, Smoom,} or {Samiel,} is mentioned by almost all
travellers. When this pestilential wind advances, its
approach is indicated by a redness in the air. The principal
stream of the blast always moves in a line of about 20; yards
in breadth, and 12; feet above the surface of the earth; but
its parching influence pervades all places to a considerable
distance. The only means of preservation from its noxious
influence is to lie flat, with the face upon the ground, till
the blast be over. Camels and other animals instinctively
perceive its approach, and bury their mouths and nostrils in
the ground. It rarely last more than seven or eight minutes,
but so poisonous are its effects, that it instantly
suffocates those who are unfortunate enough to inhale it.
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