Paper
NatureWhat is the meaning of Paper in the Bible?
In Isaiah 19:7, the Hebrew term 'gome' denotes papyrus reeds and associated marsh vegetation along the Nile River, rather than manufactured paper. Modern scholarship identifies these areas as fertile wetlands that supported agriculture and grazing in ancient Egypt.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the reference to papyrus reeds rather than paper clarifies the specific ecological conditions of the Nile Delta described in the prophecy, allowing readers to visualize the actual landscape and agricultural resources affected by the divine judgment.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Paper were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Paper in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Paper clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Isaiah 19:7
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Paper." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/paper/