What Does It Mean to Smite Something?
To smite something means to strike it with great force or to cause it to be destroyed. The word “smite” is derived from the Old English word smitan, which means “to strike” or “to beat.” It is often used in a figurative sense to describe a powerful or devastating action, such as a divine punishment or a military victory.
Origins of Smiting
The concept of smiting has its roots in ancient mythology and religion. In many cultures, gods and goddesses were believed to have the power to smite those who displeased them. For example, in Greek mythology, Zeus was known for using his thunderbolts to smite his enemies.
In the Bible, God is often depicted as a smiting figure. In the Old Testament, God smites the Egyptians with plagues and sends a fiery serpent to punish the Israelites. In the New Testament, Jesus is said to smite his enemies with the “sword of his mouth” (Revelation 1:16).
Biblical References
The Bible contains numerous references to smiting, both in the Old and New Testaments. Here are a few examples:
- Genesis 19:11: “And they smote the men that were at the door of the house with blindness.”
- Exodus 12:29: “And it came to pass at midnight, the Lord smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt.”
- Revelation 16:21: “And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.”
Modern-Day Usage
The word “smite” is still used today, although it is less common than it once was. It is sometimes used in a humorous or ironic way to describe a powerful or overwhelming action. For example, someone might say that they “smote” their opponent in a game of chess or that they “smote” a particularly difficult crossword puzzle.
In more serious contexts, the word “smite” can be used to describe a devastating event or a powerful force. For example, a natural disaster might be described as a “smiting” or a war might be said to have “smote” a country.
Conclusion
To smite something is to strike it with great force or to cause it to be destroyed. The word “smite” has its roots in ancient mythology and religion, and it is still used today, although it is less common than it once was. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe a powerful or devastating action.
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