(Heb borith mekabbeshim, i.e., "alkali of those treading cloth"). Mention is made (Pr 25:20; Jer 2:22) of nitre and also (Mal 3:2) of soap (Heb borith) used by the fuller in his operations. Nitre is found in Syria, and vegetable alkali was obtained from the ashes of certain plants. (See Soap.)
Like one who takes off a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar on soda, Is he who sings songs to a troubled heart.
"Although you wash yourself with lye And use much soap, The stain of your iniquity is before Me," declares the Lord GOD.
"But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap.
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