Use of the Sponge in Scripture—Probability that the ancient Jews were acquainted with it—Sponges of the Mediterranean—The Coral, and its value—Signification of the word Ramoth.
THERE is little to be said on either of these subjects.
Sponge is only mentioned with reference to the events of the Crucifixion, where it is related that a soldier placed a sponge upon hyssop, dipped it in vinegar (i.e. the acid wine issued to the Roman soldiers), and held it to the Lord's lips. There is little doubt that the ancient Hebrews were fully aware of the value of the Sponge, which they could obtain from the Mediterranean which skirted all their western coasts.
THE Coral is mentioned in two passages of Scripture: “No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls “(Job 28:1818No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies. (Job 28:18)). The second occurrence of the word is in Ezek. 27:1616Syria was thy merchant by reason of the multitude of the wares of thy making: they occupied in thy fairs with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and agate. (Ezekiel 27:16): “They occupied in thy fairs with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and agate.”
This Coral, which is described as being brought from Syria, was probably that of the Red Sea, where the Coral abounds, and where it attains the greatest perfection. The Hebrew word, ramoth, is expressive of the peculiar growth of the Coral, and signifies high, or lofty.