Bible Dictionaries

Holman Bible Dictionary

Net

1. Loosely woven mesh of twine or cord used for catching birds, fish, or other prey. a. Fishing nets were of two basic types. The first was a cone-shaped net with leads around its wide mouth used for hand casting (Matthew 4:18-21; Mark 1:16-19 ). The second was the seine net, a large draw with floats at its head and lead sinkers at its foot. Such a net was often hauled ashore to empty (Isaiah 19:8; Ezekiel 26:5 ,Ezekiel 26:5,26:14; Ezekiel 32:3; Ezekiel 47:10; Matthew 13:47 ). In the majority of Old Testament cases the seine net is a figure for judgment at the hands of ruthless military forces. b. Fowling nets frequently had hinged mouths which could clamp shut when sprung (Proverbs 1:17; Hosea 7:11-12 ). c. Nets of unspecified type are frequently used as figures of the Lord's chastisement (Job 19:6; Psalm 66:11; Lamentations 1:13; Ezekiel 12:13 ) or of the plots of the wicked (Psalm 9:15; Psalm 31:4; Psalm 35:7-8 ). 2 . Netting or network refers to grillwork used as part of the ornament of the altar of burnt offering (Exodus 27:4-5; Exodus 38:4 ) and of the capitals of the Temple columns (1 Kings 7:17-20 ). The grill-work of the altar perhaps functioned as a vent.