Bible Dictionary
East wind
The east wind came from the dry desert regions east of Palestine. Its heat and lack of moisture could wither crops, and Scripture sometimes uses it as an image of destructive judgment.
Definition
The east wind is a wind coming from the eastern desert regions. In Palestine it blows from a burning, dry desert and lacks the moisture needed by vegetation. Its effects include blight, withered plants, and damaged crops.
Biblical Usage
Scripture mentions the east wind in descriptions of withered grain and vegetation. It is also used as a cause and emblem of evil and destructive judgment.
Historical Background
The wind’s significance arises from the climate of Palestine and the desert east of it. Its heat and dryness made it especially harmful to crops and other vegetation.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The wind coming from the east (Job 27:21; Isa. 27:8, etc.). Blight caused by this wind, “thin ears” (Gen. 41:6); the withered “gourd” (Jonah 4: 8). It was the cause and also the emblem of evil (Ezek. 17:10; 19:12; Hos. 13:15). In Palestine this wind blows from a burning desert, and hence is destitute of moisture necessary for vegetation.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>See WIND.</p>