Bible Dictionary
Grind
To grind is to crush grain or another substance between millstones. In Scripture, grinding also describes oppressive labor, while “grinders” may refer to the teeth used for chewing.
Definition
To grind is to crush grain or another substance into smaller particles. In biblical usage it may also mean to oppress, while “the grinders” can refer to the teeth used in chewing.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses grinding literally for crushing and figuratively for oppression of the poor. The “grinders” mentioned in Ecclesiastes are identified as the teeth.
Historical Background
The Hebrew hand-mill consisted of two stones: a stationary lower stone and a movable, slightly concave upper stone. Such mills were used by the Hebrews from an early period.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Ex. 32:20; Deut. 9:21; Judg. 16:21), to crush small (Heb. tahan); to oppress the poor (Isa. 3:5). The hand-mill was early used by the Hebrews (Num. 11:8). It consisted of two stones, the upper (Deut. 24:6; 2 Sam. 11:21) being movable and slightly concave, the lower being stationary. The grinders mentioned Eccl. 12:3 are the teeth. (See MILL.)