THEOSISWlastow G.K.
There are variations in how the maturation of flax is described. The Slavonic LXX translation states that “the flax sprouted seed.” In contrast, the Sylvester de Sasp version phrases it as “le lin montait en graine,” while the English legal translation suggests, “the flax was boiled,” indicating that it matured into stalks, or as referenced in the English Comm. Bible, was in bloom. The translation by Osterwald renders it as “le lin montait en tuyan.” The timeframe of the events is specified in verses 31-32, noting that flax blossoms in Lower Egypt at the end of February, with harvesting occurring in mid-March, which coincides with the ripening of wheat.
Read more (81 words)
Flavius Josephus mentions that “spring has already begun,” which leads us to consider that the hail should be attributed to late February or the early days of March, aligning with biblical references. Flax was widely cultivated in Egypt, particularly in Lower Egypt, as it was essential for producing the finest linens worn exclusively by the Egyptian priests. Flax from the region near Tanis (Tsoan) was especially renowned for its quality. The term “spelt” (v. 32) refers to durra (triticum spelta; Cook).