Bible Dictionaries
Sieve

Holman Bible Dictionary

Instrument used to remove unwanted materials from sand or grain. Pebbles or straw remain in the sieve, while the sand or grain passes through. God warned Israel He would place them in a sieve of judgment and none would fall through, for none of them were good grain (Amos 9:9 ). Another Hebrew word traditionally translated “sieve” in Isaiah 30:28 refers to a swinging action. Precisely what is swung is not clear, the noun coming from the same root as the verb. In some manner Isaiah proclaimed God's judgment would swing over His people.