Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
FIR'MAMENT. The word "expansion" would more perfectly convey the meaning of the original word. Gen 1:17. " Isa 42:5. The Jews probably understood the word "firmament" to denote an immense arch or canopy sprung from one side of the horizon to the other, studded with stars and forming a sort of separating wall between the upper and lower waters. See Ps 19:1; Dan 12:3. The stars are represented as dropping from their settings in it. Isa 34:4; Matt 24:29.
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