Physicians

The medical skill of the Egyptians was widely celebrated. Each physician confined his practice to diseases of a single class, and thus a large household would require the attendance of numerous physicians, Ge 50:2. The Hebrews also had professional physicians, Ex 21:19Pr 17:22Mt 9:12Lu 4:23 8:43. In the early ages they had little anatomical skill, partly on account of the ceremonial defilement caused by touching a corpse. They gave their attention to external rather than to internal injuries and diseases, Isa 1:6Eze 30:21; though they also prescribed for internal and mental disorders, 1Sa 16:162Ch 16:12. They made use of sales, balms, and poultices, hyssop, oil baths, mineral baths, and river bathing, with many other remedies, Jer 46:11. Many wickedly had recourse to amulets and enchantments.