The Definition of the word Lees

Lees

(Heb. shemarim), from a word meaning to keep or preserve. It was "applied to "lees" from the custom of allowing wine to stand on" the lees that it might thereby be better preserved (Isa. 25:6). "Men settled on their lees (Zeph. 1:12) are men "hardened or" "crusted." The image is derived from the crust formed at the" bottom of wines long left undisturbed (Jer. 48:11). The effect of wealthy undisturbed ease on the ungodly is hardening. They become stupidly secure (comp. Ps. 55:19; Amos 6:1). To drink the lees (Ps. 75:8) denotes severe suffering.