* withered.  or, small.  thin.
  6  2Ki 19:26  Ps 129:6,7  Ho 8:7  9:16  13:15 
 * blasted.
   All the mischief done to corn or fruit by blasting, smutting,
   mildew, etc. are attributed to the east wind.  (See Parallel
   Passages.)  In Egypt it is peculiarly destructive, because it
   comes through the parched deserts of Arabia, often destroying
   vast numbers of people.  The destructive nature of the {Sam,
   Simoom, Smoom,} or {Samiel,} is mentioned by almost all
   travellers.  When this pestilential wind advances, its
   approach is indicated by a redness in the air.  The principal
   stream of the blast always moves in a line of about 20; yards
   in breadth, and 12; feet above the surface of the earth; but
   its parching influence pervades all places to a considerable
   distance.  The only means of preservation from its noxious
   influence is to lie flat, with the face upon the ground, till
   the blast be over.  Camels and other animals instinctively
   perceive its approach, and bury their mouths and nostrils in
   the ground.  It rarely last more than seven or eight minutes,
   but so poisonous are its effects, that it instantly
   suffocates those who are unfortunate enough to inhale it.