Bible Dictionary
SWELL
“Swell” may describe the swelling of the abdomen in the ordeal of the water of jealousy. It also describes the feet of Israelites that did not swell during their wilderness journeys, a sign of God’s protection.
Biblical Usage
The swelling in Numbers belonged to a ceremonial appeal to God’s judgment, not to an effect produced by the water or temple dust themselves. In Deuteronomy and Nehemiah, Israel’s feet did not swell during wilderness journeys, signifying divine protection.