Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: Abiv, also spelled Abib, is a term used in the Hebrew Bible to denote the first month of the ancient Hebrew calendar. The name "Abiv" is derived from the Hebrew word "אָבִיב" (aviv), which means "ear of grain" or "spring." This reflects the agricultural cycle, as Abiv corresponds to the time of year when barley was in the ear, indicating the beginning of the harvest season. Biblical References: Abiv is mentioned in several passages in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the Exodus and the establishment of the Passover festival. In Exodus 13:4 , it is written: "Today, in the month of Abib, you are leaving." This verse marks the time when the Israelites departed from Egypt, signifying the beginning of their journey to the Promised Land. In Exodus 23:15 , the month of Abiv is again referenced in relation to the Feast of Unleavened Bread: "You are to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread as I commanded you: At the appointed time in the month of Abib, you are to eat unleavened bread for seven days, because that was the month you came out of Egypt. No one is to appear before Me empty-handed." Deuteronomy 16:1 also highlights the significance of Abiv: "Observe the month of Abib and celebrate the Passover to the LORD your God, because in the month of Abib the LORD your God brought you out of Egypt by night." Cultural and Religious Significance: Abiv holds great importance in Jewish religious tradition as it marks the beginning of the liturgical year. It is during this month that the Passover (Pesach) is celebrated, commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The Passover is one of the most significant festivals in Judaism, and its observance is closely tied to the agricultural cycle, as it coincides with the barley harvest. The month of Abiv is also associated with the concept of renewal and new beginnings, both agriculturally and spiritually. It is a time when the land begins to yield its produce, symbolizing hope and sustenance. Transition to Nisan: After the Babylonian exile, the name of the month Abiv was changed to Nisan, as the Jewish people adopted the Babylonian calendar system. This transition is reflected in later biblical texts, such as Nehemiah 2:1 and Esther 3:7, where the month is referred to as Nisan. Despite the change in nomenclature, the religious and historical significance of the month remains intact. Conclusion: The month of Abiv is a foundational element in the Jewish calendar, marking the start of the religious year and the celebration of Passover. Its agricultural and spiritual connotations underscore the themes of liberation, renewal, and divine providence that are central to the Jewish faith. Concordance Abiv (1 Occurrence)2 Chronicles 4:16 Thesaurus Abiv (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Abiv (1 Occurrence). 2 Chronicles 4:16 And the pots, and the shovels, and the forks, and all their instruments ... /a/abiv.htm - 6k Abi'ud (1 Occurrence) Abject (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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