Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: Aviv, also spelled Abib, is a term used in the Hebrew Bible to denote the first month of the ancient Hebrew calendar. It corresponds to the period of early spring, typically March-April in the Gregorian calendar. The term "Aviv" itself means "ripening" or "spring," reflecting the time of year when barley and other crops begin to mature. Biblical References: The month of Aviv holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Exodus from Egypt. In Exodus 12:2, God commands Moses and Aaron, "This month is to be the beginning of months for you; it is the first month of your year." This establishes Aviv as the starting point of the religious calendar for the Israelites. In Exodus 13:4, the departure of the Israelites from Egypt is specifically noted to occur in this month: "Today, in the month of Aviv, you are leaving." This timing is crucial as it sets the stage for the observance of Passover, a key festival commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery. The term Aviv is also used in Exodus 23:15, where the Feast of Unleavened Bread is mentioned: "You are to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread as I commanded you; at the appointed time in the month of Aviv, for in that month you came out of Egypt." This feast, closely linked with Passover, is a time of remembrance and celebration of God's deliverance. Agricultural Significance: Aviv is not only a chronological marker but also an agricultural one. The month signifies the time when barley, one of the staple crops in ancient Israel, reaches the stage of ripeness necessary for harvest. This agricultural readiness is a prerequisite for the offering of the firstfruits, as described in Leviticus 23:10-11, where the Israelites are instructed to bring a sheaf of the first grain they harvest to the priest. Cultural and Religious Observance: The month of Aviv is central to the Jewish liturgical year, marking the beginning of the cycle of festivals. Passover, which begins on the 14th day of Aviv, is a pivotal event that not only commemorates the Exodus but also serves as a time of spiritual reflection and renewal. The Feast of Unleavened Bread follows immediately, lasting seven days, during which no leavened bread is consumed, symbolizing purity and separation from sin. Historical Context: In the post-exilic period, the name of the month was changed to Nisan, as seen in Nehemiah 2:1 and Esther 3:7. This change reflects the influence of the Babylonian calendar following the Israelites' return from exile. Despite the change in nomenclature, the significance of the month as the beginning of the religious year and its association with the Exodus remains unchanged. Theological Implications: Aviv, as the first month, symbolizes new beginnings and redemption. It is a time when God's deliverance and faithfulness are remembered and celebrated. The events associated with Aviv underscore the themes of liberation, covenant, and divine provision, which are central to the biblical narrative and the identity of the people of Israel. In summary, Aviv is a multifaceted term that encompasses chronological, agricultural, cultural, and theological dimensions, playing a crucial role in the religious life and history of the Israelites as recorded in the Bible. Concordance Aviv (1 Occurrence)Ezekiel 3:15 Thesaurus Aviv (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Aviv (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 3:15 Then I came to them of the captivity at Tel Aviv, that lived by the river ... /a/aviv.htm - 6k Avoid (31 Occurrences) Tel (5 Occurrences) Consternation (8 Occurrences) Chebar (8 Occurrences) Avith (2 Occurrences) Overwhelmed (33 Occurrences) Exiles (46 Occurrences) Resources What happened in the Six-Day War? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the structure of the Jewish calendar? | GotQuestions.org Should Jerusalem be the capital of modern-day Israel? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |