Definition and Context
The term "bakemeats" refers to baked goods or food items prepared by baking, often mentioned in the context of ancient culinary practices. In the Bible, bakemeats are associated with the preparation of food in a domestic or royal setting, highlighting the importance of bread and baked goods in the diet of biblical times.

Biblical References
The most notable reference to bakemeats is found in the account of Joseph in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 40:17, the term is used in the account of Pharaoh's chief baker, who had a dream while imprisoned with Joseph. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as follows: "In the top basket were all kinds of baked goods for Pharaoh, but the birds were eating them out of the basket on my head."

This passage illustrates the role of bakemeats in the Egyptian royal court, where they were considered a delicacy worthy of the Pharaoh. The dream of the chief baker, interpreted by Joseph, ultimately foretold the baker's fate, demonstrating the significance of dreams and their interpretations in biblical narratives.

Cultural and Historical Significance
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, bread and baked goods were staple foods, essential for sustenance and often used in religious offerings. The preparation of bakemeats required skill and resources, indicating a level of prosperity and domestic organization. The presence of bakemeats in Pharaoh's court underscores the wealth and sophistication of Egyptian society.

The process of baking in biblical times involved communal ovens or clay ovens, where dough was prepared and baked into various forms of bread and pastries. These baked goods were not only consumed as daily nourishment but also played a role in hospitality and religious rituals.

Symbolism and Theological Insights
Bakemeats, as part of the broader category of bread, carry rich symbolic meaning in the Bible. Bread is often associated with life, sustenance, and divine provision. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life" (John 6:35), emphasizing the spiritual nourishment He provides to believers.

The account of the chief baker and his dream serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His plans. Joseph's ability to interpret dreams is a testament to God's wisdom and guidance, which are available to those who seek Him.

Conclusion
While the term "bakemeats" may appear in a limited context within the Bible, its implications extend to broader themes of sustenance, divine provision, and the cultural practices of ancient societies. The narrative involving bakemeats in Genesis highlights the intricate interplay between human actions and divine will, a recurring theme throughout Scripture.Baked provisions (Genesis 40:17), literally "works of the baker," such as biscuits and cakes. BAKEMEATS

bak'-mets: Only in Genesis 40:17 the King James Version and the English Revised Version. "All manner of baked food for Pharaoh" the American Standard Revised Version. Any kind of meat baked or cooked.

See BREAD; FOOD.

Joseph and his Brethren
... I also was in my dream, and, behold, three baskets of white bread were on my head:
and in the uppermost basket there was of all manner of bakemeats for Pharaoh ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/i joseph and his brethren.htm

Bakemeats (1 Occurrence)
...BAKEMEATS. bak'-mets: Only in Genesis 40:17 the King James Version and the English
Revised Version. ... Multi-Version Concordance Bakemeats (1 Occurrence). ...
/b/bakemeats.htm - 7k

Baked (26 Occurrences)

/b/baked.htm - 14k

Meats (9 Occurrences)
... Genesis 40:17 And in the uppermost basket there was of all manner of bakemeats for
Pharaoh; and the birds did eat them out of the basket upon my head. ...
/m/meats.htm - 11k

Bake-meats (1 Occurrence)
Bake-meats. Bakemeats, Bake-meats. Baken . Easton's Bible Dictionary Baked ... head.
(WBS). Bakemeats, Bake-meats. Baken . Reference Bible.
/b/bake-meats.htm - 6k

Bread (433 Occurrences)
... A variety of bakemeats (Genesis 40:17, literally "food, the work of the baker")
are met with in the Old Testament, but only in a few cases is it possible or ...
/b/bread.htm - 58k

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