Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the baking pan was an essential utensil used in the preparation of bread and other baked goods. The Hebrew word often associated with a baking pan is "machavat," which is sometimes translated as "pan" or "griddle" in English. This utensil is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Old Testament, highlighting its importance in daily life and religious practices.Biblical References: 1. Leviticus 2:5 : "If your offering is a grain offering prepared on a griddle, it must be of fine flour, unleavened, mixed with oil." This verse indicates the use of a griddle or pan in the preparation of grain offerings, which were a significant part of the sacrificial system in ancient Israel. The grain offering, often made of fine flour and oil, was a way for the Israelites to express devotion and gratitude to God. 2. 1 Chronicles 23:29 : "They were also to assist with the showbread, the fine flour for the grain offerings, the wafers of unleavened bread, the baking, the mixing, and all measurements of quantity and size." This passage describes the duties of the Levites, who were responsible for various tasks in the temple, including the preparation of baked goods. The mention of baking highlights the use of pans in creating offerings that were part of the temple rituals. Cultural and Religious Significance: The baking pan was not only a practical tool but also held religious significance. In the context of offerings, the preparation of bread and other baked goods was a sacred act, symbolizing sustenance and the provision of God. The unleavened bread, often prepared on a pan, was particularly important during the Feast of Unleavened Bread, commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their reliance on God's deliverance. Construction and Use: Baking pans in biblical times were likely made of metal or clay, materials that could withstand the heat of an open fire. The design would have been simple, allowing for even cooking of the dough. The use of oil in the preparation of offerings, as mentioned in Leviticus, suggests that the pans were also used to fry or bake the dough, creating a variety of textures and flavors. Symbolism: In a broader symbolic sense, the baking pan and the bread it produced can be seen as a representation of God's provision and the sustenance He provides to His people. Bread, a staple of the ancient diet, is frequently used in the Bible as a metaphor for life and spiritual nourishment. Jesus Himself referred to bread in this way, as seen in John 6:35 : "Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst.'" The baking pan, therefore, serves as a humble yet profound reminder of the daily and spiritual sustenance that God provides, both in the physical act of baking and in the deeper spiritual truths it represents. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Baking PanBAKING PAN Strong's Hebrew 4227. machabath -- a flat plate, pan, griddle... 1). pan. From the same as chabeth; a pan for baking in -- pan. see HEBREW chabeth. 4226, 4227. machabath. 4228 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/4227.htm - 6k Library The Bread of the Presence A Letter from a West Indian Cottage Ornee Outward Bound Resources How can I show appreciation to my pastor? | GotQuestions.orgFlowers, and pictures, and cakes ' oh my! | GotQuestions.org Who is the Queen of Heaven? | GotQuestions.org Baking: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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