Jump to: ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a "bench" as we understand it today may not have been prevalent, but similar seating arrangements were certainly present. The term "bench" does not appear explicitly in most English translations of the Bible, including the Berean Standard Bible . However, the idea of communal seating or places of rest can be inferred from various passages and historical contexts.Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, seating arrangements were often simple and functional. People commonly sat on the ground, on mats, or on low stools. In more affluent settings, such as palaces or homes of the wealthy, there might have been more elaborate seating, akin to benches or couches. These would have been used for dining, resting, or conducting business. Biblical References and Symbolism While the specific term "bench" is not used, the Bible does reference seating in various forms. For example, in the context of judgment and authority, seats or thrones are mentioned. In the Book of Proverbs, wisdom is personified and depicted as having a house with seven pillars, suggesting a place of gathering and teaching (Proverbs 9:1). In the New Testament, Jesus often taught in settings where people would gather and sit, such as on hillsides or in synagogues. In Luke 14:10, Jesus advises, "But when you are invited, go and recline at the last place, so that when the one who invited you comes, he will say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests." This passage reflects the customs of seating arrangements during banquets, where places of honor were significant. Symbolic Interpretations Seating, including benches, can symbolize rest, fellowship, and community. In the Psalms, the idea of sitting in the presence of the Lord is associated with peace and security. Psalm 23:5 states, "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." This imagery conveys a sense of divine hospitality and protection. Practical Applications In church architecture and design, benches or pews are integral, providing a place for congregants to gather, worship, and learn. This communal seating fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose among believers. The arrangement of benches in a church can also reflect theological principles, such as the centrality of the Word of God, with seating oriented towards the pulpit or altar. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly mention benches, the concept of communal seating is woven throughout its narratives and teachings. These references highlight themes of fellowship, humility, and divine hospitality, which continue to resonate in Christian worship and community life today. Easton's Bible Dictionary Deck of a Tyrian ship, described by Ezekiel (27:6) as overlaid with box-wood. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A long seat, differing from a stool in its greater length.2. (n.) A long table at which mechanics and other work; as, a carpenter's bench. 3. (n.) The seat where judges sit in court. 4. (n.) The persons who sit as judges; the court; as, the opinion of the full bench. See King's Bench. 5. (n.) A collection or group of dogs exhibited to the public; -- so named because the animals are usually placed on benches or raised platforms. 6. (n.) A conformation like a bench; a long stretch of flat ground, or a kind of natural terrace, near a lake or river. 7. (v. t.) To furnish with benches. 8. (v. t.) To place on a bench or seat of honor. 9. (v. i.) To sit on a seat of justice. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BENCH(qeresh): Found only in English Versions of the Bible in Ezekiel 27:6, in the prophet's "lamentation over Tyre": "They have made thy benches of ivory inlaid in boxwood, from the isles of Kittim," where the word evidently stands for the "benches" of the boat whose "mast" (verse 5) and "oars" (verse 6) have just been described, in the vivid figs. of speech in which the city itself is pictured as a merchantship. Compare verse 8, "Thy wise men, O Tyre, were in thee, they were thy pilots." Greek 2515. kathedra -- a seat ... seat. From kata and the same as hedraios; a bench (literally or figuratively) -- seat. see GREEK kata. see GREEK hedraios. (kathedras) -- 3 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2515.htm - 6k 2362. thronos -- a throne Strong's Hebrew 7175. qeresh -- perhaps to tear down... 7174b, 7175. qeresh. 7175a . perhaps to tear down. Transliteration: qeresh Phonetic Spelling: (keh'-resh) Short Definition: bench. bench, board ... /hebrew/7175.htm - 5k Library His Religious Experience. Tries to be a Methodist. Hopes to Become ... Modern Revivals, Concluded. He Moves to Mt. Byrd. Debate with JW Fitch. Preaches at Madison ... The Old Gravestone The Murket's Sacrifice The Boy of Nazareth. Christ Stills the Storm on the Lake of Galilee. Wesley and a Scotch Communion The Systematic Discussion of Syllables is Derived from Heathen ... The Jewish Girl Thesaurus Bench (1 Occurrence)... 2. (n.) A long table at which mechanics and other work; as, a carpenter's bench. 3. (n.) The seat where judges sit in court. ... See King's Bench. ... /b/bench.htm - 8k Bank (28 Occurrences) Judicial (2 Occurrences) Settle (63 Occurrences) Seat (256 Occurrences) Blindness (7 Occurrences) Ben-ammi (1 Occurrence) Form (153 Occurrences) Tribunal (11 Occurrences) Tribune (18 Occurrences) Resources What is the importance of the empty tomb? | GotQuestions.orgCan a Christian lose salvation? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer closet? | GotQuestions.org Bench: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bench (1 Occurrence)Ezekiel 27:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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