Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage in ScriptureBitter herbs are plants with a sharp, pungent taste, often used in biblical times for culinary and medicinal purposes. In the context of the Bible, they hold significant symbolic meaning, particularly in the observance of the Passover. Biblical References The primary reference to bitter herbs in the Bible is found in the instructions for the Passover meal. In Exodus 12:8 , God commands the Israelites: "They are to eat the meat that night, roasted over the fire, along with unleavened bread and bitter herbs." This directive is part of the Passover ordinance, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. Bitter herbs are also mentioned in Numbers 9:11 , which reiterates the Passover instructions: "They are to eat the lamb together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs." This repetition underscores the importance of bitter herbs in the Passover ritual. Symbolism and Significance In the Passover meal, bitter herbs symbolize the bitterness of slavery that the Israelites endured in Egypt. The consumption of these herbs serves as a tangible reminder of their suffering and the harsh conditions they faced. This symbolism is integral to the Passover celebration, as it not only commemorates the physical liberation from bondage but also serves as a spiritual reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness. Traditional Interpretations Throughout Jewish history, various plants have been identified as suitable bitter herbs for the Passover meal. These include romaine lettuce, endive, horseradish, and other similar plants. The choice of specific herbs may vary based on cultural and regional practices, but the underlying symbolism remains consistent. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the use of bitter herbs in the Passover meal highlights the importance of remembrance and gratitude in the life of faith. It serves as a call to remember past afflictions and recognize God's redemptive work. For Christians, the Passover and its elements, including bitter herbs, foreshadow the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, bitter herbs were commonly used for their medicinal properties and as a flavoring agent in food. The inclusion of bitter herbs in the Passover meal reflects the broader cultural practices of the time while imbuing them with profound spiritual meaning specific to the Israelite experience. Conclusion While the Bible does not specify which herbs qualify as "bitter," the enduring tradition and symbolism associated with their use in the Passover meal continue to hold deep spiritual significance for both Jews and Christians. The bitter herbs serve as a poignant reminder of the suffering endured by the Israelites and the deliverance provided by God, pointing ultimately to the greater redemption found in Christ. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Bitter HerbsBITTER HERBS hurbs, or urbs (merorim): Originally in the primitive Passover (Exodus 12:8 Numbers 9:11) these were probably merely salads, the simplest and quickest prepared form of vegetable accompaniment to the roasted lamb. Such salads have always been favorites in the Orient. Cucumbers, lettuce, water-cress, parsley and endive are some of those commonly used. Later on the Passover ritual (as it does today) laid emphasis on the idea of "bitterness" as symbolical of Israel's lot in Egypt. In modern Palestine the Jews use chiefly lettuce and endive for the "bitter herbs" of their Passover. In Lamentations 3:15 the same word is used: "He hath filled me with bitterness merorim, he hath sated me with wormwood." Here the parallelism with "wormwood" suggests some plant more distinctly bitter than the mild salads mentioned above, such, for example, as the colocynth (Citrullus colocynthus) or the violently irritating squirting cucumber (Ecballium elaterium). Smith's Bible Dictionary Bitter HerbsThe Israelites were commanded to eat the Paschal lamb "with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs." (Exodus 12:8) These "bitter herbs" consisted of such plants as chicory, bitter cresses, hawkweeds, sow-thistles and wild lettuces, which grow abundantly in the peninsula of Sinai, in Palestine and in Egypt. The purpose of this observance was to recall to the minds of the Israelites their deliverance from the bitter bondage of the Egyptians. Greek 5521. chole -- gall (a bitter herb) ... gall (a bitter herb). Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: chole Phonetic Spelling: (khol-ay') Short Definition: gall, bitter herbs Definition: gall ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5521.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 4844. maror -- bitter thing, bitter herb... herbs. Word Origin from marar Definition bitter thing, bitter herb NASB Word Usage bitter herbs (2), bitterness (1). bitterness. Or ... /hebrew/4844.htm - 6k Library The Passover: an Expiation and a Feast, a Memorial and a Prophecy Spiritual Meaning of the Passover. Letter cxxviii. To Gaudentius. Letter xxxi. To Eustochium. The Famine which Oppressed Them. 'In Remembrance of Me' Meditation vi. The Last Pasch. The Lord's Supper Faustus Fails to Understand Why He Should be Required Either to ... Feasting on the Sacrifice Resources Who/what is Marah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is gall in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of wormwood in Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Bitter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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