Topical Encyclopedia The term "bread-basin" refers to a vessel or container used in ancient times for holding or preparing bread. While the specific term "bread-basin" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the concept and use of such a vessel can be inferred from various biblical passages that discuss bread-making and meal preparation in the ancient Near Eastern context.Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Israel, bread was a staple food and a central part of daily life. The process of making bread involved several steps, including grinding grain, kneading dough, and baking. The bread-basin would have been an essential tool in this process, serving as a container for mixing and kneading the dough. It was likely made from materials such as clay, wood, or stone, depending on the resources available and the socio-economic status of the household. Biblical References and Symbolism While the Bible does not explicitly mention a "bread-basin," it frequently references bread and the preparation of meals. For example, in Genesis 18:6, when Abraham hosts three visitors, he instructs Sarah to "quickly prepare three measures of fine flour, knead it, and bake bread." This passage implies the use of a vessel for kneading, which could be understood as a bread-basin. Bread holds significant symbolic meaning throughout the Scriptures. It represents sustenance, provision, and the basic necessities of life. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches His disciples to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11), emphasizing reliance on God for daily needs. The bread-basin, as a tool in the preparation of this essential food, can be seen as a symbol of God's provision and the work involved in bringing sustenance to the table. Ritual and Religious Significance Bread also plays a crucial role in religious rituals and offerings. In the Old Testament, the showbread, or "bread of the Presence," was placed on a table in the Tabernacle as a continual offering before the Lord (Exodus 25:30). The preparation of this sacred bread would have involved the use of vessels similar to a bread-basin. In the New Testament, bread takes on additional significance in the context of the Last Supper. Jesus breaks bread with His disciples, instituting the practice of Communion, where bread symbolizes His body given for the salvation of humanity (Luke 22:19). The preparation and sharing of bread in this context highlight its role in community and covenant. Practical Applications Understanding the role of the bread-basin in biblical times provides insight into the daily lives of ancient peoples and the importance of bread in their diet and culture. It also enriches the symbolic understanding of bread in Scripture, from God's provision to the sacramental elements of Christian worship. The bread-basin, though a humble and utilitarian object, is a reminder of the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual aspects of life as portrayed in the Bible. Concordance Bread-basin (2 Occurrences)Deuteronomy 28:5 Deuteronomy 28:17 Thesaurus Bread-basin (2 Occurrences)Bread-basin. Bread, Bread-basin. Bread-basins . Multi-Version Concordance Bread-basin (2 Occurrences). Deuteronomy 28 ... /b/bread-basin.htm - 6k Bread-basins (1 Occurrence) Bread (433 Occurrences) Resources What is the Moravian Church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35)? | GotQuestions.org What was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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