Topical Encyclopedia Bread-meal, often referred to simply as "meal" or "flour" in biblical texts, is a fundamental component of daily sustenance in the ancient Near East, including the regions and cultures depicted in the Bible. It is primarily derived from grains such as wheat and barley, which were staple crops in biblical times. Bread-meal holds significant cultural, religious, and symbolic importance throughout the Scriptures.Cultural and Daily Life In the daily life of ancient Israel, bread was a central element of the diet. The process of making bread involved grinding grain into meal, mixing it with water, and baking it into loaves. This process is illustrated in Genesis 18:6, where Abraham instructs Sarah to "quickly prepare three measures of fine flour, knead it, and bake bread." The preparation of bread was typically a domestic task, often performed by women, and it was a symbol of hospitality and provision. Religious Significance Bread-meal also holds a prominent place in religious rituals and offerings. In Leviticus 2:1, the grain offering is described: "When anyone presents a grain offering to the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour. He shall pour oil on it and put frankincense on it." This offering, known as the "minchah," was a way for the Israelites to express devotion and gratitude to God. The use of fine flour in offerings underscores the importance of giving the best to God. The significance of bread-meal extends to the Passover celebration, where unleavened bread, made from bread-meal, is a key element. Exodus 12:15 instructs, "For seven days you must eat unleavened bread. On the first day, you are to remove the leaven from your houses." This unleavened bread, or "matzah," symbolizes purity and the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. Symbolism and Teachings Bread-meal is often used symbolically in the Bible to convey spiritual truths. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life" in John 6:35, saying, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst." Here, bread-meal transcends its physical sustenance role to represent spiritual nourishment and eternal life through Christ. The Lord's Prayer, as recorded in Matthew 6:11, includes the petition, "Give us this day our daily bread," which emphasizes reliance on God for daily provision and sustenance. This request for "daily bread" can be understood as a metaphor for both physical and spiritual needs. Economic and Social Aspects Bread-meal also played a role in the economic and social structures of biblical societies. The control and distribution of grain were crucial for maintaining stability and prosperity. In the account of Joseph in Egypt, as recounted in Genesis 41, Joseph's management of grain during the years of plenty and famine highlights the importance of bread-meal in sustaining nations. In the prophetic literature, the scarcity of bread-meal is often depicted as a sign of divine judgment. For instance, in Ezekiel 4:16, God declares, "I will cut off the supply of bread in Jerusalem. They will anxiously eat rationed bread and drink rationed water in dismay." This scarcity serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience to God's covenant. Conclusion Bread-meal, as a basic yet profound element of biblical life, serves as a powerful symbol of God's provision, human dependence, and spiritual truth. Its presence in both daily life and religious practice underscores its enduring significance throughout the biblical narrative. Library Being Attacked by Fever, He is in Great Danger. Thesaurus Bread-meal (1 Occurrence)Bread-meal. Bread-making, Bread-meal. Bread-paste . Multi-Version Concordance Bread-meal (1 Occurrence). Exodus 29:2 ... /b/bread-meal.htm - 6k Thin (39 Occurrences) Bread-paste (1 Occurrence) Bread-making (1 Occurrence) Best (252 Occurrences) Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “This is my body, broken for you”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35)? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He said we must eat His flesh and drink His blood? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bread-meal (1 Occurrence)Exodus 29:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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