Topical Encyclopedia Breastfeeding, the natural process of feeding an infant with milk from a mother's breast, is a practice deeply rooted in biblical times and is referenced in various passages throughout the Scriptures. It is portrayed as a fundamental aspect of nurturing and sustaining life, reflecting the intimate bond between mother and child.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 21:7 · In the account of Sarah and Isaac, Sarah expresses her amazement at nursing a child in her old age: "And she said, 'Who would have told Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.'" This passage highlights the joy and fulfillment associated with breastfeeding, even in unexpected circumstances. 2. Exodus 2:7-9 · The account of Moses as an infant includes a reference to breastfeeding. When Pharaoh's daughter discovers Moses in the basket, his sister suggests, "Shall I go and call a Hebrew woman to nurse the child for you?" Pharaoh's daughter agrees, and Moses' own mother is brought to nurse him. This narrative underscores the cultural norm and necessity of breastfeeding during that era. 3. 1 Samuel 1:23-24 · Hannah, the mother of Samuel, is depicted as nursing her son until he is weaned: "Do what seems best to you," her husband Elkanah told her. "Stay here until you have weaned him; only may the LORD confirm His word." So Hannah stayed and nursed her son until she had weaned him. This passage illustrates the dedication and care involved in the breastfeeding process. 4. Isaiah 49:15 · The prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of a nursing mother to convey God's unwavering compassion for His people: "Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you." This metaphor emphasizes the deep, nurturing love that is inherent in the act of breastfeeding. 5. Lamentations 4:3-4 · In a lament over the dire conditions in Jerusalem, the prophet Jeremiah notes the distress of mothers unable to nurse their children: "Even jackals offer the breast; they nurse their young, but the daughter of my people has become cruel, like the ostriches in the wilderness. The tongue of the nursing infant clings to the roof of its mouth for thirst." This passage highlights the critical role of breastfeeding in child survival and well-being. Cultural and Theological Significance: Breastfeeding in biblical times was not only a practical necessity but also carried significant cultural and theological implications. It was a symbol of maternal care, provision, and the continuity of life. The act of nursing was often associated with blessings and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in the accounts of Sarah and Hannah. Theologically, breastfeeding is used as a metaphor for God's nurturing and sustaining love for His people. Just as a mother provides for her child, God is depicted as providing for His children, ensuring their growth and well-being. Practical Considerations: In biblical society, breastfeeding was the primary means of infant nutrition, with weaning typically occurring at an older age than in modern Western cultures. This extended period of nursing was crucial for the health and development of the child, especially in times when alternative sources of nutrition were limited or unavailable. Overall, breastfeeding is presented in the Bible as a natural and essential practice, integral to the nurturing and upbringing of children. It is a testament to the intimate bond between mother and child and serves as a powerful metaphor for divine care and provision. Topical Bible Verses Luke 11:27And it came to pass, as he spoke these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said to him, Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts which you have sucked. Topicalbible.org Psalm 22:9 1 Peter 2:2 Genesis 21:7 Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Joseph? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the story of Solomon and the two prostitutes? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between Sheol, Hades, Hell, the lake of fire, Paradise, and Abraham's bosom? | GotQuestions.org Breast: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |