Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "breeder" is not explicitly used; however, the concept of breeding, particularly in relation to livestock and agriculture, is prevalent throughout the Scriptures. The practice of breeding animals and cultivating plants is deeply rooted in the agrarian society of the ancient Near East, where the biblical narrative unfolds.Biblical Context The Bible frequently references the breeding of livestock as a sign of wealth and blessing. In Genesis, the patriarchs are often depicted as shepherds and herdsmen, with their prosperity closely tied to the size and health of their flocks and herds. For instance, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are all described as having large numbers of livestock, which were considered a measure of their wealth and God's favor. In Genesis 30:37-43, we find a detailed account of Jacob's breeding practices. Jacob, seeking to increase his own wealth, employs selective breeding techniques to ensure that his flocks grow strong and numerous. This passage illustrates the importance of breeding in the economic and social life of the biblical patriarchs: "Then Jacob took fresh branches of poplar, almond, and plane trees, and peeled the bark, exposing the white inner wood of the branches. And he set the peeled branches in the troughs in front of the flocks—where they came to drink. And the flocks bred in front of the branches, and they bore young that were streaked or speckled or spotted." (Genesis 30:37-39) Theological Significance Breeding in the Bible is often associated with themes of divine blessing and providence. The multiplication of flocks and herds is frequently seen as a sign of God's favor. In Deuteronomy 28:4, as part of the blessings for obedience, it is stated: "The fruit of your womb will be blessed, as well as the produce of your land and the offspring of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks." Conversely, a decrease in livestock or infertility among animals is sometimes depicted as a curse or a sign of divine displeasure. This is evident in the curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:18: "The fruit of your womb will be cursed, as well as the produce of your land, the calves of your herds, and the lambs of your flocks." Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Israel, breeding was not only a practical necessity but also a skill that required knowledge and wisdom. The ability to manage and increase one's livestock was crucial for survival and prosperity. The biblical text reflects an understanding of animal husbandry practices that were advanced for their time, as seen in Jacob's strategic breeding methods. The role of a breeder, though not explicitly named, was vital in maintaining the livelihood of families and communities. Livestock provided not only food but also clothing, labor, and trade goods. The success of breeding efforts could significantly impact the social and economic standing of individuals and families. Moral and Ethical Considerations The Bible also addresses the ethical treatment of animals, which would have been a concern for breeders. Proverbs 12:10 states, "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty." This verse underscores the moral responsibility of those who care for animals, including breeders, to treat them with kindness and respect. In summary, while the term "breeder" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the practice of breeding is integral to the biblical narrative, reflecting themes of divine blessing, human responsibility, and ethical stewardship of God's creation. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) One who, or that which, breeds, produces, brings up, etc.Strong's Hebrew 5349. noqed -- sheep raiser, sheep dealer, sheep tender... 5348, 5349. noqed. 5350 . sheep raiser, sheep dealer, sheep tender. Transliteration: noqed Phonetic Spelling: (no-kade') Short Definition: breeder. ... /hebrew/5349.htm - 6k Library The Hindrances to Mourning How Moses Made War with the Ethiopians. Faith Little Sins Life at Herrnhut. Guests at an Imperial Banquet A Description of Heart-Purity The High Woods Believing on Jesus, and Its Counterfeits A Sermon for the Time Present Thesaurus Breeder (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) One who, or that which, breeds, produces, brings up, etc. 2. (n.) A cause. Multi-Version Concordance Breeder (1 Occurrence). ... /b/breeder.htm - 6k Breeding (3 Occurrences) Breed (6 Occurrences) 100000 (3 Occurrences) Rendered (30 Occurrences) Mesha (4 Occurrences) Supply (40 Occurrences) Wool (34 Occurrences) Polygamy Rams (81 Occurrences) Resources Breeder: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Breeder (1 Occurrence)2 Kings 3:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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