In the Bible, "dew" is often used symbolically to represent divine blessing, favor, and life-giving sustenance. It is a natural phenomenon that occurs when moisture in the air condenses into small water droplets, typically seen in the early morning. In the arid regions of the Near East, where rainfall can be scarce, dew serves as an essential source of moisture for plants and crops. This natural occurrence is frequently employed in Scripture to illustrate spiritual truths and divine provision.

Symbol of Blessing and Favor

Dew is frequently associated with God's blessing and favor upon His people. In Genesis 27:28, Isaac blesses Jacob, saying, "May God give to you the dew of heaven and the richness of the earth—an abundance of grain and new wine." Here, dew symbolizes the prosperity and abundance that comes from God's hand. Similarly, in Deuteronomy 33:13, Moses blesses Joseph with the words, "May his land be blessed by the LORD with the precious dew from heaven above and the deep waters that lie beneath."

Representation of Life and Renewal

Dew is also a metaphor for life and renewal. In Hosea 14:5, God promises to restore Israel, saying, "I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily and take root like the cedars of Lebanon." This imagery conveys the idea of spiritual revival and growth, as dew provides the necessary moisture for plants to thrive. The renewal brought by God's presence is likened to the refreshing and sustaining quality of dew.

Divine Provision and Sustenance

In the context of divine provision, dew is seen as a means by which God sustains His creation. In Exodus 16:13-14, the Israelites experience God's provision in the form of manna, which appears with the dew: "So in the evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp. When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor." This miraculous provision underscores God's ability to meet the needs of His people in unexpected ways.

Contrast with Drought and Judgment

Conversely, the absence of dew is sometimes used to signify judgment or a withdrawal of God's favor. In Haggai 1:10-11, the prophet explains the consequences of the people's neglect of God's house: "Therefore, because of you, the heavens have withheld their dew and the earth has withheld its crops. I have summoned a drought on the fields and the mountains, on the grain, the new wine, the oil, and whatever the ground yields, on man and beast, and on all the labor of your hands." The withholding of dew serves as a divine response to disobedience, highlighting the dependence of creation on God's provision.

Messianic Implications

In some interpretations, dew is seen as having messianic implications. Psalm 110:3 states, "Your people shall be willing on Your day of battle. Arrayed in holy splendor, Your young men come to You like dew from the morning’s womb." This verse is often understood as a reference to the willing and numerous followers of the Messiah, who appear as fresh and numerous as the morning dew.

In summary, "dew from the LORD" in the Bible is a rich symbol of divine blessing, life, and sustenance. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and favor, as well as a call to faithfulness and reliance on His grace.