In the biblical narrative, the ephah of roasted grain and ten loaves of bread are significant as they appear in the context of offerings and sustenance, reflecting God's provision and the customs of ancient Israelite society.

Ephah of Roasted Grain

An ephah is a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, equivalent to approximately 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons. The ephah is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Old Testament, often in relation to offerings and trade. Roasted grain, or parched grain, was a common food staple in the ancient Near East, prepared by roasting mature grains over a fire. This method of preparation made the grain more palatable and preserved it for longer periods.

In the account of Ruth, the ephah of roasted grain is a symbol of Boaz's generosity and God's providence. After Ruth gleans in the fields of Boaz, he instructs his workers to allow her to gather among the sheaves and even pull out some stalks for her from the bundles. At the end of the day, Ruth threshes the barley she has gathered and it amounts to about an ephah of grain. This substantial amount of grain is a testament to Boaz's kindness and serves as a provision for Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. The narrative highlights the themes of kindness, redemption, and divine provision.

Ten Loaves of Bread

Bread is a fundamental element in biblical texts, often symbolizing sustenance and life. The number ten in the Bible frequently signifies completeness or divine order. The ten loaves of bread are mentioned in the context of David's early life before he becomes king. In 1 Samuel 17, Jesse, David's father, sends David to the battlefield with provisions for his brothers who are in Saul's army. Among these provisions are ten loaves of bread, which David is to deliver to the commander of their unit.

This act of bringing bread to his brothers not only demonstrates David's obedience and care for his family but also sets the stage for his encounter with Goliath. The provision of bread underscores the importance of hospitality and care within the community, as well as the role of bread as a staple food that sustains life.

Biblical Significance

Both the ephah of roasted grain and the ten loaves of bread illustrate the broader biblical themes of provision, hospitality, and community. They reflect the agrarian lifestyle of ancient Israel and the importance of food in daily life and religious practice. These elements also serve as reminders of God's faithfulness and the importance of generosity and care for others within the covenant community.

In the broader biblical narrative, these provisions can be seen as foreshadowing the ultimate provision of spiritual sustenance through Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "bread of life" in the New Testament (John 6:35). The physical sustenance provided by grain and bread in the Old Testament points to the spiritual nourishment offered through faith in Christ.