Topical Encyclopedia A fowl-house, commonly referred to as a henhouse or chicken coop in modern terms, is a structure designed to house domestic birds, particularly chickens. While the specific term "fowl-house" does not appear in the Bible, the concept of keeping and managing birds is present throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of ancient Israel and surrounding cultures.Biblical Context and References In biblical times, birds were an integral part of daily life, providing food, sacrifices, and economic resources. The management of birds, including chickens, would have necessitated some form of enclosure or structure, akin to what we understand as a fowl-house today. 1. Provision and Sustenance: Birds, including chickens, were valued for their eggs and meat. While the Bible does not explicitly mention the construction of fowl-houses, the care and provision for animals are emphasized. Proverbs 27:23-27 highlights the importance of knowing the condition of one's flocks and herds, which can be extended to the care of all domestic animals, including birds. 2. Sacrificial Use: Birds, particularly doves and pigeons, were used in sacrificial offerings. Leviticus 1:14 states, "If, however, his offering to the LORD is a burnt offering of birds, he is to present a turtledove or a young pigeon." While these birds were not typically housed in fowl-houses, their use in sacrifices underscores the significance of birds in religious practices. 3. Symbolism and Teachings: Birds are often used symbolically in the Bible. Jesus uses birds to teach about God's provision in Matthew 6:26 : "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" This passage, while not directly referencing a fowl-house, implies the natural provision for birds, contrasting human efforts in agriculture and animal husbandry. 4. Economic Value: Birds were also part of the economic fabric of society. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to the sale of sparrows in Matthew 10:29 : "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father." This indicates the commercial aspect of bird keeping, which would have included the need for proper housing and care. Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Israel, the management of domestic animals, including birds, was a vital part of rural life. While archaeological evidence of specific fowl-houses from biblical times is limited, it is reasonable to assume that simple structures were used to protect birds from predators and harsh weather, similar to practices in other ancient cultures. The care for birds, as with other animals, was likely guided by principles found in the Law, which emphasized humane treatment and stewardship. Deuteronomy 22:6-7 provides a specific command regarding the treatment of birds, illustrating the broader biblical ethic of care for creation. Conclusion The concept of a fowl-house, while not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, aligns with the broader biblical themes of stewardship, provision, and the economic and sacrificial roles of birds in ancient society. Through various passages, the Bible reflects the importance of birds and their care, underscoring the interconnectedness of human and animal life under God's providence. Concordance Fowl-house (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 5:27 Thesaurus Fowl-house (1 Occurrence)Fowl-house. Fowler's, Fowl-house. Fowls . Multi-Version Concordance Fowl-house (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 5:27 As the ... /f/fowl-house.htm - 6k Fowler's (3 Occurrences) Treachery (18 Occurrences) Fowls (61 Occurrences) Basket (40 Occurrences) Powerful (93 Occurrences) Resources What is a house blessing? Is a house blessing biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the House of Yahweh? | GotQuestions.org Is a house dedication a biblical concept? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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