In the biblical context, grain, new wine, and oil are frequently mentioned together as symbols of God's provision and blessing. These three commodities were essential to the agrarian society of ancient Israel and held significant spiritual and cultural importance.

Grain

Grain, primarily wheat and barley, was a staple food in ancient Israel. It was used to make bread, which was a central part of the daily diet. The importance of grain is evident in various biblical passages, where it symbolizes sustenance and life. In Deuteronomy 28:5, the blessing of abundance is described: "Blessed will be your basket and your kneading bowl." Grain offerings were also a significant part of the sacrificial system, as seen in Leviticus 2, where the Israelites were instructed to present grain offerings to the Lord as an act of worship and thanksgiving.

The provision of grain is often associated with God's covenantal promises. In Joel 2:24, the restoration of Israel is depicted with the promise, "The threshing floors will be full of grain, and the vats will overflow with new wine and oil." This imagery underscores God's faithfulness in providing for His people.

New Wine

New wine, or freshly pressed grape juice, represents joy and celebration in the Bible. It is often associated with the blessings of the harvest and the abundance of God's provision. In Proverbs 3:9-10, honoring the Lord with one's wealth is linked to prosperity: "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine."

The imagery of new wine is also used to convey spiritual truths. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the metaphor of new wine to describe the new covenant and the transformative power of His teachings. In Matthew 9:17, He states, "Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will spill, and the wineskins will be ruined. Instead, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved."

Oil

Oil, particularly olive oil, was a valuable commodity in biblical times. It was used for cooking, lighting lamps, anointing, and as a base for perfumes and ointments. Oil is often associated with anointing and consecration, symbolizing the presence and blessing of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Samuel 16:13, when Samuel anoints David as king, "the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David from that day forward."

Oil also signifies prosperity and divine favor. In Deuteronomy 8:7-8, the Promised Land is described as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey." This description highlights the richness and abundance that God promised to His people.

Throughout the Bible, grain, new wine, and oil are not only physical necessities but also spiritual symbols of God's covenantal relationship with His people. They represent His provision, blessing, and the joy of living under His care.