Jump to: ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the role of a herdsman was a significant and respected occupation, often associated with the patriarchs and key figures in the Scriptures. Herdsmen were responsible for the care, management, and protection of livestock, which included sheep, goats, cattle, and sometimes camels. This occupation required skills in animal husbandry, knowledge of pasturelands, and the ability to defend the flock from predators and thieves.Biblical References and Significance 1. Abel: The first herdsman mentioned in the Bible is Abel, the son of Adam and Eve. Genesis 4:2 states, "Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, while Cain was a tiller of the soil." Abel's offering from his flock was pleasing to God, highlighting the significance of his role as a herdsman. 2. The Patriarchs: The patriarchs of Israel, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were all herdsmen. Their wealth and status were often measured by the size of their flocks and herds. Genesis 13:2 describes Abram as "very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold." The nomadic lifestyle of these patriarchs was closely tied to their occupation as herdsmen, as they moved from place to place in search of pasture. 3. Moses: Before leading the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses spent forty years as a shepherd in the land of Midian. This period as a herdsman prepared him for his future role as the shepherd of God's people. Exodus 3:1 states, "Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian." 4. David: Perhaps the most famous herdsman in the Bible is David, who was a shepherd before he became king of Israel. His experience as a herdsman is often seen as preparation for his leadership over Israel. In 1 Samuel 16:11, David is described as tending the sheep when Samuel comes to anoint him as king. 5. Amos: The prophet Amos was also a herdsman. Amos 1:1 introduces him as "one of the shepherds of Tekoa." His background as a herdsman is significant in understanding his prophetic message, which often used imagery from pastoral life. Symbolism and Metaphor The role of the herdsman is frequently used metaphorically in the Bible to describe God's relationship with His people. God is often depicted as a shepherd who cares for His flock, guiding and protecting them. Psalm 23:1 famously begins, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." This imagery emphasizes God's provision, guidance, and protection. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is referred to as the "Good Shepherd" in John 10:11, where He says, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." This metaphor highlights Jesus' sacrificial love and care for His followers. Cultural and Economic Importance In ancient Israel, herdsmen played a crucial role in the economy. Livestock was a primary source of wealth, providing meat, milk, wool, and hides. The herdsman's work was essential for the sustenance and prosperity of families and communities. The skills and responsibilities of a herdsman were passed down through generations, often within family units. The herdsman's life was one of simplicity and hard work, often requiring long periods away from settled communities. This lifestyle fostered a deep connection with the land and a reliance on God's provision for pasture and water. Conclusion The herdsman in biblical times was more than just a caretaker of animals; he was a vital part of the social and economic fabric of ancient Israel. The biblical narrative often elevates the role of the herdsman, using it as a powerful metaphor for leadership, care, and divine guidance. Easton's Bible Dictionary In Egypt herdsmen were probably of the lowest caste. Some of Joseph's brethren were made rulers over Pharaoh's cattle (Genesis 47:6, 17). The Israelites were known in Egypt as "keepers of cattle;" and when they left it they took their flocks and herds with them (Exodus 12:38). Both David and Saul came from "following the herd" to occupy the throne (1 Samuel 9; 11:5; Psalm 78:70). David's herd-masters were among his chief officers of state. The daughters also of wealthy chiefs were wont to tend the flocks of the family (Genesis 29:9; Exodus 2:16). The "chief of the herdsmen" was in the time of the monarchy an officer of high rank (1 Samuel 21:7; Comp. 1 Chronicles 27:29). The herdsmen lived in tents (Isaiah 38:12; Jeremiah 6:3); and there were folds for the cattle (Numbers 32:16), and watch-towers for the herdsmen, that he might therefrom observe any coming danger (Micah 4:8; Nahum 3:8). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The owner or keeper of a herd or of herds; one employed in tending a herd of cattle.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HERDSMANhurdz'-man (boqer; the King James Version, the English Revised Version "herdman"): A cowherd (Amos 7:14). The same word is used in Syria today. ro`eh, has its equivalent in the language of Syria and Palestine (Arabic ra'i), and is a general term for any kind of a herdsman (Genesis 13:7, 8; Genesis 26:20 1 Samuel 21:7). noqedh, occurs in one passage (Amos 1:1); literally it means one who spots or marks the sheep, hence, a herdsman. Spotting the wool with different dyes is still the method of distinguishing between the sheep of different flocks. The herdsman is seldom the owner of the sheep, but a hireling. Strong's Hebrew 951. boqer -- a herdsman... 950, 951. boqer. 952 . a herdsman. Transliteration: boqer Phonetic Spelling: (bo-kare') Short Definition: herdsman. Word Origin ... /hebrew/951.htm - 6k Library Preparation for Advent The Birth of Cyrus. Cyrus, the Servant Of-The Lord {4} The Servant of the Lord. Andromeda The Credibility of Scripture Sufficiently Proved in So Far as ... The Absurdity and Impiety of the Heathen Mysteries and Fables ... The Exile Continued. Twenty-Seventh Day. Activity in Duty. The Swiss Reformer Thesaurus Herdsman's (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Herdsman's (2 Occurrences). Leviticus 27:32 And all the tithe of the herd or the flock, whatsoever passeth ... /h/herdsman's.htm - 7k Herdsman (1 Occurrence) Astyages Herdsmen (11 Occurrences) Herd (118 Occurrences) Jabal (1 Occurrence) Jehdeiah (2 Occurrences) Linen-worker's (1 Occurrence) Grower (1 Occurrence) Farmer (17 Occurrences) Resources Is there proof for the inspiration of the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgHerdsman: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Herdsman (1 Occurrence)Amos 7:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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