Topical Encyclopedia The term "hoed" does not appear directly in the Bible; however, it is related to the agricultural practice of hoeing, which is a method of cultivating the soil. This practice is deeply rooted in the agrarian culture of the biblical world and is often implied in various scriptural passages that discuss farming, cultivation, and the care of the land.Agricultural Context in the Bible Agriculture was a central part of life in ancient Israel, and many biblical teachings and parables draw from this context. The act of hoeing, or cultivating the soil, is essential for preparing the ground for planting seeds, ensuring that crops can grow and produce a bountiful harvest. This process is symbolic of spiritual preparation and growth, as seen in several biblical passages. Biblical Symbolism of Cultivation In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus describes different types of soil and their receptivity to the seed, which represents the Word of God. While the act of hoeing is not explicitly mentioned, the preparation of the soil is crucial for the seed to take root and flourish. Jesus explains, "But the seed sown on good soil is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and produces a crop— a hundredfold, sixtyfold, or thirtyfold" (Matthew 13:23). This parable underscores the importance of spiritual readiness and the cultivation of one's heart to receive divine truth. Spiritual Implications The concept of hoeing can also be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual discipline required to maintain a fruitful relationship with God. Just as a farmer must diligently tend to the soil, believers are called to cultivate their faith through prayer, study of the Scriptures, and obedience to God's commandments. This spiritual cultivation is necessary for growth in holiness and the production of spiritual fruit. Old Testament References While the specific act of hoeing is not detailed, the Old Testament frequently references the broader context of farming and land cultivation. For example, in the book of Proverbs, wisdom is likened to a well-tended field: "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment" (Proverbs 12:11). This proverb highlights the value of diligent work and the blessings that come from properly tending to one's responsibilities. Conclusion The practice of hoeing, though not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, is an integral part of the agricultural imagery that permeates Scripture. It serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual preparation and growth, reminding believers of the importance of cultivating their hearts and lives to be receptive to God's Word and to bear fruit in His kingdom. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Hoe.Strong's Hebrew 5737b. adar -- to hoe... to hoe. Transliteration: adar Short Definition: cultivated. Word Origin a prim. root Definition to hoe NASB Word Usage cultivated (1), hoed (1). 5737a, 5737b ... /hebrew/5737b.htm - 5k Library The High Woods "Lo, I Come": Application Thesaurus Hoed (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Hoed (2 Occurrences). Isaiah 5:6 I will lay it a wasteland. It won't be pruned nor hoed, but it will grow briers and thorns. ... /h/hoed.htm - 7k Wasteland (19 Occurrences) Pruned (3 Occurrences) Briers (17 Occurrences) Brier (10 Occurrences) Thorns (56 Occurrences) Agriculture Clouds (99 Occurrences) Grow (139 Occurrences) Won't (144 Occurrences) Resources Hoed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hoed (2 Occurrences)Isaiah 5:6 Isaiah 7:25 Subtopics Related Terms |