Topical Encyclopedia Iyar is the second month of the Hebrew calendar, following Nisan and preceding Sivan. It typically falls in April-May in the Gregorian calendar. In the Bible, Iyar is referred to as the month of Ziv, as seen in 1 Kings 6:1, "In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites came out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv, which is the second month, he began to build the house of the LORD" .Biblical Significance 1. Construction of the Temple: The month of Iyar holds particular significance due to the commencement of the construction of Solomon's Temple. As noted in 1 Kings 6:1, the building of the Temple began in this month, marking a pivotal moment in Israelite history as the nation sought to establish a permanent dwelling place for the presence of God. 2. Journey from Egypt: Iyar is also significant in the context of the Israelites' journey from Egypt. It is during this month that the Israelites experienced several key events in the wilderness. For instance, in Exodus 16:1, it is recorded, "On the fifteenth day of the second month after they had come out of the land of Egypt, the whole congregation of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness" . This passage highlights the challenges and divine provisions encountered by the Israelites during their exodus. 3. Provision of Manna and Quail: In the same chapter of Exodus, God provided manna and quail to the Israelites, demonstrating His continued provision and care for His people during their journey. This event underscores the theme of reliance on God and His faithfulness, which is a recurring motif throughout the biblical narrative. Religious Observances 1. Lag BaOmer: Although not mentioned in the Bible, Lag BaOmer is a Jewish holiday that falls on the 18th day of Iyar. It commemorates the end of a plague that afflicted the students of Rabbi Akiva, a prominent Jewish sage. While not a biblical event, it is a time of celebration and reflection within the Jewish community. 2. Counting of the Omer: Iyar is also part of the period known as the Counting of the Omer, which spans from Passover to Shavuot. This time of counting, as instructed in Leviticus 23:15-16, is a period of spiritual preparation and anticipation for the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, which is celebrated during Shavuot. Agricultural Context In the agricultural cycle of ancient Israel, Iyar was a time of growth and preparation. The barley harvest, which began in Nisan, continued into Iyar, and the wheat harvest was soon to follow. This agricultural context is reflected in the biblical festivals and offerings, which often coincide with the harvest seasons. Conclusion Iyar, or Ziv, is a month rich in biblical history and significance. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision, as well as the importance of preparation and dedication in the life of faith. Through the events and observances associated with this month, believers are encouraged to reflect on their own journey with God and the ways in which He continues to guide and sustain His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia IYARe-yar'. Library Syriac Calendar. The Jews, Afflicted with Innumerable Evils, Commenced the Last War ... Some General Matters and Some Biblical Characters. The Bible Book ... The Signs which Preceded the War. Appendix v. Rabbinic Theology and Literature Appendix iv. An Abstract of Jewish History from the Reign of ... The Teaching of Add??us the Apostle. Thesaurus IyarIyar. Ivy, Iyar. Iye . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia IYAR. e-yar'. See IYYAR. Ivy, Iyar. Iye . Reference Bible. /i/iyar.htm - 6k Fasts (3 Occurrences) Feasts (45 Occurrences) Zif (2 Occurrences) Iye (2 Occurrences) Iyyar Ivy Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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