Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, jugs were common household items used for storing and transporting liquids such as water, oil, and wine. These vessels were typically made from clay or pottery, though some were crafted from metal or stone. The design and size of jugs varied, but they often featured a narrow neck and a handle for easy pouring and carrying.Old Testament References Jugs are mentioned in several Old Testament passages, often in the context of daily life and religious practices. In 1 Kings 17:12, during the time of drought, the widow of Zarephath tells Elijah, "As surely as the LORD your God lives, I have no bread, only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug." This passage highlights the jug's role in storing essential provisions. In Judges 7:16, Gideon uses jugs in a strategic military maneuver: "He divided the three hundred men into three companies and gave each man a ram’s horn in one hand and a clay jar with a torch inside it in the other." The breaking of the jugs created noise and confusion among the Midianites, contributing to Israel's victory. New Testament References While the New Testament does not frequently mention jugs, they are implied in the context of daily life and hospitality. In John 2:6, during the wedding at Cana, Jesus performs His first miracle by turning water into wine. The passage states, "Now six stone water jars had been set there for the Jewish rites of purification. Each could hold from twenty to thirty gallons." These large stone jars, akin to jugs, were used for storing water for purification purposes. Symbolism and Cultural Significance Jugs in the Bible often symbolize provision and sustenance, as seen in the account of the widow of Zarephath. They also represent God's miraculous intervention, as in the case of Elijah and the endless supply of oil (1 Kings 17:14-16) and Jesus' transformation of water into wine. The use of jugs in Gideon's battle illustrates how God can use ordinary objects to achieve extraordinary outcomes. In ancient Near Eastern culture, jugs were essential for daily living, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the people. They were used in both domestic settings and religious rituals, underscoring their importance in biblical narratives. Archaeological Insights Archaeological discoveries have unearthed numerous jugs from biblical times, providing insight into their construction and use. These artifacts reveal variations in design, indicating different uses and cultural influences. The study of these jugs helps scholars understand the daily life and practices of ancient biblical societies. Overall, jugs in the Bible serve as practical tools and powerful symbols, illustrating themes of provision, faith, and divine intervention throughout the biblical narrative. Strong's Hebrew 5035a. nebel -- a skin bottle, skin, jar, pitcher... Word Origin of uncertain derivation Definition a skin bottle, skin, jar, pitcher NASB Word Usage jar (1), jars (2), jars* (1), jug (5), jugs (1), water jars (1 ... /hebrew/5035a.htm - 5k Library The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert Sanctified Commonplaces The Purification of Mary Tsippor Of the Wonderful ChapterHeld by St Francis at St Mary of the ... The Burial and Assumption of the Blessed virgin Labors in a New Field The Martyr-Bishop, 1548-1560. 1870-1871. Workers' Meetings at Home of Industry --Training Home ... Ancestors of the Blessed virgin Thesaurus Jugs (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Jugs (2 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 25:18 Then Abigail hurried and took two hundred loaves of bread, two bottles ... /j/jugs.htm - 7k Water-jugs (2 Occurrences) Juice (8 Occurrences) Waterless (7 Occurrences) Juggling (1 Occurrence) Water-jug (1 Occurrence) Stood (491 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jugs (2 Occurrences)1 Samuel 25:18 Jeremiah 48:12 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |