Jump to: Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, kneading was an essential part of daily life, particularly in the preparation of bread, a staple food in ancient Israelite society. The process of kneading involves working dough with the hands to mix ingredients thoroughly and develop the gluten structure, which is crucial for the bread's texture and rise. This practice is mentioned several times in the Bible, reflecting its importance in the domestic and religious life of the Israelites.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 18:6 · In this passage, Abraham demonstrates hospitality to three visitors by instructing Sarah to quickly prepare bread: "So Abraham hurried into the tent and said to Sarah, 'Quick, prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.'" . This account highlights the cultural significance of kneading as part of offering hospitality and sustenance. 2. Exodus 12:34 · During the Exodus, the Israelites left Egypt in haste, taking their dough before it was leavened: "So the people took their dough before it was leavened, carrying it on their shoulders in kneading bowls wrapped in clothing." . This event is commemorated in the Feast of Unleavened Bread, symbolizing the Israelites' swift departure and God's deliverance. 3. 1 Samuel 28:24 · The narrative of Saul visiting the medium at Endor includes a reference to kneading: "Now the woman had a fattened calf at her house, and she quickly slaughtered it. She took flour, kneaded it, and baked unleavened bread." . This passage illustrates the preparation of a meal in a time of distress, emphasizing the role of kneading in providing sustenance. Cultural and Religious Significance: Kneading was not only a practical activity but also held cultural and religious significance. Bread was a symbol of God's provision and sustenance, as seen in the manna provided during the Israelites' wilderness journey (Exodus 16). The act of kneading and baking bread was often associated with hospitality, community, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life" (John 6:35), drawing on the rich symbolism of bread in Jewish tradition. The process of kneading, therefore, can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual nourishment and the transformative work of God in the lives of believers. Symbolism and Metaphor: Kneading can also be understood metaphorically in the context of spiritual growth and maturity. Just as kneading transforms simple ingredients into nourishing bread, so too does the work of the Holy Spirit transform believers, shaping them into the likeness of Christ. This process involves patience, effort, and the willingness to be molded by God's hands. In summary, kneading in the Bible is more than a culinary technique; it is a rich symbol of provision, hospitality, and spiritual transformation, deeply embedded in the fabric of biblical narrative and theology. Easton's Bible Dictionary To prepare dough in the process of baking (Genesis 18:6; 1 Samuel 28:24; Hosea 7:4). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To work and press into a mass, usually with the hands; as, to knead dough; esp., to work, as by repeated pressure with the knuckles, into a well mixed mass, as the materials of bread, cake, etc.2. (v. t.) Fig.: To treat or form as by kneading; to beat. Greek 1591. ekmasso -- to knead out, by anal. to wipe dry ... 1590, 1591. ekmasso. 1592 . to knead out, by anal. ... Word Origin from ek and masso (to knead) Definition to knead out, by anal. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1591.htm - 6k 631. apomasso -- to wipe off 5445. phurama -- that which is mixed Strong's Hebrew 3888. lush -- to knead... 3887, 3888. lush. 3889 . to knead. Transliteration: lush Phonetic Spelling: (loosh) Short Definition: knead. Word Origin a prim. ... /hebrew/3888.htm - 5k Library The Exercises Suited to a Good Life. Lydda How Ahab when He had Taken Jezebel to Wife Became More Wicked than ... The Story of the Tower of Babel The Doctrine of the Truth Continued. The Exodus Greek Plagiarism from the Hebrews. Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... 1 Cor. Iii. 3-Jan Culture and Christianity: their Relation and Necessity. Thesaurus Knead (2 Occurrences)... 1. (vt) To work and press into a mass, usually with the hands; as, to knead dough; esp., to work, as by repeated pressure with the knuckles, into a well mixed ... /k/knead.htm - 7k Dough (15 Occurrences) Cakes (65 Occurrences) Kneaded (3 Occurrences) Knavery (2 Occurrences) Kindle (25 Occurrences) Wheaten (4 Occurrences) Flour (69 Occurrences) Flour-meal (1 Occurrence) Frame (33 Occurrences) Resources Knead: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Knead (2 Occurrences)Genesis 18:6 Jeremiah 7:18 Subtopics Related Terms |