Topical Encyclopedia Kneading is a process mentioned in the Bible primarily in the context of bread-making, a staple in the diet of ancient Near Eastern cultures, including the Israelites. The act of kneading involves working dough with the hands to develop its texture and elasticity, preparing it for baking. This process is referenced in several biblical passages, highlighting its significance in daily life and religious practices.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 to Sarah and said, 'Quick, prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.'" This instance underscores the cultural importance of kneading as part of offering hospitality and sustenance. 2. Exodus 12:34 · During the Exodus, the Israelites are described as 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 highlights the urgency of their departure from Egypt and the practical use of kneading bowls in their daily lives. 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, again emphasizing the role of kneading in food preparation. Cultural and Religious Significance: Kneading is not only a practical activity but also holds cultural and religious significance. Bread, often referred to as the "staff of life," is a symbol of sustenance and provision. In the context of the Passover, unleavened bread, which requires kneading, becomes a symbol of purity and haste, as the Israelites left Egypt without time for the dough to rise. The process of kneading can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual formation. Just as dough is worked and transformed into bread, believers are shaped and molded by God’s hands. This metaphor is consistent with the biblical theme of God as the potter and His people as the clay (Isaiah 64:8). Tools and Techniques: In biblical times, kneading was done by hand, often in large bowls or troughs. The dough would be mixed with water and sometimes oil, then worked until it reached the desired consistency. The kneading process was labor-intensive and required skill to ensure the bread would bake properly. Symbolism and Lessons: Kneading, as a biblical motif, teaches lessons of diligence, preparation, and transformation. It serves as a reminder of God’s provision and the importance of readiness in spiritual and physical matters. The act of kneading, while mundane, is imbued with deeper meaning through its repeated presence in Scripture, reflecting the integration of faith and daily life in the biblical narrative. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Knead.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KNEADINGned'ing. Strong's Hebrew 4863. mishereth -- perhaps kneading trough... 4862, 4863. mishereth. 4864 . perhaps kneading trough. Transliteration: mishereth Phonetic Spelling: (mish-eh'-reth) Short Definition: bowl. ... /hebrew/4863.htm - 6k 3889. Lush -- Laish 3888. lush -- to knead Library Brooks -- the Pride of Life At the Last Day Great Changes Take Place Amongst the ??ons as Well ... Leaven On Gen. vii. 6 The Cost of Being Cruel and Stubborn The Escape from Egypt Wesley in the Fens Easter Tuesday Where is the Lord? Appendix xvii. The Ordinances and Law of the Sabbath as Laid Down ... Thesaurus Kneading (7 Occurrences)... (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Knead. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. KNEADING. ned'ing. See BREAD, III, 2. Multi-Version Concordance Kneading (7 Occurrences). ... /k/kneading.htm - 8k Kneading-trough (2 Occurrences) Kneading-troughs (2 Occurrences) Dough (15 Occurrences) Bread (433 Occurrences) Leavened (16 Occurrences) Trough (7 Occurrences) Troughs (5 Occurrences) Bowls (47 Occurrences) Resources Who is the Queen of Heaven? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does shabbat mean? | GotQuestions.org What are the curses God promised Israel for disobedience? | GotQuestions.org Kneading: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Kneading (7 Occurrences)John 9:6 Exodus 8:3 Exodus 12:34 Deuteronomy 28:5 Deuteronomy 28:17 Jeremiah 7:18 Hosea 7:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |