Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Botanical Information: The lentile, also known as lentil, is a small, round, and lens-shaped legume that has been cultivated since ancient times. It is a member of the legume family, scientifically classified as Lens culinaris. Lentiles are known for their nutritional value, being rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They are a staple in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean diets. Biblical References: Lentiles are mentioned in the Bible primarily in the context of food and sustenance. They are noted for their role in the diet of the people of the ancient Near East. The most notable biblical reference to lentiles is found in the account of Esau and Jacob: · Genesis 25:29-34 : "One day, while Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the field and was famished. He said to Jacob, 'Let me eat some of that red stew, for I am famished.' (That is why he was also called Edom.) 'First sell me your birthright,' Jacob replied. 'Look,' said Esau, 'I am about to die, so what good is a birthright to me?' 'Swear to me first,' Jacob said. So Esau swore to Jacob and sold him the birthright. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew. Esau ate and drank, and then got up and went on his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright." In this passage, lentile stew becomes the medium through which Esau, driven by immediate physical hunger, trades his birthright to Jacob. This transaction highlights the spiritual lesson of valuing eternal blessings over temporary, worldly needs. · 2 Samuel 23:11-12 : "And after him was Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite. The Philistines had gathered into a troop where there was a plot of ground full of lentils, and the people fled from the Philistines. But Shammah took his stand in the middle of the plot and defended it, and he struck down the Philistines, and the LORD brought about a great victory." In this account, lentiles are mentioned in the context of a field that becomes the site of a significant battle. Shammah's defense of the lentile field against the Philistines demonstrates courage and faithfulness, with God granting victory. Cultural and Historical Context: Lentiles were a common food in biblical times, often used in stews and soups. They were a practical and accessible source of nutrition for the Israelites and other ancient peoples. The cultivation of lentiles dates back to the Neolithic era, and they have been found in archaeological sites throughout the Near East. Symbolism and Lessons: In the biblical narrative, lentiles serve as a symbol of basic sustenance and the choices between spiritual and physical needs. The account of Esau and Jacob, in particular, serves as a moral lesson on the importance of prioritizing spiritual inheritance and eternal values over immediate gratification. Modern Relevance: Today, lentiles continue to be valued for their nutritional benefits and are a common ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. They serve as a reminder of the biblical principles of stewardship, the importance of valuing spiritual blessings, and the lessons of faithfulness and courage in the face of adversity. ATS Bible Dictionary LentileA species of pulse or bean. We find Esau longing for a mess of pottage made of lentils, Genesis 25:34. Augustine says, "Lentils are used as food in Egypt, for this plant grows abundantly in that country, which renders the lentils of Alexandria so valuable that they are brought from thence to us, as if none were grown among us." In Barbary, Dr. Shaw says "Lentils are dressed in the same manner as beans, dissolving easily into a mass, and marking a pottage of a chocolate color." See 2 Samuel 17:28; 23:11. Strong's Hebrew 5742. adashah -- a lentil... lentils (3). lentile. From an unused root of uncertain meaning; a lentil -- lentile. 5741, 5742. adashah. 5743 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/5742.htm - 5k Library He Compares the Doctrine of the Platonists Concerning the Logos ... Conclusion. How Esau and Jacob, Isaac's Sons Divided their Habitation; The Confessions of St. Augustin Index of Subjects Resources Who was Esau in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the story of Jacob and Esau? | GotQuestions.org Lentil: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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