Topical Encyclopedia The mandrake, known in Hebrew as "dudaim," is a plant mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of the Old Testament. It is referenced in Genesis 30:14-16 and Song of Solomon 7:13. The mandrake is often associated with fertility and love, and its mention in Scripture has intrigued scholars and theologians for centuries.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 30:14-16 : "Now during the wheat harvest, Reuben went out and found some mandrakes in the field and brought them to his mother Leah. Then Rachel said to Leah, 'Please give me some of your son’s mandrakes.' But Leah replied, 'Is it not enough that you have taken my husband? Now you also want to take my son’s mandrakes?' 'Very well,' said Rachel, 'he may sleep with you tonight in exchange for your son’s mandrakes.' So when Jacob came in from the field that evening, Leah went out to meet him and said, 'You must sleep with me, for I have hired you with my son’s mandrakes.' So he slept with her that night." In this passage, the mandrake is depicted as a valuable and desirable plant, believed to possess properties that could aid in conception. Rachel's desire for the mandrakes suggests their cultural significance as a fertility aid. Leah's willingness to trade a night with Jacob for the mandrakes underscores their perceived importance. 2. Song of Solomon 7:13 : "The mandrakes send forth their fragrance, and at our door is every delicacy, both new and old, that I have treasured up for you, my beloved." Here, the mandrake is associated with romantic and sensual imagery, contributing to the lush and evocative language of the Song of Solomon. The fragrance of the mandrakes enhances the atmosphere of love and desire, aligning with the book's themes of marital intimacy and affection. Cultural and Historical Context: The mandrake plant, identified botanically as Mandragora officinarum, is native to the Mediterranean region. It is characterized by its broad leaves, purple flowers, and a root that often resembles a human figure. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine and folklore, often attributed with aphrodisiac and fertility-enhancing properties. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the mandrake was considered a potent symbol of fertility and was often used in love potions and fertility rites. Its root, sometimes resembling a human form, contributed to its mystical reputation. The plant's narcotic properties also made it a subject of interest in various medicinal practices. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of mandrakes in the Bible highlights the human desire for fertility and the lengths to which individuals would go to secure offspring. In the patriarchal society of ancient Israel, bearing children was of paramount importance, particularly for women, as it was closely tied to family legacy and social status. The narrative of Leah and Rachel in Genesis reflects the complexities of familial relationships and the deep yearning for children. The use of mandrakes in this context underscores the belief in natural remedies and divine intervention in matters of fertility. In the Song of Solomon, the mandrake's inclusion in the poetic imagery serves to enhance the themes of love and desire, illustrating the beauty and richness of marital love as ordained by God. Overall, the mandrake serves as a fascinating element within the biblical narrative, offering insights into the cultural practices and beliefs of the ancient world while also contributing to the theological themes of love, desire, and the quest for progeny. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A low plant (Mandragora officinarum) of the Nightshade family, having a fleshy root, often forked, and supposed to resemble a man. It was therefore supposed to have animal life, and to cry out when pulled up. All parts of the plant are strongly narcotic. It is found in the Mediterranean region.2. (n.) The May apple (Podophyllum peltatum). See Podophyllum. Strong's Hebrew 1736. duday -- mandrake... 1735, 1736. duday. 1737 . mandrake. Transliteration: duday Phonetic Spelling: (doo-dah'-ee) Short Definition: mandrakes. ... basket, mandrake. ... /hebrew/1736.htm - 6k Library The Testament of Issachar Concerning Simplicity. A Confirmation of what Has Been Said by a Noteworthy Comparison. The Germination of the Earth. He Proceeds Again to Discuss the Impassibility of the Lord's ... Letter i. My Dear Friend, I Employed the Compelled and Most ... Chapter xxx Gregory of Nyssa: Dogmatic Treatises, Etc Answer to the Objection of the Heathen, that it was not Right to ... Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Thesaurus Mandrake (1 Occurrence)... It is found in the Mediterranean region. 2. (n.) The May apple (Podophyllum peltatum). See Podophyllum. Multi-Version Concordance Mandrake (1 Occurrence). ... /m/mandrake.htm - 7k Mandrakes (4 Occurrences) Man-child (11 Occurrences) Resources What are the mandrakes mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Leah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Rachel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Mandrake: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mandrake (1 Occurrence)Genesis 30:14 Subtopics Mandrake: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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