Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a "mower" is closely associated with the agricultural practices of ancient Israel and the surrounding regions. While the specific term "mower" as understood in modern contexts does not appear in the Bible, the activity of mowing or cutting grass and grain is implied in various passages. The role of a mower would have been crucial in the agrarian society of the Israelites, where the harvest was a central aspect of life and sustenance.Biblical Context The process of mowing, or cutting down grass and grain, is alluded to in several biblical passages. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, mowing was an essential task for preparing fields for harvest and ensuring that livestock had adequate pasture. The act of mowing is often associated with the broader theme of harvest, which carries significant spiritual and symbolic meaning throughout Scripture. Scriptural References One of the most direct references to the concept of mowing can be found in the Psalms. Psalm 129:7 states, "which cannot fill the hand of the reaper, or the arms of the binder of sheaves." This verse, while not explicitly mentioning mowing, alludes to the process of harvesting, which would have included mowing as a preliminary step before gathering and binding the sheaves. In the book of Amos, the prophet speaks of a time when the Lord withheld rain, leading to a lack of growth and harvest. Amos 4:7 says, "I also withheld rain from you when the harvest was still three months away. I sent rain on one city but withheld it from another. One field received rain; another had no rain and dried up." This passage highlights the dependence of the Israelites on favorable conditions for mowing and harvesting their crops. Symbolic Meaning The act of mowing and the imagery of harvest are often used symbolically in the Bible to convey spiritual truths. The harvest is frequently depicted as a time of judgment and reward, where the faithful are gathered like a bountiful crop. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the metaphor of the harvest to describe the gathering of believers into the kingdom of God. In Matthew 9:37-38 , Jesus says to His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest." Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Israel, mowing would have been done manually with tools such as sickles. The process required significant labor and was a communal activity, often involving entire families or communities working together. The timing of mowing was critical, as it needed to be done when the crops were ripe but before adverse weather could damage the yield. The role of the mower, though not explicitly detailed in Scripture, can be inferred as one of diligence and care, ensuring that the fields were properly tended and the harvest was successfully gathered. This reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship, where individuals are called to responsibly manage the resources and blessings provided by God. Conclusion While the specific term "mower" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the concept is integral to the agricultural practices of the time and carries rich symbolic meaning. The imagery of mowing and harvest serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual truths regarding diligence, stewardship, and the ultimate gathering of God's people. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) One who, or that which, mows; a mowing machine; as, a lawn mower.Library Vindication of Christian Women. Sin and Grace Massillon -- the Small Number of the Elect The Omnipotent Summons. Of Death and Dying. --Psalm Xc. Psalm 129 Psalm 90:2. 1-5. First Part. CM Man Frail, and God Eternal. Psalm 90 Part 1 Man Frail, and God Eternal. On his Father'S Silence, Because of the Plague of Hail. Separating the Precious from the Vile Thesaurus Mower (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) One who, or that which, mows; a mowing machine; as, a lawn mower. Multi-Version Concordance Mower (1 Occurrence). ... /m/mower.htm - 6k Mowing (1 Occurrence) Filleth (16 Occurrences) Mowed (2 Occurrences) Mown (2 Occurrences) Bindeth (25 Occurrences) Cutter (3 Occurrences) Grass (92 Occurrences) Resources Mower: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Mower (1 Occurrence)Psalms 129:7 Subtopics Related Terms |