Topical Encyclopedia Barley, a staple grain in ancient Israel, holds significant importance in biblical narratives, particularly in the context of loaves. Barley loaves are mentioned in several key passages, symbolizing God's provision and the sustenance of His people.Old Testament Context Barley was one of the first grains to be harvested in the agricultural cycle of ancient Israel, typically around the time of Passover. It was considered a humble grain, often associated with the poor, as it was less expensive than wheat. Despite its humble status, barley played a crucial role in the diet of the Israelites and was used in various offerings and rituals. In the book of Judges, we find an intriguing reference to barley loaves in the account of Gideon. In Judges 7:13-14 , a Midianite soldier recounts a dream to his comrade: "I had a dream: A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp. It struck a tent, overturned it, and flattened it." His comrade interprets the dream as a sign of Gideon's impending victory over the Midianites, illustrating how God uses the ordinary to achieve extraordinary outcomes. New Testament Significance Barley loaves gain further prominence in the New Testament, particularly in the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand. In John 6:9 , a boy is noted to have "five barley loaves and two small fish," which Jesus uses to feed a multitude. This miracle underscores Jesus' divine authority and compassion, as well as His ability to provide abundantly from seemingly insufficient resources. The use of barley loaves in this miracle is significant. It highlights the theme of God's provision and the sufficiency of Christ. The choice of barley, a grain associated with the common people, emphasizes the accessibility of Jesus' ministry and His concern for all, regardless of social status. Symbolism and Theological Implications Barley loaves symbolize God's provision and the miraculous ways in which He meets the needs of His people. They serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the abundance that comes from His hand. The multiplication of the barley loaves by Jesus is a testament to His identity as the Bread of Life, as He later declares in John 6:35 : "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst." In the broader biblical narrative, barley loaves represent the intersection of the ordinary and the divine. They remind believers of the importance of faith and trust in God's provision, even when resources appear limited. Through the lens of barley loaves, the Bible illustrates the transformative power of God's grace and the fulfillment found in Christ. Nave's Topical Index John 6:9,13There is a lad here, which has five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many? Nave's Topical Index Greek 2916. krithinos -- of barley ... Cognate: 2916 (an adjective) -- made of barley (barley loaves); "an inferior bread. Pliny and some of the Jewish writers describe barley . ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2916.htm - 7k Library From the Miracle of the Feeding of the Multitude from Five Barley ... Of the Question as to How the Four Evangelists Harmonize with Each ... Exposition of the Details of the Miracle. John Chapter vi. 14-Jan The Manna First Withdrawal from Herod's Territory and Return. Bread in the Desert "Give Ye them to Eat" The World's Bread The Lad's Loaves in the Lord's Hands Resources What is the Feast of Weeks? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Elisha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Was the killing of Saul's descendants a just response to Saul's killing of the Gibeonites? | GotQuestions.org Barley: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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