Topical Encyclopedia Barley, a significant grain in biblical times, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as a staple food and a symbol of sustenance and provision. It was one of the primary grains cultivated in ancient Israel and played a crucial role in the agricultural and economic life of the people. Barley is often associated with the poorer classes, as it was less expensive than wheat, yet it was essential for both human consumption and animal feed.Biblical References and Symbolism Barley is first mentioned in the context of the Promised Land's fertility. In Deuteronomy 8:8, the land is described as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey." This highlights barley as one of the seven species that signify the abundance and blessing of the land God provided to the Israelites. In the narrative of Ruth, barley is central to the account of redemption and provision. Ruth 2:23 states, "So Ruth stayed close to the servant girls of Boaz to glean until the barley and wheat harvests were finished. And she lived with her mother-in-law." The barley harvest becomes a backdrop for Ruth's loyalty and God's providence, ultimately leading to her marriage to Boaz and her inclusion in the lineage of David and Jesus. Barley also appears in the context of miraculous provision. In John 6:9, during the feeding of the five thousand, a boy offers "five barley loaves and two small fish," which Jesus multiplies to feed the multitude. This miracle underscores the sufficiency of God's provision, even from humble beginnings. Barley as Tribute Barley was often used as a form of tribute or offering, reflecting its economic importance. In 2 Kings 7:1, the prophet Elisha prophesies, "Hear the word of the LORD. This is what the LORD says: 'About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria, a seah of fine flour will sell for a shekel, and two seahs of barley for a shekel.'" This prophecy, fulfilled during a time of famine, illustrates the value of barley as a commodity and its role in the economy of ancient Israel. In Ezekiel 45:13, barley is mentioned as part of the offerings to be given to the prince: "This is the special offering you are to set apart: a sixth of an ephah from each homer of wheat and a sixth of an ephah from each homer of barley." This indicates barley's role in religious observance and its use in offerings to God. Cultural and Religious Significance Barley held cultural significance as it was associated with the Feast of Firstfruits, which occurred during the barley harvest. Leviticus 23:10-11 instructs, "Speak to the Israelites and say, 'When you enter the land I am giving you and reap its harvest, you are to bring to the priest a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest. He shall wave the sheaf before the LORD so that it may be accepted on your behalf; the priest is to wave it on the day after the Sabbath.'" This feast was a time of thanksgiving and dedication, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty. In summary, barley in the Bible is a symbol of God's provision, a staple of daily life, and an integral part of religious and economic practices. Its presence in Scripture highlights themes of sustenance, humility, and divine blessing. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 27:5He fought also with the king of the Ammonites, and prevailed against them. And the children of Ammon gave him the same year an hundred talents of silver, and ten thousand measures of wheat, and ten thousand of barley. So much did the children of Ammon pay to him, both the second year, and the third. Nave's Topical Index Library Cyrus, the Servant Of-The Lord {4} The Servant of the Lord. Fourth Sunday after Epiphany How Zachariah Shallum, Menahem Pekahiah and Pekah Took the ... Yet Speaking. Appendix iv. An Abstract of Jewish History from the Reign of ... On Marriage. Alexandria and Rome - the Jewish Communities in the Capitals of ... Matt. xx. 29, 30 The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty Resources Who was Ruth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are some examples of unfailing love in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did God use a locust swarm to punish Israel (Joel 1:4)? | GotQuestions.org Barley: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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