Topical Encyclopedia Cheese, a dairy product derived from milk, is mentioned in the Bible in a few instances, reflecting its role in the diet and culture of ancient Near Eastern societies. The references to cheese in the Scriptures provide insight into its use and significance during biblical times.1. Provision and Hospitality: · In 2 Samuel 17:29, cheese is listed among the provisions brought to David and his people during their time of need. The verse states: "honey and curds, sheep, and cheese from the herd, for David and his people to eat. For they said, 'The people have become hungry, exhausted, and thirsty in the wilderness.'" This passage highlights cheese as a nourishing food, suitable for sustaining those in distress. 2. Symbol of Abundance: · Cheese is also mentioned in Job 10:10, where it is used metaphorically to describe the process of creation. The verse reads: "Did You not pour me out like milk, and curdle me like cheese?" Here, the transformation of milk into cheese serves as a vivid illustration of God's creative power and the intricate formation of human life. 3. Cultural Context: · The mention of cheese in these passages suggests its commonality and value in the diet of the Israelites. Cheese, made from the milk of cows, goats, or sheep, was a staple food that could be easily stored and transported, making it an essential part of the provisions for travelers and those living in pastoral settings. 4. Symbolic Meaning: · The use of cheese in metaphorical language, as seen in Job, indicates its broader symbolic significance. The process of curdling milk into cheese can be seen as a metaphor for transformation and development, reflecting the divine craftsmanship in creation. In summary, cheese in the Bible is depicted as a practical and nourishing food, a symbol of God's provision and abundance, and a metaphor for the divine process of creation. Its presence in the Scriptures underscores its importance in the daily life and spiritual reflections of the biblical world. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 17:18And carry these ten cheeses to the captain of their thousand, and look how your brothers fare, and take their pledge. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 17:29 Job 10:10 Library On the Words Incarnate, and Made Man. Commerce The Testimony of the Lectionaries Shewn to be Absolutely Decisive ... Conflicts of the Church with Public Wrongs. The Incomparable Bridegroom and his Bride Believing on Jesus, and Its Counterfeits St. Gregory the Great. Dialogue iii. --The Impassible. Salvation by Knowing the Truth Our Manifesto Resources No religion? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christians celebrate Halloween? | GotQuestions.org Why is eating dairy products and meat in the same meal considered not kosher? | GotQuestions.org Cheese: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |