Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "corn" often referred to grain in general, rather than the specific maize known as corn in modern North American English. The process of grinding corn was an essential part of daily life in ancient Israel, as it was necessary for producing flour for bread, a staple food. The Bible provides several references to the grinding of corn, illustrating its importance in the sustenance and economy of the people.Grinding Process The grinding of corn was typically done using a hand mill or a larger millstone. The hand mill, or "quern," consisted of two circular stones. The upper stone was rotated or rubbed against the lower stone to crush the grain into flour. This labor-intensive process was usually performed by women, as indicated in various biblical passages. Biblical References In the Old Testament, the grinding of corn is mentioned in several contexts. For instance, in Exodus 11:5, the Lord warns of the impending death of the firstborn in Egypt, stating, "and every firstborn son in the land of Egypt will die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne to the firstborn of the servant girl who is at her hand mill, and all the firstborn of the cattle." This passage highlights the ubiquity of grinding as a daily task, even among the lowest social classes. The book of Isaiah also references grinding in a metaphorical sense. Isaiah 47:2 says, "Take millstones and grind flour; remove your veil, strip off your skirt, bare your thigh, wade through the streams." Here, the act of grinding is used to symbolize the humiliation and servitude that will come upon Babylon. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the imagery of grinding in a parable. In Matthew 24:41, He says, "Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and the other left." This passage underscores the suddenness of the coming of the Son of Man, using the familiar scene of women grinding corn to convey the message. Cultural and Religious Significance The grinding of corn was not only a practical necessity but also held cultural and religious significance. The preparation of unleavened bread, for example, was a critical component of the Passover celebration, as described in Exodus 12. The meticulous grinding and preparation of flour for this bread underscored the Israelites' obedience to God's commands and their remembrance of the Exodus from Egypt. Furthermore, the prohibition against taking a millstone as a pledge, as stated in Deuteronomy 24:6, "Do not take a pair of millstones, or even the upper one, as security for a debt, because that would be taking a man's livelihood as security," highlights the essential nature of grinding tools for survival. This law reflects the broader biblical principle of justice and compassion for one's neighbor. Symbolism and Lessons The act of grinding corn in the Bible often serves as a symbol of daily toil and the sustenance provided by God. It reminds believers of the importance of diligence and the provision of God in meeting daily needs. The imagery of grinding also serves as a metaphor for judgment and the refining process of faith, as seen in various prophetic and parabolic contexts. Overall, the references to grinding corn in the Bible provide insight into the daily life of ancient peoples, the cultural and religious practices of the Israelites, and the spiritual lessons that can be drawn from these activities. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 17:19And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and spread ground corn thereon; and the thing was not known. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 7383. riphah -- perhaps grain... ground corn, wheat. Or riphah {ree-faw'}; from ruwph; (only plural), grits (as pounded) -- ground corn, wheat. see HEBREW ruwph. 7382, 7383. ... /hebrew/7383.htm - 6k Library May 8. "Except a Corn of Wheat Fall into the Ground and Die" (John ... The Corn of Wheat. Of Removing Tithes. The Unchangeableness of God Which of the Gods Can the Romans Suppose Presided Over the ... The Pharisees Attack the Disciples for Plucking Corn on the ... It Raiseth Corn to Supply You with Food The Burial Ground 462. O Thou in whom Thy Saints Repose In the Outer Court Easter Day Resources What is the meaning of shibboleth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to sow the wind and reap the whirlwind (Hosea 8:7)? | GotQuestions.org Who was Ellen G. White? | GotQuestions.org Corn: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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