Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, "corn" typically refers to grain, such as wheat or barley, rather than the maize commonly known as corn today. The Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites through Moses, contains several regulations concerning the cultivation, harvest, and use of grain. These laws reflect the broader principles of justice, mercy, and provision for the community, including the poor and the stranger.Sabbath and Sabbatical Year The Mosaic Law emphasizes the importance of rest and reliance on God's provision. In Exodus 34:21 , it is stated, "Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest; even during the plowing and harvesting times, you must rest." This commandment underscores the principle of the Sabbath, extending even to agricultural activities. Additionally, the Sabbatical Year, or the Year of Release, is outlined in Leviticus 25:3-4 : "For six years you may sow your fields and prune your vineyards and gather their crops. But in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land—a Sabbath to the LORD. You are not to sow your field or prune your vineyard." This law required the Israelites to trust in God's provision and allowed the land to rest, promoting sustainability and care for creation. Gleaning Laws The Mosaic Law also includes provisions for the poor and the foreigner through the practice of gleaning. Leviticus 19:9-10 instructs, "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." This law ensured that the marginalized members of society had access to food and sustenance. Deuteronomy 24:19 further reinforces this practice: "When you reap the harvest in your field and forget a sheaf there, do not go back to get it. It is to be left for the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands." These laws highlight the importance of generosity and compassion within the community. Prohibition of Theft and Fair Wages The Mosaic Law also addresses the ethical treatment of workers and the prohibition of theft. In Deuteronomy 23:24-25 , it is written, "When you enter your neighbor’s vineyard, you may eat your fill of grapes, but you must not put any in your basket. When you enter your neighbor’s grainfield, you may pluck the heads of grain with your hand, but you must not put a sickle to your neighbor’s grain." This regulation allowed for immediate sustenance but prohibited taking more than what was necessary, thus respecting the property of others. Furthermore, the law mandates fair wages for laborers. Leviticus 19:13 states, "You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. You must not withhold until morning the wages due a hired hand." This commandment ensures that workers are treated justly and receive their due compensation promptly. Offerings and Firstfruits The Mosaic Law also includes instructions for offerings and the dedication of firstfruits. In Leviticus 23:10-11 , the Israelites are commanded, "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. And 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 offering acknowledges God's provision and sovereignty over the land and its produce. These laws concerning corn, or grain, reflect the broader themes of the Mosaic Law, emphasizing rest, provision, justice, and worship. They serve as a reminder of God's care for His people and His creation, as well as the call for His people to reflect His character in their daily lives. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 22:6If fire break out, and catch in thorns, so that the stacks of corn, or the standing corn, or the field, be consumed therewith; he that kindled the fire shall surely make restitution. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 23:25 Library Were Christ and the Apostles Mistaken? Mosaic Cosmogony. Commerce The Five Books Against Marcion Chaldaean Civilization Interpretation of Holy Scripture. --Inspired Interpretation. --The ... The Old Testament and Comparative Religion Galatians Chapter vi. Homilies on the Statues. Of the Sacraments. Resources Does the Bible say anything about crop circles? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Cyprus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving? | GotQuestions.org Corn: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |