Topical Encyclopedia Dew is a natural phenomenon frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing divine blessing, favor, and sustenance. In the arid climate of the ancient Near East, dew was a crucial source of moisture for vegetation, especially during the dry seasons when rain was scarce. The Bible often uses dew metaphorically to convey spiritual truths and divine grace.Biblical References and Symbolism 1. Divine Blessing and Favor: Dew is often associated with God's blessing. In Genesis 27:28, Isaac blesses Jacob, saying, "May God give to you the dew of heaven and the richness of the earth—an abundance of grain and new wine." Here, dew represents the prosperity and abundance that come from God's favor. 2. Sustenance and Provision: Dew is depicted as a source of sustenance. In Deuteronomy 33:28, Moses speaks of Israel's security and provision, "So Israel dwells securely, the fountain of Jacob alone, in a land of grain and new wine, where the heavens drop dew." This imagery underscores God's provision for His people. 3. Symbol of Renewal and Life: Dew is also a symbol of renewal and life. In Hosea 14:5, God promises, "I will be like the dew to Israel; he will blossom like the lily and take root like the cedars of Lebanon." Dew here signifies God's life-giving presence that brings spiritual renewal and growth. 4. Gentle and Quiet Influence: Dew falls silently and gently, symbolizing the quiet and pervasive influence of God's grace. In Judges 6:37-40, Gideon uses dew as a sign to confirm God's will, asking for dew to appear on a fleece while the ground remains dry, and vice versa. This illustrates the subtle yet unmistakable evidence of God's guidance. 5. Contrast with Drought and Judgment: The absence of dew is sometimes used to signify judgment or curse. In Haggai 1:10-11, God withholds dew as a consequence of Israel's neglect of His house: "Therefore, because of you, the heavens have withheld their dew and the earth its crops. I have summoned a drought on the fields and the mountains." The lack of dew here represents divine displeasure and the resulting hardship. Theological Implications Dew, as a symbol of divine blessing, emphasizes God's sovereignty and His role as the sustainer of life. It serves as a reminder of the dependence of creation on the Creator. The gentle nature of dew also reflects the quiet workings of God's Spirit in the lives of believers, nurturing spiritual growth and renewal. The biblical imagery of dew encourages believers to seek God's favor and to trust in His provision and care, even in times of spiritual dryness or adversity. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 3:20By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew. Nave's Topical Index Library Then, after all These Things, the Heavens Will not Give their Dew. ... The Dew and the Plants On Heavenly Objects Christ's Millennial and Heavenly Glory in Company with his Saints. St. Ambrose Returns to the Story of the Widow of Sarepta... On the Words, Maker of Heaven and Earth, and of all Things visible ... April 25, 1893 The Choice of Gideon was a Figure of Our Lord's Incarnation, The The Apostles Teach that it was Neither Christ nor the Saviour, but ... A Revival Sermon Resources What is a blessing according to the Bible? What does the Bible mean by bless? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Wilderness of Sin? | GotQuestions.org Had it ever rained before the Flood in Noah's day? | GotQuestions.org Dew: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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