Topical Encyclopedia Bread holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, serving as both a staple of daily sustenance and a profound symbol of spiritual truths. Throughout the Scriptures, bread is mentioned in various contexts, reflecting its importance in the ancient Near Eastern diet and its deeper theological implications.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, bread is often associated with God's provision. The first mention of bread occurs in Genesis 3:19, where God tells Adam, "By the sweat of your brow you will eat your bread, until you return to the ground." This highlights the toil required to produce food after the Fall. Bread is also central to the account of the Exodus, where unleavened bread, or matzah, is commanded to be eaten during the Passover (Exodus 12:8). This unleavened bread symbolizes the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt, as there was no time for the dough to rise. The manna provided in the wilderness is another significant instance of bread as divine provision. In Exodus 16:4, the Lord says, "Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you." This miraculous sustenance underscores God's care for His people and foreshadows the spiritual nourishment He provides. New Testament References In the New Testament, bread continues to hold symbolic and practical importance. Jesus' feeding of the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish (Matthew 14:17-21) demonstrates His compassion and divine power. This miracle also prefigures the spiritual nourishment He offers, as He later declares, "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35). Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the essential sustenance for spiritual life, offering eternal satisfaction beyond physical hunger. The Lord's Prayer includes a petition for daily bread (Matthew 6:11), emphasizing reliance on God for daily needs. This request reflects a trust in God's provision and a recognition of human dependence on Him. Bread in Worship and Sacrament Bread is integral to Jewish and Christian worship practices. In the Old Testament, the showbread, or "bread of the Presence," was placed in the Tabernacle as a perpetual offering before the Lord (Leviticus 24:5-9). This bread symbolized God's covenant with Israel and His continual presence among His people. In the New Testament, bread becomes a central element of the Lord's Supper, instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper. During this meal, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, "This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19). The breaking of bread in this context signifies Jesus' sacrificial death and serves as a means of grace and communion with Him. Cultural and Symbolic Significance Bread's cultural significance in biblical times cannot be overstated. It was a primary food source, often made from barley or wheat, and was a symbol of hospitality and fellowship. Sharing bread was an act of community and peace, as seen in the account of Abraham entertaining angels (Genesis 18:6). Symbolically, bread represents life, sustenance, and God's provision. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the spiritual nourishment found in Christ. The recurring theme of bread throughout Scripture underscores its role as both a physical necessity and a profound spiritual metaphor. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 18:5And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort you your hearts; after that you shall pass on: for therefore are you come to your servant. And they said, So do, as you have said. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 17:17 Library Whether Bread Can be Converted into the Body of Christ? Whether Food or Drink Taken Beforehand Hinders the Receiving of ... The Bread of the Presence Whether in this Sacrament the Substance of the Bread and Wine ... Whether the Form of the Consecration of the Bread Accomplishes Its ... Whether the Sacramental Species Can Nourish? The Morning-Meal in the Pharisee's House - Meals and Feasts among ... Whether the Eucharist is Necessary for Salvation? Whether the Eucharist is a Sacrament? Whether the Just Man Alone May Eat Christ Sacramentally? Resources What is the biblical view on genetically modified food (GMO)? | GotQuestions.orgWill we eat food in heaven? | GotQuestions.org What is a Daniel Fast? | GotQuestions.org Food: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commissary for Armies, Cattle Driven With Food: Articles of a Hymn Sung Afterward Food: Articles of Men and Women did not Partake Together Food: Articles of Parched (Roasted) Corn (Grain) Food: Articles of Prepared by Females Food: Articles of Thanks Given Before Receiving Food: Things Prohibited As Food Related Terms |
    |