Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, butter was a significant and valued food product, often associated with abundance and prosperity. It is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, highlighting its role in the diet and culture of ancient peoples.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 18:8 : "Then Abraham brought curds and milk and the calf that had been prepared, and set them before the men. And he stood by them under the tree as they ate." In this passage, butter, referred to as "curds," is part of the meal Abraham offers to his divine visitors. This indicates its status as a food suitable for honored guests, reflecting hospitality and wealth. 2. Deuteronomy 32:14 : "with curds from the herd and milk from the flock, with fattened lambs and goats, with choice rams of Bashan, and the finest kernels of wheat—you drank the foaming blood of the grape." Here, butter is listed among the blessings and abundance provided by God to the Israelites. It is part of the rich diet that signifies God's provision and care for His people. 3. Job 20:17 : "He will not enjoy the streams, the rivers flowing with honey and cream." In this verse, the imagery of rivers flowing with cream (or butter) is used to describe a land of plenty. The absence of such abundance is a metaphor for the loss of prosperity and blessing. 4. Proverbs 30:33 : "For as the churning of milk produces butter, and the twisting of the nose draws blood, so stirring up anger produces strife." This proverb uses the process of making butter as an analogy for the natural consequences of certain actions. The churning of milk into butter is a familiar process, illustrating the inevitability of outcomes. Cultural and Dietary Significance: In the ancient Near East, butter was made by churning milk, a process that separated the fat from the liquid. It was a staple in the diet, providing essential fats and calories. Butter was often consumed with bread or used in cooking, and it was a symbol of richness and nourishment. The production of butter required a surplus of milk, indicating a level of prosperity and the presence of livestock. This made butter a luxury item in some contexts, associated with feasting and celebration. Symbolism and Metaphor: Butter, as a product of milk, is often used metaphorically in the Bible to represent richness and abundance. Its presence in the diet of the Israelites and its mention in various biblical texts underscore its importance as a symbol of God's blessing and provision. In summary, butter in the Bible is more than just a food item; it is a representation of God's generosity and the prosperity of His people. Its inclusion in meals and its metaphorical use in Scripture highlight its cultural and spiritual significance in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 32:14Butter of cows, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and you did drink the pure blood of the grape. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 17:29 Library Twenty-Seven Articles Respecting the Reformation of the Christian ... The Name Children Does not Imply Instruction in Elementary ... The Northern Mountains Brother Hugh Six Years in North Bengal --Missionary and Indigo Planter Answers to Prayer Christianity Misunderstood by Believers. The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea Another Wonderful Record of 25. A Few Sighs from Hell; Resources Should Christians stockpile food/supplies in preparation for a possible future disaster? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the different types of fasting? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about feeding the hungry? | 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 |