Topical Bible: Honey: An Article of Merchandise from Palestine

◄ Honey: An Article of Merchandise from Palestine ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Honey, a natural sweetener produced by bees from the nectar of flowers, holds significant importance in the biblical context, both as a symbol and as a practical commodity. In the ancient Near East, including the land of Palestine, honey was a valuable article of merchandise, often associated with abundance and prosperity.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The Bible frequently mentions honey, highlighting its desirability and sweetness. In the Old Testament, honey is often used metaphorically to describe the richness and delight of God's word and wisdom. For instance, Psalm 19:10 states, "They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb." Similarly, Proverbs 24:13-14 advises, "Eat honey, my son, for it is good, and the honeycomb is sweet to your taste. Know that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future for you, and your hope will not be cut off."

Honey also symbolizes the abundance of the Promised Land. In Exodus 3:8 , God describes the land He will give to the Israelites as "a land flowing with milk and honey," indicating its fertility and the prosperity awaiting His people. This imagery recurs throughout the Pentateuch and serves as a reminder of God's provision and blessing.

Economic and Cultural Significance

In ancient Palestine, honey was not only a dietary staple but also a significant trade item. It was used in various culinary applications, including as a sweetener and preservative. The production of honey was a well-established practice, with beekeeping being a common occupation. Honey's value as a trade commodity is evident in its inclusion in lists of goods exchanged in commerce, as seen in Ezekiel 27:17 , where Judah and Israel are noted for trading wheat, honey, oil, and balm with Tyre.

The cultural significance of honey extended beyond its economic value. It was often used in religious rituals and offerings, symbolizing purity and the sweetness of divine favor. Leviticus 2:11 mentions that no grain offering presented to the Lord should be made with honey, indicating its special status and the need for offerings to be distinct from common food items.

Honey in Daily Life

In the daily life of ancient Israelites, honey was a cherished food item. It was consumed directly from the comb or used to sweeten various dishes. The account of Jonathan in 1 Samuel 14:27 illustrates the commonality of honey in the diet: "But Jonathan had not heard that his father had bound the people with the oath. So he reached out the end of the staff in his hand, dipped it into the honeycomb, and raised his hand to his mouth; and his eyes brightened."

Honey's nutritional and medicinal properties were also recognized, contributing to its esteemed status. It was believed to have healing qualities and was used in various remedies and treatments.

Conclusion

Honey, as an article of merchandise from Palestine, holds a multifaceted role in the biblical narrative. Its presence in Scripture underscores its economic, cultural, and spiritual significance, reflecting the richness of God's creation and His provision for His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 27:17
Judah, and the land of Israel, they were your merchants: they traded in your market wheat of Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Commerce
... of land, to invest the second in merchandise, and to ... of such produce as wheat, oil,
balsam, honey, figs, etc ... to every ten pounds, if the article consisted of ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 12 commerce.htm

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... indeed, a land of milk and honey, and its ... the designation of the inhabitants of
Palestine before the ... Mikom, Milkam, and especially with the article, Ham-molek ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm