Topical Bible: Mill: Operated by Women

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, mills were essential for daily life, primarily used for grinding grain into flour. These mills were often operated by women, a task that was both labor-intensive and crucial for the sustenance of families and communities. The operation of mills by women is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, highlighting the role of women in domestic and economic activities.

The most common type of mill in ancient Israel was the hand mill, which consisted of two circular stones. The upper stone, or "rider," was turned by hand over the lower stationary stone, grinding the grain placed between them. This task was typically performed by women, as indicated in various scriptural references.

In Exodus 11:5 , the text refers to the "firstborn of the maidservant who is behind the mill," illustrating that women, including servants, were engaged in milling activities. This passage underscores the widespread nature of this task among women of different social standings.

Isaiah 47:2 provides another reference: "Take millstones and grind flour; remove your veil, strip off your skirt, bare your thigh, wade through the streams." Here, the prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of a woman grinding at the mill to symbolize the humbling of Babylon. The act of grinding flour is depicted as a common and humble task, reinforcing the association of women with this essential labor.

In the New Testament, Matthew 24:41 states, "Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left." This verse, part of Jesus' discourse on the end times, again highlights the role of women in operating mills, portraying it as a routine aspect of daily life.

The operation of mills by women also had social and communal implications. It was a task that often brought women together, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. The sound of the millstone was a familiar and comforting presence in ancient households, signifying normalcy and provision.

In Judges 16:21 , we see a different context where Samson, after being captured by the Philistines, is forced to grind grain in prison. This reversal of roles, where a man is made to perform a task typically associated with women, serves to emphasize Samson's humiliation and the loss of his former strength and status.

The operation of mills by women in biblical times reflects the broader theme of women's contributions to family and society. While often performed in the domestic sphere, the task of milling was vital for the sustenance and economic stability of the community. The biblical references to women at the mill provide insight into the daily lives of women in ancient Israel and their integral role in maintaining the household and supporting the community.