Topical Bible: Raisins: Given to David at Ziklag

◄ Raisins: Given to David at Ziklag ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Raisins, dried grapes, are mentioned several times in the Bible as a source of sustenance and a symbol of provision. In the context of David at Ziklag, raisins play a significant role in the narrative of David's time in exile and his interactions with those who supported him during his struggles.

Biblical Context

The account of raisins being given to David is found in 1 Samuel 30. During this period, David and his men were residing in Ziklag, a town given to him by Achish, the Philistine king of Gath. While David and his men were away, the Amalekites raided Ziklag, capturing the women and children and burning the town. Upon their return, David and his men were devastated, and David sought the LORD's guidance on whether to pursue the raiders.

Provision and Support

As David pursued the Amalekites, he encountered an Egyptian servant who had been abandoned by his Amalekite master. This servant was found in a field, weak and near death. David's men provided him with food and drink to revive him. The Bible records in 1 Samuel 30:11-12 : "They found an Egyptian in the field and brought him to David. They gave him water to drink and food to eat— a piece of a cake of pressed figs and two clusters of raisins. He ate and was revived, for he had not eaten any food or drunk any water for three days and three nights."

The provision of raisins, along with other food, was instrumental in reviving the Egyptian, who then guided David to the Amalekite camp. This act of kindness and provision was pivotal in David's successful recovery of all that had been taken from Ziklag.

Symbolism and Significance

Raisins, as a preserved and nourishing food, symbolize sustenance and God's provision in times of need. In the narrative of David at Ziklag, the giving of raisins underscores the theme of divine providence and the importance of compassion and generosity. The act of sharing food with the Egyptian servant not only reflects David's leadership and mercy but also serves as a reminder of the blessings that come from caring for others.

The inclusion of raisins in this account highlights the practical and symbolic role of food in biblical narratives, where physical nourishment often parallels spiritual and communal support. The account of David at Ziklag, with the mention of raisins, illustrates the interconnectedness of human actions, divine guidance, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

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1 Chronicles 12:40
Moreover they that were near them, even to Issachar and Zebulun and Naphtali, brought bread on asses, and on camels, and on mules, and on oxen, and meat, meal, cakes of figs, and bunches of raisins, and wine, and oil, and oxen, and sheep abundantly: for there was joy in Israel.
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