Definition and Significance:
Pastureland in biblical times refers to the open fields and grasslands used for grazing livestock, such as sheep, goats, and cattle. These lands were essential for the sustenance of the agrarian societies depicted in the Bible, providing food and resources for both the animals and the people who depended on them. The concept of pastureland is deeply intertwined with themes of provision, abundance, and divine care.

Biblical References:
Pastureland is frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, often symbolizing God's provision and care for His people. In Genesis 47:4, the sons of Jacob appeal to Pharaoh for permission to dwell in the land of Goshen, saying, "We have come to sojourn in the land, for there is no pasture for your servants’ flocks, because the famine is severe in Canaan." This highlights the importance of pastureland for survival and prosperity.

In Psalm 23:1-2, the imagery of pastureland is used to describe the Lord's care for His people: "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." Here, green pastures symbolize peace, rest, and divine provision, reflecting the shepherd's role in guiding and nurturing the flock.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Israel, pasturelands were often communal, shared among families and tribes. The allocation and use of these lands were governed by customs and laws, as seen in Numbers 35:2-3, where the Lord instructs Moses to allocate pasturelands to the Levites: "Command the Israelites to give the Levites cities to live in, along with pastureland around the cities. They will have the cities to live in and the pasturelands for their cattle, flocks, and all their other livestock."

The pastoral lifestyle was central to the identity of the Hebrew people, with many patriarchs, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, being described as shepherds. This lifestyle fostered a deep connection to the land and an understanding of dependence on God's provision.

Theological Implications:
Pastureland serves as a metaphor for spiritual nourishment and divine care. In Ezekiel 34:14-15, God promises to care for His people as a shepherd cares for his flock: "I will tend them in good pasture, and their grazing place will be on the mountain heights of Israel. There they will lie down in a good grazing land; they will feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I will tend My flock and make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD."

This imagery is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10:11, emphasizing His role in providing for and protecting His followers. The concept of pastureland thus becomes a powerful symbol of God's unwavering commitment to His people, offering sustenance, security, and rest.

Conclusion:
Pastureland in the Bible is more than just a physical space; it is a rich symbol of God's provision and care. Through the imagery of green pastures and shepherding, Scripture communicates themes of abundance, peace, and divine guidance, underscoring the relationship between God and His people.

The Census and the Journey of the Holy Family
... detour eastwards of Jerusalem. Joseph's father had owned pastureland round
here, so he knew the country very well. If they had traveled ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/x the census and the.htm

Pastureland (6 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Pastureland (6 Occurrences). Numbers 35:5 You shall
measure outside of the city for the east side two thousand ...
/p/pastureland.htm - 8k

Pasturelands (42 Occurrences)

/p/pasturelands.htm - 16k

Pasture-grounds (4 Occurrences)
Pasture-grounds. Pasture-fed, Pasture-grounds. Pastureland . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (DBY). Pasture-fed, Pasture-grounds. Pastureland . Reference Bible
/p/pasture-grounds.htm - 7k

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