The term "peddle" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of peddling, particularly in the sense of trading or selling goods, can be related to various biblical principles and narratives. In biblical times, trade and commerce were integral parts of daily life, and the Bible provides guidance on ethical practices in these areas.

Biblical Context

In the ancient Near East, peddlers were itinerant merchants who traveled from place to place selling goods. This practice is indirectly referenced in the Bible through discussions of trade and commerce. The Bible emphasizes honesty and integrity in business dealings, warning against deceit and exploitation.

Scriptural References

1. Honesty in Trade: The Bible underscores the importance of honesty in trade. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This verse highlights the expectation of fairness and integrity in all commercial transactions, a principle that would apply to peddlers as well.

2. Condemnation of Exploitation: The Bible condemns those who exploit others for personal gain. In Micah 6:10-11 , the prophet questions, "Can I forget any longer the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked and the short ephah which is accursed? Shall I acquit a man with dishonest scales and with a bag of false weights?" This passage reflects God's disapproval of deceitful practices in trade.

3. New Testament Warnings: The New Testament also addresses the issue of peddling, particularly in the context of spreading the Gospel. In 2 Corinthians 2:17 , Paul writes, "For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God." Here, Paul contrasts the sincere preaching of the Gospel with those who exploit it for financial gain, using the metaphor of peddling to describe the latter.

Ethical Implications

The biblical perspective on peddling, when understood as a metaphor for dishonest or exploitative practices, serves as a reminder of the ethical standards expected of believers. Christians are called to conduct their business with integrity, reflecting the character of God in their dealings. The Bible's teachings encourage believers to avoid greed and to prioritize righteousness over profit.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, peddlers played a significant role in the distribution of goods. They were often seen as both necessary and potentially suspect, given the opportunities for dishonest gain. The biblical admonitions against deceitful practices in trade would have been particularly relevant to these itinerant merchants.

Overall, while the specific term "peddle" may not appear in the biblical text, the principles surrounding ethical trade and the condemnation of deceitful practices are clearly articulated throughout Scripture. These teachings continue to inform Christian ethics in business and commerce today.1. (v. i.) To travel about with a small stock of wares for sale; to go from place to place, or from house to house, for the purpose of retailing goods; as, to peddle without a license.

2. (v. i.) To do a small business; to be busy about trifles; to piddle.

3. (v. t.) To sell from place to place; to retail by carrying around from customer to customer; to hawk; hence, to retail in very small quantities; as, to peddle vegetables or tinware.

Soul-Healing First: Body-Healing Second
... Hence the profound wisdom of Christ and of His Gospel in that, when it begins the
task of healing, it does not peddle and potter on the surface, but goes ...
/.../expositions of holy scripture b/soul-healing first body-healing second.htm

Nevertheless I Tell You the Truth; it is Expedient for You that I ...
... Or do you go to some commentary, and then come and peddle out your dry stuff to
your classes, that you get out of the commentaries and books, without any of ...
/.../finney/lectures to professing christians/nevertheless i tell you the.htm

Self-Respect and Self-Righteousness
... Only tamper and peddle with the outside symptoms of his complaint, instead of going
to the physician, that he may find out and cure the complaint itself. ...
/.../kingsley/the good news of god/sermon xi self-respect and self-righteousness.htm

Peddle (1 Occurrence)
... about with a small stock of wares for sale; to go from place to place, or from house
to house, for the purpose of retailing goods; as, to peddle without a ...
/p/peddle.htm - 7k

Pedai'ah (8 Occurrences)
Pedai'ah. Pedaiah, Pedai'ah. Peddle . Multi-Version Concordance Pedai'ah (8
Occurrences). ... (See RSV). Pedaiah, Pedai'ah. Peddle . Reference Bible.
/p/pedai'ah.htm - 8k

Peddlers (1 Occurrence)

/p/peddlers.htm - 6k

Hawk (6 Occurrences)
... 7. (vt) To offer for sale by outcry in the street; to carry (merchandise) about
from place to place for sale; to peddle; as, to hawk goods or pamphlets. ...
/h/hawk.htm - 14k

Peddling (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Peddle. 2. (a.) Hawking; acting
as a peddler. 3. (a.) Petty; insignificant. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/p/peddling.htm - 6k

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