The term "pilled" is encountered in the context of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Genesis. It refers to the act of peeling or stripping bark from branches, a practice that is notably mentioned in the narrative of Jacob and Laban. This entry explores the biblical usage and significance of the term within the scriptural context.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to "pilled" is found in Genesis 30:37-39 :

"Then Jacob took fresh branches of poplar, almond, and plane trees, and peeled white stripes in them, exposing the white inner wood of the branches. Then he set the peeled branches in the troughs in front of the flocks—where they came to drink. And the flocks bred in front of the branches, and they bore young that were streaked or speckled or spotted."

Context and Significance:

In this passage, Jacob employs a unique breeding strategy to increase his share of Laban's flock. The act of "pilling" or peeling the bark from the branches to expose the white inner wood is part of a larger narrative where Jacob seeks to prosper despite Laban's attempts to deceive him. The peeled branches are placed in the watering troughs where the flocks come to drink, and as a result, the flocks produce offspring that are streaked, speckled, or spotted—traits that Jacob had arranged to be his wages.

The significance of this act can be understood in several ways:

1. Divine Providence and Human Agency: Jacob's actions, while seemingly superstitious or based on folk practices, are ultimately underpinned by divine providence. God had promised to bless Jacob, and this episode demonstrates how God's promises are fulfilled through both natural and supernatural means. Jacob's ingenuity and God's blessing work in tandem to ensure his prosperity.

2. Symbolism and Covenant: The peeled branches may symbolize the covenantal relationship between God and Jacob. Just as the branches are stripped to reveal their inner core, Jacob's faith and reliance on God are laid bare through his actions. The resulting increase in his flocks serves as a tangible sign of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.

3. Moral and Ethical Considerations: The narrative also raises questions about ethics and morality. Jacob's strategy, while clever, involves a degree of manipulation. However, within the broader context of Laban's repeated deceit, Jacob's actions can be seen as a justified response to ensure fairness and justice.

Cultural and Historical Insights:

The practice of using visual stimuli to influence animal breeding, as described in this passage, reflects ancient Near Eastern customs and beliefs. While modern science does not support the effectiveness of such methods, the account provides valuable insight into the cultural and historical context of the patriarchal narratives.

In summary, the term "pilled" in the biblical context is more than a mere agricultural technique; it is a narrative device that highlights themes of divine intervention, covenant faithfulness, and the complex interplay of human actions and divine will.1. (imp. & p. p.) of Pill.

2. (a.) Stripped of hair; scant of hair; bald.

The Bishop at Work
... the intrepid bishop. What? Allow God and the Queen of Heaven to be robbed?
Who ever agreed to let Lincoln be so pilled? He is but ...
/.../marson/hugh bishop of lincoln/chapter v the bishop at.htm

A Discourse
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm

Pilled (2 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (imp. & pp) of Pill. 2. (a.) Stripped of hair; scant
of hair; bald. Multi-Version Concordance Pilled (2 Occurrences). ...
/p/pilled.htm - 7k

Pillow (8 Occurrences)

/p/pillow.htm - 9k

Green (72 Occurrences)
... Genesis 30:37 And Jacob took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel and chestnut
tree; and pilled white streaks in them, and made the white appear which ...
/g/green.htm - 31k

Pulled (84 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (imp. & pp) of Pull. 2. (a.) Plucked; pilled;
molting. Multi-Version Concordance Pulled (84 Occurrences). ...
/p/pulled.htm - 33k

Chestnut (2 Occurrences)
... Genesis 30:37 And Jacob took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel and chestnut
tree; and pilled white streaks in them, and made the white appear which ...
/c/chestnut.htm - 8k

Hazel (1 Occurrence)
... Genesis 30:37 And Jacob took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel and chestnut
tree; and pilled white streaks in them, and made the white appear which ...
/h/hazel.htm - 7k

Pillars (132 Occurrences)

/p/pillars.htm - 39k

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