Ploughing-time in biblical contexts refers to the agricultural season when the ground is prepared for sowing seeds. This period is crucial for agrarian societies, such as those depicted in the Bible, where successful harvests were vital for survival and prosperity. The practice of ploughing is mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures, often symbolizing preparation, diligence, and the anticipation of future growth.

Biblical References and Symbolism

In the Bible, ploughing is frequently used as a metaphor for spiritual readiness and moral preparation. For instance, in Hosea 10:12 , the prophet exhorts the people, "Sow for yourselves righteousness and reap the fruit of loving devotion; break up your unplowed ground. For it is time to seek the LORD until He comes and sends righteousness upon you like rain." Here, the act of breaking up unplowed ground symbolizes repentance and the readiness to receive God's blessings.

Ploughing-time is also mentioned in the context of the agricultural calendar. In Exodus 34:21 , the Lord commands, "Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest; even during the plowing and harvesting times, you must rest." This command underscores the importance of the Sabbath rest, even during the busiest agricultural seasons, highlighting the priority of spiritual observance over economic activity.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, ploughing was typically done with a wooden plough pulled by oxen or other draft animals. The timing of ploughing was critical, as it needed to coincide with the early rains that softened the ground, making it easier to till. The agricultural year in Israel was divided into two main seasons: the early rains (autumn) and the latter rains (spring). Ploughing usually took place after the early rains, preparing the soil for the sowing of winter crops such as wheat and barley.

The importance of ploughing is further emphasized in Proverbs 20:4 , which states, "The sluggard does not plow in season; at harvest time he looks, but nothing is there." This proverb highlights the necessity of timely and diligent work, warning against laziness and its consequences.

Spiritual Lessons

Ploughing-time serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual preparation and the cultivation of a righteous life. Just as the farmer must prepare the soil to ensure a fruitful harvest, believers are called to prepare their hearts and lives to receive God's word and bear spiritual fruit. The process of ploughing, which involves breaking up hard ground, can also be seen as a call to repentance and the removal of obstacles that hinder spiritual growth.

In the New Testament, Jesus uses agricultural imagery to teach spiritual truths. In Luke 9:62 , He declares, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." This statement emphasizes the commitment required to follow Christ, likening it to the focused and forward-looking task of ploughing.

Overall, ploughing-time in the Bible is rich with meaning, illustrating both the practical aspects of ancient agricultural life and the deeper spiritual truths that continue to resonate with believers today.

The Sluggard in Harvest
... And so I desire to lay upon your hearts this threadbare old truth, because you are
living in the ploughing time, and the harvest is months ahead. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/the sluggard in harvest.htm

Ploughing-time (1 Occurrence)
Ploughing-time. Ploughing, Ploughing-time. Ploughman . Multi-Version
Concordance Ploughing-time (1 Occurrence). Exodus ...
/p/ploughing-time.htm - 6k

Ploughing (14 Occurrences)
... Exodus 34:21 Six days let work be done, but on the seventh day take your rest: at
ploughingtime and at the grain-cutting you are to have a day for rest. ...
/p/ploughing.htm - 10k

Grain-cutting (19 Occurrences)
... (BBE). Exodus 34:21 Six days let work be done, but on the seventh day take your
rest: at ploughingtime and at the grain-cutting you are to have a day for rest. ...
/g/grain-cutting.htm - 12k

Ploughman (2 Occurrences)

/p/ploughman.htm - 7k

What does it mean that there is a proper time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1 8)? | GotQuestions.org

What is God's relationship to time? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about time management? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus