Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the act of reclining was a common posture during meals and social gatherings, reflecting cultural customs of the ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world. This practice is frequently mentioned in the New Testament, providing insight into the social and religious life of the period.Cultural Context Reclining at meals was a sign of leisure and freedom, often associated with banquets and special occasions. In the Greco-Roman world, diners would recline on couches arranged around a central table, a practice adopted by the Jews during the Hellenistic period. This posture allowed for a more relaxed and intimate dining experience, facilitating conversation and fellowship. Biblical References 1. The Last Supper: One of the most significant instances of reclining in the Bible is during the Last Supper. In the Gospel of John, it is noted that the disciple whom Jesus loved was reclining next to Him (John 13:23: "One of His disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at His side"). This intimate setting underscores the close relationship between Jesus and His disciples and sets the stage for the profound teachings and events that would follow. 2. Feeding of the Five Thousand: In the account of the feeding of the five thousand, Jesus instructs the crowd to sit down, or recline, on the grass before He performs the miracle of multiplying the loaves and fishes (Mark 6:39: "Then Jesus directed them to have the people sit in groups on the green grass"). This organized reclining facilitated the distribution of food and highlighted the communal aspect of the miracle. 3. Parables and Teachings: Jesus often used the imagery of reclining at a banquet to illustrate the kingdom of God. In the parable of the great banquet, those invited are depicted as reclining at the table, symbolizing the joy and fellowship of God's kingdom (Luke 14:10: "But when you are invited, go and recline in the least important place, so that your host will come and tell you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests"). 4. Anointing of Jesus: The act of reclining also appears in the account of Jesus being anointed by a sinful woman. While Jesus was reclining at the table in the house of Simon the Pharisee, the woman anointed His feet with perfume, demonstrating her repentance and devotion (Luke 7:36-38: "Then one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to eat with him, and He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table"). Theological Significance Reclining in the biblical narrative often signifies more than just a physical posture; it represents a state of rest, acceptance, and fellowship. In the context of Jesus' ministry, reclining at meals with sinners and tax collectors was a radical demonstration of His mission to seek and save the lost, breaking social barriers and extending grace to the marginalized. The imagery of reclining at a banquet is also eschatological, pointing to the future Messianic banquet where believers will enjoy eternal fellowship with Christ. This theme is echoed in Revelation 19:9 (BSB: "Then the angel told me to write, 'Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.'"). In summary, the act of reclining in the Bible is rich with cultural, social, and theological implications, offering a window into the practices of the time and the profound truths of the Christian faith. Greek 345. anakeimai -- to be laid up, to recline ... Word Origin from ana and keimai Definition to be laid up, to recline NASB Word Usage dinner guests (3), reclined (1), reclines (2), reclining (7), seated (1). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/345.htm - 7k Library Hold Fast in the Meantime this Persuasion, While I Examine a ... The Royal Pair in their Glorious Chariot Shaping a Prayer on the Anvil of the Knees. Of the Cruelty of the Heathens against the Christians. Of the Fact that it is not Without Reason that the Names of Angels ... "Lay up for Yourselves Treasures in Heaven. " The Disembodied Soul May Think of Itself under a Bodily Form. Whether Liberality is the Greatest of the virtues? Invention of the Lyre; Allegorizing the Appearance and Position of ... What it is to Know God, --Tendency of this Knowledge. Thesaurus Reclines (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Reclines (1 Occurrence). Luke 22:27 for who is greater? he who is reclining (at meat), or he who is ministering? ... /r/reclines.htm - 6k Reclined (7 Occurrences) Reclineth (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Reclines (1 Occurrence)Luke 22:27 Subtopics Related Terms |
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