Topical Encyclopedia Sheepshearing in biblical times was a significant agricultural and social event, often associated with celebration and festivity. It was a time when sheep owners would gather to shear their flocks, a task that was both labor-intensive and crucial for the production of wool, a valuable commodity in ancient economies.Biblical References and Cultural Significance Sheepshearing is mentioned several times in the Bible, highlighting its importance in the agrarian society of ancient Israel. The process of shearing sheep was not only a practical necessity but also an occasion for social gatherings and feasting. This is evident in the account of Nabal, a wealthy man from Maon, who was "shearing his sheep in Carmel" (1 Samuel 25:2). The event was marked by a feast "like that of a king" (1 Samuel 25:36), indicating the celebratory nature of sheepshearing. In Genesis 38:12-13, the narrative of Judah and Tamar also involves sheepshearing. Judah went up to Timnah to shear his sheep, and it was during this time that Tamar disguised herself to meet him. This account underscores the social and familial interactions that could occur during such events. Economic and Social Aspects Sheepshearing was a time of economic activity, as the wool gathered was a significant source of income. The process required skilled laborers, and it was common for landowners to hire shearers to assist with the task. The gathering of workers and the distribution of wages are implied in the account of Laban and Jacob, where Jacob tended Laban's flocks and negotiated his wages based on the offspring of the sheep (Genesis 30:31-43). The event also provided an opportunity for hospitality and generosity. In 2 Samuel 13:23-24, Absalom invited all the king's sons to his sheepshearing in Baal Hazor, illustrating the communal aspect of the occasion. It was a time when relationships could be strengthened, and social bonds reinforced. Moral and Ethical Lessons The biblical accounts of sheepshearing often carry moral and ethical lessons. The account of Nabal and David in 1 Samuel 25 highlights themes of hospitality, generosity, and divine justice. Nabal's refusal to provide for David's men during the sheepshearing feast led to his downfall, while Abigail's wise intervention and generosity averted disaster and ultimately led to her becoming David's wife. Similarly, the account of Judah and Tamar in Genesis 38 reveals themes of justice and redemption. Tamar's actions, though unconventional, led to the continuation of Judah's lineage, which is significant in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:3). Symbolism and Prophetic Imagery Sheepshearing also carries symbolic and prophetic imagery in the Bible. The act of shearing, which involves the removal of wool, can symbolize purification and renewal. In Isaiah 53:7, the suffering servant is likened to "a lamb led to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so He did not open His mouth" . This imagery points to the humility and submission of Christ in His sacrificial role. In summary, sheepshearing in the Bible is depicted as a multifaceted event with economic, social, and spiritual dimensions. It serves as a backdrop for narratives that convey important moral teachings and prophetic symbolism, reflecting the rich tapestry of life in biblical times. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHEEP-SHEARINGshep'-sher-ing: The sheep-shearing is done in the springtime, either by the owners (Genesis 31:19; Genesis 38:13 Deuteronomy 15:19 1 Samuel 25:2, 4) or by regular "shearers" (gazaz) (1 Samuel 25:7, 11 Isaiah 53:7). There were special houses for this work in Old Testament times (2 Kings 10:12, 14). The shearing was carefully done so as to keep the fleece whole (Judges 6:37). The sheep of a flock are not branded but spotted. Lime or some dyestuff is painted in one or more spots on the wool of the back as a distinguishing mark. In 2 Kings 3:4, Mesha, the chief or sheikh of Moab, was a sheep-master, literally, "a sheep spotter." Library Chapter xxxviii Chapter xxxi Thesaurus Sheepshearing/s/sheepshearing.htm - 7k Sheep-shearers (3 Occurrences) Sheep-shearing (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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