Topical Encyclopedia A stewpan, in biblical times, refers to a cooking vessel used for preparing stews and other similar dishes. While the term "stewpan" itself is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of cooking pots and vessels is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the daily life and domestic practices of ancient cultures.Biblical Context and Usage In the ancient Near East, cooking vessels were essential household items, used for preparing meals that often included stews made from meat, vegetables, and grains. The Bible provides several references to cooking pots and the preparation of food, which would have included the use of a stewpan or similar vessel. One notable reference to cooking pots is found in 2 Kings 4:38-41, where the prophet Elisha performs a miracle involving a pot of stew. The passage describes a time of famine when the sons of the prophets were gathered before Elisha. One of them went out to gather herbs and unknowingly picked wild gourds, which he added to the stew. When the men began to eat, they cried out, "There is death in the pot, O man of God!" Elisha then instructed them to bring flour, which he added to the pot, rendering the stew safe to eat. This account highlights the use of a cooking vessel for preparing a communal meal and demonstrates God's provision through His prophet. In Ezekiel 24:3-5, the prophet Ezekiel is instructed to use a cooking pot as a metaphor for the impending judgment on Jerusalem. The passage reads: "Tell this rebellious house a parable and say to them: ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: Put the pot on the fire; put it on and pour in the water. Put in the pieces of meat, all the choice pieces—the thigh and the shoulder. Fill it with the best bones; take the choicest of the flock. Pile wood beneath it and bring it to a boil; cook the bones in it.’" Here, the pot symbolizes the city, and the boiling contents represent the coming destruction and purification. Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Israel, cooking vessels like stewpans were typically made of clay or metal. Clay pots were common due to their availability and affordability, while metal pots, often made of bronze or copper, were more durable and used by wealthier households. The design of these vessels allowed for even heat distribution, making them suitable for slow-cooking stews and soups. The preparation of stews was a practical way to utilize available ingredients, especially during times of scarcity. Stews could be made from a variety of ingredients, including meat, lentils, beans, and vegetables, providing a nutritious and filling meal for families and communities. Spiritual Significance The use of cooking vessels in biblical narratives often carries deeper spiritual meanings. In the account of Elisha and the poisoned stew, the miracle of purifying the pot serves as a reminder of God's power to cleanse and provide, even in dire circumstances. Similarly, Ezekiel's parable using a cooking pot underscores the themes of judgment and redemption, illustrating how God uses everyday objects to convey profound spiritual truths. Overall, while the specific term "stewpan" may not appear in the biblical text, the concept of cooking vessels is integral to understanding the daily life and spiritual lessons of the biblical world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A pan used for stewing.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia STEWPANstu'-pan (Leviticus 11:35 margin). Strong's Hebrew 4802. marchesheth -- a stewpan, saucepan... 4801, 4802. marchesheth. 4803 . a stewpan, saucepan. Transliteration: marchesheth Phonetic Spelling: (mar-kheh'-sheth) Short Definition: pan. ... /hebrew/4802.htm - 6k Thesaurus Stewpan... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) A pan used for stewing. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. STEWPAN. stu'-pan (Leviticus 11:35 margin). See PAN. ... /s/stewpan.htm - 6k Stewing-pan (2 Occurrences) Stick (47 Occurrences) Resources Stewpan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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