Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a "tray" as understood in modern terms is not explicitly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the function of a tray as a serving or carrying vessel can be inferred from various passages that describe the preparation and presentation of food and offerings.Cultural Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, including those of the Israelites, meals and offerings were often presented on flat surfaces or in shallow dishes. These could be made of various materials such as wood, clay, or metal, depending on the wealth and status of the household. The use of such items would have been common in both domestic and religious settings. Biblical References While the term "tray" is not directly found in the Bible, the concept can be related to several passages that describe the presentation of food and offerings: 1. Offerings and Sacrifices: In the context of the Tabernacle and Temple, offerings were presented on altars, which could be seen as large, stationary trays. Leviticus 2:1-2 describes the grain offering: "When anyone presents a grain offering to the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour. He is to pour olive oil on it, put frankincense on it, and bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests. The priest shall take a handful of the fine flour and oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn this memorial portion on the altar, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD." 2. Feasting and Hospitality: In Genesis 18:6-8, Abraham prepares a meal for his divine visitors: "So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah and said, 'Quick, prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.' Meanwhile, Abraham ran to the herd, selected a tender, choice calf, and gave it to a servant, who hurried to prepare it. Then he brought curds and milk and the calf that had been prepared, and set these before them. While they ate, he stood near them under a tree." The act of setting food before guests implies the use of serving vessels, akin to trays. 3. Royal Banquets: In the account of Esther, banquets are a central theme. Esther 5:4-5 states, "If it pleases the king,” replied Esther, “may the king and Haman come today to the banquet I have prepared for him.” “Hurry,” commanded the king, “and bring Haman, so that we can do as Esther has requested.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared." The preparation and serving of food at such events would have involved the use of trays or similar items to present the meal. Symbolic Significance In a symbolic sense, the act of serving and presenting food or offerings on a tray can be seen as an act of hospitality, reverence, and worship. The careful preparation and presentation of offerings to God reflect the heart of worship and the desire to honor Him with the best of what one has. Conclusion While the Bible does not specifically mention trays, the concept is woven into the fabric of biblical hospitality and worship practices. The use of serving vessels in ancient times underscores the importance of community, fellowship, and devotion to God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (v. t.) To betray; to deceive.2. (n.) A small trough or wooden vessel, sometimes scooped out of a block of wood, for various domestic uses, as in making bread, chopping meat, etc. 3. (n.) A flat, broad vessel on which dishes, glasses, etc., are carried; a waiter; a salver. 4. (n.) A shallow box, generally without a top, often used within a chest, trunk, box, etc., as a removable receptacle for small or light articles. Greek 2691. katastreniao -- to become wanton against ... to become wanton against. Part of Speech: Verb Transliteration: katastreniao Phonetic Spelling: (kat-as-tray-nee-ah'-o) Short Definition: I grow wanton towards ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2691.htm - 6k Library Virtues of the Mantle. It Pleads in Its Own Defence. The Boyhood of Jesus A Corps Commander The Consulship of Eutropius 'Is it I?' A Casket of Jewels The Purification of Mary Hebrews xi. 17-19 Under Ban of the Ritual The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem Thesaurus Tray (1 Occurrence)... light articles. Multi-Version Concordance Tray (1 Occurrence). Amos 9:9 For see, I will give orders, and I will have Israel moved ... /t/tray.htm - 7k Galley (1 Occurrence) Trough (7 Occurrences) Trays (3 Occurrences) Trawl-nets (4 Occurrences) Till (774 Occurrences) Plateau (13 Occurrences) Blasting (4 Occurrences) Case (138 Occurrences) Smallest (16 Occurrences) Resources Tray: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tray (1 Occurrence)Amos 9:9 Subtopics Related Terms |
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