Topical Encyclopedia
In biblical times, agriculture was a central aspect of daily life and survival, and the plough was one of the most essential implements used in farming. The plough, an ancient tool, was crucial for preparing the soil for sowing seeds, ensuring a successful harvest. The Bible provides various references to the plough and its significance in the agrarian society of the Israelites.
Design and FunctionalityThe plough in biblical times was a simple yet effective tool, typically made of wood, sometimes reinforced with metal. It consisted of a beam, a handle, and a ploughshare, which was the cutting blade that turned the soil. The plough was often drawn by oxen, as seen in
1 Kings 19:19, where Elisha is found "plowing with twelve yoke of oxen." This indicates the use of multiple animals to increase efficiency in turning the soil.
Symbolism and Spiritual LessonsThe plough is frequently used metaphorically in Scripture to convey spiritual truths and moral lessons. In
Luke 9:62, Jesus states, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and then looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." This passage emphasizes the importance of commitment and focus in the Christian life, drawing a parallel between the dedication required in ploughing a straight furrow and the steadfastness needed in following Christ.
Cultural and Historical ContextIn the ancient Near East, the plough was a symbol of productivity and prosperity. The act of ploughing was often associated with peace and stability, as seen in the prophetic vision of
Isaiah 2:4, where swords are beaten into ploughshares, symbolizing a future era of peace: "They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks."
Legal and Ethical ConsiderationsThe Mosaic Law contains specific instructions regarding the use of the plough, reflecting ethical considerations in agricultural practices.
Deuteronomy 22:10 commands, "Do not plow with an ox and a donkey yoked together." This law underscores the importance of fairness and practicality in farming, as mismatched animals would create an imbalance, hindering effective ploughing.
Economic and Social ImplicationsThe plough was not only a tool for individual farmers but also a symbol of communal well-being. A well-ploughed field promised a bountiful harvest, which was essential for the sustenance of families and the community. The absence of ploughing, due to war or famine, often signified hardship and divine judgment, as seen in
Jeremiah 4:3, where the prophet calls the people to "break up your unplowed ground and do not sow among thorns," urging them to prepare their hearts for repentance and renewal.
In summary, the plough in biblical times was more than just an agricultural implement; it was a vital part of the cultural, spiritual, and economic fabric of society. Its presence in Scripture serves as a reminder of the diligence required in both physical and spiritual endeavors.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Samuel 13:20But all the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to sharpen every man his share, and his coulter, and his ax, and his mattock.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
What Carey did for Science --Founder of the Agricultural and ...
... their "proportionally simple and wretched farming utensils," the ... Trade was as depressed
as agriculture. ... plants, the improvement of the implements of husbandry ...
/.../smith/the life of william carey/chapter xii what carey did.htm
Chaldaean Civilization
... brick-making, industrial implements in stone and metal, goldsmiths, engravers of
cylinders, weavers; the state of the working classes. Farming and cultivation ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm
Resources
What is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the Hutterites, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Shemitah? | GotQuestions.orgAgriculture: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
