Topical Bible: Agriculture or Farming: Often Performed by Hirelings

Bible > Topical > Agriculture or Farming

◄ Agriculture or Farming: Often Performed by Hirelings ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Agriculture, a fundamental aspect of ancient life, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a vital occupation and metaphor for spiritual truths. In biblical times, farming was often performed by hirelings—individuals employed to work the land for wages rather than owning it themselves. This practice is evident in various passages and parables, reflecting both the economic realities of the time and deeper spiritual lessons.

Biblical Context and Economic Realities

In ancient Israel, agriculture was the backbone of society, with the land being a divine gift to the people. The Israelites were primarily an agrarian society, and the land was divided among the tribes and families as an inheritance from God (Joshua 13-21). However, not all individuals owned land. Many worked as hirelings, laboring in the fields of wealthier landowners. This system allowed landowners to manage large estates and harvest their crops efficiently.

The role of hirelings is highlighted in the parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16). Here, Jesus describes a landowner who hires laborers at different times of the day to work in his vineyard, illustrating the kingdom of heaven and God's grace. The hirelings in this parable represent those who are called to work in God's service, regardless of the timing of their call.

Spiritual Implications and Lessons

The concept of hirelings is also used metaphorically in Scripture to convey spiritual truths. In John 10:12-13, Jesus contrasts Himself, the Good Shepherd, with a hireling: "The hired hand is not the shepherd, and the sheep are not his own. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf pounces on them and scatters the flock. The man runs away because he is a hired servant and is unconcerned for the sheep." Here, the hireling symbolizes those who lack genuine commitment and care, serving only for personal gain rather than out of love and responsibility.

This metaphor extends to spiritual leadership, where true shepherds are called to care for their flock with dedication and selflessness, unlike hirelings who may abandon their duties in times of danger or difficulty. The distinction between a hireling and a true shepherd underscores the importance of integrity and devotion in spiritual service.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament also provides insights into the role of hirelings in agriculture. In Leviticus 19:13, the law commands, "You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. The wages of a hired worker must not remain with you until morning." This command underscores the ethical treatment of hirelings, emphasizing fairness and prompt payment for their labor.

Additionally, the book of Ruth offers a narrative example of agricultural hirelings. Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleans in the fields of Boaz, a wealthy landowner, during the barley harvest (Ruth 2:2-3). While not a hireling in the strictest sense, Ruth's work in the fields reflects the broader practice of employing laborers during harvest time. Boaz's kindness and provision for Ruth highlight the biblical call for compassion and justice towards those who work the land.

Conclusion

The biblical portrayal of agriculture and farming, often performed by hirelings, provides a rich tapestry of economic, ethical, and spiritual themes. Through parables, laws, and narratives, Scripture reveals the significance of this occupation and its implications for understanding God's kingdom, human responsibility, and the call to faithful service.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 27:26
And over them that did the work of the field for tillage of the ground was Ezri the son of Chelub:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 26:10
Also he built towers in the desert, and dig many wells: for he had much cattle, both in the low country, and in the plains: farmers also, and vine dressers in the mountains, and in Carmel: for he loved husbandry.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 20:8
So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard said to his steward, Call the laborers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last to the first.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 17:7
But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say to him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?
Torrey's Topical Textbook