Topical Bible: Agriculture or Farming: Operations in Mowing

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Topical Encyclopedia

Mowing, as an agricultural operation, holds significant importance in the biblical context, reflecting the agrarian society in which the events of the Bible unfolded. The process of mowing, which involves cutting down grass or grain, is mentioned in various passages, illustrating both literal and metaphorical meanings.

In the ancient Near East, mowing was a critical step in the harvest process. It involved the use of sickles or scythes to cut down crops such as wheat and barley. This operation was labor-intensive and required skill and coordination among workers. The timing of mowing was crucial, as it needed to be done when the grain was ripe but before adverse weather could damage the crop.

The Bible references mowing in several contexts, often highlighting the dependence of the people on God's provision through the land. In Psalm 72:6 , the psalmist writes, "May he be like rain falling on a mown field, like showers watering the earth." This verse uses the imagery of a mown field to convey blessings and prosperity, suggesting that just as rain is essential for the growth of crops, so is divine favor for the flourishing of the people.

Mowing also appears in the context of judgment and the brevity of life. In Isaiah 40:6-7 , it is written, "A voice says, 'Cry out.' And I asked, 'What should I cry out?' 'All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall when the breath of the LORD blows on them; indeed, the people are grass.'" Here, the act of mowing symbolizes the transient nature of human life, emphasizing the sovereignty of God over creation.

The operation of mowing is further illustrated in the agricultural laws and practices of ancient Israel. The Law of Moses provided guidelines for harvesting, including leaving the edges of the field uncut for the poor and the foreigner (Leviticus 19:9-10). This practice, known as gleaning, ensured that the vulnerable members of society could benefit from the abundance of the harvest. Mowing, therefore, was not only an economic activity but also a means of social justice and community support.

In the New Testament, Jesus uses agricultural metaphors to teach spiritual truths. In Matthew 9:37-38 , He says to His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest." While not directly mentioning mowing, the imagery of harvest implies the preparatory work, including mowing, that leads to the gathering of crops. This metaphor underscores the urgency and importance of spreading the Gospel and bringing people into the kingdom of God.

Overall, mowing in the biblical context serves as a reminder of the dependence on divine provision, the fleeting nature of life, and the call to participate in God's work. The operation of mowing, while a practical necessity in agriculture, is imbued with spiritual significance throughout the Scriptures.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 129:7
With which the mower fills not his hand; nor he that binds sheaves his bosom.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 7:1
Thus has the Lord GOD showed to me; and, behold, he formed grasshoppers in the beginning of the shooting up of the latter growth; and, see, it was the latter growth after the king's mowings.
Torrey's Topical Textbook