Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, "bread" often symbolizes sustenance and provision, essential for physical life. However, when paired with terms like "wickedness" and "oppression," it takes on a metaphorical meaning that reflects moral and spiritual corruption. The phrase "bread of wickedness" is notably found in Proverbs 4:17, which states, "For they eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence." This verse highlights the sustenance that the wicked derive from their immoral actions, suggesting that their very existence is nourished by wrongdoing and injustice.Biblical Context and Interpretation The concept of "bread of wickedness" is deeply rooted in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Proverbs. Here, the "bread" signifies the gains or benefits obtained through sinful means. It serves as a stark contrast to the righteous path, which is characterized by integrity and justice. The consumption of such "bread" implies a lifestyle that thrives on the exploitation and oppression of others, feeding on the suffering and misfortune of the innocent. In a broader biblical context, oppression is consistently condemned. The prophets frequently speak against those who "trample on the needy and bring the poor of the land to an end" (Amos 8:4). The imagery of consuming the "bread of wickedness" underscores the insidious nature of oppression, where the oppressor's sustenance is directly linked to the harm inflicted upon others. Moral and Theological Implications From a moral standpoint, the "bread of wickedness" serves as a warning against the allure of ill-gotten gains. It challenges believers to examine the sources of their prosperity and to ensure that their sustenance is not derived from the exploitation or harm of others. Theologically, it reflects the biblical principle that true nourishment and fulfillment come from righteousness and obedience to God's commandments. The consumption of the "bread of wickedness" ultimately leads to spiritual malnourishment and separation from God. It is a reminder that while the wicked may appear to prosper temporarily, their end is destruction. As Proverbs 10:2 states, "Ill-gotten treasures profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death." Conclusion The "bread of wickedness" is a powerful metaphor for the sustenance derived from immoral and oppressive actions. It serves as a cautionary symbol within the biblical narrative, urging individuals to pursue justice and righteousness. By rejecting the "bread of wickedness," believers are called to align themselves with God's will, seeking sustenance that leads to life and spiritual fulfillment. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 4:17For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Psalm CXLI. Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... Royal Murderers Entire Sanctification in Patriarchal Times. The Third Commandment Submit Yourselves Therefore to God. James 4:7. The Assyrian Captivity In the Garden The Harbinger Fourth Sunday after Epiphany Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible mean when it speaks of the breaking of bread? | GotQuestions.org Bread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bread in Times of Scarcity, Sold by Weight Bread was Baked: On Coals of Fire Bread with Water, the Food of Prisons Bread: (Eating Without Scarceness) of Plenty Bread: (Fulness of) of Abundance Bread: (Of Adversity) Heavy Affliction Bread: (Of Deceit) Unlawful Gain Bread: (Of Wickedness) Oppression Bread: (Partaking of) Communion of Saints Bread: (Seeking of Begging) Extreme Poverty Bread: (Want of) Extreme Poverty Bread: (When Broken) the Death of Christ Bread: Called the Staff of Life Bread: Crumb of, Used to Wipe the Fingers, Thrown Under the Table Bread: First Fruit of, offered to God Bread: How Prepared: Baked in Ovens Bread: How Prepared: Cracknels Bread: How Prepared: Made Into Loaves Bread: How Prepared: Mixed With Oil Bread: How Prepared: On Coals of Dung Bread: How Prepared: On Hearths Bread: Kinds of Bread of Affliction Bread: Kinds of Leavened (Made With Yeast) Bread: Kinds of Unleavened (Made Without Yeast) Bread: Made of Manna (In the Wilderness) Bread: Multitudes Miraculously Fed by Christ With Bread: Nutritious and Strengthening Bread: Offered With Sacrifices Bread: Often Given As a Present Bread: Often Put for the Whole Substance of Man Bread: Ordinary, Called Common Bread Bread: Placed on Table of Shew Bread Bread: Plenty of, Promised to the Obedient Bread: Sacred, Called Hallowed Bread Bread: Scarceness of, Sent As a Punishment Bread: Served Round After Funerals Bread: Symbolical of the Body of Christ Bread: The Principal Food Used by the Ancients Bread: Troughs Used for Kneading Bread: when Old, Dry and Mouldy Related Terms |
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