Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, bread was not merely a staple food but a symbol of sustenance and life itself. The act of seeking or begging for bread often signifies a state of extreme poverty and dependence on the mercy of others. This theme is woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting both the physical and spiritual dimensions of poverty.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, bread is frequently associated with God's provision. For instance, during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, God provided manna, described as "bread from heaven" (Exodus 16:4). However, the absence of bread often indicated dire circumstances. In Lamentations 5:6, the people of Judah lament, "We submitted to Egypt and Assyria to get enough bread," illustrating their desperation and subjugation due to famine and siege. The Proverbs also reflect on the plight of the poor, emphasizing the moral responsibility to care for those in need. Proverbs 22:9 states, "A generous man will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor." This underscores the expectation that those with resources should aid those who are destitute, thus alleviating the need for begging. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, Jesus' teachings further illuminate the spiritual implications of bread and poverty. In the Lord's Prayer, believers are taught to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11), acknowledging daily dependence on God's provision. This request is not only for physical sustenance but also for spiritual nourishment. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) starkly contrasts the lives of the wealthy and the impoverished. Lazarus, a beggar, longs for the crumbs that fall from the rich man's table, symbolizing the extreme poverty and neglect he endures. This parable serves as a moral lesson on the eternal consequences of ignoring the needs of the poor. Spiritual Implications Bread, in its spiritual sense, represents the Word of God and the sustenance it provides to the soul. Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35), inviting all who are spiritually hungry to come to Him for fulfillment. This metaphor extends beyond physical poverty, addressing the deeper spiritual need for salvation and relationship with God. The act of seeking or begging for bread, therefore, can be seen as a metaphor for the human condition apart from God—spiritually impoverished and in need of divine grace. The Scriptures call believers to respond with compassion and generosity, reflecting God's heart for the poor and marginalized. Conclusion The biblical narrative consistently portrays bread as a fundamental necessity, both physically and spiritually. The seeking or begging for bread highlights the reality of extreme poverty and the call to action for those who follow God's commands. Through acts of charity and the sharing of resources, believers are encouraged to embody the love and provision of God, ensuring that no one remains in a state of destitution. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 2:36And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left in your house shall come and crouch to him for a piece of silver and a morsel of bread, and shall say, Put me, I pray you, into one of the priests' offices, that I may eat a piece of bread. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 37:25 Lamentations 1:11 Library From the End of the Third Continental Journey, in 1834, to the ... 2 Thessalonians iii. 5-Mar Another Wonderful Record of 25. Matt. x. 34 The Iranian Conquest A Canticle of Love Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . A Few Sighs from Hell; Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “This is my body, broken for you”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said we must eat His flesh and drink His blood? | GotQuestions.org Why is the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper such a controversial issue? | 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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