Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, bread was a staple food and held significant cultural and spiritual symbolism. The method of baking bread on coals of fire is mentioned in several passages, reflecting both the simplicity and the resourcefulness of ancient culinary practices.Biblical References: 1. 1 Kings 19:6 : "And he looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again." This passage describes the prophet Elijah, who, after fleeing from Jezebel, was sustained by an angel of the Lord. The bread baked on coals signifies God's provision and care for His prophet during a time of distress and need. 2. John 21:9 : "When they landed, they saw a charcoal fire there with fish on it, and some bread." After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. The scene of Jesus preparing a meal of fish and bread over a charcoal fire is a poignant reminder of His continued fellowship and provision for His followers. It also echoes the miraculous feeding of the multitudes, reinforcing the theme of Jesus as the Bread of Life. Cultural and Spiritual Significance: In the ancient Near East, bread was often baked on flat stones or directly on coals. This method was practical and efficient, especially for nomadic peoples or those living in rural areas without access to ovens. The use of coals allowed for a consistent and controlled heat source, essential for baking. Spiritually, bread holds deep significance throughout the Bible. It is a symbol of sustenance, hospitality, and divine provision. The act of baking bread on coals can be seen as a metaphor for the refining and purifying processes in the life of a believer. Just as bread is transformed by fire, so too are individuals refined by trials and tribulations, emerging strengthened and sustained by God's grace. Symbolism in Scripture: Bread, particularly when baked on coals, is emblematic of God's provision in the wilderness. In the Old Testament, the Israelites received manna from heaven, a miraculous bread that sustained them during their 40 years in the desert (Exodus 16). This divine provision prefigures the ultimate provision of Jesus Christ, who declared Himself the "bread of life" (John 6:35). The imagery of bread baked on coals also evokes themes of sacrifice and communion. In the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, offerings were often consumed by fire, symbolizing purification and atonement. Similarly, the breaking of bread in the New Testament becomes a central act of fellowship and remembrance in the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in the body of Christ. Practical Aspects: The method of baking bread on coals required skill and attention. The baker needed to ensure that the coals were at the right temperature and that the bread was turned appropriately to avoid burning. This process reflects the diligence and care required in spiritual disciplines, where believers are called to be attentive and responsive to God's guidance. In summary, the practice of baking bread on coals of fire is rich with cultural, practical, and spiritual meaning. It serves as a reminder of God's provision, the refining power of trials, and the sustaining presence of Christ in the life of believers. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 44:19And none considers in his heart, neither is there knowledge nor understanding to say, I have burned part of it in the fire; yes, also I have baked bread on the coals thereof; I have roasted flesh, and eaten it: and shall I make the residue thereof an abomination? shall I fall down to the stock of a tree? Torrey's Topical Textbook John 21:9 Library Image Worship Condemned by Scripture. Elijah the Great Heart of Israel. My California Trip Advantages of Revelation Above Natural Reason. Solomon's Temple Spiritualized 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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