Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, herbs hold a significant place as part of God's provision for humanity. From the very beginning, herbs are depicted as a fundamental component of the diet ordained by God for mankind. The term "herbs" in the Bible generally refers to plants that are used for food, medicine, or seasoning.Creation and Provision The initial mention of herbs as food is found in the creation account in Genesis. After creating man, God provides for his sustenance through the plants of the earth. Genesis 1:29 states, "Then God said, 'Behold, I have given you every seed-bearing plant on the face of all the earth and every tree whose fruit contains seed. They will be yours for food.'" This verse underscores the divine intention for herbs and plants to serve as a primary source of nourishment for humanity. Post-Fall and Dietary Changes Following the Fall, the relationship between man and the earth changes, yet herbs remain a staple in the human diet. Genesis 3:18 notes, "It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field." This indicates a shift where man must toil for his food, but herbs continue to be a vital part of sustenance. Herbs in the Mosaic Law The Mosaic Law further emphasizes the importance of herbs and plants. Various herbs are mentioned in the context of offerings and rituals. For instance, Exodus 12:8 describes the Passover meal, "They are to eat the meat that night, roasted over the fire, along with unleavened bread and bitter herbs." Here, bitter herbs are part of the symbolic meal commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. Herbs in Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Bible also reflects on the use of herbs. Proverbs 15:17 states, "Better a dish of vegetables where there is love than a fattened ox with hatred." This proverb highlights the value of herbs and simple foods, suggesting that a modest meal with love is preferable to a lavish feast with discord. Herbs in the New Testament In the New Testament, herbs continue to be recognized as part of the diet. Jesus Himself refers to herbs in His teachings. In Matthew 23:23 , He criticizes the Pharisees for their legalism, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness." Here, herbs like mint, dill, and cumin are mentioned as items tithed, indicating their common use and value. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Throughout Scripture, herbs are not only physical sustenance but also carry symbolic meanings. They often represent simplicity, humility, and the provision of God. The use of herbs in biblical times reflects a reliance on God's creation for daily needs and serves as a reminder of His care and provision. In summary, herbs in the Bible are depicted as a God-given source of nourishment, integral to the diet of humanity from creation through the various covenants. They are woven into the fabric of biblical life, law, and teaching, illustrating both physical sustenance and deeper spiritual truths. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 1:28,29And God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 9:3 Library Whether Adam in the State of Innocence had Mastership Over the ... The Objection is Raised, Why, Then, was the Limit of Lawful Food ... Why Choice of Meats was Prescribed. Whether There was any Reasonable Cause for the Ceremonial ... Spiritual Meaning of the Passover. On Eating. Letter vii. --For 335. Easter-Day iv Pharmuthi, iii Kal. April; xx ... Concerning Earth and Its Products. Mosaic Cosmogony. Another Kind of Men Living Together in Cities. Fasts of Three Days ... Resources What does the Bible say about doing drugs? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Issachar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about inner peace? | GotQuestions.org Herbs: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Herbs were Sometimes Used Instead of Animal Food by Weak Saints Herbs: (Dew On) of Grace Given to Saints Herbs: Bitter, Used at Passover Herbs: Destroyed by Hail and Lightning Herbs: Destroyed by Tithable Among the Jews Herbs: Each Kind of, Contains Its own Seed Herbs: Mode of Watering, Alluded To Herbs: Poisonous, not Fit for Man's Use Related Terms |
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