Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:1. 1 Samuel 14:25-27 : "Then all the troops entered the forest, and there was honey on the ground. When they entered the forest, they saw the honey oozing out; yet no one put his hand to his mouth, because they feared the oath. But Jonathan had not heard his father’s charge to the troops, so he reached out with the end of the staff that was in his hand, dipped it into the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes brightened." 2. Proverbs 24:13 : "Eat honey, my son, for it is good, and the honeycomb is sweet to your taste." 3. Psalm 19:10 : "They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb." 4. Matthew 3:4 : "John wore a garment of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey." Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, honey was a valued natural sweetener and a symbol of abundance and prosperity. It was often found in the wild, as bees would create hives in trees and rocky crevices. The consumption of honey in its plain form, as seen in the biblical accounts, highlights its accessibility and desirability as a food source. Theological Significance: Honey is frequently used in the Bible as a metaphor for the sweetness and desirability of God's word and wisdom. In Psalm 19:10, the psalmist compares the decrees of the Lord to honey, emphasizing their value and delight. Similarly, Proverbs 24:13 encourages the consumption of honey, paralleling it with the pursuit of wisdom. Examples of Honey Consumption: · Jonathan's Refreshment: In 1 Samuel 14, Jonathan, unaware of his father King Saul's command, eats honey found in the forest. This act not only refreshes him physically, as indicated by his brightened eyes, but also serves as a narrative device to highlight the burdensome nature of Saul's oath on the troops. · John the Baptist's Diet: In the New Testament, John the Baptist's diet of locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4) underscores his ascetic lifestyle and connection to the wilderness. This simple diet reflects his prophetic role and dedication to his mission. Symbolism and Lessons: Honey's sweetness is often used to illustrate the pleasantness and desirability of spiritual truths. The Bible encourages believers to seek after wisdom and God's word with the same eagerness and delight as one would have for honey. The consumption of honey in its plain form serves as a reminder of the simple yet profound pleasures found in God's creation and His teachings. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 14:25,26,29And all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey on the ground. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library How Vespasian Upon Hearing of Some Commotions in Gall, Made Haste ... Temptations. The Gospel Feast Leviticus In Order that no one through Observing the Outward Part Should ... A Preface Religion Pleasant to the Religious. Ahab and Micaiah Afraid of Giants On Eating. Resources Who was Dathan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Samson in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to love God? | GotQuestions.org Honey: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Honey in the Honeycomb Sweetest and Most Valuable Honey was Eaten with the Honeycomb Honey was Eaten: Mixed With Flour Honey: An Article of Merchandise from Palestine Honey: Esteemed a Wholesome Food Honey: First Fruits of, offered to God Honey: Found in Carcases of Dead Animals Honey: Gathered and Prepared by Bees Honey: General Scriptures Concerning Honey: Lips of a Strange Woman Honey: Loathed by Those Who are Full Honey: Moderation Needful in the Use of Honey: Not to be offered With Any Sacrifice Honey: Not to be offered With Sacrifices Honey: Often Sent As a Present Honey: Samson's Riddle Concerning Honey: Sent As a Present by Jacob to Egypt Related Terms |
    |