Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, bees are mentioned in various contexts, often symbolizing industriousness, community, and at times, danger. The bee, a small yet significant creature, is noted for its ability to produce honey, a substance frequently referenced in Scripture for its sweetness and value.Biblical References: 1. Judges 14:8-9 : The account of Samson provides a vivid account involving bees. After killing a lion, Samson later discovers a swarm of bees and honey in the carcass. "When he returned later to take her, he turned aside to look at the lion’s carcass, and in it was a swarm of bees, along with their honey. So he scooped some honey into his hands and ate it as he went along. When he returned to his father and mother, he gave some to them, and they ate it. But he did not tell them that he had taken the honey from the lion’s carcass." This passage highlights the unexpected places where God's provision can be found, as well as the purity laws that Samson disregarded. 2. Deuteronomy 1:44 : Bees are used metaphorically to describe the Amorites' attack on the Israelites. "Then the Amorites who lived in the hills came out against you and chased you like a swarm of bees, beating you down from Seir as far as Hormah." Here, the relentless and overwhelming nature of the Amorite assault is likened to a swarm of bees, emphasizing the intensity and ferocity of the attack. 3. Psalm 118:12 : The psalmist uses bees to describe the surrounding nations. "They swarmed around me like bees, but they were extinguished as quickly as a fire among thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off." This imagery conveys the idea of being surrounded by numerous enemies, yet with faith in God, the threat is quickly neutralized. Symbolism and Cultural Context: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, bees were admired for their industrious nature and the production of honey, a prized commodity. Honey is often associated with abundance and blessing, as seen in the description of the Promised Land as "a land flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8). This imagery underscores the richness and fertility of the land God promised to the Israelites. Bees also serve as a symbol of community and cooperation. The hive, with its structured society and diligent workers, reflects the biblical ideal of a harmonious and productive community. This can be seen as an allegory for the body of Christ, where each member has a role to play for the common good. Theological Insights: From a theological perspective, bees and their honey can be seen as a representation of God's provision and the sweetness of His word. Just as honey is nourishing and delightful, so is the word of God to the believer. The industrious nature of bees can also serve as a reminder of the diligence and perseverance required in the Christian life. In summary, bees in the Bible are multifaceted symbols, representing both the sweetness of God's blessings and the potential dangers of overwhelming adversaries. They remind believers of the importance of community, diligence, and reliance on God's provision and protection. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 14:8And after a time he returned to take her, and he turned aside to see the carcass of the lion: and, behold, there was a swarm of bees and honey in the carcass of the lion. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 118:12 Isaiah 7:18 Library The Creation of Fowl and Water Animals. Continues the Same Subject: Explains the Prayer of Union by a ... When one at the Back of the North Wind Wanted to Know How Things ... The Struggle for the Life of Others Away in Paris, a Vast Concourse of People were Assembled Round an ... A Letter from a West Indian Cottage Ornee A Provision Ground Striking Similes Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. Daily Bread Resources Is it wrong to kill spiders or step on bugs? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the anointing? What does it mean to be anointed? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between Microevolution and Macroevolution? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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