Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, milk is often used symbolically to represent abundance, prosperity, and the blessings of God. The imagery of milk is frequently associated with the wealth and prosperity that the Gentiles would bring to the people of God, particularly in the prophetic writings of the Old Testament.Symbolism of Milk in Scripture Milk is a fundamental symbol of nourishment and sustenance in the Bible. It is often paired with honey to describe the Promised Land, a place of divine provision and abundance. In Exodus 3:8, God promises to deliver the Israelites to "a land flowing with milk and honey," signifying a place of fertility and prosperity. Prophetic Imagery of Gentile Wealth The concept of the "wealth of the Gentiles" is vividly portrayed in the prophetic books, where the abundance of the nations is seen as being brought to Israel. Isaiah 60:5-6 speaks of the wealth of the nations coming to Israel: "Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will tremble and swell with joy, because the riches of the sea will be brought to you, and the wealth of the nations will come to you. Caravans of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. All from Sheba will come, bearing gold and frankincense and proclaiming the praises of the LORD." In this context, milk can be understood as part of the wealth and abundance that the Gentiles would bring. Isaiah 60:16 further emphasizes this: "You will drink the milk of nations and nurse at the breasts of kings. You will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob." Here, milk symbolizes the nurturing and sustaining wealth that the Gentiles would provide, highlighting the divine favor and blessing upon Israel. Theological Implications The imagery of milk as the wealth of the Gentiles underscores the inclusivity of God's plan for salvation and blessing. It reflects the prophetic vision of a time when the nations would recognize the sovereignty of the God of Israel and contribute to His people's prosperity. This theme is consistent with the broader biblical narrative that anticipates the inclusion of the Gentiles in the blessings of God's covenant. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the inclusion of the Gentiles into the people of God is realized through the ministry of Jesus Christ and the apostles. The wealth of the Gentiles, symbolized by milk, can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual blessings and growth of the early Church as it expanded beyond Jewish boundaries. The apostle Paul speaks of the Gentiles as fellow heirs and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3:6). Conclusion The biblical imagery of milk as the wealth of the Gentiles serves as a powerful symbol of God's provision and the fulfillment of His promises. It reflects the divine plan for the nations to be a source of blessing and prosperity for His people, ultimately pointing to the inclusive nature of God's redemptive work through Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 60:16You shall also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shall suck the breast of kings: and you shall know that I the LORD am your Savior and your Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Testament of Benjamin Concerning a Pure Mind. Galatians Chapter iii. 2 Timothy i. 1, 2 Palestine Eighteen Centuries Ago V. ... Continuation: with Texts from Scripture. Letter Liii. To Paulinus. The Coming of a Deliverer Hymns on the Nativity. Hymn i. This is the Day that Gladdened Them ... Waiting Only Upon God Resources What does the Bible say about breastfeeding? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Jael in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the tribe of Judah? | GotQuestions.org Milk: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Milk: An Animal Secretion, of a White Colour Milk: Different Kinds Mentioned of Camels Milk: Different Kinds Mentioned of Cows Milk: Different Kinds Mentioned of Goats Milk: Different Kinds Mentioned of Sea-Monsters Milk: Different Kinds Mentioned of Sheep Milk: First Principles of God's Word Milk: Flocks and Herds Fed for Supply of Milk: Godly and Edifying Discourses Milk: Kept by the Jews in Bottles Milk: Kid (A Baby Goat) not to be Seethed (Boiled) in Its own Mother's Milk: Young Animals not to be Seethed in That of the Mother Related Terms |
    |