Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, mills were essential tools for daily life, primarily used for grinding grain into flour. The construction and operation of these mills are mentioned in various passages throughout the Bible, reflecting their importance in ancient society.Types of Millstones Millstones were typically made from hard stones, such as basalt or granite, which were durable and capable of grinding grain effectively. The Bible often refers to two types of millstones: the upper millstone and the lower millstone. The upper millstone, also known as the "runner stone," was movable and rotated over the stationary lower millstone, or "bedstone," to crush the grain. Biblical References The use of millstones is mentioned in several biblical passages, highlighting their significance in both domestic and economic contexts. In Deuteronomy 24:6, the law prohibits taking a millstone as a pledge, emphasizing its essential role in sustaining life: "Do not take a pair of millstones, or even the upper one, as security for a debt, because that would be taking a man's livelihood as security" . This underscores the millstone's critical function in daily sustenance and the protection of a family's means of survival. In Judges 9:53, a millstone plays a pivotal role in the narrative of Abimelech's death: "But a woman dropped an upper millstone on Abimelech's head, crushing his skull" . This account illustrates the millstone's substantial weight and potential as a weapon, albeit in an unusual context. The imagery of millstones is also used metaphorically in the New Testament. In Matthew 18:6, Jesus warns against leading others into sin: "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea" . Here, the millstone symbolizes the severe consequences of causing spiritual harm to others. Cultural and Economic Significance Millstones were not only vital for individual households but also for the broader community. They were often operated in communal settings, such as village mills, where people gathered to grind their grain. This communal aspect is reflected in the social fabric of ancient Israelite society, where shared resources and labor were common. The economic importance of mills is further highlighted in Revelation 18:22, where the sound of millstones ceases as a symbol of Babylon's fall: "The sound of harpists and musicians, of flute players and trumpeters, will never be heard in you again. No craftsman of any trade will be found in you again, nor will the sound of a millstone be heard in you again" . The cessation of milling activities signifies the end of economic prosperity and daily life. Conclusion Millstones, as described in the Bible, were indispensable tools in ancient times, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. Their presence in biblical narratives and laws underscores their integral role in sustaining life and community, while their metaphorical use in teachings and prophecies highlights their broader spiritual significance. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 18:21And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Provision Ground What Carey did for Science --Founder of the Agricultural and ... Justinian. Pagan Shrines and Temples. Christian Churches. The Labours of John Cennick, 1739-1755. Christian Sympathy Resources How should a Christian view climate change? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is PETA? Can a Christian support PETA? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Mills used for Grinding: Manna in the Wilderness Mills: (Ceasing) of Desolation Mills: (Grinding At) of Degradation Mills: Female Servants Usually Employed At Mills: Male Captives often Employed At Mills: Stones Used in not to be Taken in Pledge Mills: Stones Used in Often Thrown Down on Enemies During Sieges Related Terms |
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