Months: Names of the Twelve: Eighth, Bul
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The eighth month in the ancient Hebrew calendar is known as Bul. This name is mentioned explicitly in the Old Testament, specifically in 1 Kings 6:38, which states, "In the eleventh year, in the month of Bul, the eighth month, the house was completed in all its details and according to all its specifications. So he spent seven years building it" . This passage refers to the completion of Solomon's Temple, indicating the significance of the month in the context of Israel's history.

The name "Bul" is thought to be derived from a root meaning "rain" or "produce," reflecting the agricultural cycle of the region. The month of Bul corresponds roughly to the modern months of October and November, a time when the early rains would begin to fall in Israel, marking the start of the planting season. This period was crucial for the agrarian society of ancient Israel, as it prepared the ground for the sowing of crops that would sustain the people in the coming year.

In the Hebrew calendar, Bul is the second month of the civil year and the eighth month of the ecclesiastical year. The civil year begins with Tishrei, which includes the High Holy Days such as Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, while the ecclesiastical year starts with Nisan, the month of Passover. The dual calendar system reflects the religious and agricultural rhythms of ancient Israelite life.

The month of Bul does not contain any major biblical festivals or feasts, unlike the preceding month of Tishrei, which is rich with significant religious observances. However, its mention in the context of the completion of the Temple underscores its importance in the biblical narrative. The Temple, as the central place of worship for the Israelites, was a symbol of God's presence among His people, and its completion in the month of Bul highlights the culmination of a significant period of construction and dedication to the Lord.

In summary, the month of Bul holds a place in the biblical calendar as a time of agricultural preparation and historical significance, particularly in relation to the completion of Solomon's Temple. Its mention in Scripture provides insight into the rhythms of ancient Israelite life and the intertwining of their religious and agricultural practices.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Kings 6:38
And in the eleventh year, in the month Bul, which is the eighth month, was the house finished throughout all the parts thereof, and according to all the fashion of it. So was he seven years in building it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Resources
What is the structure of the Jewish calendar? | GotQuestions.org

How long was Job's suffering? | GotQuestions.org

What is the Tribulation? How do we know the Tribulation will last seven years? | GotQuestions.org

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