Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of "morning" extending until "noon" is often used to describe a period of time that begins with the first light of day and continues until the sun reaches its zenith. This time frame is significant in various scriptural narratives and teachings, reflecting both literal and metaphorical meanings.Biblical References: 1. 1 Samuel 11:11 : "The next day Saul separated his men into three divisions. During the morning watch, they invaded the camp of the Ammonites and slaughtered them until the heat of the day. Those who survived were scattered, so that no two of them were left together." This passage illustrates a military strategy executed by Saul, where the attack commenced in the early morning and continued until the heat of the day, which is typically around noon. The morning here is depicted as a time of action and victory, emphasizing the importance of early initiative and divine favor in battle. 2. Acts 2:15 : "These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It is only the third hour of the day!" In this New Testament account, Peter addresses the crowd on the day of Pentecost, clarifying that the miraculous events they are witnessing are not the result of drunkenness, as it is only the third hour of the day, approximately 9 a.m. This reference to the morning underscores the sanctity and sobriety associated with the early hours, a time set apart for divine revelation and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Symbolic Interpretations: In biblical literature, the morning often symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and the mercies of God. Lamentations 3:22-23 states, "Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!" The morning is a metaphor for renewal and the steadfastness of God's promises, which are as reliable as the dawn. The extension of morning until noon can also represent a period of enlightenment and clarity. As the sun rises higher in the sky, it dispels the shadows of night, bringing light and understanding. This progression from morning to noon can be seen as a journey from initial revelation to full comprehension, a theme prevalent in the wisdom literature of the Bible. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, the day was divided into segments, with the morning watch being a critical time for various activities, including worship, labor, and warfare. The morning sacrifices in the temple, as described in Exodus 29:38-39 , were a daily ritual, signifying the dedication of the day to God. "This is what you are to offer regularly on the altar: two lambs a year old, day by day, continually. Offer one lamb in the morning and the other at twilight." The continuation of morning until noon also reflects the agrarian lifestyle of biblical times, where the early hours were crucial for productivity before the intense heat of midday. This practical aspect of daily life is mirrored in the spiritual discipline of seeking God early, as encouraged in Psalm 5:3 : "In the morning, O LORD, You hear my voice; at daybreak I lay my plea before You and wait in expectation." Theological Implications: Theologically, the concept of morning extending until noon can be seen as an invitation to live in the light of God's presence throughout the day. It calls believers to begin their day with prayer and devotion, carrying the light of Christ into all their endeavors. The morning is a time for aligning one's heart with God's will, setting the tone for the rest of the day. In summary, the biblical notion of morning continuing until noon encompasses both practical and spiritual dimensions, serving as a reminder of God's faithfulness, the importance of early dedication, and the promise of enlightenment and victory through His guidance. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 18:26And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But there was no voice, nor any that answered. And they leaped on the altar which was made. Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 8:3 Library Chapter five The Life of Mr. James Mitchel. The Evening Light Prayers Answered The Fan-Bearer's Quest Going Home The Third Continental Journey. The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued) Carmel "The Sun of Righteousness" Resources Why is a day measured from evening to morning in Genesis 1? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Plan B morning-after pill? | GotQuestions.org What does dayspring mean in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Morning: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Morning of the Resurrection Day Morning was Frequently Cloudless Morning: (Breaking Forth) of the Glory of the Church Morning: (Clouds In) of the Short Lived Profession of Hypocrites Morning: (Spread Upon the Mountains) Heavy Calamities Morning: (Star of) Reward of Saints Morning: (Star of) the Glory of Christ Morning: (Wings of) Rapid Movements Morning: A Red Sky In, a Sign of Bad Weather Morning: Began With First Dawn Morning: First Dawning of, Called the Eyelids of the Morning Morning: The First Part of the Natural Day Morning: The Jews: Began Their Journeys In Morning: The Jews: Contracted Covenants In Morning: The Jews: Devoted a Part of, to Prayer and Praise Morning: The Jews: Eat But Little In Morning: The Jews: Gathered the Manna In Morning: The Jews: Generally Rose Early In Morning: The Jews: Held Courts of Justice In Morning: The Jews: Offered a Part of the Daily Sacrifice In Morning: The Jews: Transacted Business In Morning: The Jews: Went to the Temple In Morning: The Outgoings of, Made to Rejoice Morning: The Second Part of the Day at the Creation Morning: Ushered in by the Morning Star Related Terms Burnt-offerings (86 Occurrences) Burnt-offering (205 Occurrences) Drink-offering (33 Occurrences) |