Topical Bible: Morning: The Jews: Transacted Business In

◄ Morning: The Jews: Transacted Business In ►

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In the cultural and religious life of the Jewish people, the morning held significant importance, not only for spiritual practices but also for daily activities, including business transactions. The morning was considered an auspicious time to begin the day's work, reflecting a rhythm that aligned with both practical and religious considerations.

Biblical Context

The Bible provides several insights into the activities of the morning, particularly in the context of business and daily labor. In the ancient Near Eastern context, including among the Israelites, the morning was a time when people would rise early to begin their work. This practice is reflected in various scriptural passages that highlight the industrious nature of the morning hours.

In the book of Proverbs, the value of diligence and early rising is emphasized. Proverbs 31:15, speaking of the virtuous woman, states, "She rises while it is still night to provide food for her household and portions for her maidservants." This passage underscores the importance of starting the day early to ensure the smooth running of household affairs, which can be extended to business activities as well.

Cultural Practices

The Jewish people, like many ancient cultures, organized their day around the natural light cycle. The morning, with its fresh start and renewed energy, was an ideal time for conducting business. This practice is not only practical, given the cooler temperatures and better light, but also aligns with the Jewish understanding of time and work.

In the Gospels, we see references to early morning activities. For instance, in Mark 1:35, it is noted that Jesus Himself rose "very early in the morning, while it was still dark," to pray. While this passage highlights spiritual devotion, it also reflects the broader cultural practice of utilizing the morning hours for important activities.

Historical Insights

Historically, Jewish communities have been known for their engagement in various trades and businesses. The morning hours would have been crucial for opening markets, conducting trade, and managing daily affairs. The Talmud, a central text in Rabbinic Judaism, also contains references to the importance of early rising and beginning work in the morning, further illustrating the cultural emphasis on this time of day.

Spiritual Significance

The morning holds spiritual significance in Jewish tradition, as it is a time for prayer and reflection. The Shacharit, the morning prayer service, is one of the three daily prayers in Judaism, underscoring the importance of starting the day with a focus on God. This spiritual discipline complements the practical aspects of beginning the day's work, creating a holistic approach to life that integrates faith and daily activities.

In summary, the morning was a vital time for the Jewish people to transact business, reflecting a blend of cultural, practical, and spiritual elements. The biblical and historical records highlight the importance of this time of day, both in ancient Israel and in the broader Jewish tradition.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ecclesiastes 11:6
In the morning sow your seed, and in the evening withhold not your hand: for you know not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 20:1
For the kingdom of heaven is like to a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Jewish Homes
... or the news of the day, or transacted important business. ... led to scenes in which
the Jews showed themselves ... of the Temple before the morning sacrifice"how ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 6 jewish homes.htm

Pleading
... the barn floor, and in the morning all round ... Before the ancient Jews kept the passover,
observe what ... they go, but not without having transacted real business. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/pleading.htm

One Argument which Has Been Much Relied Upon but not More than Its ...
... and country in which these things were transacted; and consequently ... 8. "Twice every
day, in the morning and at ... country, and the condition of the Jews, that a ...
/.../paley/evidences of christianity/chapter vi one argument which.htm

The Baptism with the Holy Spirit.
... all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles ... One morning he came into
our church in Minneapolis and ... and thirty-eight of them were business men of ...
/.../torrey/the person and work of the holy spirit/chapter xx the baptism with.htm

From the Conference of 1773 to the Commencement of the War in 1776
... held, but that the business had been transacted at their ... assemblies resembled the
congregation of the Jews at the ... I was much comforted this morning at the WO ...
/.../chapter 1 from the conference.htm

John Smith, Platonist --"An Interpreter of the Spirit"
... as legal as ever the religion of the Jews was." The ... the Horizon of our souls, like
a morning light chasing ... of an alarm: it is indeed alone transacted upon the ...
/.../chapter xvi john smith platonistan.htm

Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
... Pilate feared offending the Jews: so he did that which ... Keep in view, morning, noon,
and night, the interests ... How many matters are transacted in the chambers of ...
/.../chapter xix tit 2 6 thoughts.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... the victorious army perceived a signal hoisted on the heights of Pentelicus apparently
to attract his attention; when he set sail the next morning and, instead ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm