Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, sheep were a vital part of the agrarian lifestyle and economy, serving as a source of wool, meat, and milk. The care of sheep was often a family responsibility, with various members of the household participating in their tending and management. This practice is well-documented throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the importance of sheep in the daily life and spiritual symbolism of the people of Israel.Biblical Examples: 1. Abel: One of the earliest references to sheep in the Bible is found in the account of Abel, the son of Adam and Eve. Abel is described as a "keeper of sheep" (Genesis 4:2), indicating that from the earliest times, tending sheep was a familial duty. 2. Jacob and His Sons: Jacob, also known as Israel, was deeply involved in the care of sheep. Genesis 30:31-32 records Jacob negotiating with Laban for his wages in the form of sheep, demonstrating his expertise and involvement in shepherding. Jacob's sons, particularly Joseph, were also engaged in shepherding, as seen in Genesis 37:12-17 , where Joseph is sent by his father to check on his brothers who were tending the flocks. 3. Moses: Before becoming the leader of the Israelites, Moses spent a significant period as a shepherd. Exodus 3:1 states, "Now Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian." This experience as a shepherd prepared Moses for his future role as the shepherd of God's people. 4. David: Perhaps the most famous biblical shepherd, David, the youngest son of Jesse, was entrusted with the care of his family's sheep. 1 Samuel 16:11 recounts how David was tending the sheep when Samuel came to anoint him as king. David's experience as a shepherd is often seen as foundational to his leadership qualities and his relationship with God, as reflected in his authorship of Psalm 23, "The LORD is my shepherd." 5. Amos: The prophet Amos was also a shepherd before being called by God to prophesy to Israel. Amos 1:1 introduces him as "one of the sheep breeders from Tekoa," indicating his background in shepherding. Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Shepherding was not merely an economic activity but also held deep spiritual significance. The image of the shepherd is frequently used in the Bible to describe God's relationship with His people. Psalm 100:3 declares, "Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture." This metaphor underscores the care, guidance, and protection that God provides, akin to that of a shepherd for his flock. The role of family members in tending sheep also reflects the communal and familial nature of ancient Israelite society. Shepherding required diligence, patience, and a deep understanding of the needs of the flock, qualities that were cultivated within the family unit. This familial involvement in shepherding is emblematic of the broader biblical theme of stewardship and responsibility, as families worked together to sustain their livelihoods and honor God's creation. In summary, the tending of sheep by family members in biblical times was a multifaceted practice that encompassed economic, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. It served as a training ground for future leaders and a powerful symbol of God's care for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 29:9And while he yet spoke with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep; for she kept them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 2:16 1 Samuel 16:11 Library Palestine under Pagan Kings. The Great Shepherd Six Cities Patrick, the Apostle of the Irish. The Memphite Empire The Political Constitution of Egypt From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ... Attitude of Men of the Present Day to War. The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The Ascension of Christ Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parables of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus tell Peter to "feed my sheep" in John 21? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
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