Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, sheep were a central part of agrarian life and held significant economic, cultural, and religious importance. The imagery of sheep and shepherding is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing care, guidance, and provision. One of the notable aspects of sheep husbandry mentioned in the Bible is the practice of feeding flocks in the valleys.Biblical Context and Symbolism The valleys, often lush and fertile, provided an ideal environment for grazing. In the ancient Near East, valleys were typically well-watered and offered abundant pasture, making them suitable for sustaining large flocks. The imagery of sheep being fed in valleys is emblematic of God's provision and care for His people. It reflects the pastoral lifestyle of the patriarchs and the Israelites, who were often depicted as shepherds. In Psalm 23, one of the most beloved passages in the Bible, David, who himself was a shepherd, writes, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters" (Psalm 23:1-2). This passage highlights the tranquility and sustenance found in the valleys, where the shepherd leads his flock to rest and feed. Shepherding Practices Shepherds in biblical times were responsible for the welfare of their flocks, guiding them to safe pastures and protecting them from predators. The valleys, with their rich vegetation, were prime locations for grazing. The shepherd's role was to ensure that the sheep were well-fed and healthy, often leading them from one valley to another as the seasons changed. The prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of valleys to convey God's promise of restoration and abundance: "I will open rivers on the barren heights, and fountains in the middle of the valleys. I will turn the desert into a pool of water, and the dry land into flowing springs" (Isaiah 41:18). This promise underscores the transformation and blessing that God provides, akin to the nourishment found in the valleys. Spiritual Implications The metaphor of sheep being fed in valleys extends beyond the physical to the spiritual realm. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His role in providing for and protecting His followers. In John 10:14-15, Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd. I know My sheep and My sheep know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father. And I lay down My life for the sheep" . This passage reflects the intimate relationship between Christ and His followers, akin to the shepherd's care for his flock in the valleys. The valleys, therefore, symbolize not only physical sustenance but also spiritual nourishment and safety under the guidance of the divine Shepherd. The imagery of sheep being fed in the valleys serves as a reminder of God's faithful provision and the peace found in His presence. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 65:10And Sharon shall be a fold of flocks, and the valley of Achor a place for the herds to lie down in, for my people that have sought me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs. David the Shepherd Youth. The Shepherd King of Israel Here Beginneth the Story of Judith The Waldenses. The Waldenses And ii. The Land and the People. The Nile and Egypt Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) 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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