Topical Encyclopedia The term "shewbread," also known as "showbread" or "bread of the Presence," refers to the twelve loaves of bread that were continually placed on a special table in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. These loaves symbolized the covenantal relationship between God and the twelve tribes of Israel, representing God's provision and the people's dedication to Him.Biblical Instructions and Symbolism The instructions for the shewbread are found in the Old Testament, primarily in the book of Leviticus. According to Leviticus 24:5-9 , the Israelites were commanded to bake twelve loaves of bread using fine flour, which were then arranged in two rows of six on the pure gold table before the LORD. Frankincense was placed on each row as a memorial portion, an offering made by fire to the LORD. This bread was to be set out every Sabbath day as a perpetual covenant. Consumption by the Priests After being displayed for a week, the shewbread was removed and replaced with fresh loaves. The removed bread was then given to the priests for consumption. Leviticus 24:9 states, "It belongs to Aaron and his sons, who are to eat it in a holy place, for it is a most holy part of their perpetual share of the food offerings made to the LORD." The consumption of the shewbread by the priests underscores the holiness and sanctity of their office. As the bread was considered most holy, it was to be eaten in a holy place, emphasizing the separation and consecration required of those who served in the priestly role. This practice also highlights the provision for the priests, who were sustained by the offerings and gifts dedicated to God. Historical and Theological Context The shewbread serves as a powerful symbol of God's presence and provision. It reminds the faithful of the sustenance that comes from God alone, both physically and spiritually. The bread's weekly renewal signifies the ongoing and unending nature of God's covenant with His people. In the New Testament, the shewbread is referenced in the context of Jesus' teachings and actions. In Matthew 12:3-4 , Jesus refers to the incident where David, when in need, ate the consecrated bread, which was not lawful for him to eat, but only for the priests. This reference highlights the principle of mercy over ritual and points to Jesus as the fulfillment of the law and the true Bread of Life. Conclusion The practice of the shewbread, from its preparation to its consumption by the priests, reflects the intricate relationship between God and His chosen people. It serves as a reminder of God's provision, the holiness required of His servants, and the ultimate fulfillment of these symbols in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 24:9And it shall be Aaron's and his sons'; and they shall eat it in the holy place: for it is most holy to him of the offerings of the LORD made by fire by a perpetual statute. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library What is the Sanctuary? The Cleansing of the Temple - the Sign,' which is not a Sign. The New Covenant. The Annunciation of St. John the Baptist "Lo, I Come": Exposition The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.orgShewbread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shewbread (Showbread) for the Temple Shewbread (Showbread): (Also Called the Bread of the Presence) Shewbread (Showbread): "Unlawfully" Eaten by David Shewbread (Showbread): Called Hallowed Bread Shewbread (Showbread): Consecration of Shewbread (Showbread): Furniture of Shewbread (Showbread): How Removed Shewbread (Showbread): Its Position in the Tabernacle Shewbread (Showbread): Ordinance Concerning Shewbread (Showbread): Ordinances Concerning Shewbread (Showbread): Placed on the Table of Shewbread (See Table of, Below) Shewbread (Showbread): Prepared by the Levites Shewbread (Showbread): Provided by a Yearly Per Capita Tax Shewbread (Showbread): Required to be Kept Before the Lord Continually Shewbread (Showbread): Table of Shewbread was Changed Every Sabbath Day Shewbread: After Removal from the Table Given to the Priests Shewbread: Called Hallowed Bread Shewbread: Christ As the Bread of Life Shewbread: Materials For, Provided by the People Shewbread: Not Lawful for Any But the Priests to Eat, Except in Extreme Shewbread: Placed in Two Rows on the Table by the Priests Shewbread: Prepared by Levites Shewbread: Pure Frankincense Placed On Shewbread: Table of Covered With Gold Shewbread: Table of Dimensions of Shewbread: Table of Directions for Removing Shewbread: Table of had an Ornamental Border Shewbread: Table of had Dishes, Spoons, Covers, and Bowls of Gold Shewbread: Table of had Rings of Gold in the Corners for the Staves Shewbread: Table of had Staves of Shittim Wood Covered With Gold Shewbread: Table of Placed in the North Side of the Tabernacle Shewbread: Twelve Cakes of Fine Flour Related Terms |
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