Topical Bible: Shewbread: Called Hallowed Bread

◄ Shewbread: Called Hallowed Bread ►

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Definition and Description:
Shewbread, also known as "Hallowed Bread," refers to the twelve loaves of unleavened bread that were placed on the Table of Shewbread in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. These loaves were a perpetual offering before the LORD, symbolizing God's provision and the covenant relationship between Him and the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical References:
The instructions for the preparation and placement of the Shewbread are found in the Book of Exodus: "And you are to set the bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times" (Exodus 25:30). The bread was to be made of fine flour and baked into twelve loaves, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Each Sabbath, the loaves were replaced with fresh ones, and the old loaves were consumed by the priests in a holy place, as described in Leviticus 24:5-9.

Significance in Worship:
The Shewbread served as a continual reminder of God's covenant with Israel and His provision for His people. It was a sacred offering, set apart for the LORD, and was considered holy. The bread's presence in the Tabernacle and Temple signified God's constant presence and sustenance, both physically and spiritually, for the nation of Israel.

Theological Implications:
The Shewbread is rich in theological symbolism. It points to God's provision and the sustenance He provides for His people. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is seen as the fulfillment of the Shewbread, as He declared Himself to be the "Bread of Life" (John 6:35), emphasizing that He is the spiritual sustenance for believers. The Shewbread also prefigures the Lord's Supper, where bread is used as a symbol of Christ's body, broken for the salvation of humanity.

Historical Context:
The practice of setting the Shewbread began with the construction of the Tabernacle during the Israelites' wilderness journey and continued in the Temple built by Solomon. The Table of Shewbread was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, signifying its sacred purpose and the holiness of the offerings placed upon it.

Notable Incidents:
A notable incident involving the Shewbread is recorded in 1 Samuel 21:1-6, where David, fleeing from King Saul, requests and receives the consecrated bread from Ahimelech the priest. This event is later referenced by Jesus in the New Testament (Matthew 12:3-4) to illustrate the principle that human need can take precedence over ceremonial law.

Priestly Role:
The priests were responsible for the preparation, placement, and consumption of the Shewbread. This duty was part of their sacred service, highlighting the role of the priesthood in mediating between God and the people. The consumption of the Shewbread by the priests symbolized their participation in the covenant and their role as representatives of the people before God.

Conclusion:
The Shewbread, or Hallowed Bread, holds a significant place in the religious life of ancient Israel, serving as a symbol of God's provision and covenant faithfulness. Its theological and symbolic meanings continue to resonate in Christian thought, pointing to the ultimate provision of spiritual sustenance through Jesus Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 21:4
And the priest answered David, and said, There is no common bread under my hand, but there is hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from women.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Heaven's Nurse Children
... Whom he did predestinate them he also called." This call ... And every place is hallowed
ground.". ... the censor, the candlestick, the table of the shewbread, the laver ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/heavens nurse children.htm