Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient Near East, the diet of the Jewish people was deeply influenced by the agricultural practices and the climate of the region. Dried fruits were a staple in their diet, providing essential nutrients and energy. The process of drying fruit allowed for preservation, making it a practical food source throughout the year, especially during times when fresh produce was not available.Biblical References to Dried Fruit Dried fruits are mentioned in various passages of the Bible, highlighting their significance in the diet and culture of the Jewish people. One of the most notable references is found in 1 Samuel 25:18, where Abigail prepares a gift for David, which includes "a hundred clusters of raisins and two hundred cakes of figs." This passage illustrates the use of dried fruits as a form of sustenance and as a valuable commodity. In 1 Chronicles 12:40, the abundance of provisions brought to David at Hebron includes "fig cakes and raisin cakes," indicating the importance of these dried fruits in festive and communal gatherings. Similarly, in 2 Samuel 16:1, Ziba brings David "a hundred clusters of raisins and a hundred summer fruits," again underscoring the role of dried fruits in hospitality and provision. Types of Dried Fruits 1. Figs: Figs were one of the most common fruits to be dried and consumed. The fig tree is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing prosperity and peace. Dried figs were often pressed into cakes, as seen in the offerings to David. The fig's natural sweetness and high sugar content made it an ideal candidate for drying and preservation. 2. Raisins: Made from dried grapes, raisins were another prevalent dried fruit in the Jewish diet. Grapes were a significant crop in ancient Israel, and drying them into raisins allowed for long-term storage. Raisins were used in various culinary applications, from simple snacks to ingredients in more complex dishes. 3. Dates: Although not as frequently mentioned as figs and raisins, dates were also a part of the ancient Jewish diet. The date palm is referred to in the Bible, and its fruit was likely dried for preservation. Dates provided a rich source of energy and were valued for their sweetness. Cultural and Religious Significance Dried fruits held not only dietary importance but also cultural and religious significance. They were often included in offerings and gifts, symbolizing abundance and blessing. The preservation of fruit through drying was a practical response to the agricultural cycles and the need for food security in a region with distinct seasons. The consumption of dried fruits is also reflective of the broader biblical themes of stewardship and gratitude for God's provision. The ability to store and utilize these fruits throughout the year demonstrated a reliance on God's creation and a recognition of His sustenance. In summary, dried fruits were an integral part of the Jewish diet, serving both practical and symbolic roles. Their presence in biblical narratives underscores their importance in the daily life and spiritual practices of the Jewish people. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 25:18Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 30:12 Library Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times Resources What is PETA? Can a Christian support PETA? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean for a Christian to grow in faith? | GotQuestions.org What is Carnival? | GotQuestions.org Diet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Diet of the Jews in Patriarchal Age The Diet of the Jews in the Wilderness The Diet of the Jews of the Poor, Frugal The Diet of the Jews of the Rich, Luxurious The Diet of the Jews was Taken in the Evening The Diet of the Jews was Taken in the Morning, Sparingly The Diet of the Jews was Taken with the Hand The Diet of the Jews was Taken: At Noon The Diet of the Jews was Taken: Often Reclining The Diet of the Jews was Taken: Often Sitting The Diet of the Jews: A Hymn Sung After The Diet of the Jews: Articles of, often Sent As Presents The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Bread The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Butter The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Cheese The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Dried Fruit The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Fish The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Flesh The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Fruit The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Herbs The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Honey The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Milk The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Oil The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Parched Corn The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Vinegar The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Water The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Wine The Diet of the Jews: Expressed by Bread and Water The Diet of the Jews: Generally Prepared by Females The Diet of the Jews: Men and Women did not Partake of Together The Diet of the Jews: Purification Before The Diet of the Jews: Thanks Given Before Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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