In the ancient Near Eastern context, travel was often undertaken on foot or by animal, such as donkeys or camels. The climate of the region, characterized by intense heat, especially during the midday hours, necessitated a pattern of travel that included rest periods to avoid the harshest conditions. This practice is reflected in various biblical narratives and cultural customs of the time.

Biblical References:

1. Genesis 18:1 · "Then the LORD appeared to Abraham by the Oaks of Mamre in the heat of the day as he was sitting at the entrance of his tent." This passage illustrates the custom of resting during the hottest part of the day. Abraham, a nomadic figure, is depicted as sitting at the entrance of his tent, suggesting a pause in activity during the midday heat.

2. Song of Solomon 1:7 · "Tell me, O you whom my soul loves, where do you pasture your sheep? Where do you rest them at noon?" This verse from the Song of Solomon highlights the practice of resting flocks at noon, a time when the sun is at its peak and both shepherds and their animals would seek respite from the heat.

3. John 4:6 · "Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, wearied from His journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour." The "sixth hour" corresponds to noon, indicating that Jesus, like other travelers of His time, took a break from His journey during the midday heat.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Travel in biblical times was arduous and often dictated by the natural environment. The intense heat of the midday sun made it impractical and even dangerous to continue traveling without rest. As a result, travelers would typically seek shade and rest during these hours, resuming their journey when the sun's intensity lessened.

The practice of resting at noon is not only a reflection of practical considerations but also of the rhythm of life in a pastoral and agrarian society. Shepherds, like those mentioned in the Song of Solomon, would lead their flocks to water and shade during the hottest part of the day, ensuring the well-being of the animals and themselves.

Implications for Understanding Biblical Narratives:

Recognizing the custom of resting at noon provides insight into the daily life and practices of biblical figures. It helps modern readers understand the pacing of events and the significance of certain encounters, such as Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well during the midday rest. This context enriches the narrative, highlighting the humanity and relatability of biblical characters as they navigated the challenges of their environment.

In summary, the practice of resting at noon was a common and necessary aspect of travel in biblical times, shaped by the environmental conditions and cultural practices of the ancient Near East. This understanding aids in interpreting various biblical passages and appreciating the lived experiences of the people within these texts.Genesis 18:1,3
And the LORD appeared to him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 4:6
Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

the Legendary History of Egypt
... name," cried the mast; and the travellers replied: "He ... applicant regarding its name,
this being generally a mystic ... hall, the ceiling of which rested on light ...
/.../chapter iii -the legendary history of.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... The rulers of Egypt generally succeeded without much difficulty in keeping possession ...
The sandstone walls, terminating in a curved cornice, rested on a hollow ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

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