Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, winter was often considered a season unsuited for travel due to harsh weather conditions and the challenges posed by the environment. The ancient Near East, where much of the biblical narrative unfolds, experienced cold and rainy winters, making travel difficult and sometimes dangerous.The Apostle Paul provides a clear example of the challenges associated with winter travel. In his second letter to Timothy, Paul requests, "When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments" (2 Timothy 4:13). This request highlights the need for warmth and protection against the cold, indicating the severity of winter conditions. Furthermore, Paul advises against setting sail during the winter months. In Acts 27:9-12, Paul warns the crew of the ship he is on about the dangers of sailing after the Day of Atonement, which falls in the autumn, as winter approaches. His warning is based on the understanding that the Mediterranean Sea becomes treacherous during this time: "Since much time had passed and the voyage was now dangerous because even the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, saying, 'Men, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives'" (Acts 27:9-10). The reluctance to travel during winter is also reflected in the agricultural cycle of ancient Israel. Winter was a time when the land rested, and people stayed closer to home, focusing on indoor activities and preparation for the coming spring. Proverbs 20:4 notes, "The sluggard does not plow in season; at harvest time he looks, but nothing is there." This proverb underscores the importance of working with the seasons, implying that winter is not a time for the usual activities, including travel. In the Gospels, Jesus alludes to the difficulties of winter travel in His discourse on the end times. He instructs His followers to pray that their flight will not occur in winter: "Pray that your flight will not occur in the winter or on the Sabbath" (Matthew 24:20). This statement reflects the understanding that winter conditions would exacerbate the challenges of fleeing quickly and safely. Overall, the biblical perspective on winter as a time unsuited for travel is rooted in the practical realities of the ancient world. The cold, wet, and often unpredictable weather made journeys perilous, and the biblical texts reflect a cautious approach to travel during this season. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 24:20But pray you that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Timothy 4:21 Library Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men Resources Is Christmas a pagan holiday? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving? | GotQuestions.org Should we have a Christmas tree? | GotQuestions.org Winter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Winter: Annual Return of, Will Never Cease Winter: Coldness and Inclemency of, Noticed Winter: Illustrative of Seasons of Spiritual Adversity Winter: Paul Remains for One, at Nicopolis Winter: Plowing In, in Canaan, (Margin) Winter: Rainy Season In, in Canaan Winter: Shipping Suspended In, on the Mediterranean Sea Winter: Ships Were Laid up in Port During Winter: Summer and Winter Houses Winter: The Jews Frequently had Special Houses For Winter: Unsuited For: Navigation Winter: Unsuited For: Travelling Winter: Yearly Return of, Secured by Covenant Related Terms |
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