Topical Encyclopedia The term "winefat" refers to a vat or trough used in the process of winemaking, specifically for the collection of juice from pressed grapes. In biblical times, the winefat was an essential component of the winepress, a structure used to extract juice from grapes to produce wine. The winepress typically consisted of two parts: the upper vat, where grapes were trodden or pressed, and the lower vat, or winefat, where the juice collected.Biblical References The winefat is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, often symbolizing judgment, abundance, or the blessings of God. One notable reference is found in Isaiah 5:2, where the prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of a vineyard and winepress to describe God's relationship with Israel: "He dug it up and cleared the stones and planted the finest vines. He built a watchtower in the middle and dug out a winepress as well. He expected it to yield good grapes, but it produced only worthless ones" . Here, the winepress, including the winefat, symbolizes God's provision and care, as well as His disappointment with Israel's unfaithfulness. In the New Testament, the parable of the wicked tenants in Mark 12:1 also includes a reference to a winepress: "Then He began to speak to them in parables: 'A man planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a pit for the winepress, and built a watchtower. Then he rented it out to some tenants and went away on a journey'" . In this parable, the winepress represents the blessings and responsibilities given to the people of Israel, and the tenants' failure to produce fruit reflects their rejection of God's messengers. Symbolism and Interpretation In biblical symbolism, the winefat often represents the abundance of God's blessings and the fruitfulness expected from His people. The process of pressing grapes and collecting the juice in the winefat can also symbolize the trials and tribulations that lead to spiritual growth and maturity. The imagery of the winepress and winefat is frequently used to convey themes of judgment and accountability, as seen in the prophetic writings and parables. The winefat's role in the winemaking process underscores the importance of preparation and readiness to receive God's blessings. Just as the winefat must be ready to collect the juice from the grapes, believers are called to be prepared to receive and steward the gifts and responsibilities entrusted to them by God. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Israel, winemaking was a significant agricultural activity, and the winepress was a common sight in vineyards. The winefat, as part of the winepress, was typically carved out of rock or constructed from wood or clay. The process of winemaking was labor-intensive, involving the treading of grapes by foot or the use of mechanical presses. The juice collected in the winefat was then fermented to produce wine, a staple in the diet and religious practices of the Israelites. Wine was used in various religious ceremonies, including offerings and feasts, and was a symbol of joy and celebration. The abundance of wine was often seen as a sign of God's favor and blessing, as reflected in passages like Proverbs 3:9-10: "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine" . Conclusion The winefat, as an integral part of the winemaking process, holds rich symbolic meaning in the Bible. It serves as a reminder of God's provision, the expectation of fruitfulness, and the importance of readiness to receive His blessings. Through the imagery of the winepress and winefat, Scripture communicates profound truths about judgment, accountability, and the joy of living in accordance with God's will. Easton's Bible Dictionary (Mark 12:1). The original word (hypolenion) so rendered occurs only here in the New Testament. It properly denotes the trough or lake (lacus), as it was called by the Romans, into which the juice of the grapes ran from the trough above it. It is here used, however, of the whole apparatus. In the parallel passage in Matthew 21:33 the Greek word lenos is used. This properly denotes the upper one of the two vats. (see WINE-PRESS.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia WINEFAT; WINE PRESS; WINEVATwin'-fat, win'-pres, win'-vat. Greek 5276. hupolenion -- a vessel or trough beneath a winepress (to ... ... wine vat. Neuter of a presumed compound of hupo and lenos; vessel or receptacle under the press, ie Lower wine-vat -- winefat. see GREEK hupo. see GREEK lenos. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5276.htm - 6k Library In Conflict with Scribes and Pharisees The Unrivalled Friend Dishonest Tenants The Winepress and Its Treader Of the Effects of the Death of Christ, of his Triumph after It ... Psalm LVI. Where is the Lord? The Seventh vision "In Heaven" The Third Day in Pasion-Week - the Last Series of Parables: to the ... Thesaurus Winefat (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. WINEFAT; WINE PRESS; WINEVAT. win'-fat, win'-pres, win'-vat. ... Multi-Version Concordance Winefat (2 Occurrences). ... /w/winefat.htm - 7k Winevat (3 Occurrences) Wine-drinking (4 Occurrences) Wine-fat (1 Occurrence) Digged (37 Occurrences) Pressfat (1 Occurrence) Treadeth (25 Occurrences) Apparel (38 Occurrences) Press (57 Occurrences) Husbandmen (21 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Winefat (2 Occurrences)Mark 12:1 Isaiah 63:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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