Calving, in the context of the Bible, refers to the process by which cows give birth to calves. This natural event is mentioned in various passages, often symbolizing abundance, prosperity, and the natural order established by God. The imagery of calving is used to convey themes of fertility, provision, and the nurturing aspects of God's creation.

Biblical References:

1. Job 21:10 : "Their bulls breed without fail; their cows calve and do not miscarry." This verse highlights the prosperity and blessing upon the wicked, as observed by Job. The successful calving of cows is depicted as a sign of wealth and divine favor, emphasizing the natural order and the blessings of fertility.

2. Psalm 29:9 : "The voice of the LORD twists the oaks and strips the forests bare. And in His temple all cry, 'Glory!'" While this verse does not directly mention calving, the surrounding context in Psalm 29 speaks of the power of God's voice, which is also said to cause the deer to give birth (calve). This illustrates God's sovereign control over nature and His ability to bring forth life.

3. Jeremiah 14:5 : "Even the doe in the field deserts her newborn fawn because there is no grass." Although this passage refers to a doe, it parallels the imagery of calving by highlighting the distress and hardship during a time of drought. The absence of grass leads to the abandonment of the young, contrasting with the ideal conditions where cows would successfully calve.

Symbolism and Themes:

· Fertility and Abundance: Calving is often associated with fertility and the abundance of livestock, which was a significant measure of wealth and blessing in ancient agrarian societies. The successful birth of calves signifies God's provision and the flourishing of His people.

· Divine Order: The process of calving reflects the natural order established by God. It serves as a reminder of His ongoing care and sustenance of creation. The regularity and success of calving are seen as manifestations of God's faithfulness.

· Judgment and Hardship: In contrast, the absence or difficulty of calving can symbolize judgment or hardship, as seen in Jeremiah 14:5. This imagery underscores the dependence of creation on God's provision and the consequences of turning away from Him.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In biblical times, livestock was a crucial component of daily life and economic stability. The birth of calves was essential for maintaining and increasing herds, which provided milk, meat, and other resources. The health and productivity of cattle were directly linked to the well-being of families and communities. Thus, calving held significant practical and symbolic importance.

The biblical portrayal of calving reflects a deep understanding of the rhythms of nature and the dependence of humanity on God's provision. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the blessings of obedience and the consequences of disobedience, woven into the fabric of the biblical narrative.(p. pr. & vb. n.) of Calve.2342a. chul -- to whirl, dance, writhe
... Usage anguish (6), becomes weak waiting (1), birth to you in pain (1), born (1),
brings forth (1), brought forth (4), burst (1), calve (1), calving (1), danced ...
/hebrew/2342a.htm - 6k

Of Removing Tithes.
... Nor is tithe payable for milch cattle reserved for calving, while they are dry;
but, if afterwards sold, or milked in another parish, an agistment-tithe is due ...
/.../prideaux/directions to church-wardens/8 of removing tithes.htm

Due Measure must be Observed in Liberality, that it May not be ...
... cattle and crops. For both the calving of a heifer takes a year, and the
produce of a crop fills out a whole year. And they came ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/chapter xvi due measure must.htm

The Majestic Voice
... calve." By this I understand what the ancients believed"that so affrighted were
the hinds by the noise of the thunder, that the period of calving was often ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/the majestic voice.htm

The Nile and Egypt
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 1. <. ...
/.../chapter i the nile and egypt.htm

Calving (1 Occurrence)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Calve. Multi-Version Concordance
Calving (1 Occurrence). ... dost thou mark the calving of the hinds? (DBY NAS RSV). ...
/c/calving.htm - 6k

Calveth (2 Occurrences)

/c/calveth.htm - 6k

Calyxes (6 Occurrences)

/c/calyxes.htm - 8k

Calving: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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