Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Garnering refers to the act of gathering or collecting, particularly in the context of agriculture. In biblical times, garnering was an essential part of the agrarian lifestyle, involving the collection of crops during the harvest season. The term is often associated with storing grain in barns or storehouses, ensuring sustenance for future use. Biblical References The concept of garnering is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing both physical and spiritual gathering. In the Old Testament, garnering is depicted as a vital activity for survival and prosperity. For instance, in Genesis 41:48-49, Joseph gathers food during the seven years of abundance in Egypt: "Joseph collected all the excess food in the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance and stored it in the cities. In every city he put the food grown in the fields surrounding it. So Joseph stored up grain in such abundance, like the sand of the sea, that he stopped keeping track of it; for it was beyond measure." In the New Testament, garnering takes on a more spiritual dimension. John the Baptist speaks of Jesus' role in gathering the righteous and separating them from the wicked. In Matthew 3:12, it is written, "His winnowing fork is in His hand to clear His threshing floor and to gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Garnering in the Bible often symbolizes divine provision and judgment. The act of gathering crops is not only a practical necessity but also a metaphor for God's care and provision for His people. In Proverbs 10:5, the wise son is commended for gathering in the summer: "He who gathers in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son." Spiritually, garnering represents the gathering of believers into God's kingdom. The imagery of harvest is used to describe the end times when God will separate the righteous from the unrighteous. In Matthew 13:30, Jesus uses the parable of the wheat and the tares to illustrate this: "Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters, 'First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat into my barn.'" Practical Implications In biblical times, garnering required diligence and foresight. The process involved not only the physical act of gathering but also the preparation and maintenance of storage facilities to protect the harvest from spoilage and theft. This practical aspect of garnering underscores the importance of stewardship and responsibility in managing God's provisions. Moral and Ethical Lessons The biblical principle of garnering teaches the value of hard work, preparation, and reliance on God's provision. It encourages believers to be industrious and prudent, recognizing that while human effort is necessary, ultimate success and sustenance come from God. The act of garnering also serves as a reminder of the coming judgment and the importance of being spiritually prepared for the return of Christ. Conclusion While garnering is a practical activity rooted in the agricultural practices of ancient times, its spiritual implications extend far beyond the physical realm. It serves as a powerful metaphor for divine provision, judgment, and the gathering of believers into the eternal kingdom of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Garner.Library The Husbandman and his Operations The Heir to the Throne The Toiling Christ King Herod's Enrollment Thesaurus Garnering (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Garner. Multi-Version Concordance Garnering (1 Occurrence). Matthew 25:24 "But, next ... /g/garnering.htm - 6k Keeping (282 Occurrences) Garners (2 Occurrences) Garnered (1 Occurrence) Winnowed (5 Occurrences) Winnow (5 Occurrences) Severe (53 Occurrences) Sir (90 Occurrences) Resources Who is Maitreya? Is Maitreya the antichrist? | GotQuestions.orgGarnering: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Garnering (1 Occurrence)Matthew 25:24 Subtopics Related Terms |