Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:The leek is mentioned in the Bible in the context of the Israelites' longing for the foods they enjoyed in Egypt. In Numbers 11:5 , the Israelites express their craving for the variety of foods they had in Egypt, saying, "We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic." Cultural and Historical Context: Leeks, known scientifically as Allium ampeloprasum, are part of the onion family and have been cultivated since ancient times. In the ancient Near East, including Egypt, leeks were a common and valued vegetable. They were appreciated not only for their flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. The Egyptians considered leeks a staple in their diet, and they were often consumed alongside other vegetables like onions and garlic. The mention of leeks in Numbers 11:5 highlights the Israelites' nostalgia for the abundance and variety of food available in Egypt, contrasting with the monotony of manna in the wilderness. This longing for leeks and other foods symbolizes a deeper spiritual struggle, reflecting the Israelites' wavering faith and dissatisfaction with God's provision during their journey to the Promised Land. Symbolism and Theological Significance: In the biblical narrative, the Israelites' desire for leeks and other Egyptian foods can be seen as a metaphor for the temptation to return to a life of bondage rather than trusting in God's plan and provision. The leeks represent the comforts and familiarities of the past, which can sometimes seem more appealing than the uncertainties of faith and obedience. Theologically, this episode serves as a reminder of the human tendency to romanticize past experiences, even those associated with hardship, when faced with present challenges. It underscores the importance of gratitude and trust in God's provision, even when it does not align with personal desires or expectations. Leeks in Ancient Diet and Medicine: Leeks were not only a culinary staple but also held medicinal value in ancient times. They were believed to have health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing essential nutrients. The consumption of leeks, along with other vegetables, contributed to a balanced diet in ancient Egypt. Conclusion: The mention of leeks in the Bible, though brief, provides insight into the daily life and diet of the ancient Israelites and Egyptians. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the spiritual lessons embedded in the Israelites' journey, encouraging believers to trust in God's provision and to resist the temptation to look back longingly at the past. ATS Bible Dictionary LeekA bulbous vegetable resembling the onion. The Hebrews complained in the wilderness, that manna grew insipid to them; they longed for the leeks and onions of Egypt, Numbers 11:5. Hassel-quist says the karrat, or leek, is surely one of those after which the Israelites pined; for is has been cultivated in Egypt from time immemorial. The Hebrew word is usually translated "grass" in the English Bible. Its original meaning is supposed to be greens or grass. Easton's Bible Dictionary (Hebrews hatsir; the Allium porrum), rendered "grass" in 1 Kings 18:5, 2 Kings 19:26, Job 40:15, etc.; "herb" in Job 8:12; "hay" in Proverbs 27:25, and Isaiah 15:6; "leeks" only in Numbers 11:5. This Hebrew word seems to denote in this last passage simply herbs, such as lettuce or savoury herbs cooked as kitchen vegetables, and not necessarily what are now called leeks. The leek was a favourite vegetable in Egypt, and is still largely cultivated there and in Palestine. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A plant of the genus Allium (A. Porrum), having broadly linear succulent leaves rising from a loose oblong cylindrical bulb. The flavor is stronger than that of the common onion.Greek 5556. chrusoprasos -- a chrysoprase (a greenish-yellow gem) ... Word Origin from chrusos and a prim. word prason (a leek) Definition a chrysoprase (a greenish-yellow gem) NASB Word Usage chrysoprase (1). chrysoprase. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5556.htm - 6k 4237. prasia -- a garden bed Strong's Hebrew 2682. chatsir -- green grass, herbage... grass, hay, herb, leek. Perhaps originally the same as chatsiyr, from the greenness of a courtyard; grass; also a leek (collectively) -- grass, hay, herb, leek. ... /hebrew/2682.htm - 6k 1978. halik -- a step Library The Death of Saint David. When Turbo had Made this Statement, Archelaus was Intensely ... The Burning ??sculapius; Tricks with Fire. If that which it Has Pleased us to Know is Within Reach... A Jealous God Christ's First and Last Subject India's Ills and England's Sorrows The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Thesaurus Leek... leeks. The leek was a favourite vegetable in Egypt, and is still largely cultivated there and in Palestine. Noah Webster's Dictionary. ... /l/leek.htm - 7k Leeks (1 Occurrence) Chrysoprasus (1 Occurrence) Onion Leech (1 Occurrence) Resources Leek: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |