Topical Encyclopedia Marcheshvan, also known simply as Cheshvan, is the eighth month of the Hebrew calendar. It typically falls between October and November in the Gregorian calendar. Unlike other months in the Jewish calendar, Marcheshvan is unique in that it does not contain any major Jewish festivals or fasts, which has led to its nickname "Mar" (meaning "bitter" in Hebrew) due to its lack of holidays. However, this month holds significant historical and biblical importance.Biblical Significance In the Bible, the months are often referred to by their numerical order rather than by name. Marcheshvan is the second month of the civil year and the eighth month of the ecclesiastical year. The Bible does not explicitly mention Marcheshvan by name, but it is implied in the chronological order of events. One of the most significant biblical events associated with this time of year is the Great Flood during the time of Noah. According to Genesis 7:11 , "In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, on the seventeenth day of the second month—all the fountains of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened." This "second month" is understood to be Marcheshvan. The floodwaters began to recede in the following year, also during Marcheshvan, marking a period of renewal and divine promise. Historical Context Historically, Marcheshvan has been a month of both sorrow and hope for the Jewish people. The lack of festivals is sometimes seen as a reflection of the trials and tribulations faced by the Israelites. However, it is also a time of anticipation for the coming rains in Israel, which are crucial for the agricultural cycle. The early rains, known as "yoreh," typically begin in Marcheshvan, symbolizing the start of the rainy season and the hope for a fruitful harvest. Religious Observances While Marcheshvan does not contain any major biblical festivals, it is a time for reflection and preparation. The absence of holidays allows for a focus on personal growth and spiritual development. Some Jewish communities have customs and traditions that honor the memory of biblical figures or historical events during this month, though these are not universally observed. Modern Observances In modern times, Marcheshvan is sometimes seen as a month of introspection and preparation for the winter months. It is a time to reflect on the themes of judgment and mercy, as the Jewish people transition from the High Holy Days of Tishrei to the more subdued and introspective days of Marcheshvan. The month serves as a reminder of God's covenant with Noah and the promise of renewal and hope, even in times of apparent barrenness. Marcheshvan, with its blend of historical significance and spiritual introspection, continues to hold a unique place in the Jewish calendar, offering lessons of patience, faith, and the enduring promise of God's providence. Smith's Bible Dictionary Marcheshvan[MONTH] Easton's Bible Dictionary The post-biblical name of the month which was the eighth of the sacred and the second of the civil year of the Jews. It began with the new moon of our November. It is once called Bul (1 Kings 6:38). Assyrian, Arah Samna, "eighth month," International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MARCHESHVANmar-chesh'-van. Library Syriac Calendar. Appendix v. Rabbinic Theology and Literature Appendix iv. An Abstract of Jewish History from the Reign of ... In Jud??a and through Samaria - a Sketch of Samaritan History and ... Thesaurus Marcheshvan... It is once called Bul (1 Kings 6:38). Assyrian, Arah Samna, "eighth month,". Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MARCHESHVAN. mar-chesh'-van. See TIME. ... /m/marcheshvan.htm - 6k Marches (5 Occurrences) Marchest (1 Occurrence) Sanballat (10 Occurrences) Sabbath (126 Occurrences) Resources What is the structure of the Jewish calendar? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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