Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, bees are mentioned a few times, reflecting their significance in the ancient Near East, including the region of Palestine. Bees are primarily noted for their production of honey, a valuable commodity in biblical times, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.Biblical References: 1. Deuteronomy 1:44 : "Then the Amorites who lived in the hills came out against you; they chased you like a swarm of bees and beat you down from Seir as far as Hormah." This passage uses the imagery of bees to describe the relentless and overwhelming attack of the Amorites, highlighting the aggressive and persistent nature of bees when provoked. 2. Judges 14:8 : "After some time, when he returned to marry her, he turned aside to see the carcass of the lion. And there was a swarm of bees and some honey in the lion’s carcass." This verse recounts the account of Samson, who found a swarm of bees and honey in the carcass of a lion he had previously killed. This unusual occurrence is part of the riddle Samson later poses to the Philistines, emphasizing the unexpected and miraculous provision of God. 3. Psalm 118:12 : "They swarmed around me like bees, but they were extinguished as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off." Here, the psalmist uses the metaphor of bees to describe his enemies, illustrating their numerous and threatening presence, yet also their ultimate defeat through divine intervention. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Palestine, bees were primarily wild, and beekeeping as a practice was not as developed as it is today. Honey was a prized natural sweetener and was often associated with the land's fertility and God's blessings. The "land flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8) is a well-known biblical phrase that underscores the richness and desirability of the Promised Land. Bees in Palestine were typically found in rocky crevices or hollow trees, and their honey was harvested by those who dared to brave their stings. The presence of bees and honey in the biblical narrative often serves as a symbol of God's provision and the sweetness of His promises. Symbolism and Theological Significance: Bees, with their industrious nature and the sweetness of their honey, are often seen as symbols of diligence and the rewards of hard work. In a spiritual sense, honey represents the richness of God's word and His blessings. The imagery of bees in the Bible can also serve as a reminder of the potential dangers of provoking God's enemies, as well as the assurance of His protection and deliverance. The biblical references to bees and honey reflect the broader themes of God's provision, the abundance of His creation, and the sweetness of His promises to His people. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 1:44And the Amorites, which dwelled in that mountain, came out against you, and chased you, as bees do, and destroyed you in Seir, even to Hormah. Nave's Topical Index Judges 14:8 Psalm 118:12 Isaiah 7:18 Library A Revival Sermon Letter Lxxxii. To Theophilus Bishop of Alexandria. Introductory Note to Clement of Alexandria Clement of Alexandria. Dying Lamps Preface --The Author's Object --The Utility of Written ... Doctrine and Discipline of the Church God's Exhaustive Knowledge of Man. Sebastian Franck: an Apostle of Inward Religion Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. Resources Why do some people so passionately hate Calvinism? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the Artemis mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the purpose of there being rewards in heaven? | GotQuestions.org Bee: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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