Topical Bible: Grape: Grown: At Shechem

◄ Grape: Grown: At Shechem ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The grapevine holds significant importance in biblical narratives, symbolizing abundance, blessing, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. The cultivation of grapes is frequently mentioned throughout the Scriptures, and one notable location for grape growing is Shechem.

Shechem in Biblical Context

Shechem, an ancient city located in the hill country of Ephraim, holds a prominent place in biblical history. It is first mentioned in Genesis as the site where Abram built an altar to the Lord (Genesis 12:6-7). Shechem later became a city of refuge and a Levitical city (Joshua 21:21). Its fertile land made it an ideal location for agriculture, including the cultivation of grapes.

Grapes and Vineyards in Shechem

The Bible does not explicitly mention vineyards in Shechem, but the region's agricultural potential is evident. The surrounding areas, characterized by rich soil and favorable climate, would have supported the growth of grapevines. Grapes were a staple in the diet of the Israelites and were used to produce wine, a common beverage in biblical times.

In the parable of Jotham, found in Judges 9, the significance of vineyards and grape cultivation is highlighted. Jotham, the youngest son of Gideon, delivers a parable from Mount Gerizim, near Shechem, addressing the men of Shechem. In this parable, the trees seek a king, and the vine is one of the candidates:

"But the vine replied, ‘Should I stop giving my wine that cheers both God and man, to hold sway over the trees?’" (Judges 9:13).

This parable underscores the value of the vine and its produce, wine, which was esteemed for its ability to bring joy and celebration.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

In biblical symbolism, the grapevine often represents Israel and its relationship with God. The prophets frequently used the imagery of a vineyard to describe God's care for His people and their response to His covenant. Isaiah 5:1-7, for example, presents the "Song of the Vineyard," where God laments over Israel's failure to produce good fruit despite His careful cultivation.

Jesus Christ also employed the imagery of the vine in His teachings. In John 15:1-5, He declares, "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser... Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me" . This passage emphasizes the necessity of abiding in Christ to bear spiritual fruit.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, grape cultivation was a labor-intensive process that required careful attention and skill. The harvest season was a time of great joy and celebration, as evidenced by the numerous references to wine and feasting in the Scriptures. The abundance of grapes and wine was often seen as a sign of divine blessing and prosperity.

The presence of vineyards in regions like Shechem reflects the agricultural practices of the time and the centrality of grape cultivation in the daily life and economy of the Israelites. The imagery of the vine and vineyard continues to resonate throughout the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of growth, fruitfulness, and divine care.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 9:27
And they went out into the fields, and gathered their vineyards, and stepped the grapes, and made merry, and went into the house of their god, and did eat and drink, and cursed Abimelech.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Story of Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors
... Most of them were grown-up men; but Joseph was a ... When Joseph reached Shechem, he
could not find his brothers, for ... He said, "In my dream I saw a grape-vine with ...
/.../marshall/the wonder book of bible stories/the story of joseph and.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm