Topical Encyclopedia Sheep hold significant symbolic and practical importance throughout the Bible, serving as a central element in the agrarian society of ancient Israel and as a profound metaphor in spiritual teachings. In the Bible, sheep are often associated with innocence, vulnerability, and the need for guidance, reflecting the relationship between God and His people.Biblical Significance: 1. Sacrificial System: Sheep were integral to the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament. The Passover lamb, as described in Exodus 12, is a prime example where a lamb without blemish was sacrificed, symbolizing deliverance and foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29). 2. Metaphor for God's People: Sheep frequently represent the people of God, who are depicted as needing guidance and protection. Psalm 23:1 states, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want," illustrating the care and provision God offers His followers. Similarly, Isaiah 53:6 declares, "We all like sheep have gone astray," highlighting human tendency to wander from God's path. 3. Jesus as the Good Shepherd: In the New Testament, Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His role in guiding and protecting His followers. John 10:11 states, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep," underscoring His sacrificial love and commitment to His flock. 4. Parables and Teachings: Jesus often used sheep in His parables to convey spiritual truths. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7) illustrates God's relentless pursuit of the lost, demonstrating His compassion and joy over one sinner who repents. Practical Role: In the ancient Near East, sheep were a vital part of daily life, providing wool, milk, and meat. Shepherding was a common occupation, and the skills of a shepherd were highly valued. The imagery of shepherds and sheep permeates biblical narratives, reflecting the pastoral lifestyle of the time. ·-- Sharon Sharon is a region mentioned in the Bible, known for its fertile plains and beauty. It is located along the Mediterranean coast of Israel, stretching from Joppa (modern-day Jaffa) to Caesarea. The Plain of Sharon is renowned for its lush vegetation and agricultural productivity. Biblical References: 1. Fertility and Beauty: Sharon is often associated with beauty and fertility in the Scriptures. Isaiah 35:2 describes the transformation of the desert into a fertile land, stating, "The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon." 2. Symbol of Prosperity: The region's richness is used metaphorically to describe prosperity and divine blessing. In Song of Solomon 2:1 , the beloved refers to herself as "a rose of Sharon," symbolizing beauty and desirability. 3. Historical Context: Sharon's strategic location made it a significant area throughout biblical history. It served as a route for trade and military campaigns, contributing to its prominence in various biblical narratives. 4. Prophetic Imagery: In prophetic literature, Sharon is mentioned as a place of restoration and blessing. Isaiah 65:10 promises, "Sharon will become a pasture for flocks, and the Valley of Achor a resting place for herds, for My people who seek Me." Sharon's depiction in the Bible as a place of beauty and abundance serves as a powerful symbol of God's provision and the flourishing of His creation. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 65:10And Sharon shall be a fold of flocks, and the valley of Achor a place for the herds to lie down in, for my people that have sought me. Nave's Topical Index Library The Parable of the Lost Sheep Mormonites, or the Church of the Latter-Day Saints. The Unsatisfied Life and Its Remedy In Judaea Visions of Future Glory The Great Teacher A Song among the Lilies Abraham's Four Surrenders Letter cxxx. To Demetrias. Appendices Resources What did Jesus mean when He said “I am the door” (John 10:7)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus say that He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 15:24)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23)? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
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