Topical Bible: Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing

◄ Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, sheep shearing was not only an essential agricultural activity but also a significant social and economic event. The process of shearing sheep marked a time of celebration and feasting, reflecting the prosperity and abundance provided by God through the flocks. This practice is mentioned in several biblical narratives, highlighting its cultural and spiritual significance.

Cultural Context

Sheep were a vital part of the agrarian economy in ancient Israel, providing wool, meat, and milk. The shearing of sheep was a labor-intensive task that required skill and coordination. It was typically done in the spring, after the sheep had grown their winter coats. The shearing season was a time of joy and festivity, as it represented the culmination of a year's worth of care and labor.

Biblical References

One of the most notable references to sheep shearing and the associated feasting is found in the account of Nabal and David. In 1 Samuel 25, Nabal, a wealthy but surly man, is described as shearing his sheep in Carmel. During this time, David, who was in the wilderness with his men, sent messengers to Nabal to request provisions, as it was customary to share the abundance of the feast with others. Nabal's refusal to share his wealth led to a confrontation with David, which was ultimately resolved by Nabal's wise and discerning wife, Abigail. The passage highlights the expectation of generosity and hospitality during the shearing season:

"Now David heard in the wilderness that Nabal was shearing sheep. So David sent ten young men and said to them, 'Go up to Nabal at Carmel. Greet him in my name and say to him: Peace to you and to your house and to all that is yours! Now I hear that it is sheep-shearing time. When your shepherds were with us, we did not mistreat them, and nothing of theirs was missing the whole time they were in Carmel. Ask your own servants, and they will tell you. Therefore be favorable toward my young men, since we have come at a festive time. Please give your servants and your son David whatever you can find for them.'" (1 Samuel 25:4-8)

Another reference is found in the account of Absalom, the son of King David, who used the occasion of sheep shearing to orchestrate the murder of his brother Amnon. In 2 Samuel 13:23-29, Absalom invited all the king's sons to a feast at Baal Hazor, where he had his sheep sheared. This event underscores the importance of sheep shearing as a time for gathering and celebration, albeit with a tragic outcome in this instance.

Spiritual Significance

The feasting associated with sheep shearing can be seen as a reflection of God's provision and blessing. The abundance of wool and the prosperity it brought were viewed as gifts from God, and the feasting was an expression of gratitude and community. The expectation of sharing and hospitality during this time also aligns with biblical principles of generosity and care for others.

In the broader biblical narrative, sheep and shepherding often serve as metaphors for God's relationship with His people. Just as a shepherd cares for his flock, God provides for and protects His people. The celebration at the time of shearing can be seen as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the joy that comes from His provision.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 25:11,36
Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it to men, whom I know not from where they be?
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 13:23
And it came to pass after two full years, that Absalom had sheep shearers in Baalhazor, which is beside Ephraim: and Absalom invited all the king's sons.
Nave's Topical Index