Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the stall for cattle was an essential component of agrarian life, reflecting the pastoral and agricultural society in which the people of the Bible lived. The stall served as a shelter and feeding place for domesticated animals, particularly cattle, which were vital for farming, transportation, and religious sacrifices.Biblical References: The concept of stalls for cattle is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in daily life and religious practices. In the Old Testament, the prophet Habakkuk references stalls in a context of desolation and divine judgment: "Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though the sheep are cut off from the fold and no cattle are in the stalls" (Habakkuk 3:17). This verse underscores the significance of cattle and their stalls as symbols of prosperity and sustenance. In 2 Chronicles 32:28, King Hezekiah's wealth and provision are described, including "storehouses for the harvest of grain, new wine, and oil, and stalls for all kinds of cattle and pens for the flocks" . This passage illustrates the role of stalls in the management and care of livestock, which were considered a measure of wealth and blessing. Cultural and Religious Significance: Cattle were integral to the economy and religious life of ancient Israel. They provided milk, meat, leather, and were used as beasts of burden. In addition, cattle were often used in sacrificial offerings, as prescribed in the Mosaic Law. The presence of stalls ensured that these valuable animals were protected and well-maintained. The construction and maintenance of stalls would have been a practical concern for the Israelites, reflecting their stewardship over God's creation. The care of cattle and the provision of stalls can be seen as an expression of obedience to God's commands to tend to the earth and its creatures. Symbolism and Metaphor: In a metaphorical sense, the absence of cattle in the stalls, as mentioned in Habakkuk, can symbolize a time of trial, scarcity, or divine judgment. Conversely, the presence of well-stocked stalls can represent abundance, divine favor, and the fulfillment of God's promises. The imagery of stalls and cattle also appears in prophetic and poetic literature, where it can serve as a metaphor for God's provision and care for His people. The shepherding and agricultural motifs found throughout Scripture often use the imagery of livestock and their care to illustrate spiritual truths about God's relationship with His people. Conclusion: The stall for cattle, while a practical necessity in the ancient world, carries rich symbolic and theological significance in the biblical narrative. It serves as a reminder of God's provision, the responsibilities of stewardship, and the blessings of obedience to His commands. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 15:17Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. Nave's Topical Index Greek 5336. phatne -- a manger ... phatne Phonetic Spelling: (fat'-nay) Short Definition: a manger, feeding-trough Definition: a manger, feeding-trough, stall. 5336 -- a cattle-crib; a feeding ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5336.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 4770. marbeq -- a stall... fatted, stall. From an unused root meaning to tie up; a stall (for cattle) -- X fat(-ted), stall. 4769, 4770. marbeq. 4771 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/4770.htm - 5k 7517. repheth -- stable, stall 4942. mishpethayim -- perhaps fireplaces, ash heaps 8240. shaphath -- perhaps fireplaces, ash heaps 4806. meri -- a fatling, fatlings Library A Strain of Sodom. June 5. "My Heart is Fixed, O God" (Ps. Lvii. 7). February 28. "Count it all Joy" (James i. 2). The Many-Sided Contrast of Wisdom and Folly The Taxing. --Birth of Christ at Bethlehem. Of the Appearance of the Angels. A Poem on the Passion of the Lord Saul Rejected 'Stout Words,' and their Confutation The Jerusalem Climate. Resources What is the sun of righteousness (Malachi 4:2)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God owns the cattle on a thousand hills? | GotQuestions.org What is pikuach nefesh? | GotQuestions.org Stall: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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