Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Description:A pancake, in modern culinary terms, is a flat, round cake made from a batter and cooked on a griddle or frying pan. While the specific term "pancake" does not appear in the Bible, the concept of a flat, unleavened bread or cake is present in biblical times and holds significance in various contexts. Biblical Context: In the Bible, flatbreads and cakes are often mentioned as part of daily sustenance and religious rituals. These breads were typically made from simple ingredients such as flour, water, and sometimes oil, and were cooked on a hot surface. The preparation and consumption of such bread are deeply rooted in the cultural and religious practices of the Israelites. Scriptural References: 1. Unleavened Bread: The most notable biblical reference to a flatbread similar to a pancake is the unleavened bread used during the Passover. In Exodus 12:8 , the Israelites are instructed to eat the Passover lamb with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. This bread, made without yeast, symbolizes purity and the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. 2. Cakes of Fine Flour: In Leviticus 2:4 , the grain offering is described, which includes cakes made of fine flour mixed with oil and baked. These cakes, offered to God, were a form of worship and thanksgiving. 3. Provision in the Wilderness: In 1 Kings 17:12-16 , the widow of Zarephath prepares a small cake for the prophet Elijah using the last of her flour and oil. This act of faith results in a miraculous provision from God, where her jar of flour and jug of oil do not run dry. 4. Hospitality and Fellowship: In Genesis 18:6 , when Abraham receives three visitors, he instructs Sarah to quickly prepare three seahs of fine flour and make bread. This act of hospitality reflects the cultural importance of sharing bread as a sign of fellowship and welcome. Cultural and Theological Significance: The preparation and sharing of flatbreads or cakes in biblical times were not merely acts of sustenance but were imbued with spiritual and communal significance. They were often associated with covenantal meals, offerings to God, and acts of hospitality. The simplicity of these breads underscores themes of humility, provision, and divine blessing. Symbolism: In a broader theological sense, bread, including forms akin to pancakes, symbolizes life and sustenance provided by God. Jesus Christ, in the New Testament, refers to Himself as the "bread of life" (John 6:35), emphasizing the spiritual nourishment and eternal life He offers to believers. Conclusion: While the modern pancake as we know it is not directly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of flat, simple bread is deeply woven into the fabric of biblical history and theology. These breads serve as a reminder of God's provision, the importance of community, and the spiritual nourishment found in Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A thin cake of batter fried in a pan or on a griddle; a griddlecake; a flapjack.Library Appendix 1 Massecheth Middoth The Ethics of Elfland The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Thesaurus Pancake (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Pancake (1 Occurrence). Hosea 7:8 Ephraim, he mixes himself among the nations. Ephraim is a pancake not turned over. (WEB). ... /p/pancake.htm - 6k Cake (25 Occurrences) Pan (26 Occurrences) Mixes (2 Occurrences) Paneled (3 Occurrences) Flat (33 Occurrences) Resources What is Shrove Tuesday? | GotQuestions.orgPancake: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Pancake (1 Occurrence)Hosea 7:8 Subtopics Related Terms |