Topical Encyclopedia Raisincakes, often mentioned in the context of ancient Israelite culture, are a type of food referenced in the Bible. These cakes were made from dried grapes, or raisins, and were likely a form of sweet delicacy or sustenance. They are noted for their use in both religious and social settings, reflecting their significance in the daily and spiritual life of the Israelites.Biblical References: 1. 2 Samuel 6:19 : "Then he distributed to every man and woman among the multitude of Israel a loaf of bread, a date cake, and a raisin cake. Then all the people departed, each to his own home." This passage highlights the use of raisincakes in a celebratory context, as King David distributed them to the people during the joyous occasion of bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The inclusion of raisincakes in this event underscores their role as a symbol of festivity and communal sharing. 2. 1 Chronicles 16:3 : "Then he distributed to every man and woman of Israel a loaf of bread, a date cake, and a raisin cake." This verse parallels the account in 2 Samuel, again illustrating the use of raisincakes in a significant religious celebration. The repetition of this event in the Chronicles narrative emphasizes the importance of such offerings in fostering unity and joy among the people. 3. Hosea 3:1 : "Then the LORD said to me, 'Go, show love to your wife again, though she is loved by another and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the raisin cakes of the pagans.'" In this prophetic context, raisincakes are associated with idolatrous practices, indicating that they were also used in pagan worship. This association serves as a metaphor for Israel's unfaithfulness to God, as they pursued other deities and the pleasures associated with them. Cultural and Religious Significance: Raisincakes were more than just a food item; they held cultural and religious significance in ancient Israel. Their presence in both celebratory and idolatrous contexts suggests that they were a versatile symbol, capable of representing both divine blessing and spiritual waywardness. In celebrations, they were a token of God's provision and the joy of communal worship. Conversely, in the context of idolatry, they symbolized the allure of foreign gods and the temptation to stray from the covenant with Yahweh. Preparation and Use: The preparation of raisincakes likely involved pressing raisins into a compact form, possibly mixed with other ingredients such as flour or honey to enhance their flavor and texture. These cakes would have been easy to store and transport, making them a practical choice for both everyday sustenance and special occasions. In summary, raisincakes in the Bible serve as a multifaceted symbol, reflecting both the blessings of God and the temptations of idolatry. Their mention in various biblical narratives provides insight into the cultural and spiritual life of ancient Israel, illustrating the complex interplay between faithfulness and temptation. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia RAISIN-CAKESra'-z'-n-kaks: the Revised Version (British and American) gives this rendering for the King James Version "foundations" in Isaiah 16:7 (Hebrew 'ashishah from 'ashash, "to found," "make firm," "press"). The trade in these would cease through the desolation of the vineyards. For the King James Version "flagons of wine" in Hosea 3:1, the Revised Version (British and American) gives "cakes of raisins," such as were offered to the gods of the land, the givers of the grape (compare Songs 2:5). See next article. Thesaurus Raisincakes/r/raisincakes.htm - 7k Raisin-cakes (7 Occurrences) Raisin-cake (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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