Topical Encyclopedia A she-lamb, or female lamb, holds significant symbolic and ritualistic importance in the biblical narrative. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, lambs were a vital part of daily life, providing wool, meat, and milk. However, their role extended beyond mere sustenance; they were integral to the religious and sacrificial systems established by God for His people.Sacrificial System In the Old Testament, the sacrificial system was central to the Israelites' worship and relationship with God. The she-lamb was often used in various offerings and sacrifices, symbolizing purity and innocence. In Leviticus 4:32, the she-lamb is mentioned as an acceptable sin offering: "If, however, he brings a lamb as a sin offering, he is to bring an unblemished female." This requirement for an unblemished animal underscores the necessity of offering God the best and most pure, reflecting His holiness and the seriousness of sin. Passover and Atonement While the Passover lamb is typically a male, the broader context of sacrificial lambs, including she-lambs, points to the theme of atonement and deliverance. The she-lamb, like its male counterpart, was a reminder of God's provision for sin and His desire for reconciliation with His people. The sacrificial system foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). Symbol of Innocence and Purity The she-lamb's symbolism extends to its representation of innocence and purity. In Isaiah 11:6, the peaceful coexistence of the wolf and the lamb is a prophetic image of the Messianic age, where harmony and righteousness will reign. The she-lamb, in its gentle and innocent nature, embodies the peace and purity that will characterize God's restored creation. Cultural and Economic Significance Beyond its religious symbolism, the she-lamb was also economically significant. As a source of wool and milk, she-lambs contributed to the livelihood of Israelite families. The care and management of flocks were a common occupation, and the prosperity of a household was often measured by the health and size of its flocks. Proverbs 27:26 highlights this economic aspect: "The lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field." Prophetic Imagery The imagery of lambs, including she-lambs, is prevalent in the prophetic literature of the Bible. The prophets often used the metaphor of a lamb to convey messages of judgment, redemption, and hope. In Jeremiah 11:19, the prophet likens himself to a gentle lamb led to the slaughter, illustrating his innocence amidst persecution. This imagery resonates with the sacrificial theme and points to the suffering servant motif fulfilled in Christ. Conclusion The she-lamb, while a humble creature, carries profound theological and symbolic weight within the biblical narrative. Its role in the sacrificial system, its representation of innocence and purity, and its economic importance all contribute to its rich significance in Scripture. Through the lens of the she-lamb, believers are reminded of God's provision, the seriousness of sin, and the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ, the ultimate Lamb of God. Library The General Service to Two or Many Monk Martyrs. General Service to a Nun-Martyr. The General Service to one Hieromartyr The General Service to Two or Many Hieromartyrs. Thesaurus She-lamb (1 Occurrence)She-lamb. Shelah, She-lamb. Shelanite . Multi-Version Concordance She-lamb (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 12:3 But the poor ... /s/she-lamb.htm - 6k Shelanite (1 Occurrence) Shelah (18 Occurrences) Resting (117 Occurrences) Arms (166 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of Agnus Dei? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the marriage supper of the Lamb? | GotQuestions.org Was Mary sinless? Was Mary without sin? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance She-lamb (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 12:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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