Topical Encyclopedia Sheep-shearing is an ancient agricultural practice referenced multiple times in the Bible, signifying not only a routine pastoral activity but also a time of celebration and social gathering. In biblical times, sheep-shearing was a significant event in the agrarian calendar, marking a period of prosperity and festivity.Cultural and Economic Significance Sheep-shearing was a vital economic activity in ancient Israel, as sheep were a primary source of wool, a valuable commodity. The process involved removing the fleece from sheep, which was then used for making garments and other textiles. The abundance of wool was a sign of wealth and prosperity, and those who owned large flocks were often considered affluent. Biblical References 1. Genesis 31:19 · The practice of sheep-shearing is mentioned in the context of Laban's household. "While Laban was out shearing his sheep, Rachel stole her father’s household idols." This passage highlights the opportunity sheep-shearing provided for other activities, as it was a time when the shepherds and household members were preoccupied. 2. 1 Samuel 25:2-8 · Sheep-shearing is depicted as a time of feasting and generosity. Nabal, a wealthy man from Maon, was shearing his sheep in Carmel. David sent his men to greet Nabal during this festive time, expecting hospitality. "Now there was a man in Maon whose business was in Carmel, and the man was very wealthy; he had three thousand sheep and a thousand goats, and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel" (1 Samuel 25:2). 3. 2 Samuel 13:23-29 · The event of sheep-shearing also serves as a backdrop for the narrative of Absalom's revenge against Amnon. "Now it came about after two full years that Absalom had sheepshearers in Baal-hazor, which is near Ephraim, and Absalom invited all the king’s sons" (2 Samuel 13:23). This passage illustrates how sheep-shearing was an occasion for family gatherings and social events. 4. 2 Kings 3:4 · The tribute of wool paid by Mesha, king of Moab, to the king of Israel underscores the economic importance of sheep-shearing. "Now Mesha king of Moab was a sheep breeder, and he used to pay the king of Israel a tribute of a hundred thousand lambs and the wool of a hundred thousand rams." Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Sheep-shearing in the Bible can also be seen as a metaphor for divine provision and blessing. The abundance of wool and the prosperity it brought were viewed as gifts from God, reflecting His care and provision for His people. The practice also serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of stewardship and the importance of sharing one's blessings with others, as seen in the expectation of hospitality during shearing festivals. In summary, sheep-shearing in biblical times was more than a mere agricultural task; it was a culturally rich event that provided opportunities for social interaction, economic exchange, and spiritual reflection. The biblical narratives surrounding sheep-shearing offer insights into the values and practices of ancient Israelite society, emphasizing themes of hospitality, wealth, and divine blessing. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Act of shearing sheep.2. (n.) A feast at the time of sheep-shearing. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHEEP-SHEARINGshep'-sher-ing: The sheep-shearing is done in the springtime, either by the owners (Genesis 31:19; Genesis 38:13 Deuteronomy 15:19 1 Samuel 25:2, 4) or by regular "shearers" (gazaz) (1 Samuel 25:7, 11 Isaiah 53:7). There were special houses for this work in Old Testament times (2 Kings 10:12, 14). The shearing was carefully done so as to keep the fleece whole (Judges 6:37). The sheep of a flock are not branded but spotted. Lime or some dyestuff is painted in one or more spots on the wool of the back as a distinguishing mark. In 2 Kings 3:4, Mesha, the chief or sheikh of Moab, was a sheep-master, literally, "a sheep spotter." Strong's Hebrew 1044. Beth-eqed -- "house of binding," a place in Palestine... shearing house. From bayith and a derivative of aqad; house of (the) binding (for sheep-shearing); Beth-Eked, a place in Palestine -- shearing house. ... /hebrew/1044.htm - 6k Library Chapter xxxviii A Blast of the Trumpet against False Peace Chapter xxxi Thesaurus Sheepshearing... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHEEP-SHEARING. shep'-sher-ing: The sheep-shearing is done in the springtime, either by the owners ... /s/sheepshearing.htm - 7k Sheep-shearing (1 Occurrence) Sheep (413 Occurrences) Baalhazor (1 Occurrence) Baal-hazor (1 Occurrence) Nabal (18 Occurrences) Entertain (8 Occurrences) Absalom (93 Occurrences) Abigal (1 Occurrence) Abigail (18 Occurrences) Resources What is the story of David and Nabal? | GotQuestions.orgHow was God Himself the inheritance of the Levites? | GotQuestions.org Who was Judah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sheep-shearing (1 Occurrence)1 Samuel 25:7 Subtopics Related Terms |
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