Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient world, the concept of a bed was quite different from modern understandings. Beds in biblical times were often simple and functional, reflecting the lifestyle and resources of the people. The Bible provides several references to beds, illustrating their use and significance in daily life and culture.Materials and Construction Beds in biblical times were typically constructed from materials readily available in the region. They often consisted of a simple mat or mattress placed on the floor or on a raised platform. In some cases, beds were made from woven reeds or wooden frames, with ropes or leather strips providing support. The simplicity of these beds is evident in the account of the paralytic healed by Jesus, where he is told, "Get up, pick up your mat, and go home" (Matthew 9:6). This indicates that beds were portable and could be easily rolled up and carried. Cultural and Social Context Beds were not only places for rest but also held social and cultural significance. In the Old Testament, beds are often mentioned in the context of hospitality and family life. For instance, when the Shunammite woman provided a room for the prophet Elisha, she included a bed as part of the furnishings: "Let us make a small room on the roof and put in it a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp for him" (2 Kings 4:10). This highlights the importance of providing comfort and rest for guests. Symbolism and Metaphor Beds also appear in the Bible as symbols of rest, intimacy, and even moral conduct. In the Song of Solomon, the bed is a place of love and intimacy between the bride and groom: "Our bed is verdant" (Song of Solomon 1:16). Conversely, beds are sometimes associated with idleness or moral failure. Proverbs warns against excessive sleep, stating, "As a door turns on its hinges, so does a sluggard on his bed" (Proverbs 26:14). Death and Mourning In biblical narratives, beds are occasionally linked to death and mourning. Jacob, for instance, gathered his strength to bless his sons from his bed before he died: "When Jacob had finished instructing his sons, he drew his feet into the bed, breathed his last, and was gathered to his people" (Genesis 49:33). This illustrates the bed as a place of final rest and transition from life to death. Conclusion The antiquity of beds in biblical times reflects their essential role in daily life, hospitality, and cultural practices. Through various biblical accounts, beds are depicted as simple yet significant furnishings that serve practical, social, and symbolic purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 47:31And he said, Swear to me. And he swore to him. And Israel bowed himself on the bed's head. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 8:3 Library On Development in Religious Knowledge. ... Geological Contemporaneity and Persistent Types of Life. That Whereas the City of Jerusalem had Been Five Times Taken ... Philo's Account of the Ascetics of Egypt. The Gospel According to St. Mark The Empress Theodora The Ascent of the Body Mosaic Cosmogony. Christian Conversation The History of Simon Magus. Resources How does the geologic timescale fit with the view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I become more Christlike? | GotQuestions.org What was in the shadow of Peter that healed people (Acts 5:15-16)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Beds of the Poor Covered With Upper Garment Beds of the Poor often Sold for Debt Beds used for Reclining on at Meals Beds used for Reclining on by Day Beds: (Made in Darkness) of Extreme Misery Beds: (Made in Sickness) of Divine Support and Comfort Beds: (Made on High) of Carnal Security Beds: (Too Short) Plans Which Afford No Rest or Peace Beds: A Small Pallet or Mattress Used As Beds: Couches or Divans Used As Beds: Covered With Tapestry and Linen Beds: Persons Sometimes Took To, in Grief Beds: Saints Meditate and Praise God While On Beds: Subject to Ceremonial Defilement Beds: The Slothful Too Fond of Beds: The Wicked Devise Mischief While On Related Terms |
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