Topical Bible: Entertainments: A Choice Portion Reserved In, for Principal Guests

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the cultural and social contexts of the Bible, hospitality and the act of entertaining guests held significant importance. The practice of reserving a choice portion of food or drink for principal guests is a recurring theme, reflecting the values of honor, respect, and generosity.

Biblical Context and Examples

1. Abraham's Hospitality: One of the earliest examples of reserving a choice portion for guests is found in the account of Abraham. In Genesis 18, when three visitors came to Abraham, he hurried to prepare a special meal for them. He instructed Sarah to make bread from the finest flour and selected a tender calf for the meal. This act of providing the best for his guests underscores the importance of honoring visitors with the finest available resources. Genesis 18:7-8 states, "Then Abraham ran to the herd, selected a tender, choice calf, and gave it to a servant, who hurried to prepare it. He then brought butter and milk and the calf that had been prepared, and set it before them."

2. Joseph's Banquet: In Genesis 43, Joseph, then a powerful official in Egypt, hosted a meal for his brothers. During this meal, Joseph demonstrated favor by giving Benjamin, his youngest brother, a portion five times larger than the others. This act of reserving a larger portion for Benjamin was a sign of special honor and affection. Genesis 43:34 records, "When the portions were served to them from Joseph’s table, Benjamin’s portion was five times larger than any of the others. So they feasted and drank freely with him."

3. The Prodigal Son: In the New Testament, the parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the theme of reserving a choice portion for a special guest. Upon the return of the wayward son, the father orders the best robe, a ring, and sandals for him, and commands the servants to prepare the fattened calf for a celebratory feast. This act of reserving the best for the returning son signifies forgiveness, restoration, and joy. Luke 15:22-23 states, "But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let us feast and celebrate.'"

Cultural Significance

In ancient Near Eastern culture, the act of reserving a choice portion for principal guests was not merely a matter of etiquette but a profound expression of respect and honor. It demonstrated the host's willingness to go above and beyond in showing hospitality, often at great personal expense. This practice was deeply rooted in the values of community, kinship, and the sacred duty of caring for others.

Spiritual Implications

From a spiritual perspective, the biblical examples of reserving choice portions for guests can be seen as a reflection of God's abundant grace and generosity towards humanity. Just as hosts in biblical times offered their best to honor their guests, believers are called to offer their best to God and to others, reflecting His love and grace in their lives. The principle of giving generously and honoring others is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, encouraging believers to live lives marked by hospitality, kindness, and selflessness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 43:34
And he took and sent messes to them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any of their's. And they drank, and were merry with him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 1:5
But to Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 9:23,24
And Samuel said to the cook, Bring the portion which I gave you, of which I said to you, Set it by you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... which was one of the three principal residences of ... his hunting expeditions, his banquets,
and entertainments in the ... A portion of them furnish us at first-hand ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... hardened as himself, but he made a very different choice. ... thought,[49] of God, and
were principal in the ... Although he had received that portion of comfort which ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm