Topical Bible: Entertainments: Often Given in The Air, Besides Fountains

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In biblical times, entertainments were a significant aspect of social and communal life, often reflecting the cultural and religious values of the people. While the Bible does not explicitly mention entertainments "given in the air," it does provide insights into various forms of entertainment and public gatherings that were prevalent in ancient societies.

Public Gatherings and Celebrations

Public gatherings were common in biblical times, often associated with religious festivals, weddings, and other communal celebrations. These events were opportunities for social interaction, feasting, and entertainment. For instance, the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine, was a significant social event (John 2:1-11). Such gatherings often included music, dancing, and other forms of entertainment.

Music and Dance

Music and dance were integral to celebrations and worship in biblical times. The Psalms frequently mention the use of musical instruments and singing in worship and celebration. Psalm 150:4 encourages, "Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; praise Him with strings and flute." Dance was a form of expression and joy, as seen when David danced before the Lord with all his might (2 Samuel 6:14).

Fountains and Water Displays

While the Bible does not specifically mention entertainments involving fountains, water was a symbol of life and blessing. In the ancient Near East, fountains and water displays were often associated with luxury and abundance. The Song of Solomon poetically describes a garden with a fountain, symbolizing beauty and fertility (Song of Solomon 4:15).

Symbolism of Air and Water

In biblical symbolism, air and water hold significant meanings. Air, or breath, is often associated with life and the Spirit of God. In Genesis 2:7 , God breathes life into Adam, illustrating the life-giving power of God's Spirit. Water, similarly, is a symbol of purification and renewal. Jesus speaks of "living water" in John 4:10 , referring to the spiritual life and sustenance He offers.

Cultural Context

In the broader cultural context of the ancient world, entertainments "given in the air" could refer to performances or displays that took place in open spaces, such as marketplaces or public squares. These could include acrobatics, storytelling, or other forms of public entertainment that captivated audiences.

Moral and Spiritual Considerations

From a biblical perspective, entertainments and celebrations are viewed through the lens of moral and spiritual values. The Apostle Paul advises believers to engage in activities that are edifying and glorifying to God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Entertainment, like all aspects of life, is to be enjoyed within the boundaries of righteousness and holiness.

In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly describe entertainments "given in the air," it provides a framework for understanding the role of music, dance, and communal gatherings in ancient times. These activities were often intertwined with religious and cultural expressions, reflecting the values and beliefs of the people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 1:9
And Adonijah slew sheep and oxen and fat cattle by the stone of Zoheleth, which is by Enrogel, and called all his brothers the king's sons, and all the men of Judah the king's servants:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem
... endeavored to distract him with all kinds of entertainments. ... I ever saw them; tears
of happiness often ran down ... the Child of the Promise being given, in spite ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xiii the journey of the.htm

In the House of his Heavenly, and in the Home of his Earthly ...
... influential, and such festive evening-entertainments, with elaborate ... [1207] The
designation Lebanon' is often applied in ... a dozen names could be given of Rabbis ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter x in the house.htm

part i
... souls, God may be likened to the outer air in relation ... We often receive through prayer
that which we have asked for ... is said: "Ask, and it shall be given unto you ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... other, whose deceitful wiles are often scarcely restrained by ... extracts from the Thalia,
although given by Athanasius ... that there is another Logos besides the Son ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... Having so often sold thyself to me to work wickedness, wilt ... God had, in very wrath
to my soul, given me up ... fighting with the Prince of the power of the air. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm