Topical Bible: Entertainments: Served often by Hired Servants

Bible > Topical > Entertainments

◄ Entertainments: Served often by Hired Servants ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, entertainments and feasts were significant social and religious events, often marked by the presence of hired servants who played crucial roles in their execution. These gatherings were not only opportunities for communal celebration but also occasions for demonstrating hospitality, wealth, and social status.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of feasts and entertainments where servants were employed to ensure the smooth running of events. In Genesis 18:6-8, Abraham demonstrates hospitality to three visitors by quickly preparing a meal with the help of his household. Although the text does not explicitly mention hired servants, it is implied that Abraham's large household would have included servants to assist in such preparations.

In 1 Samuel 25, Abigail prepares a lavish feast for David and his men, utilizing her servants to deliver provisions. This account highlights the role of servants in facilitating hospitality and managing the logistics of large gatherings.

New Testament Context

The New Testament also reflects the cultural importance of entertainments served by hired servants. In the parable of the wedding banquet in Matthew 22:1-14, Jesus describes a king who sends his servants to invite guests and later to prepare the feast. This parable illustrates the use of servants in organizing and executing significant social events.

In John 2:1-11, at the wedding in Cana, Jesus performs His first miracle by turning water into wine. The presence of servants is crucial, as they are instructed by Jesus to fill the jars with water, demonstrating their role in the success of the celebration.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Entertainments in biblical times were not merely social gatherings but were often imbued with religious significance. Feasts such as Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles were commanded by God and involved elaborate preparations, likely requiring the assistance of servants. In Exodus 12, the preparation for the Passover meal would have involved the entire household, including servants, to ensure adherence to divine instructions.

The role of servants in these entertainments underscores the biblical principles of hospitality and service. In Luke 12:37, Jesus speaks of the blessedness of servants whom the master finds alert upon his return, highlighting the virtue of faithful service.

Social Implications

The employment of hired servants for entertainments also reflects the social hierarchies of the time. Wealthy individuals, such as kings and landowners, had the means to host grand feasts, showcasing their status and influence. The presence of servants at these events was a visible sign of the host's wealth and ability to provide for others.

In Luke 16:19-31, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the rich man's lifestyle, including his feasting, is contrasted with Lazarus's poverty. This parable serves as a moral lesson on the use of wealth and the responsibilities of those who have been blessed with abundance.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly focus on the concept of entertainments served by hired servants, the narratives and parables provide insight into the cultural practices of the time. These events were opportunities to demonstrate hospitality, fulfill religious obligations, and reflect social status, with servants playing an essential role in their execution.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 22:13
Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

John 2:5
His mother said to the servants, Whatever he said to you, do it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... troop of mercenaries whose services might be hired for the ... Building and ornamental
woods are often mentioned in ... he was accompanied by two discreet servants only ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... their critical faculties, and often their imagination ... expeditions, his banquets,
and entertainments in the ... over less powerful neighbours served to obliterate ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... other, whose deceitful wiles are often scarcely restrained by ... shalt choose, together
with three servants, who may ... to bring accusation by hired witnesses, they ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm