Topical Bible: Herbs: Cucumber

◄ Herbs: Cucumber ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Biblical References:
The cucumber is mentioned in the Bible in the context of the Israelites' longing for the foods they enjoyed in Egypt. In Numbers 11:5 , the Israelites express their discontent with the manna provided by God, reminiscing about the variety of foods they had in Egypt: "We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic."

Cultural and Historical Context:
Cucumbers were a common food in ancient Egypt, known for their refreshing and hydrating qualities, especially in the hot climate of the region. The mention of cucumbers in the biblical narrative highlights the Israelites' nostalgia for the familiar and flavorful foods of their past, contrasting with the monotony of manna in the wilderness. This longing for cucumbers and other foods symbolizes a deeper spiritual struggle, reflecting a desire to return to the comforts of their former life, despite the bondage they experienced in Egypt.

Botanical Information:
The cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a member of the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. It is a creeping vine that bears cylindrical fruits, which are typically harvested while still green and unripe. The plant thrives in warm climates and requires a good amount of water, making it well-suited to the conditions found in Egypt and the surrounding regions.

Symbolism and Theological Insights:
In the biblical narrative, the mention of cucumbers serves as a metaphor for the Israelites' struggle with contentment and faith. Their yearning for the foods of Egypt represents a temptation to return to a life of physical satisfaction at the expense of spiritual freedom and trust in God's provision. This episode in the wilderness journey underscores the importance of reliance on God and the dangers of longing for the past when it distracts from the divine path forward.

The Israelites' complaint about the lack of cucumbers and other foods can also be seen as a test of faith. It challenges believers to consider their own responses to God's provision and to trust in His plan, even when it requires sacrifice or discomfort. The narrative invites reflection on the nature of true sustenance, which is found not in earthly comforts but in the spiritual nourishment provided by God.

Practical Applications:
For modern readers, the account of the Israelites' longing for cucumbers serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual growth over material desires. It encourages believers to cultivate gratitude for God's provision and to resist the temptation to idealize the past. The account also calls for a deeper trust in God's faithfulness, even in times of uncertainty or trial, and to seek satisfaction in His presence and promises.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 11:5
We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 1:8
And the daughter of Zion is left as a cottage in a vineyard, as a lodge in a garden of cucumbers, as a besieged city.
Torrey's Topical Textbook