Topical Bible: Herbs: Leeks

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Topical Encyclopedia

Leeks are a type of herbaceous plant belonging to the Allium family, which also includes onions, garlic, and chives. In the context of the Bible, leeks are mentioned specifically in the Old Testament, highlighting their significance in the diet and agriculture of ancient Near Eastern cultures.

Biblical Reference:

Leeks are mentioned in the Book of Numbers, where the Israelites, during their exodus from Egypt, express their longing for the foods they enjoyed in Egypt. Numbers 11:5 states: "We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic." This verse reflects the Israelites' nostalgia for the variety and abundance of food they had in Egypt, contrasting it with their current sustenance in the wilderness.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Egypt, leeks were a common and valued part of the diet. They were cultivated extensively and were known for their mild flavor and nutritional benefits. The mention of leeks, along with other vegetables, in the Israelites' lament highlights the agricultural richness of Egypt, which was a fertile land due to the annual flooding of the Nile River.

Leeks, like other members of the Allium family, were likely used not only for their flavor but also for their medicinal properties. They were believed to have health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing essential nutrients.

Symbolism and Significance:

The longing for leeks and other foods in Numbers 11:5 symbolizes the Israelites' struggle with faith and contentment during their journey to the Promised Land. Their desire for the familiar comforts of Egypt represents a temptation to return to a life of bondage rather than trusting in God's provision and promises.

The mention of leeks serves as a reminder of the Israelites' human frailty and the challenges of maintaining faith in the face of hardship. It underscores the theme of reliance on God and the importance of spiritual sustenance over physical desires.

Leeks in Ancient Agriculture:

Leeks were likely grown in well-irrigated gardens and fields, benefiting from the rich, alluvial soil of the Nile Delta. Their cultivation would have required knowledge of planting cycles and irrigation techniques, reflecting the advanced agricultural practices of ancient Egypt.

In summary, leeks in the Bible are more than just a food item; they represent a connection to the past, a test of faith, and a symbol of the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom. Their mention in Scripture provides insight into the daily life and spiritual challenges faced by God's people in their pursuit of His 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

Library

The System of the Egyptians, which is Appointed for the Daily ...
... of dried and uncooked food, [780] and among them the leaves of leeks cut each ...
twenty-seventh to his thirtieth year he supported himself on wild herbs, and the ...
/.../cassian/the works of john cassian /chapter xxii the system of.htm

Prosperity under Persecution
... And so it came to pass, that like certain herbs which spring up when ... appreciated
what they afterwards called the luxuries of the land"the leeks, the garlics ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/prosperity under persecution.htm

The First Discovery of America
... had gone. In a stone pot she had leeks and other herbs, and boiled them,
and gave the wounded man of it to eat. But Thormod said ...
/.../kingsley/historical lectures and essays/the first discovery of america.htm

The First Discovery of America.
... had gone. In a stone pot she had leeks and other herbs, and boiled them,
and gave the wounded men of it to eat. But Thormod said ...
/.../lectures delivered in america in 1874/lecture iii the first discovery.htm

Christ Our Passover
... since that time gone back to Egypt; although our hearts may sometimes have desired
the leeks, the onions ... And even with the bitter herbs, is he not sweet food? ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/christ our passover.htm

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... only the fruits of trees and the produce of the crops, and herbs and vegetables ... eat
in Egypt for nought; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm