Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the cultivation and watering of herbs were essential aspects of daily life, particularly in an agrarian society where agriculture was a primary means of sustenance. The Bible contains several allusions to the mode of watering herbs, reflecting both the practical and spiritual dimensions of this activity.Natural Watering by Rain The most common mode of watering herbs in biblical times was through natural rainfall. The dependence on rain is frequently mentioned in Scripture, highlighting both the blessings and challenges faced by those who worked the land. In Deuteronomy 11:10-11, the land of Canaan is contrasted with Egypt, emphasizing reliance on rain from heaven: "For the land you are entering to possess is not like the land of Egypt, from which you have come, where you sowed your seed and irrigated by hand as in a vegetable garden. But the land you are crossing the Jordan to take possession of is a land of mountains and valleys that drinks rain from heaven." Irrigation Techniques While rain was the primary source of water, irrigation techniques were also employed, especially in regions where rainfall was insufficient. The practice of irrigation is alluded to in various passages, though not always explicitly described. In Genesis 2:10, a river watering the garden of Eden is mentioned, suggesting an early form of irrigation: "A river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it branched into four headwaters." Spiritual Symbolism Watering herbs also carries spiritual symbolism in the Bible, often representing God's provision and blessing. In Isaiah 58:11, the Lord's guidance and provision are likened to a well-watered garden: "The LORD will always guide you; He will satisfy you in a sun-scorched land and strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." Dependence on God The mode of watering herbs serves as a reminder of the dependence on God for sustenance and growth. In 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, the Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of planting and watering to illustrate spiritual growth, emphasizing that it is God who gives the increase: "I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow." Conclusion The biblical allusions to the mode of watering herbs reflect both the practical realities of ancient agriculture and the deeper spiritual truths about reliance on God's provision. Whether through natural rainfall or human effort in irrigation, the growth of herbs serves as a testament to the Creator's sustaining power and the faithfulness required of His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 11:10For the land, where you go in to possess it, is not as the land of Egypt, from from where you came out, where you sowed your seed, and watered it with your foot, as a garden of herbs: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Chapter ii Church Fabrics and Services. Resources What does the Bible say about doing drugs? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Issachar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about inner peace? | GotQuestions.org Herbs: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Herbs were Sometimes Used Instead of Animal Food by Weak Saints Herbs: (Dew On) of Grace Given to Saints Herbs: Bitter, Used at Passover Herbs: Destroyed by Hail and Lightning Herbs: Destroyed by Tithable Among the Jews Herbs: Each Kind of, Contains Its own Seed Herbs: Mode of Watering, Alluded To Herbs: Poisonous, not Fit for Man's Use Related Terms |
    |