Topical Encyclopedia Rushes are a type of plant frequently mentioned in the Bible, often associated with marshy or wetland areas. These plants are characterized by their long, slender stems and are typically found growing in shallow water or damp soil. In biblical times, rushes were commonly used for various practical purposes, including weaving and construction.Biblical References: 1. Exodus 2:3 : "But when she could hide him no longer, she got a papyrus basket for him and coated it with tar and pitch. Then she placed the child in it and set it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile." In this passage, the term "reeds" is often understood to include rushes, which were used to construct the basket that carried the infant Moses. This highlights the practical use of rushes in ancient times for making watertight containers. 2. Job 8:11 : "Does papyrus grow where there is no marsh? Do reeds flourish without water?" Here, the rhetorical questions posed by Bildad the Shuhite emphasize the dependency of rushes and similar plants on water-rich environments. This serves as a metaphor for the necessity of a proper foundation for growth and prosperity, both physically and spiritually. 3. Isaiah 19:6-7 : "The streams of the Nile will dwindle and dry up, and the canals will become parched. The reeds and rushes will wither. The bulrushes by the Nile, by the mouth of the river, and all the sown land along the Nile will dry up, blow away, and be no more." This prophecy against Egypt illustrates the devastation that will occur when the life-giving waters of the Nile are withdrawn, leading to the withering of rushes and other vegetation. It underscores the reliance of these plants on a consistent water source. 4. Isaiah 35:7 : "The parched ground will become a pool, the thirsty land springs of water. In the haunt of jackals, their lairs, there will be grass, reeds, and rushes." This verse is part of a prophetic vision of restoration and abundance, where barren lands are transformed into fertile areas teeming with life, including rushes. It symbolizes the renewal and blessing that come from divine intervention. Cultural and Symbolic Significance: In biblical literature, rushes often symbolize fragility and transience due to their reliance on water and their tendency to wither quickly when deprived of it. This symbolism is used to convey spiritual truths about the human condition and the necessity of remaining connected to God, the ultimate source of life and sustenance. Rushes also played a role in the daily life of ancient Near Eastern cultures. They were used in the making of mats, baskets, and even simple boats, demonstrating their utility and versatility. The presence of rushes in biblical narratives often serves to ground the accounts in the natural world familiar to the original audience, providing a tangible connection to the land and its resources. Overall, rushes in the Bible are more than just plants; they are woven into the fabric of biblical teaching, illustrating themes of dependence, provision, and the transformative power of God's presence. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 8:11Can the rush grow up without mire? can the flag grow without water? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Life of S. Hilarion. Canaan on Earth Christ's Birth Here Next Followeth the History of Moses Ephesians iv. 17-19 Commendation of those who came to Hear after Taking a Meal. ... Ancient Chaldaea Andromeda Epistle Lxiii. Limenius, Bishop of Vercell??, Having Died, the See ... The Flight into Egypt and St. John the Baptist in the Desert 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 |
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