Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the measurement and rationing of drinking water during periods of severe famine were significant indicators of distress and divine judgment. The scarcity of water, a fundamental necessity for life, often accompanied periods of drought, famine, and societal upheaval, serving as a poignant symbol of God's chastisement and the people's need for repentance.Biblical Context and References The rationing of water is vividly depicted in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. In Ezekiel 4:16-17, the prophet Ezekiel is instructed by God to act out a symbolic siege of Jerusalem, which includes the rationing of food and water: "Then He said to me, 'Son of man, I will cut off the supply of bread in Jerusalem. They will anxiously eat rationed food and drink rationed water in dismay, because food and water will be scarce. They will be appalled at the sight of each other, and waste away because of their iniquity.'" . This passage underscores the dire circumstances faced by the inhabitants of Jerusalem as a result of their disobedience and the impending judgment. Similarly, in Lamentations 5:4, the lament over Jerusalem's destruction includes the purchase of drinking water: "We must buy the water we drink; our wood comes at a price." . This verse highlights the extreme conditions during the Babylonian siege, where even basic resources became commodities, reflecting the depth of the nation's suffering. Theological Implications The rationing of water during famine serves as a metaphor for spiritual desolation and the consequences of turning away from God. Water, often symbolizing life and divine blessing, becomes a measure of judgment when withheld. The scarcity of water in these narratives calls the people to recognize their dependence on God for sustenance and to seek His mercy and restoration. In a broader theological context, the rationing of water during famine can be seen as a call to repentance and a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The withholding of essential resources serves as a tangible expression of the brokenness resulting from sin and the urgent need for reconciliation with God. Practical and Historical Considerations Historically, the rationing of water during times of famine would have required careful management and distribution to ensure survival. In ancient Near Eastern societies, water sources such as wells, cisterns, and rivers were vital for sustaining life, agriculture, and livestock. The control and allocation of water resources would have been a critical aspect of community leadership and governance during crises. The biblical accounts of water rationing during famine provide insight into the lived experiences of ancient peoples and the profound impact of environmental and divine factors on their daily lives. These narratives continue to resonate with contemporary readers, offering lessons on the importance of faithfulness, stewardship, and reliance on God's provision. In conclusion, the measure of drinking water during severe famine in the Bible serves as a powerful symbol of judgment, repentance, and the hope of restoration. It reminds believers of the necessity of aligning with God's will and the assurance of His provision even in the most challenging circumstances. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 4:11,16You shall drink also water by measure, the sixth part of an hin: from time to time shall you drink. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Discipline of the Church, and Its Principal Use in Censures ... Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... The Transformation of Rome from a Pagan into a Christian City. Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. A Discourse The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times Resources What does it mean to be devout? | GotQuestions.orgWhy are all Christians hypocrites? Are all Christians hypocrites? | GotQuestions.org How can I maintain a good attitude when I am struggling with PMS? | GotQuestions.org Measures: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Measures of Length: Handbreadth Measures of Liquids and Solids: Bath or Ephah Measures of Liquids and Solids: Cab Measures of Liquids and Solids: Firkin Measures of Liquids and Solids: Hin Measures of Liquids and Solids: Homer or Cor Measures of Liquids and Solids: Log Measures of Liquids and Solids: Omer or Tenth-Deal (The Tenth of an Ephah) Measures were Regulated by the Standard of the Sanctuary Measures: (Correcting in Measure) of Mitigated Afflictions Measures: (Drinking Tears in Great Measure) of Severe Afflictions Measures: (Drinking Water, by Measure) of Severe Famine Measures: (Measuring the Dust of the Earth) of God's Greatness Measures: (Opening the Mouth Without Measure) the Insatiableness Measures: (The Measure of Our Days) the Shortness of Life Measures: (The Measure of the Stature of Christ) Perfection Measures: (Weighing the Waters in a Measure) God's Infinite Measures: Distances Measured by Rods and Lines Measures: The Jews not to be Unjust In Measures: The Jews often Used Unjust Measures: Unjust, an Abomination to God Related Terms |
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