Topical Bible: Presents: Not Bringing, Considered a Mark of Disrespect

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In the cultural and historical context of the Bible, the act of bringing presents or gifts was often seen as a gesture of respect, honor, and goodwill. The absence of such offerings, conversely, could be interpreted as a sign of disrespect or disregard. This understanding is woven throughout various narratives and teachings in the Scriptures.

One of the most illustrative examples of this cultural norm is found in the account of Saul's anointing as king. In 1 Samuel 10:27, the Berean Standard Bible states, "But some worthless men said, 'How can this man save us?' So they despised him and brought him no gift. But Saul remained silent." Here, the refusal to bring a gift to Saul, who had just been anointed as king, is explicitly linked to contempt and disrespect. The "worthless men" demonstrate their disdain for Saul's new position by withholding the customary tribute, highlighting the cultural expectation that gifts should accompany respect and acknowledgment of authority.

The practice of bringing gifts to honor someone is further exemplified in the account of the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon. In 1 Kings 10:2 , it is recorded, "She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones. She came to Solomon and spoke with him about all that was on her mind." The Queen of Sheba's lavish gifts were a testament to her respect and admiration for Solomon's wisdom and status. Her actions underscore the importance of gift-giving as a means of showing honor and respect.

In the prophetic literature, the absence of gifts is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a lack of reverence or acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. Malachi 1:8 criticizes the Israelites for offering blemished sacrifices, stating, "When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is it not wrong? And when you present the lame and sick, is it not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you or show you favor?" This passage highlights the expectation that offerings, whether to God or to earthly authorities, should be given with sincerity and respect. The failure to do so is equated with disrespect.

The New Testament also reflects this cultural understanding. In Matthew 2:11 , the Magi's visit to the young Jesus is marked by the presentation of gifts: "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." The Magi's gifts are a profound expression of honor and recognition of Jesus' kingship and divine nature.

In summary, the biblical narrative consistently portrays the act of bringing presents as a significant gesture of respect and honor. The absence of such offerings, particularly in contexts where they are expected, is often interpreted as a mark of disrespect or disregard. This cultural norm is evident in various biblical accounts, underscoring the importance of gift-giving as a means of expressing reverence and acknowledgment.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 10:27
And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off your shoulder, and his yoke from off your neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 17:24
And the king of Assyria brought men from Babylon, and from Cuthah, and from Ava, and from Hamath, and from Sepharvaim, and placed them in the cities of Samaria instead of the children of Israel: and they possessed Samaria, and dwelled in the cities thereof.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Life of Anne Catherine Emmerich
... She never considered her visions to have any reference to ... be reproached for temptations
which were not her own ... You are bringing me some ryeflour and eggs.' Here ...
/.../the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/the life of anne catherine.htm

The English-Speaking Peoples: Action and Reaction
... of the age had been gradually bringing to perfection ... upon the problem which the Old
Testament presents. ... Fraser's Magazine in 1833, but not published separately ...
/.../chapter vi the english-speaking peoples .htm

part ii
... When a father, mother or brother brings presents, he bestows them upon all his ... the
brothers and sisters, live in mutual love, then they do not feel happy or ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm