Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the exchange of gifts among persons of rank was a common practice, often serving as a symbol of respect, allegiance, or diplomacy. These gifts were typically of great value and variety, reflecting the wealth and status of the giver and the significance of the occasion or relationship.Old Testament Examples 1. Abraham and Melchizedek: In Genesis 14:18-20, after Abram's victory over the kings, Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine and blessed Abram. In response, Abram gave Melchizedek a tenth of everything, signifying honor and recognition of Melchizedek's priestly status. 2. Jacob and Esau: In Genesis 32:13-21, Jacob prepared a substantial gift for his brother Esau, consisting of livestock, to appease him and ensure a peaceful reunion. This gift was strategically chosen to convey Jacob's wealth and his desire for reconciliation. 3. The Queen of Sheba and Solomon: The visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon is a notable example of royal gift-giving. In 1 Kings 10:1-2, the queen brought a great caravan of spices, gold, and precious stones to test Solomon's wisdom and to establish diplomatic relations. Solomon, in turn, gave her gifts of equal splendor (1 Kings 10:13). 4. David and Abigail: In 1 Samuel 25:18-35, Abigail presented David with a generous offering of food and supplies to avert his wrath against her husband Nabal. Her gift was both a gesture of goodwill and a means of securing David's favor. New Testament Examples 1. The Magi and Jesus: The visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus is one of the most well-known instances of gift-giving in the New Testament. In Matthew 2:11, the Magi presented Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, each carrying symbolic significance and acknowledging Jesus' kingship and divinity. 2. Herod and the People of Tyre and Sidon: In Acts 12:20, the people of Tyre and Sidon sought peace with Herod by securing the support of his chamberlain, Blastus. Although not a direct exchange of gifts, this incident highlights the political nature of gifts and favors in maintaining alliances and securing resources. Cultural and Theological Significance The giving of presents among persons of rank in biblical narratives often served multiple purposes: it was a means of establishing or reinforcing alliances, demonstrating loyalty, and showing respect or submission. These gifts were typically chosen for their material value and symbolic meaning, reflecting the giver's intentions and the nature of the relationship. From a theological perspective, the exchange of gifts can also be seen as a reflection of God's generosity and the importance of giving in the life of faith. The gifts of the Magi, for example, not only honored Jesus but also foreshadowed His role as King, Priest, and Sacrifice. In summary, the practice of giving presents among persons of rank in the Bible underscores the importance of relationships, diplomacy, and the acknowledgment of authority and status. These gifts, rich in variety and value, played a crucial role in the social and political dynamics of the biblical world. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 5:2And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman's wife. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 9:1 Library Literature of Church History. Crossing the Hellespont. The Conversion of the Ethiopian Eunuch. Kumaon. The visit to Media. The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty The Political Constitution of Egypt Causes of Corruption Chiefly Intentional. The Theology of St. Hilary of Poitiers. On the Interpretation of Scripture Resources Does Hebrews 6:4-6 mean we can lose our salvation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan? | GotQuestions.org What is libertarian free will? | GotQuestions.org Presents: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Presents of Persons of Rank, of Great Value and Variety Presents were Given by Kings to Each Other in Token of Inferiority Presents were Given in Token of Friendship Presents were Given: As Tribute Presents were Given: At Marriages Presents were Given: On all Occasions of Public Rejoicing Presents were Given: On Occasions of Visits Presents were Given: On Recovering from Sickness Presents were Given: On Restoration to Prosperity Presents were Given: On Sending Away Friends Presents were Given: To Appease the Angry Feelings of Others Presents were Given: To Confirm Covenants Presents were Given: To Judges to Secure a Favourable Hearing Presents were Given: To Kings to Engage Their Aid Presents were Given: To Reward Service Presents were Given: To Show Respect Presents: Considered Essential on all Visits of Business Presents: Generally Presented in Person Presents: Generally Procured a Favourable Reception Presents: Laid out and Presented With Great Ceremony Presents: Not Bringing, Considered a Mark of Disrespect Presents: Often Borne by Servants Presents: Often Conveyed on Camels Presents: Receiving of, a Token of Good Will Presents: Sometimes Sent Before the Giver Presents: Things Given as Cattle Presents: Things Given as Food Presents: Things Given as Garments Presents: Things Given as Gold and Silver Vessels Presents: Things Given as Horses and Mules Presents: Things Given as Money Presents: Things Given as Ornaments Presents: Things Given as Precious Stones Presents: Things Given as Servants Presents: Things Given as Weapons of War Presents: when Small or Defective, Refused Related Terms |
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