Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the giving of presents during visits was a common cultural practice, reflecting hospitality, respect, and the establishment or maintenance of relationships. This tradition is evident throughout the Scriptures, where gifts often symbolize goodwill, honor, and the desire for peace or favor.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, acknowledging his priestly status and expressing gratitude. 2. Jacob and Esau: In Genesis 32:13-21, Jacob prepared a substantial gift for his brother Esau as he returned to Canaan. This act was intended to appease Esau and ensure a peaceful reunion after years of estrangement. Jacob's gift included livestock and was a gesture of reconciliation and humility. 3. Joseph and His Brothers: In Genesis 43:11-14, Jacob instructed his sons to take gifts to the Egyptian ruler (unbeknownst to them, their brother Joseph) to gain favor during a time of famine. The gifts included balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachio nuts, and almonds, reflecting the best of what Canaan had to offer. 4. The Queen of Sheba and Solomon: In 1 Kings 10:1-2, the Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon, bringing a great caravan of spices, gold, and precious stones. Her gifts were a testament to Solomon's renowned wisdom and wealth, and they facilitated a diplomatic relationship between their nations. New Testament Examples 1. The Magi and Jesus: In Matthew 2:11, the Magi from the East visited the young Jesus, presenting Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were symbolic, acknowledging Jesus' kingship, divinity, and future suffering. 2. Paul and the Philippians: In Philippians 4:18, Paul acknowledges the gifts sent by the Philippian church during his imprisonment. These gifts were a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God, and demonstrated the deep bond and mutual support between Paul and the believers. Cultural and Theological Significance The giving of presents during visits in biblical narratives often served multiple purposes. It was a means of showing respect and honor to the recipient, as seen in the interactions between rulers and dignitaries. Gifts also functioned as peace offerings or tokens of reconciliation, as demonstrated in the account of Jacob and Esau. Furthermore, they could signify allegiance or the recognition of authority, as in the case of the Magi's gifts to Jesus. From a theological perspective, these acts of giving reflect the biblical principles of generosity, hospitality, and the importance of relationships. They underscore the value placed on community and the acknowledgment of God's providence and blessings. The practice of giving gifts during visits is a tangible expression of love, respect, and the desire for harmonious relationships, aligning with the broader biblical themes of grace and fellowship. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 8:8And the king said to Hazael, Take a present in your hand, and go, meet the man of God, and inquire of the LORD by him, saying, Shall I recover of this disease? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Circumcision of Jesus Departure from Ireland. Death and Burial at Clairvaux. Ancestors of the Blessed virgin The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem The Second Sign in Galilee. The First Theban Empire The Life of S. Hilarion. The City of Benares. Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount A Memorial Sketch by W. Robertson Nicoll 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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