Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the act of giving presents when sending away friends was a gesture of goodwill, hospitality, and blessing. This practice is rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of the ancient Near East, where gifts were often exchanged to honor relationships, express gratitude, and ensure continued goodwill.Abraham and Abimelech One of the earliest examples of this practice is found in the relationship between Abraham and Abimelech. After resolving a dispute over a well, Abraham gave sheep and cattle to Abimelech as a sign of their covenant and peaceful relations. Genesis 21:27 states, "So Abraham took sheep and cattle and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant." This exchange of gifts served to solidify their agreement and mutual respect. Jacob and Esau The account of Jacob and Esau provides another instance where gifts were used to mend relationships and ensure peace. After years of estrangement, Jacob prepared a generous gift for Esau to appease him and seek reconciliation. Genesis 32:13-15 describes Jacob's offering: "Jacob spent the night there, and from what he had brought with him, he selected a gift for his brother Esau: 200 female goats, 20 male goats, 200 ewes, 20 rams, 30 milk camels with their young, 40 cows, 10 bulls, 20 female donkeys, and 10 male donkeys." This act of giving was instrumental in their eventual reconciliation. Joseph and His Brothers In the narrative of Joseph and his brothers, gifts played a crucial role in the restoration of familial bonds. When Joseph, who had risen to power in Egypt, revealed his identity to his brothers, he sent them back to Canaan with gifts for their father, Jacob. Genesis 45:21-23 recounts, "So the sons of Israel did as Joseph instructed. Joseph gave them wagons as Pharaoh had commanded, and he also gave them provisions for their journey. He gave new garments to each of them, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five sets of clothes. And he sent to his father the following: ten donkeys loaded with the best products of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain, bread, and other provisions for his journey." These gifts were a tangible expression of Joseph's forgiveness and desire for family unity. David and Barzillai The account of David and Barzillai illustrates the giving of gifts as a token of gratitude and honor. After Absalom's rebellion, Barzillai, a wealthy Gileadite, provided for King David and his men. When David was returning to Jerusalem, he offered to take Barzillai with him, but Barzillai declined due to his old age. Instead, David blessed him and sent him away with gifts. 2 Samuel 19:39 notes, "Then all the people crossed the Jordan, and when the king had crossed, he kissed Barzillai and blessed him, and Barzillai returned to his home." Cultural and Theological Significance The giving of presents when sending away friends reflects a deep-seated cultural norm that emphasizes the importance of relationships, hospitality, and the expression of goodwill. In the biblical context, these acts of giving are not merely social customs but are imbued with theological significance. They often symbolize reconciliation, covenantal relationships, and the blessings of God upon those who honor Him and their fellow human beings. The practice of giving gifts in these contexts underscores the biblical principles of generosity, gratitude, and the pursuit of peace. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships and the role of tangible expressions of love and respect in achieving this goal. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 45:22To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment. 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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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