Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the giving of presents or gifts often served as a tangible expression of goodwill, alliance, or the confirmation of covenants. This practice is deeply rooted in the ancient Near Eastern culture, where gifts were a customary part of treaty-making and covenantal agreements. The act of giving presents to confirm covenants is seen throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the importance of material tokens in solidifying relationships and agreements.Genesis 21:27-30 In the account of Abraham and Abimelech, the giving of gifts is explicitly linked to the confirmation of a covenant. Abraham gave sheep and cattle to Abimelech as part of their agreement concerning the well at Beersheba. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So Abraham took sheep and cattle and gave them to Abimelech, and the two men made a covenant" (Genesis 21:27). This exchange of livestock served as a formal ratification of their mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. Genesis 32:13-21 Jacob's encounter with Esau provides another example of gifts used to secure peace and confirm intentions. Fearing Esau's wrath, Jacob sent a substantial gift ahead of their meeting. The BSB records Jacob's reasoning: "I will pacify him with these gifts I am sending on ahead; afterward, when I see him, perhaps he will receive me" (Genesis 32:20). The gifts were intended to appease Esau and reaffirm the bond between the estranged brothers. 1 Kings 15:18-19 King Asa of Judah used gifts to confirm a covenant with Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram. Asa took silver and gold from the treasuries of the LORD's temple and his own palace to secure Ben-Hadad's support against Baasha, king of Israel. The BSB recounts Asa's message: "Let there be a treaty between me and you, as there was between my father and your father. See, I am sending you a gift of silver and gold" (1 Kings 15:19). This strategic use of gifts was intended to solidify a political alliance. Proverbs 18:16 The wisdom literature of the Bible also acknowledges the role of gifts in establishing relationships and agreements. Proverbs 18:16 states, "A man’s gift opens doors for him, and it brings him before great men." This proverb underscores the practical and relational power of gifts in facilitating access and favor, which can be seen as a metaphorical confirmation of covenants or agreements. Cultural and Theological Significance The giving of presents to confirm covenants reflects a broader cultural practice in the ancient world, where gifts were integral to diplomacy and social contracts. Theologically, these acts underscore the importance of tangible expressions of commitment and trust in human relationships, mirroring the divine covenants where God often provided signs or tokens to confirm His promises to His people. In summary, the biblical practice of giving presents to confirm covenants illustrates the enduring significance of material tokens in establishing and maintaining relationships, both human and divine. Through these acts, the biblical narrative reveals a profound understanding of the role of gifts in fostering peace, trust, and mutual commitment. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 21:28-30And Abraham set seven ewe lambs of the flock by themselves. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Nature of Covenanting. P??dobaptism. Its Accordance with the Institution of Christ, and ... Chapter ix Covenanting a Duty. Chapter xv Footnotes The Priesthood of Christ Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Covenant Duties. Memoir of John Bunyan Resources What are the Christian themes in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Justin Martyr? | GotQuestions.org Why do the four Gospels seem to present a different message of salvation than the rest of the New Testament? | 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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