Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the giving of presents was a common practice to demonstrate respect, honor, and goodwill. This tradition is deeply rooted in the cultural and social norms of the ancient Near East, where gifts were often exchanged to solidify relationships, show deference, or seek favor.Old Testament Examples 1. Jacob and Esau: One of the most notable instances of giving presents to show respect is found in the account of Jacob and Esau. After years of estrangement, Jacob sought to reconcile with his brother Esau by sending a substantial gift ahead of their meeting. In Genesis 32:13-15 , it is recorded that Jacob prepared a gift of livestock, including "two hundred female goats and twenty male goats, two hundred ewes and twenty rams, thirty milk camels with their calves, forty cows and ten bulls, twenty female donkeys and ten male donkeys." This gesture was intended to appease Esau and demonstrate Jacob's respect and desire for peace. 2. Joseph and His Brothers: In Genesis 43:11 , Jacob instructed his sons to take a gift to the Egyptian governor, who was unbeknownst to them their brother Joseph. The gift included "some of the best products of the land—balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios, and almonds." This act of giving was meant to show respect and gain favor during a time of famine. 3. The Queen of Sheba and Solomon: The visit of the Queen of Sheba to King Solomon is another example of giving gifts to show respect. In 1 Kings 10:2 , it is noted that she came to Jerusalem with "a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones." Her gifts were a testament to her respect for Solomon's wisdom and her desire to establish a diplomatic relationship. New Testament Context 1. The Magi and Jesus: In the New Testament, the Magi's visit to the young Jesus is a significant example of giving gifts to show respect and honor. Matthew 2:11 states, "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." These gifts were symbolic of Jesus' kingship, divinity, and eventual suffering, reflecting the Magi's recognition of His importance. 2. Paul and the Jerusalem Church: The Apostle Paul also engaged in the practice of giving to show respect and support. In Romans 15:25-27 , Paul speaks of his intention to deliver a contribution to the poor among the saints in Jerusalem, collected from the Gentile churches. This act of giving was a demonstration of respect and solidarity with the Jewish believers. Cultural and Theological Significance The giving of presents in biblical times was not merely a social custom but carried deep theological and relational significance. It was a tangible expression of respect, honor, and the desire for harmonious relationships. Gifts were often given to kings, prophets, and other figures of authority as a sign of allegiance and reverence. This practice underscores the biblical principles of generosity, humility, and the importance of maintaining peace and unity within the community of faith. Throughout Scripture, the act of giving presents to show respect serves as a reminder of the value placed on relationships and the acknowledgment of God's providence and blessings. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 6:18Depart not hence, I pray you, until I come to you, and bring forth my present, and set it before you. And he said, I will tarry until you come again. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Schools. How Isaac Took Rebeka to Wife. The End of Cambyses. The Oracles. St. Chrysostom as a Homilist. The visit to Media. The Good Shepherd: a Farewell Sermon 1 Cor. xii. 27 Perhaps There is no Book Within the Whole Canon of Scripture So ... Whether the Old Law Enjoined Fitting Precepts Concerning Rulers? 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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