In the ancient dietary practices of the Jewish people, butter, though not as prominently mentioned as other staples like bread or wine, held a place in their culinary traditions. The term "butter" in the biblical context often refers to a form of curdled milk or a dairy product similar to what we understand as butter today. This entry explores the articles and methods used by the Jews for producing and consuming butter, as well as its cultural and scriptural significance.

Biblical References and Cultural Context

Butter is mentioned in several passages of the Bible, often symbolizing abundance and prosperity. In Genesis 18:8, Abraham offers butter along with milk and a calf to the three visitors, indicating its role as a valued food item: "Then Abraham brought curds and milk and the calf that had been prepared, and set them before the men. And he stood by them under the tree as they ate" . This passage highlights the hospitality customs of the time, where butter was part of a meal served to honored guests.

In the Song of Deborah, Judges 5:25, Jael is described as offering Sisera milk in a "lordly dish," which some translations interpret as butter or curdled milk: "He asked for water, and she gave him milk; in a magnificent bowl she brought him curds" . This indicates the use of butter or similar dairy products in significant and ceremonial contexts.

Production and Use

The production of butter in ancient Israel likely involved the churning of milk, a process that separates the butterfat from the buttermilk. This method would have been labor-intensive, requiring the use of simple tools such as a skin bag or a churn. The milk, often from cows, goats, or sheep, would be agitated until the butterfat coalesced into a solid form.

Butter was used not only as a food item but also in cooking and possibly for medicinal purposes. Its rich, creamy texture made it a desirable addition to various dishes, enhancing flavors and providing a source of fat in the diet. The consumption of butter, along with other dairy products, was part of the broader pastoral lifestyle of the Israelites, who relied on livestock for sustenance.

Symbolism and Significance

In the biblical narrative, butter is sometimes associated with the land's fertility and God's blessings. Isaiah 7:22 speaks of a time when "because of the abundance of milk, he will eat curds, for all who remain in the land will eat curds and honey" . This imagery conveys a sense of divine provision and the richness of the Promised Land.

The use of butter in biblical times reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where dairy products were integral to daily life. It symbolizes not only physical nourishment but also the cultural and spiritual values of hospitality, abundance, and divine favor. Through its presence in scripture, butter serves as a reminder of the simple yet profound ways in which God's provision is manifested in the lives of His people.Deuteronomy 32:14
Butter of cows, and milk of sheep, with fat of lambs, and rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, with the fat of kidneys of wheat; and you did drink the pure blood of the grape.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 17:29
And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of cows, for David, and for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... into hell; nor the other his coarse diet, mouldy bread ... taught by his Spirit, and
hath been used in his ... was in that parable concerning the Jews putting Christ to ...
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