Topical Encyclopedia The diet of the poor and frugal Jews during biblical times was characterized by simplicity and reliance on locally available resources. This diet was largely influenced by the agricultural and pastoral lifestyle of ancient Israel, as well as the dietary laws outlined in the Torah.Staple Foods The primary staples of the diet included grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Barley and wheat were the most common grains, often used to make bread, which was a central component of every meal. In the Book of Ruth, we see Ruth gleaning barley in the fields, highlighting the importance of this grain to the sustenance of the poor (Ruth 2:2). Legumes such as lentils and beans were also significant. In Genesis, we read about Esau selling his birthright for a meal of bread and lentil stew, indicating the commonality of such dishes (Genesis 25:34). Fruits and Vegetables Fruits like figs, dates, and olives were commonly consumed, either fresh or dried. These fruits provided essential nutrients and were often used in trade. The land of Canaan is described as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey" (Deuteronomy 8:8), underscoring the abundance of these foods. Vegetables such as cucumbers, leeks, onions, and garlic were also part of the diet, as mentioned in the Israelites' lament during their wilderness journey: "We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic" (Numbers 11:5). Animal Products For the poor, meat was a luxury and not a regular part of the diet. When consumed, it was typically during special occasions or religious festivals. Fish, however, was more accessible, especially for those living near the Sea of Galilee or the Mediterranean coast. Jesus' feeding of the five thousand with loaves and fish (Matthew 14:17-21) illustrates the commonality of fish in the diet. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt were more frequently consumed, derived from goats and sheep. These were important sources of protein and fat. Seasonings and Condiments Salt was a vital seasoning, used not only for flavor but also for preserving food. The importance of salt is highlighted in the teachings of Jesus: "You are the salt of the earth" (Matthew 5:13). Herbs and spices, such as mint, dill, and cumin, were used to enhance the flavor of dishes, as noted in Jesus' rebuke of the Pharisees for their meticulous tithing of these herbs (Matthew 23:23). Beverages Water was the primary beverage, but wine was also commonly consumed, often diluted with water. Wine held a significant place in Jewish culture and religious practices, as seen in the Last Supper, where Jesus shared wine with His disciples (Matthew 26:27-29). Conclusion The diet of the poor and frugal Jews was marked by its simplicity and reliance on the produce of the land. It was a diet that reflected the agrarian society of ancient Israel and adhered to the dietary laws given by God, emphasizing the provision and sustenance found in His creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ruth 2:14And Boaz said to her, At mealtime come you here, and eat of the bread, and dip your morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 15:17 Library On Eating. Letter cxxv. To Rusticus. Epistle Lxiii. Limenius, Bishop of Vercell??, Having Died, the See ... Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... 1 Cor. xv. 11 A Canticle of Love Resources What is a Daniel Fast? | GotQuestions.orgWhat made some animals clean and others unclean (Genesis 7)? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view weight loss? What does the Bible say about obesity and weight loss? | GotQuestions.org Diet: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Diet of the Jews in Patriarchal Age The Diet of the Jews in the Wilderness The Diet of the Jews of the Poor, Frugal The Diet of the Jews of the Rich, Luxurious The Diet of the Jews was Taken in the Evening The Diet of the Jews was Taken in the Morning, Sparingly The Diet of the Jews was Taken with the Hand The Diet of the Jews was Taken: At Noon The Diet of the Jews was Taken: Often Reclining The Diet of the Jews was Taken: Often Sitting The Diet of the Jews: A Hymn Sung After The Diet of the Jews: Articles of, often Sent As Presents The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Bread The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Butter The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Cheese The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Dried Fruit The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Fish The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Flesh The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Fruit The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Herbs The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Honey The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Milk The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Oil The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Parched Corn The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Vinegar The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Water The Diet of the Jews: Articles Used for Wine The Diet of the Jews: Expressed by Bread and Water The Diet of the Jews: Generally Prepared by Females The Diet of the Jews: Men and Women did not Partake of Together The Diet of the Jews: Purification Before The Diet of the Jews: Thanks Given Before Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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