Topical Encyclopedia In the context of ancient Jewish customs, the timing of meals held significant cultural and religious importance. The practice of taking meals at specific times of the day is reflected in various biblical narratives and Jewish traditions. One such time for meals was noon, which is mentioned in several scriptural accounts.Biblical References The practice of eating at noon is subtly referenced in the Bible, though not extensively detailed. In the book of Genesis, Joseph's brothers come to Egypt during a famine and are invited to dine with him. Genesis 43:16 states, "When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, 'Take these men to my house. Slaughter an animal and prepare it, for they are to dine with me at noon.'" This passage indicates that noon was a customary time for a significant meal, especially in the context of hospitality and important gatherings. Another reference can be found in the New Testament, in the book of Acts. In Acts 10:9 , it is written, "The next day at about the sixth hour, as they were approaching the city on their journey, Peter went up on the roof to pray." The "sixth hour" corresponds to noon in Jewish timekeeping. Although this passage primarily highlights Peter's prayer, it also suggests that noon was a time of pause and reflection, possibly associated with meal preparation or consumption. Cultural and Religious Context In Jewish tradition, meals were not merely for sustenance but were imbued with religious significance. The timing of meals often coincided with prayer times, reflecting a rhythm of daily life that integrated physical nourishment with spiritual devotion. Noon, being the middle of the day, served as a natural break in daily activities, allowing for rest and refreshment. The Jewish dietary laws, or kashrut, dictated not only what could be eaten but also influenced the timing and manner of meals. While the Bible does not explicitly mandate meals at noon, the practice of eating at this time aligns with the broader cultural patterns of the ancient Near East, where the midday meal was a common practice. Historical Insights Historically, the midday meal was often the main meal of the day in ancient Jewish society. This meal would typically include bread, fruits, vegetables, and occasionally meat or fish, depending on availability and adherence to dietary laws. The communal aspect of dining was emphasized, with meals serving as opportunities for fellowship and the reinforcement of social and familial bonds. In summary, while the Bible does not provide extensive details on the specific timing of meals, the references to dining at noon in both the Old and New Testaments suggest that it was a recognized and practiced time for eating. This practice was likely influenced by cultural norms and religious rhythms that shaped the daily lives of the Jewish people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 43:16And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, Bring these men home, and slay, and make ready; for these men shall dine with me at noon. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 4:6,8 Library How Xerxes the Son of Darius was Well Disposed to the Jews; as ... Footnotes How Herod Slew Sohemus and Mariamne and Afterward Alexandra and ... Spoken in Antioch in the Old Church, as it was Called... Book ii. Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... The Pilgrim's Progress Resources Is the paleo diet biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the Diet of Worms? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about nutrition? | 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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