Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, cattle were an essential part of agrarian life, providing not only labor and transportation but also milk, meat, and hides. The sustenance of cattle was therefore of significant importance, and the Scriptures provide various insights into the types of food that were used to nourish these valuable animals.Pasture and Grazing: The primary source of food for cattle in biblical times was pasture. The lush, green pastures were seen as a blessing from God, indicative of His provision and care. In Psalm 23:2, the psalmist speaks of God leading him "beside quiet waters" and making him "lie down in green pastures," illustrating the ideal conditions for both spiritual and physical nourishment. Similarly, in Genesis 41:2, during Pharaoh's dream, the healthy cows are depicted as grazing among the reeds, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Fodder and Hay: In addition to grazing, cattle were often fed with fodder, which included hay and other dried grasses. Proverbs 27:25-27 highlights the importance of diligent care for livestock, stating, "When hay is removed and new growth appears and the grass from the hills is gathered in, the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field. You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed you and your family and to nourish your servant girls." This passage underscores the cycle of growth and harvest, emphasizing the need to gather and store food for the animals. Grain and By-products: Grain was another important component of cattle food, especially during times when pasture was not available. In the account of Joseph, during the years of famine, grain was stored not only for human consumption but also for feeding livestock (Genesis 47:17). The use of grain and its by-products, such as chaff, is also mentioned in Isaiah 30:24, which states, "The oxen and donkeys that work the ground will eat salted fodder, winnowed with shovel and pitchfork." Water: Water was a crucial element in the diet of cattle, as it is for all living creatures. The provision of water is often mentioned alongside food in the Bible, highlighting its importance. In Genesis 24:32, when Abraham's servant arrives at Rebekah's home, water is provided for the camels, indicating the customary care for animals. Similarly, in Exodus 2:17, Moses aids the daughters of Reuel by watering their flock, demonstrating the necessity of water for livestock. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons: Cattle and their food are often used symbolically in the Bible to convey spiritual truths. For instance, in the parable of the prodigal son, the father orders the fattened calf to be slaughtered in celebration of his son's return (Luke 15:23), symbolizing abundance, forgiveness, and restoration. The care and feeding of cattle can also be seen as a metaphor for God's provision and the spiritual nourishment He offers to His people. In summary, cattle-food in biblical times consisted of pasture, fodder, grain, and water, each playing a vital role in the sustenance and care of livestock. These elements not only reflect the practical aspects of agrarian life but also carry deeper spiritual meanings, illustrating God's provision and the importance of stewardship. Concordance Cattle-food (1 Occurrence)Genesis 24:25 Thesaurus Cattle-food (1 Occurrence)Cattle-food. Cattle, Cattle-food. Cattle-house . Multi-Version Concordance Cattle-food (1 Occurrence). Genesis 24:25 ... /c/cattle-food.htm - 6k Cattle-house (2 Occurrences) Dry (217 Occurrences) Store (134 Occurrences) Husks (1 Occurrence) Grass (92 Occurrences) Cattle (277 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that God owns the cattle on a thousand hills? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did the Israelites need manna if they had flocks/herds of animals that they could eat? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about pets? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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