Topical Encyclopedia Bran, the outer layer of cereal grains, is mentioned in the Bible in the context of food and sustenance. In ancient times, bran was a byproduct of milling grain into flour and was often used as animal feed or as a component in bread-making. The biblical references to bran highlight its role in the diet and economy of the people during biblical times.Biblical References: 1. Isaiah 30:24 : "The oxen and donkeys that work the ground will eat salted fodder, winnowed with the shovel and pitchfork." This verse, while not directly mentioning bran, alludes to the process of winnowing, which separates the grain from the chaff and bran. The reference to "salted fodder" suggests that bran, as part of the chaff, was used to feed livestock, indicating its value in agricultural practices. 2. Ezekiel 4:9 : "Take wheat, barley, beans, lentils, millet, and spelt; put them into a single vessel and make them into bread for yourself." Although bran is not explicitly mentioned, the process of making bread from whole grains would naturally include bran as part of the flour. This verse underscores the use of various grains, including their outer layers, in sustaining the prophet Ezekiel during his symbolic act of laying siege. Cultural and Historical Context: In biblical times, bread was a staple food, and the process of milling grain was crucial for daily sustenance. The separation of bran from the grain was a common practice, and while refined flour was often preferred for human consumption, bran was not wasted. It was frequently used as animal feed, as indicated in Isaiah 30:24, and sometimes included in bread-making, especially in times of scarcity or for specific dietary purposes. The use of bran in bread-making, as seen in Ezekiel 4:9, reflects the holistic approach to food in ancient Israel, where nothing was wasted, and every part of the grain was utilized. This practice aligns with the biblical principle of stewardship and resourcefulness, emphasizing the importance of using God's provisions wisely. Theological Implications: Bran, as part of the grain, symbolizes the completeness and provision of God's creation. The use of whole grains, including bran, in biblical narratives can be seen as a metaphor for the wholeness and sufficiency found in God's word and His provision for His people. Just as bran is an integral part of the grain, every part of God's creation has a purpose and value. In a spiritual sense, the inclusion of bran in the diet of biblical figures like Ezekiel serves as a reminder of the sustenance and nourishment that come from living according to God's commandments and relying on His provision. The holistic use of grain, including bran, reflects the biblical theme of abundance and the call to trust in God's care for His creation. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The broken coat of the seed of wheat, rye, or other cereal grain, separated from the flour or meal by sifting or bolting; the coarse, chaffy part of ground grain.2. (n.) The European carrion crow. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BRAN(ta pitura): The women of Babylon are described as burning "bran for incense" in their unchaste idolatrous worship (Baruch 6:43). CITY OF DAVID See ZION. CITY OF SALT See SALT, CITY OF. CITY OF WATERS See RABBAH. CITY, GOLDEN See GOLDEN CITY. Greek 3200. membrana -- parchment ... parchment. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: membrana Phonetic Spelling: (mem-bran'-ah) Short Definition: a parchment leaf Definition: a parchment ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3200.htm - 6k Library The Scientific Aspects of Positivism. Temptations. The Resurrection. The Rebuilding of the Temple. Declension from First Love Jesus Heals a Leper and Creates Much Excitement. Concerning the Festivals; and How Each Day of Such Festival is to ... Judging, Asking, and Giving A Casket of Jewels The Stone of Stumbling Thesaurus Bran...BRAN. (ta pitura): The women of Babylon are described as burning "bran for incense" in their unchaste idolatrous worship (Baruch 6:43). CITY OF DAVID. See ZION. ... /b/bran.htm - 7k Rubble (17 Occurrences) Games (2 Occurrences) Tanner (3 Occurrences) Mash (2 Occurrences) Metallurgy Provender (10 Occurrences) Poultice (2 Occurrences) Brambles (5 Occurrences) Bolt (5 Occurrences) Resources Bran: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |