Topical Encyclopedia A granary, in biblical terms, refers to a storage facility for grain, an essential resource in ancient agrarian societies. Granaries were crucial for preserving food supplies, especially in times of famine or poor harvests. The Bible frequently mentions granaries in the context of God's provision and human stewardship.Biblical References One of the most notable references to granaries is found in the account of Joseph in Egypt. After interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph was appointed to oversee the collection and storage of grain during the seven years of abundance to prepare for the subsequent seven years of famine. Genesis 41:48-49 states, "During those seven years of abundance, the land brought forth bountifully. So Joseph collected all the excess food in the land of Egypt and stored it in the cities. In every city he put the food grown in the fields surrounding it." This passage highlights the strategic use of granaries to ensure survival and stability during times of scarcity. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the imagery of granaries in His teachings. In the parable of the rich fool, Jesus warns against hoarding earthly wealth without being "rich toward God." Luke 12:18 records the rich man's words: "Then he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods.’" This parable serves as a caution against placing trust in material possessions rather than in God. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Granaries symbolize God's provision and the importance of wise stewardship. The account of Joseph illustrates the principle of preparing for the future and trusting in God's guidance. It also underscores the role of human responsibility in managing resources prudently. The parable of the rich fool, on the other hand, serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly wealth and the importance of prioritizing spiritual riches. It challenges believers to consider where they place their trust and to focus on eternal values rather than temporary gains. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Israel, granaries were typically constructed as pits or silos, often lined with clay or stone to protect the grain from pests and moisture. These structures were vital for sustaining communities, especially during the dry season or in years of poor harvests. The management of granaries was a significant aspect of community leadership and governance, reflecting the broader biblical theme of stewardship. Theological Implications The concept of granaries in the Bible extends beyond physical storage to encompass spiritual truths. It invites believers to reflect on their own lives, considering how they store and utilize the resources God has entrusted to them. The biblical narrative encourages a balance between prudent preparation and reliance on divine provision, urging believers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). In summary, granaries in the Bible serve as a powerful metaphor for God's provision, human responsibility, and the eternal perspective that should guide the lives of believers. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A storehouse or repository for grain after it is thrashed or husked; a cornbouse; also (Fig.), a region fertile in grain.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia GRANARYgran'-a-ri. Greek 596. apotheke -- a place for putting away, hence a storehouse ... Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: apotheke Phonetic Spelling: (ap-oth-ay'-kay) Short Definition: a repository, granary, barn, storehouse ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/596.htm - 6k 5009. tameion -- an inner chamber Strong's Hebrew 4460. mammegurah -- granary, storehouse... 4459, 4460. mammegurah. 4461 . granary, storehouse. Transliteration: mammegurah Phonetic Spelling: (mam-meg-oo-raw') Short Definition: barns. ... /hebrew/4460.htm - 6k 4035. megurah -- a storehouse, granary 3965. maabus -- granary 4200. mazu -- a granary Library Book vii. On the Useful or the Ordinary Columban. List of Illustrations. Justinian. Prayer and Labor for the Gathering of the Great Harvest. Home and the Home-Maker. A Revival Sermon The Soul Winner Secret Sins John Chapter ii. 21-Dec Thesaurus Granary (4 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. GRANARY. gran'-a-ri. See GARNER; STOREHOUSES. Multi-Version Concordance Granary (4 Occurrences). ... /g/granary.htm - 8k Garner (4 Occurrences) Granaries (7 Occurrences) Judah (802 Occurrences) Grand (1 Occurrence) Barn (6 Occurrences) Altar (343 Occurrences) Suffer (195 Occurrences) Harvestmen (2 Occurrences) Resources Granary: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Granary (4 Occurrences)Matthew 3:12 Matthew 13:30 Luke 3:17 Luke 12:24 Subtopics Related Terms Zaphnathpaaneah (1 Occurrence) |
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