Topical Encyclopedia The term "plougheth" is an archaic form of the word "plows," which appears in various translations of the Bible, including the King James Version. It refers to the act of tilling or preparing the ground for sowing seeds, a fundamental agricultural practice in biblical times. This activity is often used metaphorically in Scripture to illustrate spiritual truths and moral lessons.Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 20:4 : "The sluggard does not plow in season; at harvest time he looks, but nothing is there." This verse highlights the importance of diligence and timely effort. The act of plowing is used to symbolize preparation and hard work, emphasizing that neglecting one's duties leads to a lack of reward. 2. Isaiah 28:24 : "Does the plowman plow for planting every day? Does he continuously loosen and harrow the soil?" Here, the prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of plowing to convey the idea of divine wisdom and timing. Just as a farmer knows when to plow and when to sow, God orchestrates events in the lives of His people with perfect timing and purpose. 3. 1 Corinthians 9:10 : "Or does He speak entirely for our sake? Yes, this was written for our sake, because the plowman should plow in hope, and the thresher to partake of his hope." The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of plowing to teach about the hope and expectation that should accompany Christian service. Just as a farmer plows with the hope of a future harvest, believers are encouraged to labor in faith, trusting in God's provision and reward. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel, plowing was a critical part of the agricultural cycle. The process involved breaking up the soil to prepare it for planting, often using oxen or other draft animals to pull a plow. This labor-intensive task was essential for ensuring a successful harvest, and it required careful attention to the seasons and weather patterns. The imagery of plowing is deeply embedded in the agrarian culture of the Bible, serving as a powerful symbol of preparation, diligence, and the anticipation of future growth. It reflects the broader biblical theme of sowing and reaping, which underscores the principle that one's actions have consequences, both in the physical and spiritual realms. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the concept of plowing is often associated with the preparation of the heart and mind to receive God's Word. Just as the soil must be tilled to receive seed, individuals must be open and receptive to spiritual truths. This metaphor is evident in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3-9), where different types of soil represent various responses to the Gospel message. Moreover, plowing signifies the breaking up of fallow ground, a call to repentance and renewal. In Hosea 10:12 , the prophet exhorts, "Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap the fruit of loving devotion; break up your unplowed ground. For it is time to seek the LORD until He comes and sends righteousness upon you like rain." This passage encourages believers to prepare their hearts for God's transformative work, emphasizing the need for spiritual readiness and responsiveness. In summary, "plougheth" serves as a rich biblical metaphor that conveys themes of preparation, diligence, hope, and spiritual receptivity. It reflects the agricultural heritage of the biblical world while offering timeless lessons for faith and practice. Library If Celsus had Read the Scriptures in an Impartial Spirit... Whether Hope is a Help or a Hindrance to Action? Whether Hope Precedes Faith? But Lest any Should Fancy that this was Granted Only to the Twelve ... The God of the Law and the Prophets, and the Father of Our Lord ... The Enchanted Ground A Sermon of the Reverend Father Master Hugh Latimer, Preached in ... Further Incidents of the Journey to Jerusalem - the Mission and ... Translated from the Greek. That the Scriptures are Divinely Inspired. Thesaurus Plougheth (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Plougheth (2 Occurrences). Proverbs 20:4 Because of winter the slothful plougheth not, He asketh in harvest, and there is nothing. ... /p/plougheth.htm - 6k Ploughing (14 Occurrences) Ploughers (2 Occurrences) Slothful (22 Occurrences) Asketh (40 Occurrences) Openeth (48 Occurrences) Harroweth (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Plougheth (2 Occurrences)Proverbs 20:4 Isaiah 28:24 Subtopics Related Terms Grain-cutting (19 Occurrences) Good-for-nothing (22 Occurrences) |