In the context of the Bible, the concept of rationing is often associated with the allocation and distribution of resources, particularly food, during times of scarcity or need. The practice of rationing is evident in several biblical narratives, reflecting both divine provision and human stewardship.

Joseph's Administration in Egypt

One of the most prominent examples of rationing in the Bible is found in the account of Joseph in the Book of Genesis. Joseph, having been sold into slavery by his brothers, eventually rises to a position of power in Egypt. Interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph predicts seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Under Joseph's administration, Egypt implements a system of rationing to prepare for the impending scarcity. Genesis 41:48-49 states, "During the seven years of abundance, the land produced plentifully. 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."

Joseph's strategic planning and rationing of resources not only save Egypt but also provide sustenance to surrounding nations, including his own family. This narrative highlights the importance of wise management and foresight in times of plenty to ensure survival during periods of famine.

Manna in the Wilderness

Another significant instance of rationing is seen during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. God provides manna, a miraculous food, to sustain the Israelites. However, the collection of manna is subject to specific instructions, effectively rationing the daily provision. Exodus 16:16 instructs, "This is what the LORD has commanded: ‘Each one is to gather as much as he needs. You may take an omer for each person in your tent.’"

The daily rationing of manna serves as a test of obedience and trust in God's provision. The Israelites are commanded not to gather more than needed for a single day, except on the sixth day when they gather a double portion to observe the Sabbath rest. This divine rationing underscores the principle of reliance on God for daily sustenance and the importance of adhering to His commands.

Siege and Scarcity

Rationing also appears in the context of sieges, where cities under attack face severe shortages of food and resources. In 2 Kings 6:25 , during the siege of Samaria by the Arameans, the scarcity becomes so dire that "there was a great famine in the city; the siege lasted so long that a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter of a cab of seed pods for five shekels."

Such instances of rationing during sieges illustrate the harsh realities of war and the desperate measures taken to survive. They also serve as a backdrop for divine intervention, as seen when God miraculously delivers Samaria from the siege in response to the prophet Elisha's word (2 Kings 7).

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not explicitly mention rationing in the same manner as the Old Testament, the principles of stewardship and provision continue to be emphasized. In the early church, believers share their resources to ensure that no one lacks necessities. Acts 4:34-35 describes, "There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, and lay them at the apostles’ feet for distribution to anyone as he had need."

This communal sharing reflects a form of voluntary rationing, driven by love and unity within the body of Christ. It demonstrates the early Christians' commitment to caring for one another and ensuring equitable distribution of resources.

In summary, the concept of rationing in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing divine provision, human stewardship, and communal sharing. It serves as a reminder of the importance of wise management, trust in God's provision, and the responsibility to care for others in times of need.4948. mishqal -- weight
... Word Origin from shaqal Definition weight NASB Word Usage full (1), rationed amounts
(1), weigh (1), weighed (4), weighing (3), weight (39). full weight. ...
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Of the Prophecies of the Birth and Achievements of Christ.
... is another matter if, among you, infants rush out into battle,"oiled first, I suppose,
to dry in the sun, and then armed with satchels and rationed on butter ...
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Isaiah's Prophecies Considered the virginity of Christ's Mother a ...
... taught to lance before they lacerate; [3259] swathed at first in sunshine and ointment,
[3260] afterwards armed with the satchel, [3261] and rationed on bread ...
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Rationed (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Rationed (2 Occurrences). Leviticus 26:26 When
I break your staff of bread, ten women shall bake your bread ...
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Ration (2 Occurrences)

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Rations (3 Occurrences)

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