Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "repast" refers to a meal or the act of taking food. In biblical times, meals were significant social and religious events, often symbolizing fellowship, covenant, and divine provision. The concept of repast in the Bible is not merely about physical sustenance but also about spiritual nourishment and community. Old Testament References: In the Old Testament, meals often had covenantal significance. For instance, in Genesis 18:1-8, Abraham prepares a meal for the three visitors, who are later revealed to be divine messengers. This repast signifies hospitality and the establishment of a covenantal promise regarding the birth of Isaac. Similarly, the Passover meal, as described in Exodus 12, is a pivotal repast that commemorates Israel's deliverance from Egypt and God's covenant with His people. The book of Proverbs also highlights the importance of meals in the context of wisdom and folly. Proverbs 9:1-5 describes Wisdom as having prepared a feast, inviting those who lack understanding to partake and gain insight. This metaphorical repast underscores the spiritual nourishment that comes from embracing wisdom. New Testament References: In the New Testament, Jesus often used meals as opportunities for teaching and fellowship. The feeding of the 5,000, as recorded in Matthew 14:13-21, is a miraculous repast that demonstrates Jesus' compassion and divine provision. This event not only satisfies physical hunger but also points to Jesus as the Bread of Life, offering spiritual sustenance. The Last Supper, described in Matthew 26:26-29, is perhaps the most significant repast in the New Testament. During this meal, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, a sacrament that commemorates His sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood. This repast is central to Christian worship and serves as a reminder of Christ's atoning work and the unity of believers. Symbolism and Theological Significance: Repasts in the Bible often symbolize God's provision and the fellowship between God and His people. In Psalm 23:5, the psalmist declares, "You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies." This imagery of a divine repast signifies God's protection and blessing even amidst adversity. Theologically, meals in the Bible often foreshadow the eschatological banquet, the ultimate repast in the Kingdom of God. Revelation 19:9 speaks of the "wedding supper of the Lamb," a future celebration of the union between Christ and His Church. This anticipated repast represents the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the eternal fellowship believers will enjoy with their Savior. Cultural and Social Aspects: In biblical culture, sharing a meal was an act of intimacy and acceptance. To eat with someone was to affirm a relationship and extend fellowship. This cultural understanding is evident in Jesus' ministry, as He often dined with tax collectors and sinners, challenging social norms and demonstrating God's inclusive love (Matthew 9:10-13). Conclusion: While the Bible does not use the term "repast" explicitly, the concept is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting the importance of meals as expressions of divine provision, covenantal relationships, and spiritual truths. Through the lens of biblical repasts, believers are reminded of God's faithfulness, the call to fellowship, and the hope of eternal communion with Him. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The act of taking food.2. (n.) That which is taken as food; a meal; figuratively, any refreshment. 3. (v. t. & i.) To supply food to; to feast; to take food. Library Of the Hospitality of Abbot Serenus. "Honorable," Therefore, "Is Marriage in All, and the Bed Undefiled ... Meditation i. Preparations for the Pasch How by Holy Complacency we are Made as Little Infants at Our ... The Answer How we Should not Exceed the Proper Measure of Food. Last Week of Jesus. Meditation vi. The Last Pasch. Journey to Evora The Third Continental Journey. History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6 Thesaurus Repast (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Repast (4 Occurrences). Genesis ... house. And he made them a repast, and baked unleavened cakes; and they ate. (DBY). ... /r/repast.htm - 7k Repairs (24 Occurrences) Lunch (1 Occurrence) Luncheon (1 Occurrence) Finishing (17 Occurrences) Entertainment (2 Occurrences) Meal (288 Occurrences) Cakes (65 Occurrences) Repay (79 Occurrences) Drank (70 Occurrences) Resources Repast: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Repast (4 Occurrences)Genesis 19:3 2 Samuel 3:20 1 Kings 1:41 2 Kings 6:23 Subtopics Related Terms |