Topical Encyclopedia The term "plot of ground" in the Bible often refers to a specific piece of land that holds significant historical, spiritual, or prophetic importance. Throughout the Scriptures, various plots of ground are mentioned, each with its own unique context and significance.1. The Field of Ephron: One of the most notable plots of ground is the field of Ephron, which Abraham purchased as a burial site for his wife Sarah. This transaction is recorded in Genesis 23: "So Ephron’s field in Machpelah near Mamre—the field with its cave and all the trees anywhere within the boundaries of the field—was deeded over to Abraham as his property in the presence of all the Hittites who had come to the gate of his city" (Genesis 23:17-18). This plot of ground, known as the Cave of Machpelah, became the burial site for the patriarchs and matriarchs of Israel, including Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Rebekah, and Leah. 2. The Threshing Floor of Araunah: Another significant plot of ground is the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite, which King David purchased to build an altar to the Lord. This event is recorded in 2 Samuel 24: "So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver. And there he built an altar to the LORD and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings" (2 Samuel 24:24-25). This site later became the location of Solomon's Temple, the central place of worship for the Israelites. 3. The Potter's Field: In the New Testament, the "potter's field" is a plot of ground purchased with the thirty pieces of silver returned by Judas Iscariot after he betrayed Jesus. This field was used as a burial place for foreigners. Matthew 27:7-8 states: "So they decided to use the money to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners. That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day" . This fulfilled the prophecy spoken by Jeremiah, highlighting the field's prophetic significance. 4. Naboth's Vineyard: The account of Naboth's vineyard is another example of a plot of ground with deep moral and ethical implications. King Ahab desired Naboth's vineyard, but Naboth refused to sell it, as it was his ancestral inheritance. Jezebel, Ahab's wife, orchestrated Naboth's wrongful execution to seize the land. This account is found in 1 Kings 21, illustrating the themes of justice, covetousness, and divine retribution. 5. The Field of Boaz: In the Book of Ruth, the field of Boaz is a plot of ground where Ruth, a Moabite widow, gleaned grain to support herself and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Boaz, the owner of the field, showed kindness and protection to Ruth, eventually becoming her kinsman-redeemer. This account, found in Ruth 2, highlights themes of redemption, providence, and the inclusion of Gentiles in God's covenant community. 6. The Land of Canaan: While not a single plot of ground, the land of Canaan is repeatedly described as the Promised Land, a significant territory promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. This land represents God's covenant faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. The boundaries and significance of this land are detailed throughout the Pentateuch and the historical books of the Old Testament. In summary, the concept of a "plot of ground" in the Bible is rich with historical, spiritual, and prophetic meaning. Each plot serves as a testament to God's interaction with His people, His promises, and His divine plan throughout biblical history. |