Topical Bible: Agriculture or Farming: Produce of, Given As Rent for Land

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In the ancient Near Eastern context, agriculture was the backbone of society, providing sustenance and economic stability. The Bible reflects this agrarian culture, with numerous references to farming practices, produce, and the use of agricultural products as rent for land.

Biblical Context and Practices

Agriculture in biblical times involved the cultivation of various crops, including grains like wheat and barley, as well as fruits such as grapes, olives, and figs. The land was a divine gift, and its produce was seen as a blessing from God. The Israelites were instructed to work the land diligently, as seen in Genesis 2:15, where Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it" .

The produce of the land was not only for personal consumption but also played a significant role in the economic and social structures of the time. Leviticus 25:23-24 emphasizes the temporary stewardship of the land, stating, "The land must not be sold permanently, because it is Mine, and you are but foreigners and sojourners with Me. Thus for every piece of property you possess, you must provide for the redemption of the land" .

Produce as Rent for Land

In biblical times, it was common for landowners to lease their land to tenant farmers. These tenants would cultivate the land and, in return, provide a portion of the produce as rent. This practice is illustrated in the parable of the tenants found in Matthew 21:33-41. Here, Jesus tells of a landowner who plants a vineyard and rents it to some farmers. When the harvest time approaches, the landowner sends his servants to collect his share of the produce, but the tenants mistreat them. This parable highlights the expectation of produce as rent and the consequences of failing to honor such agreements.

The concept of produce as rent is further supported by the laws concerning tithes and offerings. In Deuteronomy 14:22, the Israelites are commanded, "You must be sure to set aside a tenth of all the produce brought forth each year from your fields" . This tithe was a form of rent paid to God, acknowledging His ultimate ownership of the land and its yield.

Covenantal and Theological Implications

The giving of produce as rent for land is deeply rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and His people. The land was a divine inheritance, and its produce was a testament to God's provision and faithfulness. The requirement to offer a portion of the harvest as rent or tithe was a tangible expression of gratitude and obedience to God's commandments.

Theologically, the practice underscores the principle of stewardship. Humans are caretakers of God's creation, responsible for managing the resources entrusted to them. This stewardship is not only a practical duty but also a spiritual obligation, reflecting the broader biblical theme of faithfulness and accountability.

In summary, the produce of agriculture served as a vital component of ancient Israelite society, functioning as sustenance, economic exchange, and a means of fulfilling covenantal obligations. The practice of giving produce as rent for land is a testament to the interconnectedness of divine provision, human responsibility, and communal life as depicted in the biblical narrative.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 21:33,34
Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and dig a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to farmers, and went into a far country:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Chaldaean Civilization
... Farming and cultivation of the ground: landmarks, slaves ... Property thus given was
hereditary, and privileges were ... by continued acquisitions of land, others fell ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm