Customs and Culture of the Bible
The Bible was written in cultures very different from our own. Explore customs, institutions, daily practices and figures of speech that help explain what biblical writers and their first readers would have understood.
188 customs found
Oaths and Swearing
An oath solemnly called upon God or another sacred reality to confirm truthfulness or bind a promise. Oaths therefore carried religious as well as legal weight.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 5:33-37
Oil Lamps in the Home
Small oil lamps were the ordinary portable light source in biblical homes. Their limited light made lamp placement, fuel, and readiness familiar parts of daily life.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16
Olive Oil in Daily Life
Olive oil was a basic commodity used for food, lamps, grooming, medicine, hospitality, offerings, and anointing.
Primary Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:8
Palm Branches in Celebration
Palm branches could be used in Jewish festival celebration and became associated with rejoicing, victory, and national deliverance in the Second Temple period.
Primary Scripture: John 12:12-13
Passover Pilgrimage and Festival
Passover commemorated Israel's deliverance from Egypt and, after worship was centralized, drew pilgrims to Jerusalem. The festival setting shapes the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry.
Primary Scripture: Exodus 12:1-28
Patron-Client Language and Friendship
Greco-Roman society was shaped by networks of patrons, clients, benefactors, and friends who exchanged protection, access, honor, loyalty, and material assistance.
Primary Scripture: Luke 22:25-26
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