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
"Under the Fig Tree"
Sitting under one's vine or fig tree became a biblical image of settled life, security, prosperity, and peace.
Primary Scripture: John 1:48-50
"Yoke" as a Symbol of Submission and Discipleship
A yoke joined draft animals for labor and therefore became a natural metaphor for burden, rule, obligation, submission, and disciplined service.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30
Adoption and Heirship
Adoption and the appointment of heirs provided legal means of incorporating a person into a household and granting family status and inheritance rights.
Primary Scripture: Romans 8:14-17
Alabaster and Perfume Vessels
Small stone, glass, or ceramic containers held perfumes, oils, cosmetics, and medicines. The Gospel 'alabaster jar' refers to a recognizable type of valuable container associated with perfume.
Primary Scripture: Mark 14:3
Almsgiving
Giving material assistance to the poor became a prominent expression of Jewish piety and communal responsibility, rooted in the Torah's commands to care for the needy.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 6:1-4
Altars and the Practice of Sacrifice
Altars were designated places for offerings and sacrifice and appear throughout biblical history before and after the establishment of the tabernacle and temple.
Primary Scripture: Exodus 20:24-26
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