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
Prayer Postures: Standing, Kneeling and Prostration
Biblical prayer was offered in several bodily postures, including standing, kneeling, bowing, lifting hands, and falling prostrate.
Primary Scripture: 1 Kings 8:54
Priestly Divisions and the Incense Offering
Temple priests served in organized divisions, and particular duties could be assigned by lot. This background makes the opening scene of Luke's Gospel with Zechariah much more vivid.
Primary Scripture: Luke 1:5-23
Priestly Garments and the High Priest
Israelite priests wore prescribed garments for sanctuary service, while the high priest had distinctive vestments including the ephod, breastpiece, robe, and inscribed headpiece.
Primary Scripture: Exodus 28:1-43
Prostration and Bowing
Bowing or prostration could express respect, submission, homage, supplication, or worship. The meaning depends on the person addressed and the surrounding context.
Primary Scripture: Genesis 33:3
Public Acclamation and Crowd Responses
Crowds could publicly honor, condemn, petition, or acclaim rulers and prominent people through shouted formulas, songs, gestures, and processions.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 21:8-11
Public Honorific Titles and Greetings
Public greetings, titles, prominent seats, and visible recognition communicated social rank and honor in the ancient Mediterranean world.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 23:5-12
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