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
Roman Taxation and Tribute
Roman rule imposed taxes and tribute through several mechanisms, and tax collection could become a potent symbol of foreign domination and local collaboration.
Primary Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22
Royal Court and Throne Protocol
Ancient royal courts operated through hierarchy, access rules, officials, audiences, gifts, petitions, and ceremonies that protected and displayed the ruler's authority.
Primary Scripture: Esther 4:10-17
Sabbath Rest and Sabbath Boundaries
The Sabbath set apart the seventh day for rest and holiness. By the Second Temple period, Jewish communities also debated how the command should apply to travel, work, healing, and daily activities.
Primary Scripture: Exodus 20:8-11
Sabbatical Year and Release of Debts
Israel's law set apart every seventh year for agricultural rest and included provisions concerning release from debts and Hebrew servants.
Primary Scripture: Deuteronomy 15:1-11
Sackcloth and Ashes
Sackcloth and ashes were visible signs of grief, humiliation, calamity, or repentance. They made inward distress publicly recognizable.
Primary Scripture: Jonah 3:5-10
Salting Food and Salt as a Covenant Symbol
Salt was essential for seasoning and preservation and could also appear in covenant and sacrificial language as a symbol of durability and obligation.
Primary Scripture: Leviticus 2:13
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