Bible Dictionary
SPELT
Spelt is a kind of wheat, identified with the seed of Triticum spelta. It is mentioned among the crops and grains in passages describing agriculture and the plagues of Egypt.
Definition
Spelt is a kind of wheat, identified here with the seed of Triticum spelta, a form of wild wheat. It is a grain associated with agricultural crops and food supplies.
Biblical Usage
Spelt appears in passages concerning the crops of the land, the plague of Egypt, and Ezekiel’s prescribed mixture of grains. The Revised Version adopts “spelt” in passages where the King James Version has “rye” or “fitches.”
Historical Background
Some writers identify the Hebrew term with Arabic kirsenneh, a vetch used as camel fodder, rather than with spelt. The supplied material therefore records an identification that has been discussed.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>spelt (kuccemeth; olura, zea (Ex 9:32, the King James Version "rye"; Isa 18:25, the King James Version "rye," margin "spelt"; Eze 4:9, the King James Version "fitches" margin "spelt"; the Revised Version (British and American) adopts "spelt," influenced by the Septuagint, in all passages)): Spelt is the seed of Triticum spelta, a kind of wild wheat. Several writers would identify this kuccemeth with the Arabic kirsenneh (Vicia ervilia), a kind of vetch much used as camels' fodder.</p>