Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, "plantings" often refer to the act of sowing seeds, cultivating crops, and establishing vineyards or gardens. This concept is deeply rooted in the agrarian society of ancient Israel and serves as a powerful metaphor throughout Scripture for spiritual growth, divine provision, and judgment.
Agricultural SignificanceThe practice of planting was central to the livelihood of the Israelites. The Promised Land was described as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey" (
Deuteronomy 8:8). This abundance was contingent upon the Israelites' obedience to God's commandments, as seen in the blessings and curses outlined in
Deuteronomy 28. Successful plantings were a sign of God's favor, while failed crops were often viewed as a consequence of disobedience.
Metaphorical UsagePlantings are frequently used metaphorically in the Bible to illustrate spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Sower (
Matthew 13:3-9), Jesus describes different types of soil representing the varied responses to the Word of God. The seed that falls on good soil and yields a bountiful harvest symbolizes those who hear the Word, understand it, and bear fruit.
Similarly, the imagery of planting is used to describe the righteous.
Psalm 1:3 states, "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does." This verse highlights the stability and prosperity of those who delight in the law of the Lord.
Divine PlantingsGod Himself is depicted as a planter in several passages.
Isaiah 5:1-7 presents the "Song of the Vineyard," where God plants a vineyard, representing Israel, expecting it to yield good grapes. However, it produces wild grapes, symbolizing Israel's unfaithfulness. This imagery underscores God's care and the expectation of righteousness from His people.
In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the true vine, and His followers as branches (
John 15:1-8). This passage emphasizes the necessity of abiding in Christ to bear fruit, illustrating the intimate relationship between the believer and the Savior.
Judgment and RestorationThe theme of planting also appears in the context of judgment and restoration.
Jeremiah 31:28 speaks of God watching over His people "to uproot and tear down, to overthrow, destroy, and bring disaster," but also "to build and to plant." This duality reflects God's justice and mercy, as He disciplines His people but also promises to restore them.
Ezekiel 36:9 offers a promise of restoration: "For behold, I am on your side; I will turn toward you, and you will be tilled and sown." This assurance of renewal and blessing is a recurring theme, pointing to God's faithfulness in reestablishing His covenant with His people.
ConclusionIn summary, the concept of plantings in the Bible serves as a rich symbol of God's provision, the spiritual condition of His people, and the hope of restoration. Whether in the literal sense of agriculture or the metaphorical sense of spiritual growth, plantings reflect the intricate relationship between God and His creation.
Library
A Diversity of Interpretations is Useful. Errors Arising from...
... For "theplantings of an adulterer will not take deep root," [1784] is a more suitable
form of expression than the "calves;" [1785] because these walk upon the...
And Very Often a Translator, to whom the Meaning is not Well Known...
... For "theplantings of an adulterer will not take deep root," is a more suitable
form of expression than the "calves;" because these walk upon the ground with...
On the Fast of the Tenth Month.
... For men's methods would not have sufficed to give effect to their works, had not
God given the increase to their wontedplantings and waterings....
The Early Life of Malachy. Having Been Admitted to Holy Orders He...
... 227] You might call him a consuming fire burning the briers of crimes.[228] You
might call him an axe or a mattock casting down[229] evilplantings.[230] He...
Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire...
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7. <....
Thesaurus
Plantings (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance
Plantings (1 Occurrence). Micah 1:6 Therefore I
will make Samaria as an heap of the field, and as
plantings...Uncovering (13 Occurrences)
... Micah 1:6 So I will make Samaria into a field and theplantings of a vine-garden:
I will send its stones falling down into the valley, uncovering its bases....
Planting-places (1 Occurrence)
Planting-places. Planting, Planting-places.Plantings . Multi-Version Concordance...
(BBE). Planting, Planting-places.Plantings . Reference Bible.
Adonis (1 Occurrence)
... The word occurs only in the English Revised Version, margin of Isaiah 17:10, where
for "pleasant plants" is read "plantings of Adonis." The the American...
Plants (70 Occurrences)
Discover (28 Occurrences)
... Micah 1:6 Therefore I will make Samaria as an heap of the field, and asplantings
of a vineyard: and I will pour down the stones thereof into the valley, and I...
Vine-garden (43 Occurrences)
... Micah 1:6 So I will make Samaria into a field and theplantings of a vine-garden:
I will send its stones falling down into the valley, uncovering its bases....
Bases (80 Occurrences)
... Micah 1:6 So I will make Samaria into a field and theplantings of a vine-garden:
I will send its stones falling down into the valley, uncovering its bases....
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