Topical Encyclopedia
Strewing, in biblical contexts, refers to the act of scattering or spreading items, often as a form of honor, celebration, or preparation. This practice is seen in various passages throughout the Bible, where it holds both literal and symbolic significance.
Old Testament ReferencesIn the Old Testament, strewing is often associated with the preparation of spaces for significant events or as part of ritualistic practices. For example, in the construction and dedication of sacred spaces, materials might be strewn to prepare the ground or altar. While specific instances of the term "strewing" may not be explicitly mentioned, the concept is inherent in the preparation and sanctification processes described in the Pentateuch and historical books.
New Testament ReferencesOne of the most notable instances of strewing in the New Testament occurs during Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. In
Matthew 21:8 , it is recorded, "A massive crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road." This act of strewing cloaks and branches was a gesture of honor and reverence, acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah and King. The crowd's actions fulfilled the prophecy from
Zechariah 9:9, symbolizing the recognition of Jesus' royal and messianic identity.
Symbolic SignificanceStrewing in the Bible often carries symbolic meanings beyond the physical act. It can represent the preparation of the heart and spirit to receive God's presence or blessing. In the triumphal entry, the strewing of cloaks and branches signifies the people's readiness to accept Jesus as their Savior, albeit with varying degrees of understanding and expectation.
Cultural and Historical ContextIn ancient Near Eastern cultures, strewing was a common practice during royal processions and significant public events. It was a way to honor dignitaries and create a festive atmosphere. The biblical accounts reflect this cultural practice, emphasizing the communal and celebratory aspects of strewing.
Theological ImplicationsFrom a theological perspective, strewing can be seen as an act of worship and submission. It involves laying down one's possessions or symbols of status, as seen in the laying of cloaks, to acknowledge the sovereignty and authority of God. This act of humility and reverence is a recurring theme in Scripture, where believers are called to prepare their hearts and lives for God's work and presence.
In summary, strewing in the Bible is a multifaceted practice that encompasses physical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. It serves as a powerful symbol of honor, preparation, and worship, reflecting the deeper truths of faith and devotion found throughout Scripture.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
1. (
p. pr. & vb. n.) of Strew.
2. (n.) The act of scattering or spreading.
3. (n.) Anything that is, or may be, strewed; -- used chiefly in the plural.
Library
Set at Liberty.
... plate; laughter and mirth echoing through the vaulted roof from the splendid company
that lay, after the Eastern mode, on sumptuous couches,strewing the floor...
Repentance More Competent to Heathens than to Christians.
... It is enough for me that even John, when "strewing the Lord's ways," [814] was the
herald of repentance no less to such as were on military service and to...
Personal Notes: Relics Nearby that the Three Kings had Given to...
... from escaping. I sometimes saw themstrewing leaves under the trees, and
I saw little boxes hanging from their branches. Out of...
Christ and the Unstable.
... And the Saviour knew this disposition, even when they were allstrewing palms before
Him and greeting Him as the Deliverer; we can trace this sting in His...
Something to Do.
... O pilgrim on life's journey, what are you leaving along the way to show in
after-years that you have passed along? Is it flowers you arestrewing?...
Annas and Caiaphas, Summas and Datam, Gamaliel, Judas, Levi...
... didst send me into Jerusalem to Alexander, I saw him sitting upon an ass, and the
children of the Hebrews breaking branches from the trees,strewing them in...
Chapter: 4:21-25 Lamp and Stand
... Yet another caution follows. If the seed be the Word, there is sore danger from
false teaching; fromstrewing the ground with adulterated grain. St....
And the Manner of his Entry into Jerusalem, which was the Capital...
... For, sitting. on an ass's colt, so He entered into Jerusalem, the multitudes
strewing and putting down for Him their garments. And...
Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount
... Such were the neglect of their apparel; the laying aside those ornaments which they
were accustomed to wear; the putting on mourning; thestrewing ashes upon...
The Saviour's Last Command.
... From some, on slight provocation, broadsides of cannon have been fired on my heedless
inhabitants,strewing the deep with the dead and the dying....
Thesaurus
Strewing (2 Occurrences)...Strewing (2 Occurrences).
... Mark 11:8 and many strewed their clothes on the way, and
others cut down branches from the trees and went on
strewing them on the way.
...Strewed (8 Occurrences)
... Matthew 21:8 But a very great crowd strewed their own garments on the way, and others
kept cutting down branches from the trees andstrewing them on the way....
Scattering (18 Occurrences)
... scattering votes. 3. (n.) Act ofstrewing about; something scattered.
Multi-Version Concordance Scattering (18 Occurrences). Matthew...
Sow (61 Occurrences)
... 8. (vt) To scatter, as seed, upon the earth; to plant bystrewing; as, to sow
wheat. Also used figuratively: To spread abroad; to propagate....
Streweth (1 Occurrence)
Strewn (4 Occurrences)
Cutting (178 Occurrences)
... Matthew 21:8 But a very great crowd strewed their own garments on the way, and others
kept cutting down branches from the trees andstrewing them on the way....
Clothes (208 Occurrences)
... Mark 11:8 and many strewed their clothes on the way, and others cut down branches
from the trees and went onstrewing them on the way. (DBY)....
Elisha (70 Occurrences)
... He suspects an ambuscade, but is persuaded to send a few men to reconnoiter. They
find the camp deserted and treasuresstrewing the path right to the Jordan....
Resources
What is Palm Sunday? | GotQuestions.orgStrewing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
