Manners And Customs Zion Foundation Written by Jason Steeves Zion Foundation Manners And Customs Edited by Jason Steeves Editorial Director: Jason Steeves Zion Foundation NO part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of Zion Foundation or Jason Steeves. Brief text quotations with use of photographs are exempted for book reviews purposes also. As every effort is made to provide accurate information in this publication, we would appreciate it if readers would call our attention to any errors that may occur by communicating with Zion Foundation or Jason Steeves, 342 McLaughlin Dr., Suite #8, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, E1A 4R4. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness, and the opinions based thereon, are not guaranteed. Manners And Customs First Edition © 2001 Jason Steeves All Rights Reserved Printed in Canada by Zion Foundation ISBN: 0-9687117-2-3 Preface I would like to just quickly describe what this book is, what it is for, and how to use it. It's quite self-explanatory but some detail may be in order. This book is a complete reference to manners and customs of the ancient world, primarily of biblical cultures and during biblical times. This book was written so that you may more fully understand what it is you are reading as you read the Bible. You should use this book either as an independent source of information or a handbook companion as you read the Bible. Each paragraph is headed with a Scripture reference. This tells you to which precise verse that that particular manner or custom is explaining. For example, the King James Version of the Bible lists Daniel 3:6 as follows: "And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace." Now after reading this particular verse from your Bible, you may want to more fully understand the manners and customs that are being referred to in this verse. You would then go to Daniel 3:6 as it is listed in this book and it does exactly that, as follows: "Daniel 3:6 } Especially among the Persians, punishment involved being burnt alive. Recently in Africa, blacks who worked for the apathetic white government and treated their own kind with cruelty were burnt alive by having a car tire placed around their neck, their entire body being doused with gasoline, then being set on fire." In this way, you will be able to get the most out of the Bible as God put into it. God bless you as you read this book. Old Testament GENESIS Genesis 2:8 } The Garden of Eden was a paradise for Adam and Eve to live in effortless bliss until their disobedience with God which led to their exile and a total change in lifestyle. Metaphorically, the terms "Garden of Eden", "Garden", or just "Eden" often refer to any place of peacefulness or total happiness. Genesis 2:16-17 } We assume the Forbidden Fruit was an apple, though the Scriptures do not specify what it exactly is. It is the fruit that caused the fall of man when they were tempted to eat it. Today, the term "Forbidden Fruit' often is used to refer to anything tempting but potentially dangerous and often refers to sexual matters. Genesis 3:6-7 } From their disobedience with God, Adam and Eve were driven out of Eden where they would be subjected to sickness, pain, and eventual death. God told Eve that He would multiply her pain during childbirth and He told Adam that he would have to work the ground for his food and the ground would be savage with rocks and thorns. Genesis 4:1-2 } Am I my brothers keeper? Because of Cain's jealousy and anger towards Abel's offerings to God, he killed him. When God later asked Cain where Abel was, he replied, "Am I my brother's keeper?" That expression now symbolizes peoples failure to care for their fellow man. Genesis 4:15 } The mark of Cain was a mark that God had put on him to protect him so that no one who found him in his wanderings would kill him. He was exiled by God as punishment for the crime of killing his brother Abel and today the expression is used to represent man's sinful nature. Genesis 4:20-21 } The term Father is commonly used in the Bible to denote a pioneer in a particular way. Jabal is the pioneer to a lifestyle living in tents and raising livestock while Jubal is the pioneer to (and possibly the inventor) of musical instruments such as the harp and organ. Genesis 6:14-16 } It took Noah 100 years to build the Ark and he received his instructions directly from God. It was a three story boat measuring approximately 450 feet long; 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high. Modern shipbuilders tell us that this proportion would have made the Ark nearly impossible to capsize. In Noah's era, he would have had no way of knowing this except through divine design by God Himself. Genesis 7:11-12 } The flood lasted 12 months and 11 days and began on the 600th year of Noah's life, on the 17th day of the 2nd month. On that day the rains fell from the sky and violent geysers sprouted from the earth, probably causing major geographical changes. Genesis 8:3-4 } After the rains ceased, the waters slowly receded over a period of 150 days and on the 17th day of the 7th month, the Ark came to the end of it's only voyage and rested on the mountains of Ararat. Genesis 8:6-12 } The Raven symbolizes Satan as Noah sent it out. It wandered the earth back and forth but could not find a place to call his own which to rest his feet. The dove, however, represents the holy spirit and the first, second, and third times sent out consecutively represent the Holy Spirit's temporary residency in the Old Testament, resting on the shoulder of Jesus at the river Jordan, and His permanent residence in the world today. Genesis 8:10-11 } Today, the image of a dove with an olive leaf in it's beak represents peace because of the dove returning to Noah in the ark with an olive leaf. This told Noah that the floods were beginning to recede and the earth was once again at peace with God. Genesis 11:3 } Babylonian bricks were used to build the Tower of Babel and were either sun dried or baked in kilns. They usually measured approximately 1 foot square and 3 or 4 inches thick. Genesis 11:4 } The word Babel is an Akkadian word which means, "to confuse" and is used in this verse in reference to the Tower of Babel where God scrambled the single language of the people into many languages so that they could no longer communicate thus being unable to complete the tower. God did this because the people were trying to reach Heaven itself and make a name for themselves. Genesis 12:15 } The word Pharaoh is Egyptian for "great house" which was it's intended use originally for naming the palace of the Egyptian king but at approximately the 18th Dynasty, which is believed to be between 1570 and 1290 Before Christ, it had begun to be used as title to the king himself. Genesis 14:16 } The term Brother, as it's commonly used in the Scriptures, is more than just a name for one of the same parents as another. It's meaning is used as a term labeling relatives, those who share ancestry, who share a common purpose, or who have bonded in allegiance. Abram and Lot were actually Uncle and Nephew but they refer to themselves as brothers. Genesis 14:22 } The Uplifted Hand is used throughout the Bible and everywhere today where an official proceeding is taking place. It is used to signify an oath, usually swearing to God as validity towards it's authenticity and as solemn promise. Genesis 17:10-11 } Circumcision was a sign given by God to His chosen people as a covenant of their faithfulness to Him. The word circumcision means "cutting around". The Jews took pride in their distinction; however, as a rite to the Church, circumcision was no longer as necessary, as of the beginning of the New Testament. Genesis 18:2-3 } In Biblical times, bowing was a sign of humility or respect where the lesser would bow to the greater and in some countries, bowing is a form of greeting which is equally as common to them as shaking hands is to us in our culture. Genesis 18:4 } In Biblical times it would be discourteous to not wash the feet of a guest. It was done to cool the feet and wash them as the environment and footwear required it for health reasons, not to mention that it was a luxury. Genesis 19:4 } Abraham originally lived in houses made of mud bricks but then lived in tents because God gave him no place to call his own. It wasn't until the time of Joshua when stone houses were introduced and then houses of other sorts, depending on the material that was readily available, like trees, ferns, mud, etc. Genesis 23:14-16 } Abraham purchased a small piece of land for which to bury Sarah but eventually, Abraham himself as well as Isaac, Rebekah, Leah, and Jacob were buried in the cave of Machpelah as well. To not bury someone would be considered a great dishonour and insult since in that climate heat, a dead body would quickly begin to rot and be desecrated by wild animals. Genesis 24:2-8 } The custom to swearing an oath was to place your hand under the other's procreative organ for possible relation of circumcision, making it close to the covenant with God or perhaps meaning that all the children or even unborn children will avenge any breach to the oath. Genesis 24:11 } Because of the hot, dry climate of Eastern villages, a clean, steady water source was essential. When a well was dug and found to be of good water quality and quantity, cities then usually built around it. Genesis 24:15 } Pitchers were earthenware with 1 or 2 handles carried by the women either on the head or on the shoulders. It was used to fetch water from the well and pour it into a larger pot in the home which usually held 20 to 30 gallons. Genesis 24:16 } Wells were usually cut out of solid limestone rock. It also had a low wall around it to prevent objects or people from falling in. The water was drawn by someone going down into it on steps or by lowering a bucket on a rope. Genesis 24:59 } A nurse was a woman who stayed with the family and breast fed a child until usually 3 years old. After that, she remained to help him, teach him, and simply be his friend. Genesis 24:64-65 } A veil was a piece of cloth that covered the face or it is also believed that it covered the entire body and also the face. Women of those times, however, did not normally wear veils. Genesis 25:34 } "Nazid" is the Hebrew word for pottage which means boiled and is a thick stew made of lentils and vegetables. Spices and herbs were also added. Lentils look like small peas and are still commonly used today. Genesis 26:26-31 } It was customary that a meal be eaten as a pledge to peace and as a seal when making a peace treaty. This is what perhaps led to the covenant meal that developed later on. Genesis 26:14-17 } Stopping up a well was certainly an act of hostility as it was crucial for the survival of anyone and their animals, but in the case between Abimelech and Isaac, the purpose was to drive Isaac away from the Philistines. Genesis 27:30-38 } A deathbed bequest in those times were legally binding. It would propose an heir to receive full ownership and inheritance of the servants, flocks, and relatives...such as that of Isaac, Esau, and Jacob. Genesis 29:1-2 } Well-stones were designed to sit atop of a well and cover it and these stones were usually quite large and heavy. It often took a strong man or several to remove it. It's purpose was to keep the water pure from the blowing sand, birds, and other animals of the wilderness from falling in. Genesis 29:9 } While it was the duty of a male to watch over a flock, Laban most likely had no sons and so the duty fell on Rachel, his youngest daughter. Genesis 29:17 } The term "weak" or "tender", depending on the Bible version, referred to a plain, unimpressive visage while a sparkling, attractive eye was more sought after. Genesis 29:20-22 } The marriage feast usually lasted seven days and was a celebration for the bride and groom. Two examples of this can be found in Genesis 29:27 for Jacob and Rachel and Judges 14:12 for Samson. Genesis 29:22 } The Near Eastern tradition of that time was that the eldest daughter was to marry first. Many countries today still practice this custom and even in countries that don't see this as a regular tradition often have a sense of bias for an eldest marrying last. Genesis 31:27 } The Hebrew word "toph" means "tabret" or "timbrel" and the word "kinnor" means "harp". The tabret is a very ancient percussive instrument and the harp was the very first musical instrument ever invented by Jubal and often denotes as a classification for the entire stringed section of instruments. Genesis 31:44-54 } Covenant stones were called "Jegar Sahadutha" in Aramaic or "Galeed" in Hebrew, both of which mean "heap of witnesses". It is also referred to in Hebrew as "Mizpah" which means "Watchtower". These covenant stones served three purposes, as a reminder of the covenant and it's rules afterwards, and as a borderline so that neither party could cross it with hostile intentions. Genesis 33:10 } Gift giving is as much a custom in most countries today as it was in Biblical times. Reasons for giving a gift would include a dowry for a bride, act of peace with an enemy, act of respect as a guest to a friend, among others. Not to give a gift would have been considered greedy or stingy, and not to accept it would be seen as enmity. Genesis 35:14 } God required an offering from His people to Him in worship that was a part of themselves, something with which they produced in labour or bought with the money made in their labour. He required something of true value and never of second best. Genesis 33:19 } In ancient times, there was no uniformity to the type of metals they used in trade and so it's weight and value had to be tested every time. It wasn't until fifty years later that electron was shaped like beans and stamped with official seals in Asia Minor. Genesis 37:3 } Joseph's coat of many colours was probably a sharp contrast to his brothers' plain coats and suggested favouritism in his father's eyes. Today, the term "coat of many colours" suggests a person whose personality fits to any occasion. Genesis 37:25 } A caravan is the term used for the entire body of travellers, usually through the desert. The reason for this was because there is safety in numbers against desert thieves. Caravans usually consisted of multiple groups called companies. Genesis 40:11 } The Pharaoh had a personal wine bearer whose purpose was to squeeze fresh grapes into his cup and hand it to him. Based on this, the wine was obviously not fermented and it could also have been prepared in this manner to assure that the juice had not been poisoned. There was probably no fermented wine for nearly 600 years after the reference of this verse. Genesis 41:8 } Magic was a part of the Egyptian religion and their everyday lives. The magicians were highly honoured for their knowledge and power. They were requested for anything whose answer lay far beyond the ordinary. Genesis 41:14 } It was well known that Egyptians were very peculiar about their cleanliness. They shaved both their heads and beard and only allowed it to grow as a sign of mourning. This custom is the opposite to the Hebrews. Genesis 41:42 } Signet rings were rings which bore the symbol of the position and authority of he who wore it. They were used to stamp a letter as a signature or to give subordinates the power of the king or Pharaoh. Such a ring was given to Joseph on his promotion from slave to governor. Genesis 43:10 } Since there was no way of preserving meat in those days, the selected animal would be killed in the owners own courtyard or nearby area and butchered. The pieces would be taken, cooked, and immediately served at the meal. Genesis 43:32 } Egyptians would never eat with Hebrews. They had to be separated because it was considered an abomination. The reason for this was because Egyptians detested shepherds. This is possibly because of some conflicts between the Egyptians and shepherd tribes called Hyksos. Genesis 49:8 } The phrase "your hand on the neck of your enemies" refers to triumph over the enemy. It is used several times in the Bible in this fashion. Similarly, a servant would place the arm of his master around his neck to symbolize submission to him and the master's superiority to him. Genesis 49:10 } The scepter is merely a symbol of authority or rule such as a king or shepherd may carry. Genesis 50:2-3 } The practice of embalming had a religious significance. It was done so the body and soul could be reunited after death. This process was so well done that bodies that were embalmed some three thousand years ago are still in excellent condition today. This process spread to different cultures and so that is why we have embalming today. Genesis 50:9 } Very large and elaborate funeral processions were customary for the Egyptians towards their nobbles and respected. One example of this was the great regard for Joseph at his death. Genesis 50:11-12 } A threshing floor is an outdoor, large, circular, smooth, clean, and slightly elevated piece of ground that is used to separate grain from chaff. We see also that Joseph and the Egyptians that were with him went to the threshing floor where they observed a seven day mourning period for his father at his death. Genesis 50:26 } Joseph's coffin is believed to be a sarcophagus and was located above ground because he wished his bones to be transported. This would be a much easier task if it were located above ground. We know that Joseph was embalmed but not in the Egyptian manner or else he would have asked for his body to be taken. EXODUS Exodus 2:3 } Moses' ark was made of papyrus which grew plentifully along the River Nile. It was then coated with a mixture of tar and pitch that creates a cement and is waterproof. The tar alone is brittle when cold but runs freely when heated. Exodus 2:5 } Scripture does not describe in total whether the word "bathing" means simply to wash, partial bathing, or total bathing. Because of the dry climate of the Middle East, full bathing would only be possible wherever there was an abundant source of water, such as the Nile. Exodus 3:5 } When Moses was asked to remove his sandals on Sinai, it was not out of respect, nor was it because he was told to. It was because God's presence made the ground holy and He wanted nothing man made to come between Him and His creatures. Exodus 3:22 } Since the Israelites had no need for silver or gold in the wilderness, it's most likely that they borrowed or demanded it from the Egyptians as payment for their slave labour, and then offered it to God in sacrifice. Exodus 5:7 } Egyptian bricks measured fourteen and a half to twenty inches long and six and a half to seven inches thick and were made of clay, sometimes mixed with straw for extra durability, and then laid on a flat surface to dry and harden in the sun. These bricks were quite often stamped with the name of the ruling Pharaoh at the time. Exodus 7:19 } Wooden buckets and stone jars were used as receptacles for the Nile water. God turned the water in these to blood along with the flowing Nile water, so this eliminates the possibility of the reflection of the sun or some natural biological occurrence turning the water red, as some have suggested. Exodus 14:24 } The Hebrews divided the night watches into three shifts. The first being from sundown until 10:00 PM which was called "the beginning watch", the second running from 10:00 PM until 2:00 AM, this being called "the middle watch", and the last running from 2:00 AM until sunrise, being called, "the morning watch". Exodus 15:20 } Dancing is found continuously all throughout the Bible and is mainly focused on as a type of praise to God, though there are several accounts of dancing for heathen purposes. The first recorded instance of dancing is Aaron's sister with a tambourine. Exodus 16:36 } The word "omer" appears only in Exodus 16 and is approximately three and a half liters in dry measure. An omer is a tenth of an ephah, which then would be 35 liters in dry measure. Exodus 23:5 } The law enforced the fact that a fallen animal carrying a heavy load must be helped to it's feet regardless whether ifs owner is friend or foe. This demonstrates the parable of the "Good Samaritan" that the fallen human was regarded as lesser than the animals themselves. Exodus 23:10 } The Lord commanded that every male Israelite must attend three festivals in a place of His choosing. Those festivals are Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. No man was to appear empty handed, but an offering from each to the Lord. He also promised that no enemies would invade their land while they were away at these festivals. Exodus 23:10 } The preparation for the festivals was called peres and lasted fifteen days. The purpose of this was to allow enough time to meditate on the solemnity of the upcoming feast, to repair all roads, bridges, and water tanks along the way, and make any legal arrangements that may be required. Exodus 23:15 } The passover was a celebration of the angel of destruction commemorating when it passed over Egypt killing all firstborn. No leavened bread was to be eaten during this festival and a lamb wad to be slain and roasted whole. The Scriptures tell us that this lamb was a hint as to Jesus' first coming. Exodus 23:16 } This feast was observed in Tizri or Ethanim which falls under our October and lasted eight days. It's purpose was to remember that their fathers used to live in tents and booths in the wilderness. On each day were offered in sacrifice two rams, fourteen lambs, one kid, and thirteen bullocks on the first day and the number of bullocks decreased daily by one until the seventh day. The eighth day had a special offering of one bullock, one ram, seven lambs, and one goat. In total were one hundred and ninety-nine animals offered. Also, each Sabbatical year, the law was read publicly. Exodus 25:30 } The table of showbread measured 2 X 1 X 1.5 cubits (3 X 1.5 X 2.25 feet) and had a golden cornice around the top and had gold rings and gilded staves for carrying. Twelve loaves of bread in two rows were put on it with frankincense on each row. Golden vessels of various kinds were also added. The bread was changed every Sabbath. Exodus 27:20 } Every year Solomon gave Hiran about four hundred and fourty kiloliters of pure oil. The context of pure is from lightly pressed olives rather than the heavier pressed oil. The former always burned brighter and with lesser smoke. Exodus 28:16 } The Hebrew word "zereth" is a unit of measure which means "span" and is approximately nine inches. This was a common unit of measure in Biblical times. Exodus 32:4 } Metallic idols, such as that of Aaron, was most likely first made of wood and then covered with gold molten from the earrings. Most idols would have been made in this fashion, first with wood or stone, then covered with gold or silver. Exodus 32:6 } The calf was more than likely a representation of Apis, the god of fertility, the sacred bull. When the Hebrews were slaves, they probably worshipped with the Egyptians and took on some of their habits which usually involved drunken orgies, which were not uncommon among pagan worship. Exodus 38:8 } The size of the mirrors in those times were that of a hand held mirror, made of a highly polished metal and a handle made of wood, stone, or metal that was well ornamented. Egyptian women always carried a mirror in one hand when they went into their temples to worship and it could be that the Hebrew women imitated this. Exodus 38:24 } One talent of gold weighs approximately one hundred and sixty pounds and is worth about $1,122,807. One silver talent weighs approximately eighty pounds. Exodus 40:2 } The tabernacle measured 45' x 15' X 15' and made of shittimwood. Each board was 15' X 2.25' which had two prongs on the end which fit into mortises which measured 1.5 feet in length. On the inside, the tabernacle was divided by a veil to form two rooms called "the sanctuary" and "the most holy place". In the most holy place was a chest, "the ark of the testimony" which contained the two tablets of stone, the pot of manna, and Aaron's budded rod. Exodus 40:3 } The ark of the covenant was also known as the ark of God and measured 3.75' x 2'3" X 2'3". In it were placed the two tablets of the law, which was its main design, and was placed in the Most Holy Place. Exodus 40:4 } The candlestick as mentioned in Exodus 40:4 had a central candle and three others extending off either side for a total of seven. How these seven were arranged is not precisely known. Exodus 40:5 } The golden altar of incense measured 3' x 1.5' X 1.5' and was made of acacia wood with a horn on each corner. It also had a cornice of gold and four gold rings with staves made of acacia wood covered with gold for carrying. LEVITICUS Leviticus 2:11 } There are two forbidden offerings that are mentioned in the Bible and they are honey and yeast. This could be perhaps because under certain conditions, these two items ferment and spiritually contaminate the offering. The analogy of yeast spreading evil is used many times in the Bible, including by Jesus. Leviticus 2:13 } Salt signifies perpetuity and an everlasting covenant. The use of salt when added to the offerings was a symbol of the everlasting relationship between God and his people and vice versa. Leviticus 6:9 } The offering being burnt was originally skinned by the one making the offering but was later changed so this task fell on the priest. The blood was sprinkled on the altar and it was kept burning all night as a symbol of continual and perpetual consecration to God. Leviticus 6:14 } The meat offering was totally vegetable in nature. Part of it was offered in sacrifice and the rest was given to the priest. Neither leaven nor honey were to be added unto it. Leviticus 6:25 } There were two kinds of sin offerings: one for the entire congregation and one for individuals. For the first type, a young bullock was used in the offering and for the second type, a young bullock for the high priest only, a young goat for any rulers of the people, and a female kid or lamb for the common people. Two turtle doves, two young pigeons, or even a small flour offering were acceptable, depending on the poverty level. Leviticus 7:9 } A common oven was a hole dug in the ground 4' deep and 3' wide. Another type was a stone pitcher roughly the same size. "Manchesheth" is Hebrew for "pan" and was a deep vessel of iron used for boiling meat or also baking. The griddle was a thin plate of iron as today's for fast baking. Leviticus 16:8 } The purpose of the scapegoat was to symbolically carry the sins of the people away into the wilderness and never to return. Today the term scapegoat refers to a person or persons who bare the blame of others. Leviticus 16:21 } In a regular sin offering, the people would only put one hand on the goat's head while the high priest would lay both on it and confess onto it all the sins of the people. Leviticus 16:34 } Once a year on the tenth day of the seventh month, Tishri, which corresponded to our October was the Day of Atonement. It was sometimes also known as the Fast. Leviticus 19:28 } Cutting and tattooing of the body was done by heathens and so God forbode the imitation of this. Leviticus 19:36 } A was a liquid measure of about one gallon; one sixth of a bath. Leviticus 22:8 } Dead animals or other animals torn by wild animals were forbidden because of the possible diseases they died from or perhaps diseases that were spread to them from an attacking wild animal. Leviticus 23:18 } The drink offering was wine that was poured at the foot of the altar as blood. For a bullock, half a hin was used, and for a ram, a third of a hin was used, and for a lamb or young goat, a fourth of a hin was used. In the temple service, the pouring out of wine signaled to the priest and Levites to start their songs of praise. Leviticus 23:24 } The Feast of Trumpets was a day of rest that fell on the first day of the seventh month, Tishri. Trumpets were blown on this day more than any other and in the New Testament, the blowing of trumpets is associated with the second coming of Jesus Christ. Leviticus 25:10 } The Year of Jubilee occurred every fifty years and rung in by the sounding of trumpets. It was also a rest for the soil like the Sabbatical year. NUMBERS Numbers 2:2 } Standards are large field signs that were carried in battle for all to see as a type of guide for each division of three tribes, and also the tribe at the head of the division. If the person carrying this standard fell and it was not retrieved by another, it could cause chaos for all the soldiers. Numbers 3:6 } Levites were to assist the priest at the tabernacle, except for Aaron's family, who were dedicated for priesthood. Originally, the Levites began their service at age thirty, then it decreased to twenty-five, and eventually twenty. They were released from their obligations at age fifty. Numbers 19:2 } The purpose of burning a red heifer was for cleansing a person who has come in contact with a corpse. It's blood was to be sprinkled seven times before the entire body was burnt. It's ashes were collected and made into a lye with running water. This in turn was sprinkled on the person or items that had been defiled. Numbers 20:28 } In a manner of being called to service for God, a successor would take on the priestly garments of he whom he was succeeding, whether he be chosen in the previous prophet's life or chose to after his death. Numbers 21:29 } Chemosh was known as the destroyer, subduer, and fish god. He was a god that was worshipped by the Moabites and the Ammonites. There is not allot written about him in Scriptures but he is mentioned in various verses. Numbers 22:41 } The word Baal means Lord and his worshippers elevated themselves as much as possible during worship. Sacrifices of vegetables, animals, and even Humans were offered to him. His female counterpart was Astarte and represented the moon while he represented the sun. The symbol of Baal was a bull. Numbers 25:3 } Baal of Peor was a god whose worship involved sexual immorality. The Israelites began to worship Baal of Peor and God became very angry with them. DEUTERONOMY Deuteronomy 3:3 } When Israel went into the promised Land, Og, king of Bashan, attempted to overthrow them but was totally destroyed. Every member of his army was killed. The boundaries of Bashan extended from Hermon up north, Salcah on the east, Gilead down south, and the Jordan on the west. Deuteronomy 3:11 } Bashan was known as the land of the giants. Og, king of Bashan was the sole survivor after the attack and his bed was made of iron and was more than thirteen feet long and six feet wide. Deuteronomy 6:9 } The Jews were ordered to write the Word on their door posts but later altered this and began to write them on parchments and place it in reeds fastened to the right door post of every room in their house. Deuteronomy 18:10-11 } Divination basically means to receive guidance and/or power through the use of occult means. God forbids involvement of any kind into this in Deuteronomy 18:10-11. Deuteronomy 19:14 } Landmarks for one's property were simply made up of a small pile of stones. It would have been easy for a dishonest man to slowly move these stones but to do so was a serious crime and is described as such in numerous places of the Bible. Deuteronomy 21:19 } The gate to a city was a popular place for people to gather and so it also became a place to hold judicial hearings and other important meetings. Because of this, the gates to anything became a symbol of power and authority, such as the expressions, "The Gates Of Hell" or even "The Pearly Gates (Of Heaven)". Deuteronomy 22:5 } The distinction of clothing between men and women in Biblical times were minimal, except for perhaps ornamental items. God forbode the adoption of the use of the clothing of the opposite sex because the danger lies within the similarities of homosexuality and even the worship of pagan gods. Deuteronomy 22:8 } A parapet was a low wall built around the edge of a roof on a house, not as a defence, but to keep people from falling off. Reason being, people would often sleep, bath, or even have meals atop their houses. Deuteronomy 24:10-13 } Interest could not be charged on a loan to another Israelite, but they did take a pledge, chosen by the debtor, for repayment. The selected pledge could not threaten his livelihood or his life. Deuteronomy 24:12-13 } The outer garment was worn on the exterior of a person in day and then removed and used as a covering at night. To keep this as a pledge overnight was an act of cruelty to a poor man and was punishable by law. Deuteronomy 24:20 } Gleaning was the process by which the alien, the fatherless, and the widow (basically any poor person) obtained their food. God's Law required that the harvester not go over his field a second time and to leave anything that has fallen so the poor might have a means of obtaining their food. Deuteronomy 25:4 } God said, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain." but while this had obvious practical applications it was meant also for us. While the plowman plows the Word and the thresher threshes, they ought to share in the harvest. Deuteronomy 25:13-15 } When buying, a dishonest man would use a heavier weight so he would get more than he should and a lighter weight for selling so he'd pay less than he should. The same went for measurements. The longer for buying and the shorter for selling, though they were marked the same. The implication from God in the verse is that anyone doing so would not live long in the land of God. Deuteronomy 26:14 } God forbode the Israelites to have any connection whatsoever to the dead, though many of them did so anyway. Even today many Christians consult the dead and attribute miracles to them. Deuteronomy 33:24 } Asher was abundant with olives and this verse refers to the extraction of oil from the olives by means of threshing them with your feet. In recent years, some believed it referred to crude oil and even spent millions of dollars attempting to find it with no success. JOSHUA Joshua 2:6 } The flat roofs of the Israelites had many uses, one of them being to dry things such as stalks of flax, wet clothing, fruit to ripen, and to dry grain. Joshua 5:2 } Knives were made in different shapes and sizes depending on their purpose and were often made from bone, copper, flint, iron, or steel. Joshua 10:24 } People would place their feet on the necks of their enemies in symbol of their victory. Also, the idea is conveyed in reference to the phrase, "under your feet" as in Romans 16:20 and 1 Corinthians 15:25. JUDGES Judges 1:6 } The mutilation of captives was a regularly practiced custom and was done so for two reasons. Both to humiliate the prisoner and to render him unfit for future combat. Judges 3:7 } Baalim is merely a word used in a plural form to represent all the different names of Baal and it could perhaps also mean a single name that represents the ultimate power of Baal and his many forms in one. Groves is one of several different types of images that made up Baal, mostly, wooden poles. Judges 3:31 } An oxgoad was primarily a harvesting tool eight feet long with a prick on one end to poke the ox with when they became too slow, and the opposite end had a broad chisel shaped blade for removing tangled roots from the plow blade and sticky mud. This tool also was adapted in battle as a weapon. Judges 5:30 } Embroidered garments were both made by needle and by weaving, especially in Egypt and was probably where the Israelites picked up the art. Embroidered garments were often a prize target for looting as they were beautifully designed and at times even made with gold thread. Judges 8:21 } Ornaments for camels were often necklaces with a full or crescent moon engraved on them, probably to represent the moon goddess Astarte. Their purpose was to protect them from evil like a charm. They were sometimes made of gold and to take them was to take idolatrous objects. Judges 8:33-34 } Little is known about Baal-Berith or his worship. It's believed that he was a god of Shechem and was somehow integrated with the worship of Our Lord, which, of course, was perverse to the Lord and no worship to Him at all. Judges 13:24-25 } The name Samson means "son of the sun" and was an instrument of the Lord to destroy the Philistines and release their hold over Israel. In spite of his constant disobedience to the Lord, He used it as the method by which the Philistines would be destroyed and ultimately, in his capture, his final attempt to avenge his wife's death caused the destruction of more Philistines than he had killed during his life. Judges 16:4 } Delilah was the woman whom enticed Samson with false love and cut his hair in his sleep to remove his strength. Her name is synonymous today with any woman who betrays a loved one by means of a sexual nature. Her name means "desire". Judges 16:21 } Grinding on a millstone was the lowest form of humiliation and slave labour. Samson was required to do this during his captivity and the Greeks and Romans were known to do it with their slaves as well. Judges 16:23 } Dagon was the chief god of the Philistines and originated in Mesopotamia in the third century B.C. The name is derived from one of two possible sources, being "dag" which is Hebrew for "little fish" or "dear" or even "dear little fish" and most likely refers to affection rather than size. The second possibility is the word "dagan" which is Hebrew for "grain". In light of this, he could have been either the god of the sea or the god of vegetation and fertility. In any case, some ancient literature makes mention of Baal as being the son of Dagon. RUTH Ruth 2:3 } Gleaning was the process by which the alien, the fatherless, and the widow (basically any poor person) obtained their food. God's Law required that the harvester not go over his field a second time and to leave anything that has fallen so the poor might have a means of obtaining their food. Ruth 3:7 } Since the grain that was gathered had been kept outside for many centuries, the owner or a trusted servant had to keep watch over it. Ruth 3:9 } When a husband died, it was the legal duty of the next of kin to marry the wife and support her. If a family became so poor that they had to sell their property, it was again the duty of the next of kin to claim it for them. Ruth 3:15 } The Hebrew word "mitpachath" which is used to mean veil actually translates as mantle. This is what Ruth was wearing which was a large outer covering, though some do believe it is a stronger type of veil for outdoor wear. Ruth 4:7 } The giving of a shoe was merely a custom and not a law that was used to symbolized the finalize and legal transaction of transfer of ownership of property or possession. It probably derived from the fact that the owner was the sole one who had the right to walk on his land. I SAMUEL I Samuel 1:9 } The master of the house in certain ancient Middle Eastern countries often put a chair, probably a backless chair, outside in the courtyard against a pole or wall in a shady area where they gave judgment over the affairs. I Samuel 2:1 } The horn was a symbol of strength, privilege, and honour. There were various types of horns, of different shapes, sizes, and material that were worn as headdress by the women and once placed on the head were never removed. I Samuel 6:5 } Talismanic images were usually made of silver and the image itself was an illustration of whatever it was that the bearer wanted to cure or protection from. They would carry these talismans to their heathen temples so that their gods may see them, be pleased and give them the comfort they seek. I Samuel 17:5 } The helmets and breastplates varied largely among the different nations. They were made from everything from bronze, animal hide, chain mail, willows, rushes, quilted linen cloth, horn, hoof, iron, and even copper. I Samuel 17:6 } Greaves were armoured plates worn on the shines and were fastened there by means of thongs. It is believed that the Egyptians did not wear them according to their monuments but the Assyrians did. They were made of leather, wood, or even bronze. The javelin is translated as shield in some verses and spear in others. I Samuel 17:7 } The Hebrew word "chanith" is translated as spear and was much larger than the javelin. The butt end of the spear was as important as the head for it was used to smash oncoming pursuers. The Hebrew word "tsinnah" is translated as shield and was very large. It was often square at the bottom and stood five feet high and came to a point as it curved in. I Samuel 18:4 } Clothes that were worn by royalty or weapons that were used by or adorned on royalty were highly prized items, especially the belt as it represented confidence and affection. I Samuel 19:24 } The use of the term "naked" did not imply total nudity but rather the removal of the outer garments and left with only the tunic and belt. Peter was in this fashion when he went to meet Jesus in the sea, as did Isaiah, as well as the young man who followed Jesus during his rest. I Samuel 25:1 } The houses of the dead were small tomb-like structures that had neither doors nor windows and were always referred to as houses of the dead. Many of these structures still stand today, even in major cities in our culture, these tombs can be seen still standing. I Samuel 26:11 } The Chieftain's spear was the same large spear that was mentioned earlier. When a clan set up their tents, the leader's was recognized by his spear which stuck into the ground in front of it. This was also done in a like manner at the resting spot of the leader whenever they stopped during marches. II SAMUEL II Samuel 1:10 } The Hebrew word "etsadah" is translated as bracelet though it more properly means anklet; however, it is associated in this verse to a band about the arm so in this case it is doubtlessly meant as a bracelet. Egyptian and Persian monarchs wore them even as recent as short years ago. II Samuel 6:5 } It has been said that a sistrum was a type of musical instrument. Many agree with this prognosis while still some disagree. In any case, the musical instrument referred to as a sistrum was usually from sixteen to eighteen inches long and was made of several bands of bronze or brass and occasionally inlaid with silver gilt. It was held upright and shaken so the bands would strike each other and made a distinguishing tinkling sound. II Samuel 10:4 } Beards were a symbol of manhood and to have them shaved off was a great disgrace. Some men of the time would even prefer death above such ridicule. II Samuel 11:2 } It was customary for people to bathe in their courtyards but occasionally on their roofs as well. The flat roof was a popular spot to go in the evening for fresh air, exercise, or even meals at times. In the case of David and Bathsheba, she was bathing on the roof and he was merely walking upon it. II Samuel 15:30 } When someone covered their head or uncovered their feet, it was a sign of great distress. It may have been done by pulling one of the folds of their outer garment up over their head. II Samuel 15:32 } When the robe is torn and dust is thrown on the head, it signifies a great mourning. Many Scripture verses refer to this custom from the earliest of times and is also demonstrated in Revelations 18:19 that the merchants of the world will throw dust on their heads when they see Babylon fall. II Samuel 17:18-19 } A cistern is merely a well dug as it is today in many countries. It was usually flush with the ground and was not a living fountain and so at times would become dry and become good hiding spots for fugitives. They could be covered with mats and grain and then become completely invisible. II Samuel 18:33 } The room over the gate was at the second story above the inner and outer walls. On the roof of this room was where the watchmen and gatekeepers took their post and kept look. II Samuel 19:18 } The term ferryboat appears only once in the King James Version of the Holy Bible. The Hebrews obviously were not blind to the existence and use of boats; however, some translators have thought that it may merely refer to a ford crossing. II Samuel 20:9 } Taking hold of a beard was done followed by a kiss on the cheek to convey friendship or as a greeting. To do so in any other case was a total insult. I KINGS I Kings 1:40 } The pipe or flute is a very ancient musical instrument. As its use became more common, it was made with more care. The material used in its construction varied from a reed to brass, bronze, boxwood, animal horn, bone, or ivory. It was played for joyous occasions and to lighten a journey. It was also played at times at funerals because of its soft tone. I Kings 8:2 } The month of Ethanim corresponds almost exactly with our October and was the seventh month of their sacred year and the first month of their civil year. The great day of atonement and the Feast of Tabernacles took place during this month. I Kings 8:22 } Uplifted hands in prayer is not a unique action to the worship of God alone but we see reference to numerous verses of this occurrence and from various religious beliefs. I Kings 10:16 } These large shields of gold are most likely the same as the regular large shields except that these ones were probably made of wood and then covered with hammered gold rather than the standard leather covering. I Kings 10:18 } Solomon's throne was made of wood entirety covered with ivory and gold. It had six steps leading up to it, each step with a statue of a lion on either side and the throne was also covered with many large gems shaped to resemble birds, animals, trees, and vines with leaves and fruit. I Kings 11:5 } Ashtoreth, whom is also known as Astarte, was the companion to Baal and was thought to represent the worship of the moon since Baal was thought to represent the worship of the sun. Molech is also known as Malcham and Milcom. I Kings 17:10 } From this verse we find that there seems to have been a fuel shortage in Palestine during this time. People were gathering twigs, branches, sticks, and even thorns for use in making fires and they were used quite economically to make them last. I Kings 20:16 } The word cukkah is Hebrew for pavilions. In some translations other than the Kings James Version, and even different verses within the King James Version use the words booths, tents, shelters, hut, or lodge. Regardless of its name, it was of simple construction consisting of boughs or fabric draped so as to keep heat off of the desert traveller and is still commonly used today. I Kings 20:28 } Different heathen nations believed that the different parts of the earth each had their own specific god. They seemed to believe that God was a god of only the hills. In 1 Kings 20:28, we see that this particular verse demonstrates the power of God and that He is a God that rules everywhere. I Kings 21:8 } Seals were often rings or necklaces which bore the symbol of the position and authority of he who wore it. They were used to stamp a letter as a signature or to give subordinates the power of the king or Pharaoh. Such a ring was given to Joseph on his promotion from slave to governor. II KINGS II Kings 1:2 } Baal-Zebub is literally translated as the fly god, but it is possible that it was derived from derivatives such as Baak Same, the lord of heaven, and BaaI-Zebahim, lord of sacrifices. It is also possible that it had roots from Beelzebul, which is dung god, which is also a name for Satan. This name, however, also meant lord of the dwelling. II Kings 2:20 } The Hebrew word tselochith is translated bowl and in particular verses is rendered cruse, dish, pan, or bosom. It was believed to be a flat metal dish. II Kings 4:1 } If a man could not pay his creditors, according to Mosaic law, they had the right to claim the services of the debtor and his children by way of slavery until the year of Jubilee. II Kings 4:2 } The Hebrew word asuk means oil flask or pot and was used for carrying water, oil, or wine and they were believed to be quite similar to the Egyptian amphorae except it had no handles. They were narrow or pointed at the base so that it could be inserted into a stand or stuck in the ground. II Kings 4:10 } The Hebrew word aliyah means room or stairway and referred to the small room built usually on the second floor at the roof with a stair case leading to it. It's main purpose was for important designators such as Elisha in 2 Kings 4:10. Today, churches or parsonages usually have a room set aside for this very purpose and is also usually called, the prophets room. II Kings 18:11 } The Assyrians have always deported entire cities of sections of a country since the beginning of their history. II Kings 18:34-35 } Everybody the Assyrians had ever fought had their gods captured so the Assyrians told the Israelites likewise that it was foolish to expect their God to save them. They said that their own god was so powerful that no other god could cope with him. II Kings 19:37 } The god Nisroch is mentioned in only two verses in the Bible, being 2 Kings 19:37 and Isaiah 37:38. It is not definitely known what Nisroch looks like but there are many speculations. It is believed that he was constructed from one of the planks from Noah's ark, others think he looks like the dove from which Noah sent out, others thought he represented Saturn or the constellation of the eagle, or even of the deified patriarch Asshur of the Assyrian pantheon. Nonetheless, no name of this kind has ever been found on any monuments. II Kings 20:18 } When Hezekiah was showing the messengers his treasures, he was not doing it in testimony of all that God has provided for him but rather for his own vain glory and vanity. This resulted in God rebuking him and the eventual fall of Judah. II Kings 23:11 } To the Persians, horses were sacrificed as worship to the sun. They would ride their horses out to greet the morning sunrise and then sacrifice their horses to it. It is believed that King Judah imitated this and though he did not slay his horses, he did ride out to greet the sunrise. II Kings 23:17 } The tombstones of that day were pillars and served as a tablet for an epitaph and as a sign to alert passerby that a grave was present so they did not become ceremonially unclean by touching it. II Kings 25:7 } Blinding a prisoner was a very common practice in Biblical times, especially with the Persians. This was done by holding a red-hot copper plate near the eyes, and, while holding a cord fastened to a hook in the prisoners lips, pocked a spear tip into his eyes. The shackles were made of bronze or copper and were thinner at the ends so that they could be hammered tighter after the feet had passed through the holes. I CHRONICLES I Chronicles 2:34-35 } According to Mosaic law, daughters were not to marry outside of their own tribe so as to keep the inheritance within the family. Even so, it seems to have been a well practiced custom of marrying daughters to servants. I Chronicles 25:5 } The King James Version implies that an actual horn was used in 1 Chronicles 25:5, but the New International Version implies it is simply figurative for the sons of Heman to have helped or exalted him. In any case, the original horn was made from animal horn, hence it's name, and after metal had begun to be used in its fabrication, the name remained a constant. II CHRONICLES II Chronicles 8:5 } Fortified cities are of ancient design and it is said by many that the difference between a city and town was merely a fortified wall that surrounded it. II Chronicles 16:14 } The original custom was that burning of a body was done in spite and only to signify negative intentions toward the dead who had earned disgrace of some sort, but over time, it eventually became custom that the opposite was true, though the Israelites despised this rite. II Chronicles 36:4 } Changing one's name is a very old and common practice in ancient days and often was done at a great event in one's life and the new name usually reflected this new event in some way. EZRA Ezra 2:43 } The term nethinim means the given or the devoted. It is believed that they were Canaanites who were lowered to the class of servanthood as well as captured war prisoners. They were set apart for this service and considered low class, even moreso than an illegitimate offspring. Ezra 2:69 } A Persian daric was a thick gold coin that was equivalent to four days wages. On one side was the impression of a king with a bow and spear or bow and dagger while the other side had an irregular oblong impression. Ezra 6:3-4 } The Temple of Zerubbabel was ordered to be built by King Cyrus on the site of Solomon's temple. This one was believed to be much bigger than Solomon's but lacking in certain necessary things, namely, The Ark of the Covenant, The Sacred Fire, The Shekinah, The Holy Spirit, and the answer by Urim and Thummim. NEHEMIAH Nehemiah 1:1 } The Hebrew religious calendar as it relates to our Western calendar is as follows: Nisan (Abib) = March-April; lyyar (Ziv) = April-May; Sivan = May-June; Tammuz = June-July; Ab = July-August; Elul = August-September; Tishri (Ethanim) = September-October; Marchesvan (Bul) = October-November; Kislev = November-December; Tebeth = December-January; Shebat = January-February; Adar = February-March. Nehemiah 5:13 } Shaking the lap was symbolic for several things. Among them were the illustration of wiping away the wrinkles which meant rejection or extermination to anyone who would violate a particular agreement. Also it was symbolic representing the wiping off of peace or war onto the other party involved meaning an act of that kind. Nehemiah 13:25 } Different families had different times of the year for which to gather the wood for a wood sacrifice to the Lord. When the time for the sacrifice came, it was celebrated joyously as the wood was laid on the altar for burning. No fasting or mourning was permitted. Nehemiah 13:25 } Tearing out the hair was done either as self-inflicted for mourning, as an act of wanton persecution, or as a punishment to another. Athenians used this type of punishment on adulterers and then covered their head with hot ashes. ESTHER Esther 1:8 } Different nations had different drinking customs. Among the Romans, at feasts a master was chosen by throwing dice and all who attended were obliged to follow his rules as he set out. Esther 1:9 } Besides the exception of Persia, women were not permitted to have feasts in the same room as the men. In light of this, they organized their own feasts in separate rooms as did Queen Vashti in Esther 1:9. Esther 1:10 } The Hebrew word "sarisim" is translated as "chamberlains, officers, and eunuchs". These were usually men who held high military positions and were often advisers to the king. It is said also that they were in positions of great influence. Esther 2:16 } Tebeth on the Hebrew religious calendar correlates to our modern January-February. Esther 4:11 } Etiquette of the Persian court was extremely strict. If anyone approached the king in the court without personally being summoned by the king himself received the punishment of immediate death. The only exception to this was if the king raised his golden scepter towards him to show approval and spare his life. Esther 7:8 } The face of a condemned man was covered, but the reason for this is not precisely known. It could be speculated that its reasoning was that the condemned was no longer worthy to look upon the face of the king, but since there is no direct proof of this, then obviously many other reasonings could be attached to this custom. Esther 9:26 } The Hebrew word "purim" means lots signifying that Haman cast lots in order to determine the best time to carry out his plot against the Jews. The Feast Of Purim is in celebration of the deliverance of the Jews by God away from Haman's plot. It's celebration involves fasting on the prior day, then all gather in the synagogue where the book of Esther is read amidst hand clapping and feet stomping signifying contempt for Haman and joy for their own deliverance. After this, a feast is enjoyed at their respective homes. JOB Job 1:3 } The wealth of a man was very often measured by the number of different types of animals he had as well as the number of servants he had. Job 6:4 } Dipping the points of arrows in poison was a way to ensure death to anyone by which the tip of the arrow pierced. The romans also did this to their daggers. This practice is still used in Japan by elite warriors since archery is still widely used there, among other weapons in the same manner. Job 12:6 } Robbers have been a common thing since the beginning of time and even entire nations would adopt robbery as a means of livelihood. It seems at times that robbers make a better living than we do but that is never the case. Prison or death awaits them eventually, and then judgement before God. In those days and even today in some Middle Eastern countries, thieves would be physically mutilated for stealing, such as having their hands cut off. Job 18:5-6 }In many verses of the Bible and even as common knowledge today, light has always been the symbol of goodness and darkness has always been the symbol of evil. Job 19:6 } Nets were a common weapon in days past as also today in Japan by elite warriors. It was swung in attempt to entangle his head where a noose was then enclosed around his neck and once he was subdued on the ground, he was pierced and killed by a three pronged weapon. Job 19:23-24 } Scrolls were made from linen or cotton cloth or even papyrus rolled into the form of a scroll. Tablets were usually made entirely from lead, everything from the pages, hinges, and nails. Monuments were stone with engravings in them meant to last for many generations. Sometimes the engraved letters would be filled with molten lead or other molten metals. Job 24:16 } The design of building houses of clay is an ancient one. They were usually done in a manner of several different forms which included a frame of branches daubed with mud, layers of mud making up the walls, each layer drying before the next was laid, and also sun dried bricks. These forms made it easy for a thief to break into a house by digging through or chopping a hole into the wall. Job 29:6 } Stone oil presses were made for use of extracting the oil from olives and it flowed like a river. Job 38:14 } It was common to seal entryways such as tombs, treasuries, granaries, what have you, with clay for two reasons. First of all because it hardened in the heat as opposed to using wax (which was used for certain things) which melted in the heat, and secondly, it was impossible to enter into such a room to steal anything without first breaking the seal, thus would be known that an intruder was or had been present. Job 41:7 } The fishing spear was between ten and twelve feet long, slender, feathered at the end like an arrow, and on the other end was two sharp points, each two feet long that were used to impale a fish. PSALMS Psalms 1:8 } Especially in Egypt, it was well seen that canals were dug from the Nile branching in every direction to direct the flow of water to gardens all across the country. It is even believed that perhaps, in some places, these canals provided water directly to every individual tree. Psalms 2:12 } Kissing was a sign of royalty were the one kissing reassured the royalty of he who was kissed. In this manner did Samuel kiss Saul when coronated, and the Psalmist in Psalm 2:12 wishes all men to designate Jesus as royalty illustrating it in this manner. Psalms 23 } Chapter twenty-three is the most famous of all the Psalms and perhaps of all the Old Testament as well. It is often read at funeral processions as a profession of faith in God's eternal protection over us. Psalms 24:7 } These doors as illustrated in Psalm 24:7 open vertically as opposed to our modern doors which open horizontally. The main purpose for this was so that they could be opened quickly. Psalms 24:7 } To wash your hands was symbolic of the fact that you did not commit a particular murder nor had you seen it done. In the city where a murder was discovered and the murderer unknown, this rite was practiced by all the elders of that city as they circled around a dead heifer whose neck they had broken. Psalms 35:13-14 } In verse 13, it says that his prayer returned to his bosom which has been interpreted as having been meant by two separate possibilities. Either it means that he bowed his head far down in his prayer or it meant that his prayers went unanswered. Psalms 51:7 } The hyssop was a small shrubby plant used in purification ceremonies, to cleanse lepers, the Passover, the sacrifice of the red heifer, and to sprinkle blood on the book containing the law and on the people. Psalms 98:6 } It has been debated that the overall shape of the trumpet of those times was either straight or bent. It is generally agreed, though, that the end was shaped like a bell (as our modem trumpets). Its primary uses were for announcing the beginning of the year of Jubilee, declarations of war, proclamations of joy, calling people together for important meetings) or other special occasions and festivities. Psalms 119:83 } Bottles that were made of leather or animal skins were often hung up in the center of tents and therefore subjected to the smoke from cooking or camp fires. After a prolonged period of time, they became black, hard, and good for nothing. Psalms 129:6 } Because of the mud and clay that was used to construct ancient houses, grass would often grow atop the roofs. Because they were under constant attack from the sunrays, they quickly died. This is used symbolically do denote swift destruction. Psalms 144:12 } It was well hoped that the daughters of the Hebrews were to become like the pillars which were used in Egyptian architecture. They were beautiful maidens crafted into the pillars of their structures. It was wished that their daughters would grow up to be as them because this would be great strength to uphold the fabric of a community and of great beauty. Psalms 150:5 } The term "organ" as is displayed in Psalm 150:5 was thought to be possibly a resemblance of our modern bagpipe while there are those who believe it resembled our pipe organ. A third theory was a set of eight or occasionally nine pipes resembling recorders fastened together each making a single note when blown into. Psalms 150:5 } It is thought that two distinct types of cymbals are referred to in Psalm 150:5. The first being small cymbals that were held one in each hand and hit together resounding with a high pitch. The second being a larger pair of cymbals resembling those used in marching bands. PROVERBS Proverbs 9:2 } The interpretations of the term mixed wine has several views by several commentators. They being wine that has merely settled and mixed as it is now ready for use, wine that was mixed with different spices or drugs to enhance potency, wine diluted with water, or wine that was boiled to two thirds or half it's original volume to increase strength. Proverbs 25:13 } The term of refreshing snow does not refer to actual snow in the summertime because that would be detrimental to a harvest. What is referred to is both the ice cold waters that flowed down from the Lebanese mountains from the melting snow on their caps, and from the coolness the breezes bring from down the slops of these mountains. Proverbs 26:14 } Regardless as to the type of door hinges used in Proverbs 26:14, the meaning of the proverb is that a lazy man is as attached to his bed as a door is to its hinges. Proverbs 26:25 } The number seven is used to symbolize completeness and an exact reasoning for this is not totally agreed on. It is interesting; however, to note that the number seven is used in three hundred and ninety one individual verses in the Bible and the word is used fifty-five individual times in Revelations alone. Proverbs 27:22 } A mortar is a vessel made of either wood, earthenware, metal, or stone, the later being the most common. The pestle was a five foot long handle with a club shaped end used to grind or mash things within these vessels. ECCLESIASTES Ecclesiastes 1:2 } The major point that the author is trying to get across in Ecclesiastes is the meaninglessness of life without God and the pointlessness of humans' many activities. SONG OF SOLOMON Song Of Solomon 1:5 } Tents were among the earliest form of dwelling but they were not the absolute earliest. Scripture mentions tents for the first time with Jabal, which was seven generations following Adam. Tents were probably originally made with skin but as weaving became known, this fashion was used. Song Of Solomon 3:9-10 } The Hebrew word "appiryone" is translated as carriage, chariot, palanquin, or litter. Royal litters were the most beautifully constructed. They consisted of a light framework, covered with cloth, and depending on the variety, it could also be covered overhead. These types would have a lattice door or window on either side. It would normally have four poles fastened to it so it could be carried by four people or even camels. The woodwork was intricately carved, and usually inlaid with gold, silver, and precious stones. Song Of Solomon 5:7 } City watchmen had two major roles, they guarded the city gates to protect from outward attacks, and they patrolled the streets to protect those from mischievous citizens. ISAIAH Isaiah 1:6 } The Hebrews had even less knowledge of surgery than did the Egyptians and they trusted more on external medical avenues than internal remedies. They would simply bind a wound together to allow the natural healing process to do the work and thus made the end result much more disfiguring than our standard method of medical attention today. Isaiah 1:8 } Since vineyards did not have a fence or wall to protect the harvest from outsiders, be it man or otherwise, a full time guard was always at hand and needed shelter in particular types of weather. A crude shelter was constructed for his use and would often crumble. Isaiah 16:10 } For both the Egyptians and Hebrews alike, singing during the harvesting of the grapes and at the winepresses was quite common for it helped to alleviate the stress of the labour. Isaiah 21:5 } Shields were often made from a layer or two of rawhide and thus needed to be oiled as protection against drying and cracking. So then the term "oil your shields" refers to a preparation for battle. Isaiah 22:6 } Quivers were usually either placed on the back of the archer with the top facing the right shoulder for easy drawing, or else they were fastened to the side of the chariot in which the archer rode. As for the shield cases, they were made of leather to protect the shield from dust and drying. Isaiah 22:23 } The wooden pegs that are referred to in this Isaiah 22:23 are those put in walls for hanging things. It is also symbolic of anyone who has good leadership skills and his people hang on to him as such. Isaiah 25:6 } This terminology refers to old wine that was needed to be strained through a cloth sieve before it was fit to drink. Isaiah 28:27-28 } A threshing floor is an outdoor, large, circular, smooth, clean, and slightly elevated piece of ground that is used to separate grain from chaff. We see also that Joseph and the Egyptians that were with him went to the threshing floor where they observed a seven day mourning period for his father at his death. Isaiah 37:29 } Blinding a prisoner was a very common practice in Biblical times, especially with the Persians. This was done by holding a red-hot copper plate near the eyes, and, while holding a cord fastened to a hook in the prisoners lips, poked a spear tip into his eyes. Shackles were made of bronze or copper and were thinner at the ends so that they could be hammered tighter after the feet had passed through the holes. Isaiah 40:3-4 } This was meant symbolically for the coming of the Lord but it is based on truth that royalty often literally had their way of travel made as easy and pleasant as possible. No one made such an effort with labour and expense in actually leveling mountains and filling valleys than Queen Sammu-ramat. Isaiah 42:3 } Lamp wicks were made from linen and Isaiah 42:3 refers to the ease of extinguishing a flaming wick with which there is little oil left, leaving the flame feeble. Isaiah 44:10 } Metallic idols, such as that of Aaron, was most likely first made of wood and then covered with gold molten from the earrings. Most idols would have been made in this fashion, first with wood or stone, then covered with gold or silver. Isaiah 46:1 } Nebo comes from the same root as the Hebrew word which is used for prophet. He was considered to be the god of vegetation, the god of learning, and the god of writing. His name was implemented in the names of many a king, Nebuchadnezzar, for one. Isaiah 47:13 } Astrology is a very ancient art and those who did it were labeled into a class of high prestige. The knowledge to do it was usually passed on from father to son. The universe as viewed from Earth was divided into twelve "houses" which were used in different ways to foretell natural occurrences as well as human destinies. Isaiah 57:6 } The worship of stones appears all through the Bible either mentioned directly as stones or as images. This practise was very common among heathens. Isaiah 60:11 } In every city that was walled in, the main gates were always shut just before or shortly after sundown. Where both Isaiah and Revelation speaks of the city of Christ on its return as always having its gates open refers to a perpetual daylight, perpetual shelter, and perpetual entry. JEREMIAH Jeremiah 2:37 } Putting the hands on their heads signified great grief and was a demonstration as such. A person suffering from grief upon meeting a friend would immediately place his hands on his head to indicate his state without question. Jeremiah 6:29 } Bellows were large bag type structures with a reed opening tipped with metal to preserve it from the heat and was used to blow into a fire to keep it burning hot. The bags were depressed by stepping on them and reinflated by lifting the foot and pulling on a cord attached. Jeremiah 8:22 } The literal sense of the term "Is there no balm in Gilead?" refers to the healing properties of various ointments that could be found near Gilead and also the help of God that was readily available but was refused. Today the expression refers to the sense of near despair and hopelessness. Jeremiah 9:17-18 } Depending on the wealth of the family, when a loved one died, professional mourners would be hired to display at the funeral as much sorrow and grief over the lost love as could possibly be displayed. Jeremiah 18:3 } The art of pottery was know in Egypt well before the Hebrews occupied that land. The wheels on which the clay was molded was of two designs. The top tray would spin on an axis as an attendant would turn it and the second model had a lower wheel where the potter spun it with his feet simultaneously to working with the clay. These wheels were usually made of wood which made them lighter and easier to work with. Jeremiah 31:19 } The Hebrew word yarek in the NIV is translated to mean breast but in Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, which is based from the KJV, it is rendered as to be soft, the thigh, and the generative parts. Based on this, striking the thigh was a great sign of mourning and was a custom used by many different nations and is expressed in several passages of the Scriptures. Jeremiah 34:18 } The earliest recorded covenant of the type found in Jeremiah 34:18 in the Bible is with Abraham. This covenant involves cutting an animal into two halves and walking between them. This perhaps was to symbolize that if either party was to break the covenant, the same fate would befall them as did the animal. Jeremiah 46:22 } The Hebrew word that is translated as axe is quardom and seems to have been of design that was of a larger head than most axes and was designed specifically for the purpose of cutting down trees. Jeremiah 46:25 } Ammon is based from the Hebrew word amon which means multitude. Ammon is a god of Egypt, Libya, and Ethiopia as well. His original name is Ammon of No, where No is the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes. Thebes has been called No Ammon which is the City Of The God. The Romans called him Jupiter Ammon and Hammon. His appearance resembled that of the Indian Vishnoo. Jeremiah 50:15 } The NIV renders Jeremiah 50:15 as she surrenders but the KJV renders it she hath given her hand. In light of the two, the expression means to surrender or give up by giving her hand over to another as a sign of submission. Jeremiah 60:20 } Battle axes were from two to two and a half feet long with rounded blades usually fastened to a wooden handle bound with leather to prevent splitting. LAMENTATIONS Lamentations 5:12 } It is not totally known whether hanging by the hands of a prisoner was done before execution or after as a means of adding insult to injury. All throughout history this means of torture was used and still is in certain countries. EZEKIEL Ezekiel 2:9-10 } Scrolls are normally only written on one side and rarely on both sides. As referred to in Ezekiel 2:9-10 as well as an example in Revelation, writing on both sides indicates extreme mourning and woe. Ezekiel 4:1 } Record keeping was done on pottery as well as stone or clay tablets. The clay was engraved while in its moist state and then baked and was done so so well that most of them would last for thousands of years. Several of these record pottery have been found in various colours possibly due to baking time, colouring added, or perhaps just clay properties. Several have even been found with a hard white enamel covering. Ezekiel 4:2 } Ramps were often made of earth, timber, stone, or bricks where war machines could be moved into a much better position for attack on the enemy. Siege works are basically the same as todays trenches which protected the soldiers as they prepared for war. Rams were large wooden poles reinforced with iron and was teetered into doors until and opening was broken through. Ezekiel 8:16 } The posture in heathen worship was to stand in the doorway of the temple, turning their back on the Living God and worshipping the sun god facing the east. Ezekiel 9:2 } The inkhorn consisted of a receptacle for the pens and a box for the ink. It was usually made of ebony or some other type of wood and on occasion metal. Either bronze, copper, or silver. Ezekiel 21:14 } The striking or clapping of hands seemed to have been associated with particular emotions. It signified contempt, anger, judgment, sorrow, and triumph. Ezekiel 23:12 } Assyrian garments were quite intricate. They were highly ornamented and flowing with fringes and embroidery, often displaying emblems of employment or other designation. DANIEL Daniel 1:2 } Most every temple had a room set aside for the storage of particular treasures or objects of value that were supposed to have been special items belonging to the particular idol that was worshipped. Daniel 1:5 } The Babylonian manner of living was quite different than what the Hebrews were accustomed to. On the table for dining was wheat bread, meat of great variety and copious amounts, and luscious fruit of every kind. The beverage was usually the best wine that could be obtained. Daniel 2:5 } It was a common custom for criminals to be cut to pieces as punishment and their houses would be destroyed and the ground on which their house stood would be cursed forever and could never be used again. In the Muslim country of Sudan, this practice is still greatly observed against Christians. Between the years of 1992 and 1997,1.2 million Christians have been killed and had their homes destroyed. Daniel 3:6 } Especially among the Persians, punishment involved being burnt alive. Recently in Africa, blacks who worked for the apathetic white government and treated their own kind with cruelty were burnt alive by having a car tire placed around their neck, their entire body being doused with gasoline, then being set on fire. Daniel 6:10 } The pious Jew prayed twice a day in morning and evening but as we see in Psalms, David prayed three times a day. Both at evening, morning, and adding noon. Daniel 6:15 } The etiquette of the Persian court was extremely strict. One notion was that once an order was given by the king it could not be revoked under any circumstance since the law could not contradict itself. AMOS Amos 2:8 } One such idolatrous custom as seen in Amos 2:8 observed by the heathens is that they used the money from which they procured from fines and purchased wine which they drank on their visits to pagan temples. Amos 9:9 } A sieve was used to rid the dirt and other impurities from the grain after it was threshed. NAHUM Nahum 1:10 } It was a Ninevite custom to bring a large basin as high as a man's chest full of liquor out to a guest where they all dipped their glasses in and drank a toast to each other. Nahum 2:3 } The Assyrian warrior chariots were coloured a bright blood red for two reasons. First of all, to frighten their enemies as they would shine in the sun and also to conceal the blood from their own wounds so as to prevent new hope and courage from forming within their enemies. HABAKKUK Habakkuk 1:16 } In Habakkuk 1:16, a net and dragnet is used figuratively as having offerings dedicated to them. This is symbolic for the worship of the weapons that the Chaldeans were to use against the Jews. The Scythians sacrificed cows and horses to their sword which was set up to represent Mars. Habakkuk 3:9 } A bow was always kept in a protective leather case. To remove it was to prepare for battle. ZECHARIAH Zechariah 14:20 } Ancient nations always used bells around the necks of their horses, especially on their war-horses in order to accustom them to noise so they perform their duty better. The bells on the horses of the Lord will be inscribed with "HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD". New Testament MATTHEW Matthew 1:18 } The process of arranged marriages was very common throughout history and even today, though in the western world, the prospect of marriage is usually a choice as well as with whom but involves a period prior to the actual marriage for exchange of gifts, visits, leading up to the actual marriage which usually results in the exchange of rings, vows, and hands, followed by a feast. Matthew 2:1 } The term magi means wise men as seen in the encounter with the newborn Christ. It is possible that the word magi is the root to the word magician since in Daniel, the magicians, soothsayers, astrologers, enchanters, and sorcerers of king Nebuchadnezzar were called as his wise men, and it is believed that these five make up the five classifications of magi. Matthew 3:4 } Camel's Hair Garment was an exceptional material since it kept the heat, cold, and rain out. It is believed also to be referred to as sackcloth. Prophets usually wore this to distinguish themselves from the soft garments of royalty. Locusts were one of the insects deemed clean to eat and was referred to in this fashion a number of times. There are numerous ways to prepare them for eating. Matthew 3:11 } lt was the most basic duty of a servant to carry the sandals of his master when needed, also to remove and replace them on their need. John the Baptist refers to this act as being unworthy to carry the sandals of Christ. Matthew 3:12 } Winnowing grain is a process by which the grain is thrown into the air by a fork and the west wind from the sea would blow the impurities away while the heavier and healthy grain fell back down to the ground. Matthew 4:5 } The pinnacle of the temple was the uttermost height. lt was here that the Devil took Jesus and set Him. Matthew 4:23 } The exact origin of the synagogue is unknown. Jewish traditionalists believe it was founded by Moses but the Old Testament in no way supports this. Synagogues were different than temples in that the priest had no official standing in a synagogue, measurements were not important, and it's priority was in instruction, not worship. When constructed, however, synagogues usually had the congregation face Jerusalem. Matthew 5:1 } What is often referred to as the sermon on the mount was actually the first sermon of Jesus Christ where it was His proclamation of the new age of Christianity that would be reflected after His prosecution. Matthew 5:3-12 } The beatitudes are eight in number by Jesus at the beginning of the sermon on the mount. The word beatitudes comes from the Latin word beatus and means blessed. Each of the beatitudes begin with the word blessed. Matthew 5:13 } Salt was often used to enhance the flavour of food, especially meat. The term was used for the disciples to infer preservation through time and attack. The term salt of the earth often refers to any good person. Matthew 5:18 } Jot refers to the smallest of the Hebrew alphabet letters, yodh, and tittle means apex or little horn which is the small horn like points atop of various Hebrew letters. Matthew 5:22 } Raca is a Hebrew word which was borrowed from the Aramaic language which means empty or ignorant. The word is often used in a hatred sense and Jesus teaches that such use of the word will lead to the fires of Hell. Matthew 5:25 } Based upon Roman law, if a quarrel could not be settled, the plaintiff brought a witness before the defendant and used any force necessary to drag him before a judge. The defendant had until he arrived before the judge to attempt to settle the quarrel. lf they came to an agreement, he was released. Matthew 5: } The Bible tells us to let yes mean yes and no mean no, when it comes to oaths. lt is unlawful according to God to break an oath. Evil men and women are not bound by oaths and godly men and women have no need of them. Matthew 5:38 } The phrase an eye for an eye is greatly used today by those who believe the meaning of justice is to do to the offender what was the offence. It's actual origin is in the book of Exodus and its philosophy was God ordained but is now obsolete since the coming of Christ and His purpose. Matthew 5:39 } The phrase turn the other cheek was taught by Jesus which superceded the former belief of Matthew 5:38. It taught to accept injustice and avoid escalation by retaliation. Matthew 5:41 } The phrase "go the extra mile" makes reference to an ancient Persian custom of the king's courier. He had complete command of anything and anyone to help him complete his task. To refuse was an unpardonable offense. The Roman soldiers also could request any citizen to aid in carrying equipment for one mile. This phrase then makes reference to this where a Christian spirit should carry for two miles. Matthew 6:2 } lt is believed that the custom was to sound a trumpet before an alms giver in the streets, but not in a synagogue since it was forbidden there. God said not to do such a thing anywhere. The more praise a man gets by men for doing good deeds, the less he gets from God. Vice versa is also true. Today, the term to blow their own trumpet or horn means to flaunt there good deeds before man. Matthew 6:7 } Rabbis during the Lord's time taught to avoid oft-repeated prayers since this was thought to lead toward a distance in honest worship of the Lord and was an imitation of heathen worship. Matthew 6:9 } The Lord's prayer is a rendition of many sources, but the Lord's prayer as it is known is the most basic and universally known prayer. It is rare to come across someone who hasn't heard the prayer in music, recited, or known by heart. Matthew 6:16-18 } ln the Old Testament, there were set times for fasting but today, it is up to each individual Christian. The point of fasting is to set aside food in the pursuit of a deeper understanding of God. Jesus fasted forty days in the wilderness, and Moses and Elijah both fasted forty days also. Matthew 6:24 } lt is impossible to serve both money and God, two people, or even yourself and someone else. Your obedience must be undivided. Matthew 6:30 } Every type of combustible material was used as fuels, but the analogy of grass as fuel also was used figuratively to denote total annihilation. Matthew 7:1 } Simply put, since we are all sinners, no one has the right to judge another without receiving equal judgment from others and God. Matthew 7:6 } The term dog means to degrade or ruin, thus go to the dogs is a state of decreasing worth. Matthew 7:6 } Pearls refer to anything of value, and swine refers to anyone who would not appreciate anything of value, therefore, to share your pearls with swine would be to share your valuables with those who would not appreciate it, and of this God says don't. Matthew 7:7 } The three phrases here are ask, which you should do in prayer and God will give what is needed to those who believe, seek, which is to do so in faith and prayer after asking, knock, which is by asking in prayer and faith of something that you have prayed for and believe God may have opened the door for you. Matthew 7:9 } The origin of comparing stones with bread is in the times by which the bread was baked. Their shapes were flat and round, not at all like today's common store bought bread. This is also why Satan asked Jesus to turn the stones into bread as opposed to anything else. Matthew 7:12 } The golden rule is known world over in one form or another. Basically, it states to do unto others what you would have them do to you. Matthew 7:15 } This phrase finds it's roots from the teaching of Jesus and His Sermon on the Mount. It warns people of any evil person who comes bearing an innocent persona. Matthew 7:16 } This phrase is a rendition of today's "actions speak louder than words" where you would be able to distinguish between true and false prophets based on what they do. Matthew 7:29 } Scribes were people with a very important occupation. They were the ones who translated the Scriptures, as well as the law, and other very important documents. They were called upon on certain occasions to read the Scriptures in the synagogues as they were looked upon with more and more wisdom. Matthew 8:2 } A leper was considered to be ceremonially unclean and therefore unfit to worship God and was usually isolated from the rest of the community. Jesus did not recognize this physical distinction, however. He touched them and healed them and even commanded His disciples to do the same. Matthew 9:6 } Palsy was just a shortened term for paralysis. The bed as denoted in this verse was often just a sheet that could be carried in the hands and was often used by the sick or the palsy. Matthew 9:10 } Publican comes from the Greek word telones which literally meant collector of public revenue or tax collector. Jesus was accused of being a friend of the publicans and sinners. Matthew 9:15 } Similarly to the use of the term father, child denotes a person who shares a relationship akin to that he is compared to, most often an emotional stature, such as child of happiness, child of light, or child of this world. Matthew 9:17 } Bottles were very commonly made from the skin of animals in ancient times. They were usually coated with a grease to help prevent leakage. The term new wine in old skin is commonly used today to mean you can't put new things into old ways. Matthew 9:20 } According to Mosaic Law, the outer garment of every Jew was required to have a tassel at each of the four corners with one blue thread showing. This served as a reminder of God's Law and their duty to follow it. Matthew 10:4 } Dust is a reference to the grave (as in the term bite the dust) and Jews would shake the dust off of their feet when it came in contact with Gentile ground. This denoted unclean territory. This same action is used to represent anyone who rejects the Word of God and will pay for it. Matthew 10:9 } The Greek word zone means belt, pocket, girdle, or purse. This was, as is the fold in a girdle, used to carry items such as money. Matthew 10:10 } The Greek word hupodema means something bound under the feet and is most often referred to as the traditional sandal with a hard leather sole. A soft leather sole was also available and was also a type of shoe that covered most of the entire foot. lt was forbidden to wear multi layered sole sandals nailed together since this was used by Roman soldiers for marching long distances. Matthew 10:10 } lt should be noted that Roman soldiers were paid in salt, and from this, the phrase worth one's salt refers to payment to a worker what he (or his work) was worth. Matthew 10:16 } The snake is representative of deadly repute, obviously such as that of Satan, and the dove represents peace from the dove of Noah after the raging flood. Matthew 10:17 } The Greek word sunedrion literally translates as a joint session and refers to a council. Basically, these numbered in two. Firstly, a supreme council to oversee the workings of the nation, and secondly, a council made up of preachers and bishops to oversee the inner workings of the church. Matthew 10:17 } Flogging was done by means of a whip, sometimes embedded with metal or sharp object to cut deeper into the skin. A victim was usually tied to a pole or bench and beaten thirteen times on the chest and twenty-six times on the back. A victim was sentenced to this type of punishment in the courts or in a synagogue, usually for any crime that did not receive death. Matthew 10:27 } This may have a bearing on the method of schooling for the rabbis. The rabbi whispered something into the ear of the interpreter and he loudly proclaimed it to the rest of the class. Jesus told his disciples to proclaim from the rooftops what He whispered into their ears. Matthew 10:29 } The Greek word strouthos means sparrow and was often given in offering by the poor. Two sparrows were sold for one farthing and five sparrows for two farthings. An assarius which is Greek for Roman coin was worth a fourth of a penny and was used in Great Britain in times past. Matthew 11:16-17 } This verse refers to the manner that adults who are conceited do not respond or respond angrily to the attempts of their friends to please them. Jesus compares them to the method that children play and quarrel without just cause. Matthew 11:29-30 } A yoke was a harness that fastened two oxen together to help them pull equipment in tandem. The burden was sometimes so difficult that they would fall under it, but Jesus promises that His yoke and burden would never be that difficult. Matthew 12:1 } God's law allowed for hungry folk to help themselves to the growing grain of their neighbours. Matthew 12:25 } Quite simply, a house divided against itself cannot stand. Jesus said this, but Abraham Lincoln quoted it at the Illinois Republican convention of 1858 concerning the war between the north and south over the black slaves. Matthew 12:30 } Jesus said the phrase "He that is not with me is against me" means that it is impossible to be lukewarm against anyone, or against God. If you are not totally for Him, than you are in complete contrast against Him. Matthew 13:25 } This type of wickedness refers to sowing the seed pandinellu (pig-paddy) or perum-pirandi, though mostly the former. This weed sprouts and spreads so rapidly that it destroys all vegetation and leaves the farmer's fields ruined for several years. Matthew 13:33 } ln both the Old and New Testaments, leaven has often been a symbol of corruption. Jesus warns to leaving corruption among Christians or else, as leaven, it will spread and corrupt. Matthew 13:44 } The ancient days, citizens were taxed on the money they had and there were no banks or holding companies so all their fortune was cleverly buried somewhere. Oftentimes, the owners died taking their secret with them and today their are priceless amounts of fortune buried around the world. Matthew 13:45-46 } A peal of great price is associated in comparison to the kingdom of God and the merchant is the man in search of it. When found, he would sell all that he had to purchase it. Matthew 13:47 } Fishing nets are also compared to the kingdom of God, where once let down, they catch all kinds of "fish". It is not exactly known what type of net is referred to in the translation, though there are several theories. The most likely of them all is the flotations on one end and weights on the other end - type. Matthew 14:6-7 } lt was a custom for authority figures to offer dancers rewards for their services at functions. There are recorded instances where the host was drunk and made foolish and costly promises that could not be undone such as that of Shah Abbas in the book Travels To Persia by Thevenot in the 1800s. Matthew 14:19 } It was customary in those times, especially with the Jews, to give thanks to God before each meal which resembled something of this sort: "Blessed art Thou, 0 Lord our God, king of the universe, who bringeth forth bread from the earth" or "...fish from the sea" or "...fruit from the vine". Matthew 14:20 } Baskets were often employed as food hampers, and there were several different types used, though two of the more common types were known as kophinos (a small basket) and spuris (woven hamper). Matthew 15:3 } A tradition is a teaching, whether written or spoken, that was passed down from generation to generation. Of this Jesus said is wrong where it interferes with the laws of God. Matthew 16:19 } The terms binding and loosing as they are employed in this verse basically mean forbid and allow, or even prohibiting and permitting. Matthew 17:24 } The temple tax was a fee that every Jew was expected to pay in order to keep the service running. It has its origin from Moses' tabernacle service. Matthew 18:6 } A millstone is a stone about two feet wide that was used to grind grain, though some commentators believe that an industrial size millstone was used in this verse. Though the practice of hanging a millstone around an offenders neck and drowning them was not practiced by the Jews, it was readily used by the Syrians, Romans, Macedonians, and Greeks. It's use was usually punishment for the offense of parricide (murder of an immediate family member). Matthew 18:34 } The jailers of the time were also known as tormentors because they had the authority to torture a debtor in very severe ways to get the amount he owed back to his creditors. Matthew 19:13 } lt was customary for Jews to bring their children, especially on their first birthday, to a pious man for a blessing and prayer by placing his hands on the head of the children. Jesus can be seen doing this often. Matthew 19:24 } There is more alluded to here than just the impossibility of a camel going through the eye of a needle. In times past, low gateways were common and were ironically called needle eyes. This being the case, a camel could actually pass through if he lost his load, got onto his knees, and bowed his head. This is the hint to the rich man when this parable is used. Matthew 20:2 } A denarius is a Roman silver coin which is a tenth the value of an as, which is a bronze coin. An as is a standard days pay for an average labourer. The king James Version translates as as penny. lt is the most commonly mentioned unit of currency in the New Testament. Matthew 20:3 } The marketplace was often at the gates of walled cities. Here also, labourers went in search of employers for work and employers went to seek labourers to do the work. Matthew 20:8 } According to Mosaic Law, the employer had to pay his employees at the end of each day. This was to discourage any employer who attempted to withhold any earnings from his employees. Matthew 20:21 } Any spot next to the king was a seat of great honour; however, in biblical times, the right hand seat was esteemed more honourable than the left, with the exception of the Persians where the opposite is true. Matthew 21:8 } ln ancient days, it was customary to lay cloaks, flowers, or branches before anyones pathway to show great honour to them. This tradition is still carried on today as we see in marriage ceremonies where flowers are strewn about to show honour for the bride and often a red carpet for royalty or dignitaries is laid out before them for like reason. The saying that someone is receiving "the red carpet treatment" refers to being treated as a dignitary or with great honour and respect, usually by means of being pampered. Matthew 21:12 } It is this temple market that Jesus was outraged and overturned the tables and loosed the animals. Among them were merchants known as moneychangers where they would change a full Jewish shekel into two halves for the annual temple tax and charge a percentage for this service. Matthew 21:16 } Though this verse finds it's roots in Psalms 8:2, it's meaning refers to the fact that the innocent can speak nothing but the truth. Matthew 21:33 } The grape plantations were usually structured in rows and trained to grow particular ways on stakes so that they could be more easily harvested. A fence almost exclusively surrounded the fields for protection. The winepresses usually were designed in such a way that the ripe grapes were trampled on by people and the juice ran out a spout into a separate reservoir. Finally, a watchtower was built in the field for a guard to look after the harvest and protect it from wild beasts and thieves. The towers were usually only temporary and had to be reconstructed each season, though some were made of very durable stone and doubled as a tower for war. Matthew 22:3 } The first invitation to a feast or otherwise was made well in advance, and to those who accepted it, a second invitation was made by way of a servant, and this second invitation was made only to those whom accepted the first. Matthew 22:11 } It is not known for sure whether it was customary for royalty to furnish garments to guests at a wedding who had none, nonetheless, there are several occasions were such occurrences had indeed occurred. Matthew 22:14 } The original meaning of the saying "many are called, but few are chosen" is that though many are called to salvation, few are willing to make the flesh sacrifices to obtain the soul rewards. Today, this phrase makes reference to anyone who is given opportunity but fails to meet the criteria for success in it. Matthew 22:15 } Pharisees were originally divine and attempted to uphold the moral law and the Mosaic law by keeping the Jews unblemished, but over time, they developed into a political party more than a religious one. Jesus denounced them and warned the people of them and they tried to trap Him in His own words. Matthew 22:16 } Like the Pharisees, the Herodians were also a political turned party that did not have the best interest of the Jews at hand, which is where they differed from the Pharisees. Though they did differ, they agreed mutually to do away with Jesus. It is believed that Herodians could have in fact been a particular branch of Sadducees called the Boethusians. Matthew 22:21 } Jesus was being manipulated when asked if it was lawful for the Jews to pay taxes to the Roman emperor, but His answer was that if the Jews agreed to use the Roman currency, they should obey the laws that govern its use, so long as their religious affairs are not compromised. Matthew 22:23 } Sadducees were wealthy and very religious, but to an extent quite opposite to that of the Pharisees. The difference between the two were that the Sadducees believed only in the written law and disregarded the oral law completely. Also, they believed only in the Pentateuch and because of this, did not believe in the resurrection or angels, since neither were mentioned in these five books. Matthew 22:37-40 } The greatest two commandments which all others hang from are love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind and love your neighbour as yourself. Matthew 23:3 } The Bible says to follow what the Pharisees teach but do not do what they do, because they do not practice what they preach. This is still a very famous saying today. Matthew 23:5 } Phylacteries were wooden squares with the inscriptions of Exodus 13:1-10; 13:11-16; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; and 11:18-21. These were usually secured by leather straps to the center of the forehead or on the left arm by the elbow. The Greek word phulakteila means defenses or protection. Matthew 23:6 } These seats that were dubbed the places of honour, were positioned before the ark of the covenant at what was termed as Jerusalem's end. Here, those that sat in these seats faced the remaining body of the synagogue. Those that yearned to fill these seats were primarily the scribes and Pharisees. Matthew 23:7 } The term rabbi was not used to mean an official position but rather "master". lt is used very selectively in the Bible. Basically, it is used to signify anyone who has schooled in the books of Moses. Jesus forbode his disciples from calling one another rabbi since they could only have one master and they were all brothers under the Lord. Matthew 23:27 } Tombs were washed with lime making them white on the outside so that they were both pleasing to the eye and easily distinguishable so that Jews would not accidentally approach them and thus become ceremonially unclean. Lime also served as an agent to degrade bodies at a very high rate, and to mask the rancid stench. Matthew 23:29 } The graves and tombs of the Jews in times past were highly ornamented, much like todays graves that could be found in most any grave site or cemetery in the world. Matthew 24:1 } Herod's Temple was a recreation of the temple of Zerubbabel, though this one was much finer and exquisite in its design. It was atop this building that it is believed the Devil took Jesus and set Him atop the pinnacle of the temple, it is in one of these courts that Jesus upset the temple market, it is in one of these courts that the old woman placed two mites, the Court of the Women was here, and it was here that was found the temple veil that had been ripped in two from top to bottom. Jesus often spoke to the people here and his disciples continued to come here after his death. Matthew 24:41 } The hand mill was operated by two women, the first of which would feed the grain into the center hole of the top stone. The second woman would turn the stone by hand and the grain would slowly work its way down through until it spread itself onto a cloth as fine flower. This was repeated and sifted. lt was forbidden to take a mill stone as a pledge since they were vital in sustaining life. Matthew 25:1 } In pre-Mosaic times, when a marriage price was made and accepted, the groom could take his future wife back to his house immediately. There was also a feast usually held in the home of the bride's parents, then the ceremony came later where the bride was hidden under a thick veil, then she spent her remaining days with him at his home. Matthew 25:3-4 } Lamps were of various designs as many have been found by archaeologists that predate Abraham and postdate Jesus. The Bible mentions lamps often but does not describe them. Oils used include olive oil, nut oil, fish oil, among others. Lanterns were made of waxed linen or paper stretched over wire rings. Torches were either a resinous wood or a flammable material on the end of a common stick. Matthew 25:10 } At any type of formal banquet, as the patrons arrived, they presented their card or tablet to the servant at the door for admission. After the entire party had arrived, the master of the house closed the door and instructed the servant to open it for no one under any circumstance. Matthew 25:15 } A talent was a common unit of measuring weight and money in ancient Greece, Rome, and the Middle East. According to Hebrew weights, it was equivalent to three thousand shekels. Matthew 25:32-33 } The separation of the sheep and goats here as defined by Jesus undoubtedly refers to the current mix of the often violent people (goats) with the righteous people (sheep) and the separation that was literally needed in the fields will also be true of the metaphor in the coming of Christ again. It is also speculated that the position of the sheep on His right side is strongly metaphorical to the position of honour or the Sanhedrin custom of placing acquitted prisoners on the kings right side and condemned prisoners on his left. Matthew 26:7 } From a place called Alabastron, Egypt, was specific stone used for perfume vessels that resembled much like marble, yet softer so it was easier to cut into box shapes. Tables sometimes were used with beds at their sides so that eaters could recline while eating. Matthew 26:15 } lt is not precisely known what type of currency was used when the description of thirty silver coins was used. Some speculate that the coins were not denarii but perhaps the temple shekel of 10 grams, the common shekel of 11.7 grams, the heavy shekel of 13 grams, or possible and most likely, the tetradrachms of the Greek cities of Syria. Matthew 26:17 } When the Israelites came to Jerusalem to celebrate the passover, they were received as brothers and were offered rooms in which to feast as a free gift. Matthew 26:19 } As per Jesus' request, Peter and John went to the temple with the paschal lamb where it was killed and the blood was caught in a gold or silver bowl. The priest nearest the altar sprinkled it on its base, then the lamb was flayed and the entrails were removed and placed on the altar to be burnt with incense. When it became dark, they roasted the lamb and furnished bread, wine, bitter herbs, and sauce. Matthew 26:20 } The last super was the traditional Passover meal. Jesus ate it with His disciples, though His words of description actually referred to the atonement of our sins by the breaking of His body that was about to occur the next day. Matthew 26:36 } Gethsemane is a garden at the foot of the Mount of Olives that lies east of Jerusalem. It is here that Jesus went with His disciples and suffered great agony and betrayal. The phrase a person's gethsemane refers to any instance or place where they (or decide to) suffer their own agony and suffering. Matthew 26:39 } The term of the cup is used often throughout the Scriptures in a literal sense, mostly from the point of view that God is the one that serves the cup. Usually, the contents of the cup are symbolical of grace, blessing, forgiveness, occasionally wrath, or some other power from God. Matthew 26:47 } The person or persons whom were in charge of the temple service were referred to by several different names, but one of the more common ones is Chief Priest. The Elders were usually leaders of various clans, tribes, and families. Though they did not have as much full leadership over religious or political issues as did the Chief Priests, they did have some considerable control and were usually mentioned adjacent to the Chief Priests. Matthew 26:59 } The Sanhedrin was made up of about seventy members, of which people from different religious and political groups resided. The Chief Priests seem to have had a lot of leadership in the Sanhedrin and thus the words Chief Priests seem to denote the actions of the Sanhedrin assumedly. The actual word Sanhedrin means council. it was this council that attempted to condemn Jesus and we can see from the Scriptures that they did not have control over the condemning of a man to death. Matthew 27:6 } Blood money is money paid by a killer to a family member for the murder of their family member, or a monetary gain from the death of a particular person. Matthew 27:7 } Today, the term potter's field refers to a burial ground for people of unknown identity as well as impoverished persons. Matthew 27:8 } The field that was formerly called the potter's field was changed to the field of blood because it was purchased with the blood money paid to Judas when he betrayed Jesus. Today, this field that lies on the south face of the valley of Hinnom is called Hak ed-damm. Matthew 27:15 } It is not know precisely where this custom originated from but it is believed it was most likely either the Jews or the Gentiles. If it was the Jews, is was done so at feasts so that there were more witnesses to view the punishment of prisoners. lf it was the Gentiles, it then becomes a question of either the Syrians or the Romans. It has been said that the Romans did it to gain the good will of the Jews. Matthew 27:27 } There are 10 cohorts in a legion. There are 3 maniples in a cohort with each maniple consisting of either 60 or 120 men. Each maniple was made up of 2 centuries which normally had 100 men each. Overall, 1 cohort was made up of 600 men at normal times, but could exceed 1000. Matthew 27:28 } The robe that was placed upon Jesus was the Roman paludamentum and was described by both Mark and John as being purple, but scarlet by Matthew. Technically, the two colours were interchangeable. The Roman cloak was a military cloak that hung over the shoulders and reached to the knees and was clasped together across the chest. This was seen either in white or scarlet. It was placed on Jesus as royal mockery after having been stripped of His usual outer garments. Matthew 27:33 } The actual Greek word is Gulgaltha and the Latin is calvaria. Both words mean skull and refer to Skull Mountain where the crucifixion took place. lt is said that this hill has an astounding skull like appearance. Matthew 27:34 } The drink that was offered to Christ on the cross was vinegar made of light wine rendered acid mixed with gall (also called myrrh) which is actually wormwood. Wormwood was one of several plants of the genus Artemisia. This mixture was made especially for those being crucified as an anesthetic to dull pain. Jesus refused to drink it, therefore taking on more pain. Matthew 27:35 } The victims of crucifixion were normally tied to the cross but occasionally nailed for extra pain. The nail entered the wrist through the nerve cluster for better support of body weight. At times a seat was placed on the cross to allow the victim to help himself breath. When the guards did not want this, they would break the legs of the victim. The feet were either tied or also nailed. The Latin cross type (†) was the one used for Jesus, which is the common cross known today, rather than the occasional, T, X, or +. Matthew 27:51 } The temple veil hung between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. It reached from ceiling to floor and measured 60 feet in length. It should be noted that the veil was ripped from top to bottom and not vice versa, showing that it was not possible to have been done by human hands but God alone. Matthew 27:60 } The doors of the tombs of that time period had a small trench in front of it where a large circular stone resembling a millstone was rolled in front of the door and receded into a concave fitting to most perfectly seal the tomb. Matthew 27:66 } The normal method for sealing a tomb was to put a cord across the stone and put a seal into a lump of clay at each end of the cord, and even a guard at occasion. This would prevent entry into the tomb without detection. MARK Mark 2:4 } The rooms of the houses of that time were usually arranged around an inner courtyard. On the outside of the house was a staircase resting on protruding timber from the walls. This technique was called corbelling. The construction of the roof was of layered material in such a way that a hole could be made easily and then repaired after use. This was done often for letting down grain, straw, and other articles. Mark 7:11 } Corban is a Greek adopted word from the Hebrew language that refers to a gift or offering that was consecrated to God. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for teaching children to disobey the commandment of honouring their mother and father by pronouncing corban over their goods. In this manner, they were not obligated to help their parents. Mark 12:42 } A mite, from the Latin minutum, was the smallest copper coin and was half of a farthing. A farthing is from the Greek kodrantes and is the fourth of an as and equal to two lepta or mites. Mark 13:35 } When the Jews adopted the Roman method of night watches, they went as follows: the first shift "evening" ran from sunset to 3 hours later. The second shift "midnight" ran from the last shift until midnight. The third shift "rooster crowing" ran from midnight until 3 hours later. The remaining shift "dawn" ran from the last shift until sunrise. Mark 14:14-15 } Some believe this upper room to refer to the prophet's room which was above the porch. Others believe that it was in fact opposite to the entrance way to the porch and overlooked the courtyard instead. Mark 14:20 } It was not the custom of eating with utensils in ancient days but instead with your fingers. Any type of food that was too liquid was dipped in with bread. This is referred to in the Scriptures as sop and under particular circumstances, it is still done today. Mark 15:43 } The term counselor as it is used in this verse refers to a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin or the Great Council. LUKE Luke 1:5 } lt was very important for the Priests to carefully choose a wife. It was legal for them to marry a Levitess or a daughter of Israel, but it was the best selection to have a wife from the line of Priests. Luke 1:59 } Naming a child was usually a task that fell on the mother but occasionally the father took up the deed. The names given most usually referred to the hoped destiny of that child, reference to geographical areas, method of birth, or other divine purposes. Occasionally, a name was changed later in life to reflect a more current realization of that person's destiny, such as Joseph to Zaphnathpaaneah. Luke 1:63 } Writing tablets in ancient days were fairly common, especially for short documents. They were various types of wood coated with wax were a stylus was used to inscribed the letters on the wax. The outer pages were not covered with wax so that they could be held in the hand. Holes were put at the page end and several were fastened together by means of wires to act as hinges, then fastened with a seal. Luke 2:7 } Swaddling clothes were strips of cloth that were wrapped around a newborn baby to prevent it's arms and legs from moving. This custom is still practiced in several countries. A manger was usually a stone, masonry, or wood trough for which to feed cattle and other animals. The inn as it is referred to in the New Testament was merely a stopping place for travelers and did not resemble todays inns. Luke 2:25 } The Consolation was a term applied to Jesus Christ since the only consolation that would do the job was that of their coming Messiah. Luke 2:44-45 } A normal day's journey consisted of between eighteen to thirty miles. The only exception to this was the first days journey which was between three to eight miles. The main reason for this was so that if someone discovered that they left something behind, they had enough time to return to fetch it, then rejoin the caravan. Luke 2:46 } It was customary for anyone who wished to ask the priests any questions to do so in the synagogue after a service. The priests were always available to anyone who wished to discuss any point concerning the law. Luke 4:16 } Those who read the Scriptures publicly in the synagogue were expected to stand Seven people read on the Sabbath day. They were: one priest, one Levite, and five Israelites. Luke 4:20 } An attendant was someone who assisted in various ways, from keeping the building in good order, summoning the congregation at the appointed hour, and calling names of those who were to read from The Scriptures, as well as handing the scrolls to them and receiving them back. It was also custom for the teacher to sit when teaching. For this reason, Jesus sat on the platform after reading from the Scriptures instead of returning to the congregation. Luke 6:38 } The term bosom as it is used in this verse refers to the folds of the outer garment as it extends beyond the waist. it was used to "pocket' objects and items similarly as we carry things in our pockets today, though they would hold their garments up to carry much larger things such as a child or a lamb. Luke 7:12 } When someone died, several of the observing customs of the death rituals include baldness, shaving the beard, ripping clothes, loud weeping, puffing dirt on the head, and sitting in ashes. Luke 7:38 } The custom of kissing the feet was a common one among the Jews, Greeks, and Romans. When done, it usually meant that it was a mark of affection or they had an important request to make. Luke 9:62 } The method of plowing in those days was to pick an object at the far end of the field where the farmer would steer directly toward it in order to plow straight lines. If he looked back to see how he was doing then he would begin to swerve off course. The innuendo is that anyone who is plowing for the kingdom of God and keeps looking back is of no use, for his job will not be true to its destination. Luke 10:4 } Jesus forbode His disciples from practicing long public displays of greeting as the Pharisees did. He instead instructed them to give greeting in a manner that professed the long awaited messianic peace of the kingdom of God. Luke 10:34 } In ancient times, a wound, especially those resulting from violence, was first covered with wool, lint, or ground olives, then was coated with wine and olive oil, sometimes made as a compound. The wine's alcohol content was used to sterilize the wound and the oil was used to soothe and heal it. Luke 11:7 } In the time of Jesus, it was common for more fortunate poverty stricken families to dwell in single room quarters. This provided shelter, kitchen, work space, and sleeping areas for all family members. Luke 11:44 } lt was customary to whitewash a flat tomb so that passerby might know of its existence, for if someone were to unknowingly step onto an unmarked grave, they would become ceremonially unclean and defiled. Luke 12:34 } The modern usage of this phrase means that whatever is most important to you will have your undivided attention. The actual meaning of this phrase as taught by Jesus was that if you are laying up treasures in heaven, you will find that your heart will naturally be turning more and more toward God. Luke 13:6 } It was common to plant fruit trees of other varieties because it was common knowledge that wine always carried with it a hint of a different flavour, that of the plants that were with it in the same vineyard. Luke 14:9-10 } The custom was that once people were seated, the host would move people around exposing them to public humiliation so that they sat the most honoured guests in the most honoured seats. Today, we use place cards prior to guests arriving, though our custom is to switch place cards with a desired seat before they arrive. Luke 15:12 } lt was custom for a father to distribute the shares of his property to his offspring. The first born son always got a double portion of the inheritance, while it was equally divided to all the sons besides. Any daughters never received any unless there were no sons born. It was not absolutely necessary for the father to die for him to distribute the inheritance. Luke 15:15 } Feeding pigs was considered the most degrading methods of employment among any nation. Among the Egyptians, swineherd were shut out from the rest of society. Luke 16:1 } The Greek word oikonomos means house distributor; manager overseer, fiscal agent, treasurer, chamberlain, or governor. This steward had complete control over the business of the house and even was responsible for the care and safety of the heir. Luke 18:12 } It was common among Jews to fast twice a week simply due to the fact that continuous fasting might cause illness. For this reason they selected the second and fifth days of the week for both public and private fasting. The reason they selected these two particular days was because Moses supposedly went up Mount Sinai on the second day of the week and returned back down on the fifth day of the week. Luke 18:12 } Tithe literally means tenth and referred to a tenth of all one owned to be dedicated and donated to God. This was in evidence before the Mosaic Law and is still greatly evident in today's Christian churches. Luke 18:13 } Beating the breast was a method of mourning the dead in some nations. Its usage here in this verse refers to the comparison of his mourning his sin as the mourning of the dead. It should also be noted that the original Greek text reads, "God be merciful to me the sinner." This reference refers to his humbling himself to being the worst of the worst sinners. Luke 19:13 } The mina or pound is a unit of measure in weight for currency, which is still currently in use in the United Kingdom. Mina and talent were multiples of the shekel. 1 talent equals 3000 shekels and 1 minas equals 50 shekels. Luke 21:5 } It has been said that the temple of Herod was made from unusually white stones and so from a distance, it appeared that the building was a mountain of snow and the sunrays actually hurt the eyes. lt was also ornamented with spoils of war and voluntary offerings to God for various reasons. Luke 22:4 } The temple guards were not military officers, they were, as matter-of-factly, Levitical guards whom had charge over the temple watch. Luke 24:44 } The division of Jewish Scriptures as they are referred to by Jesus Christ by name are firstly, The Law, which is the Pentateuch. Secondly, The Prophets, which is Joshua, Judges, I and II Samuel, I and II Kings, and all the prophets minus Daniel. Thirdly, The Hagiographa, also known as Sacred Writings (which was referred to by Christ as The Psalms simply because it is the first book) which consist of Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Song Of Solomon, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, as well as I and II Chronicles in that order. JOHN John 2:6 } A firkin is a unit of liquid measure. lt is an archaic English word from the Greek language meaning approximately ten gallons. John 2:8 } At every Greek feast, a guest was chosen, called a symposiarch which was put in charge of keeping the feast in order throughout the night. Along with him was a hired servant in charge of all other servants called the rex convivii or arbiter bibendi meaning master of the banquet. His task was to ensure the other servants performed their tasks thoroughly according to the wishes of the symposiarch. John 3:29 } The friend of the bridegroom was a person who attended to his friend by carrying messages between the bride and groom during their betrothal period. Today, the best man would most appropriately fill this position in his duties. John 4:27 } lt was unusual for a Jewish teacher to speak to a woman in a public place. Above and beyond this, women were not to be acknowledged or saluted in any way. ln addition to this also, they were definitely not to be instructed in the law, contrary to the methods of Jesus. John 6:27 } If, after careful selection, an animal was found to be without blemish, then a label was placed on its horns by a priest, then it was covered with wax and sealed with his ring. This marked it as the animal to be used in the sacrifice to come. If it did not bear this seal of approval, it was not to be used. John 7:37 } Every day of the feast of tabernacles, water was drawn by a priest from the pool of Siloam. lt is believed that this was done for three distinct reasons. A memorial of the water that was provided to their fathers while in the desert, a symbol of the forthcoming "latter rain", and lastly, symbolism of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the coming Messiah. John 8:48 } The Jews hated the Samaritans and attempted to avoid them at all cost. Even in contempt, the Samaritan had become synonymous with anything that was vile or undelightful. John 9:22 } There were generally three stages of excommunication referred to as niddin, cherem, and shammatha. The first stage prohibited a person tom having any contact with another unless over six feet for thirty days. They also could not enter the synagogue using the front gate and they had to wear garments of mourning. The second stage was for violation of the first and included no contact at all with another person and was not allowed to enter the synagogue. Lastly, this stage was invoked upon violation of the second and included total disconnection from the Jewish people permanently and were required to utter perdition. Excommunication was generally imposed when someone refused to pay monies as ordered by the courts or when they despised the Word of God or of the scribes. John 10:3-5 } Sheep are peculiar animals in that they will only answer to the call of their own shepherd, even if mingled with other flocks, and will answer to their own name when called by their own shepherd. In fact, the Latin pastor means shepherd and it is for this reason that a congregation is often referred to as the "flock". John 10:22 } The temple was defiled when the heathens overran it headed by Antiochus Epiphanes. When it was recovered and restored in 164 B.C., after having drove out the heathens, a single bottle of oil was discovered as having been overlooked by the heathens. It was used to burn the lamps in a celebration and miraculously lasted eight days. This then was how long the festival now lasts as it is modernly known as Hanukkah. John 11:16 } It was customary for parents to name their children with names from surrounding countries that resembled the meaning of their native name. John 11:17 } The first three days after death were called the "days of weeping" while the remaining four days were called the "days of lamenting" thus making up the full seven day called the "days of mourning". The fourth day was when decomposition of a body began and so when reference to a body being in its tomb for at least four days means that decomposition has already begun. John 11:18 } A furlong, also known as stadion was precisely six hundred and six feet and nine inches long. John 18:17 } It was customary, as seen by classical writers, that females were often employed as porters. John 19:23 } A tunic was a single, seamless, woven fabric with sleeves that usually reached the knees, though sometimes the ankles. People occasionally wore two at once for luxury purposes. Jesus forbode this among His disciples. Anyone wearing this tunic alone was said to have been naked. John 19:40 } It is not exactly explained what consisted of the Hebrew customs of burial; however, piecing together various passages, it would seem that the usual procedure was to close the eyelids of the deceased, wash the body, anointing it with aromatic oils and spices, wrapping it in linen cloth, and covering the face with a napkin. ACTS Acts 1:12 } A Sabbath's day journey was believed to have originated from the Exodus. It is approximately two thousand cubits, which is about half a mile. It is/was considered to be unlawful to travel more than this distance away from one's own home. Acts 10:9 } The act of praying on the rooftop was practices by both heathens and Jews alike. It is thought that the reason that prayer was done on the rooftop was because it would give them a certain privacy as well as make it easier to face the temple of Jerusalem. Acts 12:4 } The usual military night watch was four guards at any given time, two of which were actually inside the prison and two outside the gate. The shifts were changed every three hours over a twelve hour night and thus were four squads of four throughout a full night. Acts 12:6 } The Roman custom with prisoners was to be chained by the wrist to the wrist of a guard who stood watch and at times, two guard were chained to the prisoner, one on each wrist. This was the case with both Peter and Paul. Acts 13:15 } The ruler (or sometimes rulers) was the third highest rank in a temple. The first being the high priest, the second being the chief priest1 and the third being the ruler of the synagogue. A ruler first had to be certified by the Sanhedrin to validate his qualification, then he next had to be elected in office by the members of a particular synagogue. Acts 14:12 } The Roman gods Zeus or Jupiter was the supreme godhead deity and his son was Hermes or Mercury, the messenger of all gods. It was believed that the two spirits traveled together and because of Paul's eloquence, it was assumed that he must be Hermes and that his traveling companion Zeus must be near. Acts 16:13 } Usually, Jews that were too poor, too far from a city, or not allowed to have a temple or synagogue of their own had a place set aside, usually near a body of water (for ease of ablution) out in the open air or occasionally in a large building especially for their prayer and worship. These places were called proseuche which literally translate as chapel. Acts 16:24 } A stock is an instrument made of wood, sometimes aided with metal chains that would "shackle" the ankles of a prisoner, sometimes also the neck and wrists as well. The foot stock was sometimes used for torture, causing the prisoner to sit unnaturally. The stock was often times used throughout history especially during times of Christian persecution. Acts 16:27 } According to Roman law, if a prisoner ever escaped, the jailer in charge of him was required to serve the sentence that awaited the jailed man. In the case of Acts 16:27, death by torture was probably awaiting some of the prisoners that had escaped and therefore the jailer opted to kill himself rather than suffer a torturous death. Acts 16:37 } ln the Oration Against Verres, Cicero passed the Roman Law that without a trial, no Roman citizen can be beaten, bound, or put in prison. Acts 17:17 } The marketplace was a place of many happenings. One would go there to hire and get hired. One would go there to buy and sell. One would go there to hear news and hold disputes. The Pharisees loved to go there because they often got the salutations from the crowds they so loved to hear. Acts 17:18 } Epicureanism was a belief or religion that was founded by Epicurus in Athens around 300 B.C. He was born in 341 B.C. on the island of Samos. He called his school "The Garden". His philosophy was that happiness or the avoidance of pain and emotional disturbance was the ultimate form of good. Stoics, meaning from Greek porch (because they always met on a porch), also was founded around 300 B.C. The founder was Zeno and his philosophy was that man's happiness was brought about by aligning himself with the harmony of the universe. Materialism, pantheism, fatality, and pride were leading qualities of his belief. Acts 18:3 } Within male Jews, it was considered to be a necessity to learn some form of trade to be considered independent. Acts 19:24 } These shrines as referred to here in the noted verse were amulets of charms worn on the body as a representation of the altar within heathen temples where the goddess was situated. Usually, these charms had a small door on them wherein a picture of the goddess was concealed. Acts 19:27 } The temple of Artemis was considered to be one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Artemis as called by the Greeks and Diana as called by the Romans was a goddess whose temple was located in Ephesus and was considered to be a masterpiece in artwork construction. Acts 19:29 } Herod I had theatres built all throughout Jerusalem and was an ever increasing problem for the Jews as a reminder of Roman and Greek control. Performances usually began with a sacrifice to a heathen god, usually the city patron. Acts 19:31 } Every year, ten of the most prominent citizens of the countries of Asia minor were chosen to represent the Asiarche since the games and events that they hosted were costly, they had to be able to bear the costs alone. Acts 19:35 } City clerks were scribes but it seems that these particular scribes referred to as city clerks were given authority above usual scribes, such as legal dictatorship and even governor type positions over certain jurisdiction. The Artemis of Ephesus closely resembled Diana of the Romans and even slightly resembled the Syrian Astarte. Acts 21:23-24 } The Nazarite vow usually lasted 30 (at unusual times 100) days and in certain circumstances, would last the entire life of the Nazarite, such as Samson. The vow entailed three things: Abstinence from wine and strong drink, refraining from cutting their hair during the whole period of the continuance of the vow, and avoidance of contact with the dead. When the usual 30 day period came to an end., three more things were required: a male lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, a ewe lamb of the first year for a sin offering, and a ram for a peace offering. After these sacrifices were made, the Nazarite would cut off his hair and place it in the fire of the peace offering. Acts 25:11-12 } Roman governors had supreme jurisdiction over the provinces but any Roman citizen had the right to appeal anything. Roman councilors were men learned in the law who sat in judgment with the governors and brought their attention to specific points of the law. Acts 26:1 } The customary hand gesture to show oratory earnestness of the speaker was often used in public speaking. The right hand was gestured forward with the last two fingers of the hand pointing in toward the palm while the other two fingers pointed forward. Acts 27:17 } Every ship carried with it large cables that were passed beneath the hull and used to essentially tie the sides together, thus undergirding it to provide addition~ strength to counter the force of high winds against the mast. Acts 27:29 } The anchors used in ancient ships as opposed to modern day ships were much lighter and therefore normally carried several anchors and were also used simultaneously. Acts 27:40 } Rudders on ancient ships were made of wood and similarly to today were used to direct the path of the ship. A foresail was the main sail on a ship, usually square, as the principle means of propelling the ship forward by means of the wind. ROMANS Romans 7:24 } Perhaps one of the most putrid punishments for murder ever devised by the Romans in ancient times was to chain the body of the murdered victim to their murderer. He would then suffer the punishment of enduring the odour, infection, and isolation from others until he himself finally was most likely done in from the constant contact of the decaying body. Romans 8:15 } In the event a Greek or Roman father had no son, he was permitted to adopt a male as his own, even a slave of his own. When done 50, he addressed his former master as father and was no longer a slave. There was first a private adoption followed by a formal public adoption proceeding. Romans 16:16 } Though apparently not used much today, the holy kiss was a particular greeting used in synagogues and churches by early Christians as a sign of mutual love and equality. I CORINTHIANS I Corinthians 9:25 } Two of the most devoted games among the ancient Greeks were the Olympics and the Isthmian. The training for these games were extensive, usually lasting for a year prior to the actual games for the competitor and very strict. The victor~ crown for the Olympics were made of olive leaves and for the Isthmian were made of pine or ivy. I Corinthians 9:26 } The training method of the times involved a boxer to strike the air at an imaginary opponent. The allusion here in this verse to this custom was that the apostle struck real blows to a real opponent. II CORINTHIANS II Corinthians 2:14 } The procession to a Roam military triumph was a supreme spectacle. In order to qualify for a grand feast, it had to have been fought with a foreign foe, it had to have been complete and decisive, at least five thousand enemies were slain, the baffle had to extend the boundaries of the territory, and it had to end the war in question. II TIMOTHY II Timothy 2:3 } Every Roman soldier was trained to endure extreme difficulty. The weapons were heavy and regular soldiers also had to carry a saw, a basket, a pickaxe, an axe, a thong of leather, a hook, and three days worth of rations. II Timothy 2:4 } Roman soldiers also were not allowed to engage in any type of employment outside of his military duties, nor was he allowed to marry. His sights had to be set on the satisfaction of his commander and his commander alone. II Timothy 2:5 } In training for and competing in the ancient games, one had to follow precise rules of conduct in order to obtain the victor's crown. Paul makes reference to this metaphorically referring to the rules of conduct in representing Christ. II Timothy 2:19 } The custom of inscriptions on foundation stones to buildings resembled the custom of door post inscriptions. Large building often inscribed on large stones the purpose for its erection or some other striking maxim. Such custom is referred to in Revelation to the wall of the city being inscribed each of the twelve foundations the names of the twelve apostles. II Timothy 4:13 } A cloak, worn both by men and women, was a long sleeveless outer garment that resembled a poncho. It was usually made of wool, though sometimes leather and had a single opening for the head. HEBREWS Hebrews 11:37 } The practise of sawing a prisoner in two is believed to have originated with either (or both) the Persians or the Chaldeans. Based on a reference by Jesus Christ, it is speculated that the prophet Isaiah was tied in a sack and then sawed in two in this nature. Hebrews 12:1 } Footraces were among the most popular of the ancient Olympic games. The place for the footrace was called the stadium because it measured one stadion, or six hundred Greek feet. People sat on both sides to view the spectacle while the runners began at one end and ran to the opposite end where sat a judge with the prize. I PETER I Peter 5:4 } In situations where flocks were very numerous, there were several shepherds to look after them but always one chief shepherd to instruct them. This illustration is also metaphorical to Jesus whom is the Chief Shepherd over his other shepherds, being the ministers who tend the sheep in His service. JUDE Jude 1:12 } The love feasts, also known as the agape were a celebration of men who had ended their service in ministry for the Lord and they feasted together. The rich bringing provisions and the poor simply being invited. In this, they all supped together in brotherly love and as equals. REVELATION Revelation 2:7 } Christians normally connect the term Paradise with either the Garden Of Eden or Heaven. Non-Christians usually refer to the term Paradise as any place of total bliss and happiness. Revelation 7:9 } Palm branches are used throughout history to publicly proclaim victory or triumph Kings often had palm branches waved before them or laid in their path as did victors of the ancient Olympic games. Jesus also did on entry to Jerusalem and John sees them again in his Revelation for the return of Jesus Christ. Revelation 19:12 } Kings or other monarchs who wore several crowns at once did so as an illustration of dominion over several countries. The Pharaoh of Egypt wore the Pshent, a multi-crown for upper and lower Egypt. John describes Jesus in his Revelation as having a head of many crowns, beautifully symbolizing His total and complete dominion over all the universe. A B C D E F G H I J a b c d e f g h i k l C