Sheep-Shearing
Culture & Societyâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The sheep-shearing process was conducted in springtime, either by owners or professional shearers, with specialized structures for this work in Old Testament times. The fleece was carefully kept whole and sheep were identified by lime or dyestuff spots on their wool.
What is the meaning of Sheep-Shearing in the Bible?
The sheep-shearing process was conducted in springtime, either by owners or professional shearers, with specialized structures for this work in Old Testament times. The fleece was carefully kept whole and sheep were identified by lime or dyestuff spots on their wool.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this practice clarifies the economic and social structures of ancient Israelite society, particularly regarding communal gatherings and hospitality customs depicted in biblical narratives.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Sheep-Shearing in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Sheep-Shearing clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.