Bee
NatureWhat is the meaning of Bee in the Bible?
The Hebrew word for bee appears four times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in the context of Samson's narrative where the insect's sting is associated with death and honey with sustenance. Archaeological evidence suggests that honey harvesting from wild colonies was common in ancient Palestine, though systematic apiary management may have developed later.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the biological reality of bees clarifies the literal and symbolic weight of the Samson story, where the juxtaposition of death and sweetness reflects the dual nature of divine provision and judgment in the biblical text.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Bee in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Bee clarify?
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.