Cup
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Cup in the Bible?
A vessel for drinking from, used figuratively to represent God's judgments, wrath, afflictions, and blessedness; also referred to as 'the cup of the Lord' and 'the new covenant in my blood'.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the cultural context of the cup clarifies its metaphorical use in biblical texts to symbolize divine sovereignty over human destiny, whether involving suffering or blessing.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Cup were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Cup in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Cup clarify?
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.
How to Cite This Entry
"Cup." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/cup/