Unveiling the Symbolism of Olive Oil and Wine in Biblical Prophecies

Dear Reader,

Thank you for your interest in understanding the deeper meanings behind the Bible's symbolic references. This article aims to provide insights into the significance of olive oil and wine as mentioned in various biblical texts, particularly in the context of the Watchtower No. 3 2017 publication, "The Four Horsemen—Who Are They?".

Historical Context and Symbolism

The passage in Revelation 6:6 NWT states, “I heard what sounded like a voice in the midst of the four living creatures say: 'A quart of wheat for a de·nari·us and three quarts of barley for a de·nari·us and do not harm the olive oil and the wine.' "

This verse introduces us to the concept of the black horse rider, which symbolizes famine. In the biblical context, olive oil and wine are not just noble ingredients but are also symbols with profound meanings.

Symbolism of Olive Oil and Wine

Olive Oil: Olive oil is often used in the Bible as a symbol of anointing. This anointing serves as a sign of divine blessing and joy. It is a reminder of God's presence and the importance of His spiritual anointing on believers. In the New World Translation (NWT), the phrase “olive oil” is a symbol of the joyous blessings that come from God.

Wine: Wine is often used to symbolize the blood of Jesus Christ. In this context, it represents the New Covenant and the sacrifice made by Jesus for the sins of the world. The preservation of wine during the tough times is mentioned to signify the enduring nature of God's blessings and the hope that lies ahead.

Food Rationing and Famine

The passage further elaborates on the severe food rationing that symbolizes famine. A quart of wheat, which was a day's wage for the working class, and three quarts of barley, a cheaper grain, are mentioned. This reflects the economic struggles faced by people during difficult times.

This prophecy is not just a historical reference but a warning to us. Since 1914, the world has witnessed significant evidence of this famine. Numerous reports and studies have confirmed the ongoing challenges of hunger and undernourishment around the globe. The scale of loss, with over 70 million people dying in famines during the 20th century, is staggering. Furthermore, in 2012-2014, roughly 805 million people, or one in nine people, were chronically undernourished, highlighting the ongoing struggle with famine.

Food Shortages and Their Impact

In 1996, the rise in wheat and maize prices correlated with a severe drop in world reserves to just a 50-day supply. This was the lowest recorded level. The increasing prices of basic foodstuffs have grave implications for millions of impoverished people, many of whom are children. The loss of affordable food options means that countless individuals, particularly the vulnerable, go to bed hungry.

Such conditions challenge the world to address the root causes of hunger and make concerted efforts to ensure global food security. The black horse rider, therefore, symbolizes more than just a temporary hardship; it is a long-term warning of the necessity for international cooperation and sustainable policies to address food shortages and famine.

References:

The Watchtower No. 3 2017, "The Four Horsemen—Who Are They?" The Watchtower, September 15, 1998, "It Is High Time to Awake!"

Conclusion:

Understanding the symbolic meanings of olive oil and wine as mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of Revelation and the Watchtower publications, provides a deeper insight into the prophetic warnings and the ongoing struggles of the human condition. By recognizing these symbols, we can better appreciate the divine messages and the need for global action to address hunger and poverty.

We hope this article has been valuable in answering your questions. If you have more questions or need further clarification, please feel free to ask.