Dict: smith - BANQUETS

BANQUETS - B>@ - among the Hebrews, were not only a means of social enjoyment, but were a part of the observance of religious festivity. At the three solemn festivals the family also had its domestic feast. (16:11) Sacrifices, both ordinary and extraordinary, kjv@Exodus:34:15; kjv@Judges:16:23) includes a banquet. Birthday banquets are only mentioned kjv@Genesis:40:20; kjv@Matthew:14:6) The usual time of the banquet was the evening, and to begin early was a mark of excess. kjv@Ecclesiastes:10:16; kjv@Isaiah:5:11) The most essential materials of the banqueting room, next to the viands and wine, which last was often drugged with spices, kjv@Proverbs:9:2) were perfumed unguents, garlands or loose flowers, white or brilliant robes; after these, exhibitions of music singers and dancers, riddles, jesting and merriment. kjv@Judges:14:12; 2 Samuel 19:35; kjv@Nehemiah:8:10; kjv@Ecclesiastes:10:19; kjv@Isaiah:5:12 kjv@Isaiah:25:6 kjv@Isaiah:28:1 ; kjv@Matthew:22:11; kjv@Luke:15:25) The posture at table in early times was sitting, ( kjv@1Samuel:16:11 kjv@1Samuel:20:5 kjv@1Samuel:20:18) and the guests were ranged in order of dignity. kjv@Genesis:43:33; kjv@1Samuel:9:22 Words which imply the recumbent posture belong to the New Testament.