Dove's dung

Dove's dung is a term that appears in historical and religious texts, most notably in the Bible. The term has been the subject of various interpretations and debates among scholars and historians.

Biblical Reference

Dove's dung is mentioned in the Second Book of Kings in the Old Testament. During the siege of Samaria by the Arameans, the text describes a severe famine in the city, where a quarter of a cab of dove's dung was sold for five shekels of silver. This passage is found in 2 Kings 6:25.

Interpretations

The exact meaning of "dove's dung" has been debated. Some scholars suggest that it could be a literal reference to bird excrement, which was used as a last resort for food during the famine. Others propose that it might refer to a type of edible plant or seed, such as a type of pulse or a wild vegetable, which was colloquially known as "dove's dung."

Historical Context

The mention of dove's dung in the context of a famine highlights the extreme conditions faced by the inhabitants of Samaria during the siege. The high price of such an unappetizing item underscores the desperation and scarcity of food.

Cultural Significance

The reference to dove's dung in the Bible has been used to illustrate the severity of famine and the lengths to which people will go to survive. It also serves as a historical example of the dire consequences of sieges in ancient times.

Related Pages

• Second Book of Kings
• Old Testament
• Siege of Samaria
• Arameans
• Famine