Banquets in Smiths Bible Dictionary

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. De 16:11 Sacrifices, both ordinary and extraordinary, Ex 34:15; Jud 16:23 includes a banquet. Birthday banquets are only mentioned Ge 40:20; Mt 14:6 The usual time of the banquet was the evening, and to begin early was a mark of excess. Ec 10:16; Isa 5:11 The most essential materials of the banqueting room, next to the viands and wine, which last was often drugged with spices, Pr 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. Jud 14:12; 2Sa 19:35; Ne 8:10; Ec 10:19; Isa 5:12; 25:6; 28:1; Mt 22:11; Lu 15:25 The posture at table in early times was sitting, 1Sa 16:11; 20:5,18 and the guests were ranged in order of dignity. (Gene 43:33; 1Sam 9:22 Words which imply the recumbent posture belong to the New Testament.