In the parable of the young prodigal and his older brother, Luke says that when the younger brother ran out of money he would gladly have eaten the pods the pigs were eating.
He was longing to eat the carob pods the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. (Luke 15:16 NET)
BDAG says that the word keration (translated pod) is used in the plural “of the fruits of the carob tree, carob pods.” Louw-Nida states that the word is “a diminutive derivative of keras which means horn.” They add,
“the pod of the carob tree (which closely resembles a small horn.…Carob pods were commonly used for fattening swine and were employed as an article of food by poor people.”
The first photo shows a carob tree loaded with green pods in the Spring of the year in the Jezreel Valley at Gan-Hashlosha.
Some nutritionists suggest that carob is high in protein content and is a good substitute for chocolate.
The next photo shows dried pods underneath a Carob tree at Hazor. Having been brought up on a farm, I can easily image the pigs rooting in these pods for the best one.
When the young prodigal son came to himself he headed for home. There is a good lesson in this for each of us when we become too attached to the things of this world (1 John 2:15).
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Thank you for delving into the details of the parable of the prodigal son and shedding light on the significance of carob pods in biblical times. Your thorough exploration of the Greek word “keration” and its association with the pods from carob trees deepens our understanding of the prodigal son’s plight. The inclusion of photos depicting carob trees laden with green pods in the Jezreel Valley and dried pods at Hazor provides a vivid visual context, enhancing the narrative’s authenticity.
Your reflection on the prodigal son’s journey back to his father’s house serves as a poignant reminder of the spiritual lessons embedded in this parable, echoing the scriptural admonition against worldly attachments (1 John 2:15). For those interested in further biblical insights and cultural backgrounds, I recommend exploring educational channels like https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXIUMnKlX_Vx8Rw9lAThtpg on YouTube. Their engaging animations and in-depth explorations of biblical narratives complement your thoughtful analysis and enrich our understanding of these timeless teachings. Thank you for sharing your expertise and connecting biblical wisdom to contemporary lessons of faith.
Bro. Ferrell,Would you please change my email address to benmay007@gmail.com? I enjoy your reports and articles. May the Lord continue to bless you in your efforts for Him! Your brother,ben ADDRESS:
Ben & Jennifer May833 3rd StAndalusia, AL 36420334-343-9149
Carob pods were a common food for animals in that region, showing the dire state the prodigal son was in. The parable highlights the son’s humility and desperation.