In Palestine, every home, even the humblest, would keep a lamp burning throughout the night. This light would indicate to anyone passing by that there were inhabitants sleeping in the house.
To sleep without the comfort of the glowing oil lamp was a sign of utter poverty. This was of such importance that even the poorest of families would spend their money buying lamp oil before considering their need for food. The reason? A dark house signified a deserted house.
Job predicts the ruin of wicked people by saying, "The lamp is dark in his tent"- Job 18:5,6
Isaiah talks about a Messiah who will trim the wick and replenish the oil in a lamp that is sputtering and on the verge of going out. This was a comforting illustration of God's care for His struggling people.
In Proverbs, a prudent wife is praised by saying that "her lamp does not go out at night" Prov.31:18
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Gail
gail@adventistforum.comAnd the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. Isaiah 32:17