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In this post I will explore the Christian symbols of bread and wine and connect them with a Biblical and cultural context.
Bread, or grain, and wine are a reoccurring theme in the Hebrew Scriptures. The first instance is found in Genesis, in the encounter between Abram (Abraham) and the king-priest Melchizedek. Bread and wine may be symbols of food and drink, generally, but it is hard to avoid the impression that this meal was more than ordinary, that it had a festive character to celebrate a significant occasion— a victory in battle. Notice that there is a blessing associated with this occasion— and that God is acknowledged as both creator and deliverer.
Genesis 14:18–20 NRSV
And King Melchizedek of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was priest of God Most High. He blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, maker of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!”
