Wheat is one of the most important cereal plants, widely cultivated since ancient times, especially in the land of Canaan and the territory of Palestine. In the Holy Scripture, wheat is often mentioned as a symbol of abundance and divine blessing, as well as an important element of the diet and wealth of the people of Israel. It played a significant role in the economy and culture, not only as food but also as a measure of wealth, as evidenced by historical facts, for example, its use as part of the payment for cedars of Lebanon in the construction of Solomon's Temple. Wheat is associated with life, blessing, and gratitude to God for the harvest, which is reflected in festivals and offerings such as the Festival of Weeks. In biblical texts, wheat often serves as a metaphor for righteousness and spiritual value. In prophecies and parables, it is contrasted with straw and weeds, symbolizing the separation of the righteous and the unrighteous at the end of time. The image of wheat is linked to the idea of sorting and judgment, where God acts as the reaper, separating the good grain from the worthless chaff. This symbolism emphasizes the eschatological meaning of wheat as an image of God’s new people, who will be gathered and preserved in the granary, while the wicked will be destroyed. Agricultural aspects of wheat in Palestine are also extensively described in the Holy Scripture. Sowing of wheat begins in October, and harvest — in May, corresponding to the climatic conditions of the region. Wheat was cultivated on a large scale, and fields with it were commonplace. Activities related to wheat care, such as threshing and cleaning, are mentioned in various biblical stories, for example, in the accounts of Gideon and David. Wheat was depicted on ancient Jewish coins with three ears on one stalk, which testifies to its significance and symbolic value for the people.
