Our Daily Bread

Definition

Our Daily Bread refers to the fundamental sustenance and necessities of life, often symbolizing the basic human need for food, security, and stability. This term is deeply rooted in cultural and religious contexts, where it signifies not just physical nourishment but also the idea of spiritual fulfillment and reliance on a higher power for daily needs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'Our Daily Bread' comes from the Lord's Prayer in Christianity, reflecting a request for God's provision in everyday life.
2. This term is often used metaphorically in literature and film to explore themes of survival, poverty, and human resilience.
3. In various cultures, bread symbolizes life and community, often being central to rituals and social gatherings.
4. The concept underscores issues of food security and economic inequality, showing how access to basic needs varies significantly across different populations.
5. In the context of the Great Depression and subsequent economic crises, 'Our Daily Bread' has been invoked to represent the struggle for survival faced by many families.

Review Questions

• How does the term 'Our Daily Bread' reflect both physical and spiritual needs in cultural contexts?
  • 'Our Daily Bread' encapsulates the duality of human existence by addressing both the need for physical sustenance and spiritual fulfillment. In various cultures and religions, this term signifies reliance on a higher power for daily provisions, illustrating how sustenance is not only about food but also about seeking guidance and support in life's challenges. This connection emphasizes that while we need food for our bodies, we also seek spiritual nourishment to help navigate our lives.
• Discuss the significance of 'Our Daily Bread' in relation to themes of economic inequality and food security.
  • 'Our Daily Bread' serves as a poignant reminder of the disparities in access to basic necessities among different socio-economic groups. In many communities, this term highlights the struggles individuals face in securing daily sustenance due to systemic issues like poverty and unemployment. The representation of this term in media often reflects societal concerns about food insecurity and prompts discussions on how society can better support those in need.
• Evaluate the historical context surrounding 'Our Daily Bread' during economic crises, particularly its cultural implications.
  • 'Our Daily Bread' gained significant cultural weight during periods like the Great Depression, where it became emblematic of survival struggles faced by many families. The use of this term during such times reflects a broader commentary on societal values related to work, dignity, and human resilience. By examining its historical implications, we see how this phrase has shaped narratives around economic hardship, emphasizing communal support systems and the innate human desire for stability amid chaos.

Related terms

Manna: In biblical texts, manna is the miraculous food provided by God to the Israelites during their journey in the desert, symbolizing divine provision.

Subsistence Farming: A type of farming where farmers grow only enough food to feed themselves and their families, highlighting the struggle for basic sustenance.

Breadwinner: A person who earns the primary income for a household, emphasizing the importance of financial stability in providing for daily needs.