"...hapless presiders wrestling great inflated loaves never designed for breaking..." that was me pre-pandemic when a bread-breaking guild would make these fabulous artisanal loaves that are great for eating but not for Eucharist, I'm afraid. I give thanks for the local Jewish bakery that makes perfect pita.
…a question: I’m imagining one or more whole pitas, probably large enough to cover a pizza pan, being served. Someone had to be the first to break it open and begin to share. In Jesus’ times, was there a custom of who breaks the bread first?
Maybe not that big - artistic depictions from around the time suggest dinner plate size. Roman versions were often pre-scored to indicate the portions, but whether this applied to the eastern Mediterranean or to matzah isn't clear. Hosts/presiders (priests at Qumran, householders, etc.) begin whatever ceremonial action like a blessing commenced the meal; in all these cases Jesus seems to act this way.
"...hapless presiders wrestling great inflated loaves never designed for breaking..." that was me pre-pandemic when a bread-breaking guild would make these fabulous artisanal loaves that are great for eating but not for Eucharist, I'm afraid. I give thanks for the local Jewish bakery that makes perfect pita.
…a question: I’m imagining one or more whole pitas, probably large enough to cover a pizza pan, being served. Someone had to be the first to break it open and begin to share. In Jesus’ times, was there a custom of who breaks the bread first?
Maybe not that big - artistic depictions from around the time suggest dinner plate size. Roman versions were often pre-scored to indicate the portions, but whether this applied to the eastern Mediterranean or to matzah isn't clear. Hosts/presiders (priests at Qumran, householders, etc.) begin whatever ceremonial action like a blessing commenced the meal; in all these cases Jesus seems to act this way.