The story of the wise and foolish virgins is one of the many lessons we can learn from oil lamps in the Bible. The wise virgins had taken the forethought to ensure that their clay oil lamps were well-stocked with oil for when the bridegroom arrived, while the foolish virgins had not. This parable is a great lesson about being prepared for the unexpected.

Clay oil lamps were a common source of illumination in biblical times. They were made of clay, which was usually imported from other lands, such as Egypt or Phoenicia. The lamps were quite simple, with an opening at the top to fill them with oil and a wick to light them. The ancient lamps were often decorated with symbols or artwork that had biblical significance.

Oil lamps, then and now, represent the light of faith and truth. This is why oil lamps feature heavily in many Jewish and Christian gathering. They are used in the ceremony of Sabbath on Shabbat eve, and also in churches for weddings, baptisms, and funerals.

In addition to the practical uses for the oil lamps, the lamps also serve as reminders of lessons we can learn in the Bible. In the wise virgins parable, we can remember to always be prepared and anticipate the unexpected. We can also be reminded to stay strong in our faith, no matter what might be happening around us.

When buying an oil lamp, look for quality craftsmanship and religious symbolism that will help to remind you of the biblical lessons attached to oil lamps. Consider buying a clay oil lamp made in Israel, as these will ensure authenticity as well as quality. When lit, an oil lamp can make a beautiful addition to your home or place of worship, while also serving as a reminder of some of the most important lessons in the Bible.

As one considers biblical lessons from oil lamps, the parable of the Ten Virgins as recounted by Jesus comes to mind. The parable indicated that ten virgins had their lamps all trimmed and ready for the wedding, but the five wise virgins took extra oil while the five foolish virgins only took the oil in their lamps.

As the bridegtroom tarried, the oil of the virgins ran low, but the wise were able to refill, while the foolish had to go to the shops to buy oil. By the time the foolish virgins returned, the bridegroom had arrived and shut the door. Against this background, we can learn several lessons:

• Always be prepared, especially for the Second Coming of Christ to which this parable alludes

• Spiritual perseverance is key; only those who persevere to the end will be saved.

• The oil is important, and oil in Scripture refers to the Holy Spirit. We need the Holy Spirit to be prepared for His Coming.

• The lamp is of no use without the oil. Therefore what is on the inside is very critical, and we have to be mindful of that which we feed our minds on.

The parable of the Ten Virgins about the virgins, their lamps, and oil was given for our learning, and we should heed the lessons.