The lamps that Jesus would have used during his time were most likely made from clay and baked, resulting in a material known as terra cotta. These lamps, referred to as Herodian lamps, were commonly used in the region during the period from about 50 BC through the time of Christ.
The Herodian lamp is a wheel-made lamp, meaning it was shaped using a potter’s wheel. The spout, which allows for the pouring of oil, was typically added later. These lamps were designed to burn olive oil, which was the preferred fuel for lighting in ancient times.
One of the distinguishing features of the Herodian lamp is its small size. They were typically quite small, measuring only a few inches in length and width. This compact size made them portable and easy to carry around.
In terms of design, the Herodian lamp often featured a round body with a small handle on the back. The handle allowed for easy manipulation and movement of the lamp. It also served as a place to hold the wick.
The Herodian lamp was a practical and functional lighting device. It provided a steady and reliable source of light, making it an essential item in households during that time period. The use of olive oil as fuel ensured a long-lasting and relatively smoke-free burn.
While we cannot say for certain that Jesus himself used a Herodian lamp, it is likely that he would have been familiar with this type of lighting device. It was widely used in the region during his lifetime, and lamps played an important role in daily life, especially during evening hours.
It is fascinating to imagine Jesus and his disciples using these lamps as they traveled and shared their teachings. The soft glow of the olive oil flame would have illuminated their surroundings, creating an intimate and peaceful atmosphere.
The lamps that Jesus would have used were most likely Herodian lamps made from baked clay, or terra cotta. These lamps were small, portable, and designed to burn olive oil. While we cannot say with certainty that Jesus used this specific type of lamp, it is likely that he would have been familiar with and possibly used similar lamps during his lifetime.