Topical Encyclopedia Arm-chains, also referred to as bracelets, are ornamental bands worn around the arm, often made of precious metals or adorned with jewels. In biblical times, arm-chains were not only decorative but also held cultural and symbolic significance. They are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, reflecting their use in ancient Near Eastern societies.Biblical References: 1. Genesis 24:22, 30, 47 · In the account of Abraham's servant seeking a wife for Isaac, Rebekah is given a gold nose ring and two gold bracelets for her wrists. The Berean Standard Bible states: "When the camels had finished drinking, the man took out a gold nose ring weighing a beka and two gold bracelets for her wrists weighing ten shekels." These arm-chains were part of the gifts that signified the servant's intention and the wealth of his master, Abraham. 2. Numbers 31:50 · After the victory over the Midianites, the Israelite soldiers brought offerings to the LORD, including arm-chains. The BSB records: "So we have brought as an offering to the LORD the gold articles each of us acquired—armlets, bracelets, signet rings, earrings, and necklaces—to make atonement for ourselves before the LORD." Here, arm-chains are listed among the valuable items dedicated to God, indicating their worth and the soldiers' gratitude. 3. 2 Samuel 1:10 · In the narrative of Saul's death, the Amalekite who claims to have killed Saul brings his crown and armlet to David. The BSB notes: "So I stood over him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the armlet that was on his arm, and I have brought them here to my lord." The armlet, or arm-chain, signifies royal authority and status, as it was part of the regalia of King Saul. 4. Ezekiel 16:11 · In a metaphorical description of Jerusalem, God adorns the city with jewelry, including bracelets. The BSB states: "I adorned you with jewelry, and I put bracelets on your wrists and a chain around your neck." This imagery illustrates God's lavish care and the honor bestowed upon Jerusalem, using arm-chains as a symbol of beauty and divine favor. Cultural and Symbolic Significance: In ancient Israel and surrounding cultures, arm-chains were often associated with wealth, status, and beauty. They were commonly given as gifts, used in betrothal ceremonies, and worn by both men and women. The presence of arm-chains in biblical narratives often underscores themes of covenant, authority, and divine blessing. Arm-chains also appear in prophetic and poetic literature, where they serve as metaphors for God's relationship with His people. The adornment of Jerusalem with bracelets in Ezekiel 16 highlights the covenantal bond and the splendor God intended for His chosen city. Conclusion: While arm-chains in the Bible are primarily depicted as symbols of wealth and status, they also carry deeper spiritual meanings. They reflect the cultural practices of the time and serve as tangible expressions of relationships, both human and divine. Concordance Arm-chains (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 3:20 Thesaurus Arm-chains (1 Occurrence)Arm-chains. Arm-bands, Arm-chains. Armed . Multi-Version Concordance Arm-chains (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:20 The head ... /a/arm-chains.htm - 6k Amulet Arm-bands (2 Occurrences) Head-bands (2 Occurrences) Powers (43 Occurrences) Jewels (54 Occurrences) Armed (147 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about applied kinesiology? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Onesimus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What are phylacteries? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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