Topical Encyclopedia Arm-rings, also known as bracelets or bangles, are ornamental bands worn around the arm. In biblical times, these items were often made of precious metals such as gold or silver and could be adorned with jewels. They served not only as decorative items but also as symbols of wealth, status, and sometimes covenantal relationships.Biblical References The Bible makes several references to arm-rings, often in the context of gifts or spoils of war. In Numbers 31:50, the Israelites presented offerings to the Lord, which included arm-rings: "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" . This passage highlights the value and significance of arm-rings as part of the wealth accumulated by the Israelites. In Ezekiel 16:11-12, God describes His adornment of Jerusalem with jewelry, including bracelets: "I adorned you with jewelry, and I put bracelets on your wrists and a chain around your neck. I put a ring in your nose, earrings on your ears, and a beautiful crown on your head" . Here, the arm-rings symbolize God's blessing and the honor bestowed upon His people. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Near Eastern cultures, arm-rings were common among both men and women. They were often given as gifts to signify alliances or as part of a dowry. The presence of arm-rings in biblical narratives reflects the customs and social practices of the time, where such items were not merely decorative but carried deeper social and economic implications. The use of arm-rings as part of religious offerings, as seen in Numbers 31, underscores their perceived value and the role they played in expressions of devotion and atonement. The biblical portrayal of arm-rings aligns with archaeological findings that suggest these items were integral to the material culture of the ancient world. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance From a spiritual perspective, arm-rings in the Bible can symbolize God's provision and the beauty He bestows upon His people. The adornment of Jerusalem in Ezekiel 16 serves as a metaphor for God's covenant relationship with Israel, illustrating how He beautifies and elevates those He loves. Moreover, the offering of arm-rings and other jewelry to the Lord signifies the surrender of material wealth in acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and grace. This act of giving back to God what He has provided is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Him as the ultimate source of all blessings. In summary, arm-rings in the Bible are more than mere ornaments; they are rich in cultural, historical, and spiritual significance, reflecting the values and beliefs of the biblical world. Concordance Arm-rings (1 Occurrence)Numbers 31:50 Thesaurus Arm-rings (1 Occurrence)Arm-rings. Armrests, Arm-rings. Arms . Multi-Version Concordance Arm-rings (1 Occurrence). Numbers 31:50 And we have ... /a/arm-rings.htm - 6k Neck-ornaments (2 Occurrences) Ornaments (50 Occurrences) Ornament (23 Occurrences) Leg-chains (1 Occurrence) Finger-rings (3 Occurrences) Armrests (2 Occurrences) Arms (166 Occurrences) War (529 Occurrences) Resources What are the Christian themes in “The Lord of the Rings”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about nose rings / getting a nose ring? | GotQuestions.org Should married Christians wear wedding rings? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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