Topical Encyclopedia Armrests, as a term, do not frequently appear in the biblical text; however, they can be inferred from descriptions of thrones and seats of authority, which often included armrests as part of their design. In ancient Near Eastern culture, thrones were symbols of power and authority, and their construction often reflected the status and wealth of the ruler. Armrests, therefore, can be seen as part of the opulence and grandeur associated with royal seating.Biblical References and Context One of the most notable references to a throne with armrests is found in the description of King Solomon's throne. In 1 Kings 10:18-20 , the grandeur of Solomon's throne is detailed: "Moreover, the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold. The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. There were armrests on both sides of the seat, with a lion standing beside each armrest." This passage highlights the luxurious nature of Solomon's throne, emphasizing the use of precious materials and intricate design, including the presence of armrests. The presence of armrests on Solomon's throne signifies more than just comfort; it represents the king's authority and the stability of his reign. The lions beside the armrests further symbolize strength and majesty, reinforcing the king's powerful position. Symbolism and Interpretation In the biblical context, armrests on a throne can symbolize support and strength. They provide a place for the ruler to rest their arms, suggesting a position of ease and control. This imagery can be extended to the spiritual realm, where God's throne is often depicted as a place of ultimate authority and power. While the Bible does not explicitly describe God's throne with armrests, the concept of divine support and strength is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. The use of armrests in the design of thrones also reflects the cultural and historical practices of the time. Ancient thrones were often elaborate and designed to convey the ruler's power and the stability of their kingdom. Armrests, as part of this design, contributed to the overall impression of authority and grandeur. Cultural and Historical Insights In the ancient Near East, thrones were not merely functional pieces of furniture but were imbued with symbolic meaning. The construction and decoration of a throne, including the presence of armrests, were indicative of the ruler's status and the kingdom's prosperity. Armrests, therefore, were not just practical but also served as a visual representation of the ruler's power and the divine right to govern. The depiction of armrests in biblical descriptions of thrones provides insight into the cultural values and artistic expressions of the time. It reflects the importance placed on authority, stability, and the visual representation of power in ancient societies. Conclusion While the Bible does not frequently mention armrests explicitly, their presence in descriptions of thrones, such as Solomon's, offers a glimpse into the cultural and symbolic significance of these features in ancient times. Armrests on thrones symbolize authority, support, and the grandeur associated with royal power, providing a deeper understanding of the biblical portrayal of leadership and divine sovereignty. Concordance Armrests (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 10:19 2 Chronicles 9:18 Thesaurus Armrests (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Armrests (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 10:19 There were six steps to the throne, and the top of the throne was ... /a/armrests.htm - 7k Arm-rings (1 Occurrence) Armpits (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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