Topical Encyclopedia Bow:The bow is a prominent weapon in biblical times, often symbolizing strength and military prowess. In the Old Testament, the bow is frequently mentioned as a tool of war and hunting. Genesis 27:3 records Isaac instructing Esau, "Now then, take your weapons—your quiver and bow—and go out into the field to hunt some game for me." The bow is also used metaphorically to describe God's power and judgment, as seen in Habakkuk 3:9, "You brandished Your bow; You called for many arrows. Selah. You split the earth with rivers." The bow represents both divine and human strength, and its use in warfare is a testament to the martial culture of ancient Israel. Sword: The sword is one of the most frequently mentioned weapons in the Bible, symbolizing authority, judgment, and warfare. It is often associated with divine retribution, as in Deuteronomy 32:41, "when I sharpen My flashing sword and My hand grasps it in judgment, I will take vengeance on My adversaries and repay those who hate Me." The sword is also a symbol of protection and deliverance, as seen in Psalm 144:1, "Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle." In the New Testament, the sword takes on a spiritual dimension, representing the Word of God, as in Ephesians 6:17, "And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." War: War is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the historical context of the ancient Near East. The Israelites often engaged in warfare, both as a means of survival and as a divine mandate. In Exodus 15:3, God is described as a warrior: "The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is His name." War is depicted as both a physical and spiritual battle, with God often portrayed as the ultimate victor. The Bible also addresses the moral and ethical dimensions of war, emphasizing justice and righteousness. In the New Testament, the concept of spiritual warfare is introduced, as believers are called to "put on the full armor of God" (Ephesians 6:11) to stand against spiritual adversaries. Horses: Horses in the Bible are often associated with strength, speed, and military might. They are frequently mentioned in the context of war and chariots, as in Exodus 14:9, "The Egyptians—all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots, horsemen, and troops—pursued the Israelites and overtook them as they camped by the sea." Horses symbolize human power and pride, which can be contrasted with reliance on God. Psalm 20:7 states, "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." In prophetic literature, horses are used symbolically, as in the visions of Zechariah and Revelation, where they represent various divine judgments and events. Cavalry: Cavalry, or mounted troops, are less frequently mentioned in the Bible but are implied in references to horses and chariots. The use of cavalry signifies advanced military capability and strategic advantage. In 2 Kings 18:23, the Assyrian king taunts Hezekiah, saying, "Now, therefore, make a bargain with my master, the king of Assyria. I will give you two thousand horses—if you can put riders on them!" This highlights the importance of cavalry in ancient warfare. The presence of cavalry in biblical narratives underscores the formidable nature of certain armies and the challenges faced by the Israelites. In prophetic imagery, cavalry often symbolizes swift and decisive action, as seen in Revelation 9:16, where the number of mounted troops is described as vast and overwhelming. Subtopics Bow: A Weapon used by the Elamites Bow: A Weapon: David Instructed the Israelites in the Use of, by Writing a War Song To Bow: A Weapon: Made of Brass (R. V.) The Bow of the Tongue of the Wicked The Bow of the Vanquished, Broken and Burned The Bow used Expertly by Benjamites The Bow used Expertly by Elamites The Bow used Expertly by Lydians The Bow used Expertly by Philistines The Bow used Expertly by Sons of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh The Bow: (When Broken) the Overthrow of Power The Bow: (When Deceitful) the Hypocrite The Bow: Called the Battle Bow The Bow: Drawn With Full Force The Bow: Given As a Token of Friendship The Bow: Held in the Left Hand The Bow: Often Furnished by the State The Bow: Sometimes Used in Hunting The Bow: The Jews Taught to Use The Bow: Those Who Used, Called: Archers The Bow: Those Who Used, Called: Bowmen Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |