Topical Encyclopedia Cement, as a binding material, is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. However, the concept of binding materials and construction techniques is present throughout the Scriptures, particularly in the context of building structures and cities. The ancient world utilized various forms of binding agents, such as bitumen and clay, which served similar purposes to modern cement.Historical Context In biblical times, construction relied heavily on natural materials available in the region. The use of stones, bricks, and mortar was common, with bitumen often serving as a binding agent. Bitumen, a naturally occurring tar-like substance, was used in the construction of the Tower of Babel: "And they said to one another, 'Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly.' So they used brick instead of stone, and tar instead of mortar" (Genesis 11:3). This passage highlights the use of a binding material to hold bricks together, akin to the function of cement in modern construction. Symbolic Significance The use of binding materials in construction can also carry symbolic meaning in the Bible. The act of building, whether it be altars, cities, or temples, often represents human endeavor, community, and the desire for permanence. In the New Testament, the metaphor of building is used to describe spiritual growth and the establishment of the Church. The Apostle Paul writes, "By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds" (1 Corinthians 3:10). Here, the foundation is Christ, and the building materials represent the teachings and works of believers. Construction Techniques The Bible provides insights into ancient construction techniques, which, while not explicitly mentioning cement, imply the use of binding agents. In the construction of Solomon's Temple, the use of large, precisely cut stones is noted: "The house was built with stones finished at the quarry, so that neither hammer nor chisel nor any iron tool was heard in the house while it was being built" (1 Kings 6:7). This suggests a sophisticated understanding of construction, where stones were fitted together with precision, possibly using some form of mortar to secure them. Cultural and Religious Implications The construction of significant structures, such as temples and altars, was not only a technical endeavor but also a religious one. These structures were built to honor God and serve as places of worship. The use of durable materials and binding agents ensured the longevity and stability of these sacred spaces. The permanence of these structures symbolized the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. Conclusion While the Bible does not specifically mention cement, the principles of construction and the use of binding materials are evident throughout the Scriptures. These elements serve both practical and symbolic purposes, reflecting the human desire to create lasting structures and the spiritual significance of building a life and community grounded in faith. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Any substance used for making bodies adhere to each other, as mortar, glue, etc.2. (n.) A kind of calcined limestone, or a calcined mixture of clay and lime, for making mortar which will harden under water. 3. (n.) The powder used in cementation. See Cementation. 4. (n.) Bond of union; that which unites firmly, as persons in friendship, or men in society. 5. (n.) The layer of bone investing the root and neck of a tooth; -- called also cementum. 6. (n.) To unite or cause to adhere by means of a cement. 7. (n.) To unite firmly or closely. 8. (n.) To overlay or coat with cement; as, to cement a cellar bottom. 9. (v. i.) To become cemented or firmly united; to cohere. Strong's Hebrew 4423. melet -- mortar, cement... 4422, 4423. melet. 4424 . mortar, cement. Transliteration: melet Phonetic Spelling: (meh'-let) Short Definition: mortar. ... cement, clay. ... /hebrew/4423.htm - 6k 2563a. chomer -- cement, mortar, clay 2563. chomer -- cement, mortar, clay Library Members of Christ The Believer a New Creature Archaisms in the Hymns Meetings for Prayer. The Catholic System. Habits Explanation of what is Meant by the Body, which is to be Raised ... The Answer to Trust The Feast of Tabernacles. "And Truly Our Fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son ... Thesaurus Cement (1 Occurrence)... 6. (n.) To unite or cause to adhere by means of a cement. ... 8. (n.) To overlay or coat with cement; as, to cement a cellar bottom. ... /c/cement.htm - 7k Mortar (16 Occurrences) Lime (4 Occurrences) Aqueduct (4 Occurrences) Cistern (21 Occurrences) Well (2882 Occurrences) Pool (25 Occurrences) Oven (22 Occurrences) Joint (12 Occurrences) Lute (13 Occurrences) Resources Is there any reason to fear going into a cemetery / graveyard? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is alienation? What does it mean that we are alienated from God? | GotQuestions.org What are some good ways to memorize Bible verses? | GotQuestions.org Cement: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cement (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 54:11 Subtopics Related Terms |
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