In biblical times, litters were a form of transportation used primarily for carrying individuals, often of high status or royalty, in a manner that provided comfort and protection from the elements. The concept of a litter is akin to a portable bed or couch, typically enclosed or covered, and carried by bearers. This mode of transport is mentioned in various contexts within the Scriptures, reflecting its significance in ancient Near Eastern culture.

Biblical References

One of the most notable references to litters in the Bible is found in the Song of Solomon, which provides a vivid depiction of a royal procession. In Song of Solomon 3:7-10 , the imagery of Solomon's carriage, or litter, is described: "Behold, it is Solomon’s carriage, escorted by sixty warriors from the valiant of Israel. All are skilled with the sword, experienced in warfare. Each has his sword at his side, prepared for the terror of the night. King Solomon made for himself the carriage; he made it of wood from Lebanon. He made its posts of silver, its base of gold, its seat of purple, its interior inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem."

This passage highlights the grandeur and opulence associated with royal litters, emphasizing the craftsmanship and materials used, such as wood from Lebanon, silver, gold, and purple fabric. The presence of warriors suggests the importance of protection and security for those being transported.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, litters were not only a practical means of transportation but also a symbol of status and prestige. They were often used by kings, queens, and other dignitaries during public appearances, processions, or ceremonial events. The construction of a litter could vary, but it typically involved a platform or seat mounted on poles, allowing it to be carried by several bearers.

The use of litters extended beyond Israel and was common among neighboring cultures, including the Egyptians, Assyrians, and Persians. These societies also utilized litters for similar purposes, underscoring the widespread acceptance and adaptation of this mode of transport across different civilizations.

Symbolism and Interpretation

In a biblical context, the use of a litter can symbolize honor, authority, and divine favor. The detailed description of Solomon's litter in the Song of Solomon not only serves to illustrate the splendor of the king's court but also conveys themes of love and admiration. The mention of the "interior inlaid with love" suggests a deeper, more intimate connection, possibly reflecting the relationship between the bride and groom in the poetic narrative.

Furthermore, the imagery of a litter can be seen as a metaphor for God's protection and care for His people. Just as a litter provides a safe and secure means of transport, so too does God offer His guidance and shelter to those who trust in Him.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide extensive details on the construction or use of litters, the references that do exist offer valuable insights into the cultural and symbolic significance of this ancient mode of transportation. Through these glimpses, we gain a better understanding of the social and spiritual dimensions of life in biblical times.6632a. tsab -- a litter
... a litter. Transliteration: tsab Short Definition: covered. Word Origin from an unused
word Definition a litter NASB Word Usage covered (1), litters (1). ...
/hebrew/6632a.htm - 5k

Through the Red Sea
... After these several litters, borne by young men, proceeded in imposing order. Except
for the raving of the tempest there was no sound in Israel. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xlv through the red.htm

At the Well
... Very much nearer, to the west, two single litters, with a staff-bearing attendant,
were approaching. The camel rider was a Hebrew by the beast that bore him. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xxxvii at the well.htm

Those Days it was Near Twelve O'Clock by the Great Dial of History ...
... visits. Five litters and some forty slaves, who bore and followed them,
were waiting in the court of the palace of the Lady Lucia. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bacheller/vergilius/chapter 2 those days it.htm

Choosing the Tens
... rubble of brick and chipped stone; splinters, flinders and odd ends of timber; scraps
of metal, broken implements and the what-not that litters the path of ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter i choosing the tens.htm

The Big Road
... in the south of the province, and caravans of travellers; whole families packed
into large carts moving to some new home; mat-covered litters swung between two ...
/.../cable/the fulfilment of a dream of pastor hsis/chapter ii the big road.htm

With whom we are to Associate.
... desiring a peaceful administration. And there are many Celts, who bear
aloft on their shoulders women's litters. But workers in ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter iv with whom we are.htm

The Procession of Amen
... At that moment, several gorgeous litters of the belated wealthy rammed a
path to the very front and were set down before the rabble. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter iv the procession of.htm

The Love of Rameses
... leaves. The guests came in chariots with but a single attendant or in litters
accompanied by a gorgeous retinue and much authority. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xxv the love of.htm

Christ's Exclamation: Psalm xxii. --His Last Words.
... And then he litters the word of triumph, the greatest and the weightiest that has
been uttered upon the earth: "It is finished!" and commends his soul ...
/.../section 292 christs exclamation psalm.htm

Finally, Another Glory of virginity is Mentioned, that it is Free ...
... You see how like she is to the litters at processions, who lays herself out to please,
attracting to herself the look and gaze of all; less beautiful is she ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/chapter x finally another glory.htm

Litters (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Litters (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 66:20 They shall bring
all your brothers out of all the nations for an offering ...
/l/litters.htm - 6k

Little (2458 Occurrences)

/l/little.htm - 8k

Litter (1 Occurrence)
... rays. Mule litters were made with pairs of shafts projecting before and behind,
between which the animals were yoked (Isaiah 66:20). ...
/l/litter.htm - 9k

Littered (1 Occurrence)

/l/littered.htm - 6k

Fitters (1 Occurrence)
... Isaiah 66:20 And they shall bring all your brethren out of all the nations for an
oblation unto Jehovah, upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon ...
/f/fitters.htm - 6k

Tortoise (1 Occurrence)
... animal only in Leviticus 11:29, being the third in the list of unclean "creeping
things." The same word is found in Isaiah 66:20, translated "litters," and in ...
/t/tortoise.htm - 9k

Dromedaries (4 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 66:20 They shall bring all your brothers out of all the nations for an offering
to Yahweh, on horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and on mules, and ...
/d/dromedaries.htm - 8k

Mules (14 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 66:20 They shall bring all your brothers out of all the nations for an offering
to Yahweh, on horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and on mules, and ...
/m/mules.htm - 11k

Swift (35 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 66:20 And they shall bring all your brethren for an offering unto the LORD
out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon ...
/s/swift.htm - 19k

Elamarna
... Two camel litters appear to be next noticed, and apparently variegated garments
worked with gold, and embroidered zones and shawls. ...
/e/elamarna.htm - 31k

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