Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, armories were essential facilities for the storage and maintenance of weapons and military equipment. These armories played a crucial role in the defense and military readiness of ancient Israel and its neighboring kingdoms. The Bible provides several references to armories, highlighting their strategic importance and the role they played in the history of the Israelites.Jerusalem's Armory One of the most notable references to an armory is found in Jerusalem, the capital city of the united monarchy under King David and King Solomon. The city was not only the political and religious center of Israel but also a military stronghold. In the Song of Solomon, the armory of David is mentioned: "Your neck is like the tower of David, built in rows of stones, on which hang a thousand shields, all of them shields of warriors" (Song of Solomon 4:4). This passage metaphorically describes the strength and preparedness of the city, with its armory symbolizing military might and protection. The House of the Forest of Lebanon King Solomon, known for his wisdom and extensive building projects, constructed the House of the Forest of Lebanon, which served as an armory. This building, described in 1 Kings 7:2-5, was part of Solomon's palace complex and was named for its cedar pillars, reminiscent of the forests of Lebanon. The armory housed numerous shields and weapons, underscoring the kingdom's military preparedness and the wealth and power of Solomon's reign. Armories in the Divided Kingdom After the division of the united monarchy into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah, armories continued to be significant. In the northern kingdom, Samaria served as the capital and likely housed an armory to protect against external threats. The prophet Isaiah references the armory in the context of divine judgment: "You saw that the breaches of the City of David were many. You collected the waters of the lower pool. You counted the houses of Jerusalem and tore them down to strengthen the wall. You built a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the old pool, but you did not look to the One who made it, or consider Him who planned it long ago" (Isaiah 22:9-11). This passage highlights the reliance on military defenses rather than trust in God. Hezekiah's Preparations King Hezekiah of Judah is noted for his efforts to fortify Jerusalem against the Assyrian threat. He took measures to secure the city's water supply and strengthen its defenses, which likely included the armory. In 2 Chronicles 32:5, it is recorded: "Then he worked hard to rebuild all the broken sections of the wall and erected towers on it. He built another wall outside that one and reinforced the supporting terraces of the City of David. He also made large numbers of weapons and shields" . This preparation underscores the importance of armories in the kingdom's defense strategy. Conclusion Armories in different parts of the kingdom were vital for the security and military readiness of ancient Israel. They served as repositories for weapons and symbols of strength, reflecting the kingdom's reliance on both military might and divine protection. The biblical references to armories provide insight into the historical and spiritual context of Israel's military endeavors. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 10:17And he made three hundred shields of beaten gold; three pound of gold went to one shield: and the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 11:12 Library The Historical Books. 1 the New Testament... Of the Modes of Supplementing Satisfaction --viz. Indulgences and ... Resources What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can I do when I am under spiritual attack? | GotQuestions.org Armory: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Armory in Different Parts of the Kingdom Armory: A Place for the Storage of Armor Related Terms |
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