Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the mention of a bed made of iron is notably found in the Old Testament, specifically in reference to Og, the king of Bashan. This detail is recorded in the Book of Deuteronomy, which provides insight into the might and stature of this ancient king. The passage reads:"For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of the Rephaim. Indeed, his bedstead was made of iron. Is it not in Rabbah of the Ammonites? It is nine cubits long and four cubits wide, by the standard cubit." (Deuteronomy 3:11) The description of Og's bed as being made of iron and its considerable size—approximately thirteen and a half feet long and six feet wide—serves to emphasize the formidable nature of Og himself. The Rephaim, to whom Og belonged, were a group of ancient people often associated with great size and strength, sometimes referred to as giants in biblical literature. The iron bedstead symbolizes not only Og's physical prowess but also his wealth and status, as iron was a valuable and durable material in ancient times. The mention of the bed being located in Rabbah of the Ammonites suggests that it was preserved as a relic or trophy, possibly to commemorate the defeat of Og by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses. This victory is significant in the narrative of Israel's conquest of the Promised Land, as it demonstrates God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people from formidable foes. In the broader biblical narrative, iron is often associated with strength and durability. The use of iron in Og's bedstead may also reflect the technological advancements of the time, as ironworking was becoming more prevalent in the ancient Near East. This detail underscores the historical and cultural context of the biblical account, providing a glimpse into the material culture of the period. The account of Og's iron bed serves as a testament to the historical reality of the biblical narrative, offering tangible evidence of the people and events described in Scripture. It also highlights the themes of divine intervention and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people, as the Israelites were able to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles through faith and obedience. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 3:11For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants; behold his bedstead was a bedstead of iron; is it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits was the length thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man. Nave's Topical Index Library Shoes of Iron, and Strength Sufficient: a New Year's Promise The So-Called Letter to Diognetus The Dream of the Tree Cut Down Nebuchadnezzar's Dream The Northern Iron and the Steel The Blood of Sprinkling (Second Sermon. ) Acts and Martyrdom of St. Matthew the Apostle. Watch-Night Service Our Lord Subdued his Might and Constrained It, that his Living ... The Story of Solomon and his Temple Resources Why did David need Abishag to keep him warm when he had wives and concubines? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the account of Potiphar's wife? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say anything about insomnia? | GotQuestions.org Bed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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