Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the bow was a crucial weapon in warfare and hunting, symbolizing strength, skill, and divine empowerment. The bow's construction varied, with materials ranging from wood to more durable metals. One notable mention of a bow made of brass is found in the poetic and prophetic literature of the Old Testament, highlighting its symbolic significance.The reference to a bow of brass is found in 2 Samuel 22:35 and its parallel passage in Psalm 18:34. In these verses, David, the psalmist, attributes his military prowess and success to divine assistance, stating, "He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze" . The use of "bronze" in the Berean Standard Bible reflects the translation of the Hebrew word "nechosheth," which can denote copper or bronze, a metal alloy of copper and tin. The imagery of a bow made of brass or bronze serves multiple purposes: 1. Symbol of Strength and Power: Brass, being a strong and resilient metal, symbolizes the extraordinary strength and capability granted by God. The ability to bend such a bow suggests a level of might and skill beyond ordinary human capacity, emphasizing divine empowerment. 2. Divine Enablement: The context of these passages is a song of deliverance and thanksgiving, where David acknowledges God's role in his victories. The metaphor of bending a bow of brass underscores the idea that God equips His servants with the necessary strength and tools to overcome formidable challenges. 3. Military Prowess: In the ancient Near East, the bow was a primary weapon in warfare. A bow made of metal, as opposed to the more common wooden bows, would have been a formidable weapon, capable of greater tension and force. This would make it a symbol of advanced military capability and preparedness. 4. Spiritual Allegory: Beyond its literal interpretation, the bow of brass can be seen as an allegory for spiritual readiness and resilience. Just as a warrior must be trained and equipped to wield such a weapon, believers are called to be spiritually prepared and fortified by God's strength. In summary, the bow made of brass in the biblical narrative is a powerful symbol of divine strength and empowerment. It reflects the belief that God equips His people with the necessary resources to face and overcome the challenges of life, both physical and spiritual. This imagery continues to inspire and encourage believers to rely on God's strength in their own battles. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 22:35He teaches my hands to war; so that a bow of steel is broken by my arms. Nave's Topical Index Job 20:24 Psalm 18:34 Library The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Where was Daniel when his three friends were thrown into the fiery furnace for refusing to worship Nebuchadnezzar's statue? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of namaste? | GotQuestions.org What is the synagogue of Satan in Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Bow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus 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 |
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