Topical Encyclopedia The bow, an ancient and formidable weapon, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a tool of warfare, hunting, and symbolism. Its use spans from the early patriarchal times through the monarchies of Israel and Judah, serving as a critical component in the military arsenals of various biblical nations.Historical Context and Usage The bow was a primary weapon in ancient Near Eastern warfare, valued for its ability to strike from a distance. It was typically made from wood, horn, or a combination of materials to enhance its strength and flexibility. Arrows, often tipped with metal, were the projectiles used with the bow. The skill of archery was highly esteemed, and warriors proficient with the bow were considered valuable assets in battle. Biblical References The bow is first mentioned in Genesis 21:20, where Ishmael, the son of Abraham, is described as an archer: "And God was with the boy, and he grew up and settled in the wilderness and became a great archer." This early reference highlights the bow's role in survival and defense. In the narrative of David and Jonathan, the bow symbolizes both warfare and friendship. Jonathan, a skilled archer, uses the bow to communicate secretly with David (1 Samuel 20:20-22). The bow's presence in this account underscores its dual role as a weapon and a tool for conveying messages. The bow is also associated with divine judgment and deliverance. In 2 Samuel 22:15, David sings of God's intervention in battle: "He shot His arrows and scattered the foes; He hurled lightning and routed them." Here, the bow metaphorically represents God's power to defeat enemies. Symbolism and Prophetic Imagery The bow often symbolizes strength and military might. In Job 29:20, Job speaks of his former strength: "My glory is ever new within me, and my bow is renewed in my hand." This imagery conveys the idea of vitality and readiness for battle. Prophetically, the bow is used to depict future events and divine actions. In Zechariah 9:13, the Lord declares, "I will bend Judah as My bow and fill it with Ephraim. I will rouse your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece, and I will make you like the sword of a mighty man." This passage illustrates the bow as an instrument of God's plan, wielded to achieve His purposes. Military Significance Throughout the biblical narrative, the bow is a symbol of military prowess. In 2 Kings 13:15-17, the prophet Elisha instructs King Joash to shoot an arrow as a sign of victory over Aram: "Elisha said, 'Take the bow and arrows.' So he took the bow and arrows. Then Elisha said to the king of Israel, 'Put your hand on the bow.' So the king put his hand on it, and Elisha put his hands on the king's hands. 'Open the east window,' said Elisha. So he opened it, and Elisha said, 'Shoot!' And he shot. Then Elisha declared, 'This is the LORD’s arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram! For you shall strike the Arameans in Aphek until you have put an end to them.'" The bow's strategic importance is further emphasized in the training of warriors. In 1 Chronicles 12:2, the men who joined David at Ziklag are described as "armed with bows and able to shoot arrows or to sling stones with either hand; they were kinsmen of Saul from Benjamin." Conclusion The bow, as depicted in the Bible, is more than a mere weapon; it is a symbol of strength, divine intervention, and the unfolding of God's plans. Its presence in the biblical text reflects the realities of ancient warfare and the spiritual truths conveyed through the imagery of battle. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 13:18Their bows also shall dash the young men to pieces; and they shall have no pity on the fruit of the womb; their eyes shall not spare children. Nave's Topical Index Lamentations 2:4 Ezekiel 39:3 Library War! War! War! The Saint's Heritage and Watchword The Holy War, The Sword of the Spirit The Psalter of Solomon. The Nile and Egypt Appendices Chaldaean Civilization The Exaltation of Christ The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Resources What does it mean that Jesus has the name above all names? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the Catholic Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.org What is the definition of idolatry? | 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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