Topical Bible: Brass: Articles Made of Fetters

◄ Brass: Articles Made of Fetters ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, brass, often referred to as bronze, was a significant material used for various purposes, including the crafting of fetters. Fetters, or chains, were employed primarily for the restraint of prisoners and captives, symbolizing bondage and subjugation. The use of brass for such articles underscores the material's durability and strength, qualities that were essential for effective restraint.

Biblical References

The use of brass fetters is notably mentioned in the context of the captivity of King Zedekiah of Judah. After the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians, Zedekiah attempted to flee but was captured. The Bible records, "They captured the king and brought him up to the king of Babylon at Riblah, where they pronounced judgment on him. They put out Zedekiah’s eyes, bound him with bronze shackles, and took him to Babylon" (2 Kings 25:6-7). This passage highlights the use of bronze fetters as a means of ensuring the king's captivity and humiliation.

Similarly, the account of Samson, the judge of Israel, illustrates the use of brass fetters. After being betrayed by Delilah and captured by the Philistines, Samson was subdued and bound. Judges 16:21 states, "Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes, and took him down to Gaza, binding him with bronze shackles. He was forced to grind grain in the prison" . The use of brass fetters in this narrative emphasizes the Philistines' intent to incapacitate and control Samson, who had been a formidable adversary.

Symbolism and Significance

In the biblical context, brass fetters symbolize more than just physical restraint; they represent the consequences of disobedience and the loss of freedom. The binding of Zedekiah and Samson serves as a poignant reminder of the spiritual and physical bondage that results from turning away from God's commandments. The strength and unyielding nature of brass further underscore the severity of such captivity.

The use of brass in crafting fetters also reflects the technological advancements of the time. Brass, an alloy of copper and tin, was valued for its hardness and resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal material for creating durable restraints. This choice of material indicates the importance placed on ensuring that captives remained securely bound.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, the use of metal for crafting tools, weapons, and restraints was a common practice. The Israelites, like their neighboring cultures, utilized metals such as brass for various applications. The presence of brass fetters in biblical narratives aligns with the broader historical context of metallurgy and its role in societal and military practices.

The depiction of brass fetters in the Bible also serves to convey moral and theological lessons. The narratives involving such restraints often highlight themes of divine justice, repentance, and redemption. The physical bondage experienced by figures like Zedekiah and Samson is paralleled by their spiritual journeys, offering insights into the consequences of sin and the hope of deliverance through faith and obedience to God.

In summary, brass fetters in the Bible are emblematic of both physical and spiritual captivity. Their mention in the scriptures provides a window into the historical use of metals and the deeper theological messages conveyed through the lives of biblical figures.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 16:21
But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in the prison house.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 25:7
And they slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and put out the eyes of Zedekiah, and bound him with fetters of brass, and carried him to Babylon.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

On the Clause, and Shall Come in Glory to Judge the Quick and the ...
... he had delivered to the Catechumens those articles of the ... as a creature, or thing
made, or as made out of ... and terrible: it had iron teeth and claws of brass. ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/lecture xv on the clause.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... of the Persians, leaving Munychia in the middle of the night, made for the ... begin
to hamper each other's movements, and their rams of brass collide; whole rows ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm

The Holy War,
... Churches and hospitals, as well as other houses, were made a prey to the enraged ...
would witness a great and arduous battle, in which there is no brass or steel ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... These men had thrown off the fetters of education ... those enlarged and nonsectarian
principles which made his ministry ... Lord, break these gates of brass, and cut ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... as both he and all others know, about 30 years ago, I was made regenerate by ... and
to me a spiritual father, my teacher in the creed and the articles of belief. ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /