Brass, an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc, is not directly mentioned in the Bible as we understand it today. However, the term "brass" in many English translations of the Bible, including the Berean Standard Bible , often refers to what is more accurately described as bronze, an alloy of copper and tin. The process of smelting, which involves extracting metal from its ore by heating and melting, was well-known in ancient times and is frequently alluded to in the Scriptures.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The Bible contains numerous references to brass, often highlighting its strength and durability. In the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, brass was a significant material. For instance, in Exodus 27:3, the Berean Standard Bible describes the making of utensils for the altar: "Make all its utensils of bronze—its pots to remove the ashes, its shovels, sprinkling bowls, meat forks, and firepans." This indicates the use of smelted bronze in sacred contexts, symbolizing resilience and purity.

In the prophetic literature, brass is used metaphorically to convey strength and judgment. In Ezekiel 1:7, the prophet describes the appearance of the living creatures: "Their legs were straight, and the soles of their feet were like the hooves of a calf, gleaming like polished bronze." This imagery suggests a divine strength and an unyielding nature, attributes often associated with God's judgment and power.

Historical and Cultural Context

The process of smelting metals like brass was a significant technological advancement in the ancient Near East. The ability to produce durable and versatile materials like bronze allowed for the creation of tools, weapons, and religious artifacts. The Hittites, Egyptians, and other ancient civilizations were known for their metallurgical skills, and the Israelites would have been familiar with these techniques during their time in Egypt and their interactions with neighboring cultures.

In 1 Kings 7:45-47, the Berean Standard Bible details the extensive use of bronze in Solomon's Temple: "The pots, shovels, and sprinkling bowls—all these objects that Hiram made for King Solomon for the house of the LORD were of polished bronze. The king had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan." This passage highlights the large-scale production and the skill involved in smelting and casting bronze for sacred purposes.

Theological Implications

The use of brass in the Bible often carries theological significance. Its presence in the Tabernacle and Temple underscores the importance of purity and strength in worship. The durability of brass symbolizes the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. Moreover, the process of smelting, which involves refining and purifying, can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual purification and the trials believers undergo to emerge stronger in faith.

In Revelation 1:15, the Berean Standard Bible describes the glorified Christ: "His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and His voice was like the roar of many waters." This depiction emphasizes the purity, strength, and divine authority of Christ, drawing on the imagery of smelted brass to convey His majesty and power.

Conclusion

While the term "brass" in the Bible may not align with the modern understanding of the alloy, its symbolic and practical uses in Scripture are profound. Through the process of smelting, brass becomes a powerful symbol of strength, purity, and divine judgment, reflecting the enduring truths of the biblical narrative.Ezekiel 22:20
As they gather silver, and brass, and iron, and lead, and tin, into the middle of the furnace, to blow the fire on it, to melt it; so will I gather you in my anger and in my fury, and I will leave you there, and melt you.
Nave's Topical Index

Job 28:2
Iron is taken out of the earth, and brass is molten out of the stone.
Nave's Topical Index

The Iranian Conquest
... ancient coinage of their mint was like a flattened sphere, more or less ovoid, in
form: it consisted at first of electrum, and afterwards of smelted gold, upon ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

What was the significance of the bronze laver? | GotQuestions.org

What was Nehushtan? | GotQuestions.org

What was the brazen altar? | GotQuestions.org

Brass: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus