Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, horses were significant not only for their role in transportation and warfare but also as valuable commodities in trade and commerce. The acquisition and trade of horses are mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in the ancient Near Eastern economy and society.Biblical References One of the earliest mentions of horses in the context of commerce is found in the account of Solomon's reign. Solomon, known for his wisdom and wealth, engaged in extensive trade, including the importation of horses. In 1 Kings 10:28-29 , it is recorded: "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue. A chariot could be imported from Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and a horse for a hundred and fifty. Likewise, they exported them to all the kings of the Hittites and to the kings of Aram." This passage illustrates the international nature of horse trade during Solomon's time, with Egypt being a primary source. The mention of specific prices for chariots and horses underscores their value and the structured nature of this commerce. Economic and Military Significance Horses were not merely luxury items; they played a crucial role in military strategy and power. The ability to field a cavalry or chariotry was a significant advantage in warfare, making horses a strategic asset. This is evident in the biblical narrative of the Israelites' encounters with other nations. For instance, in Deuteronomy 17:16 , God commands the future kings of Israel: "But he must not acquire many horses for himself or send the people back to Egypt to acquire more horses, for the LORD has said, ‘You are never to go back that way again.’" This command reflects a divine caution against reliance on military might and foreign alliances, symbolized by the accumulation of horses, which could lead the Israelites away from dependence on God. Prophetic and Symbolic Usage Horses also appear in prophetic literature, often symbolizing strength, swiftness, and the execution of divine judgment. In Zechariah 6:1-8 , the prophet describes a vision of four chariots with horses of different colors, representing the four spirits of heaven going out from standing before the Lord of all the earth. This imagery underscores the power and reach of God's sovereign will, with horses as instruments of His purpose. Cultural and Historical Context In the broader cultural and historical context, horses were a symbol of wealth and status. Their use in royal processions, ceremonies, and as gifts between kings further emphasizes their value. The trade of horses was not only a matter of economic exchange but also of diplomatic relations and cultural exchange. The biblical portrayal of horses in commerce reflects the complex interplay of economic, military, and spiritual dimensions in ancient Israelite society. As valuable assets, horses were integral to the prosperity and security of nations, yet their acquisition and use were to be tempered by a commitment to divine principles and reliance on God. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 10:29And a chariot came up and went out of Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and an horse for an hundred and fifty: and so for all the kings of the Hittites, and for the kings of Syria, did they bring them out by their means. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:14 Revelation 18:13 Library Commerce Of the Mass. Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ... The Destruction of Babylon. Connecticut at the Close of the Revolution To the Rev. Andrew Brandram Chaldaean Civilization Disestablishment The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Reaction against Egypt Resources How is Satan god of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of “Cast your bread upon the waters” in Ecclesiastes 11:1? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Pharisees? | GotQuestions.org Commerce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commerce of the Jews: Checked in Jehoshaphat's Time Commerce of the Jews: Commenced After Their Settlement in Canaan Commerce of the Jews: Greatly Extended by Solomon Commerce of the Jews: Under Strict Laws Commerce: Articles of Blue Cloth Commerce: Articles of Bodies and Souls of Men Commerce: Articles of Chariots Commerce: Articles of Chest of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Chests of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon Commerce: Articles of Clothes for Chariots Commerce: Articles of Embroidery Commerce: Articles of Frankincense Commerce: Articles of Iron and Steel Commerce: Articles of Peacocks Commerce: Articles of Perfumes Commerce: Articles of Precious Stones Commerce: Articles of Sweet Cane Commerce: Articles of Thyine Wood Commerce: Articles of White Wool Commerce: Articles of, Called: Merchandise Commerce: Articles of, Called: Wares Commerce: Called: Buying and Selling Commerce: Carried on by Egyptians Commerce: Carried on by Ethiopians Commerce: Carried on by Ishmaelites Commerce: Carried on by Means of Caravans Commerce: Carried on by Means of Ships Commerce: Carried on by Ninevites Commerce: Carried on by People of Tarshish Commerce: Carried on by People of Tyre Commerce: Carried on by Syrians Commerce: Denunciations Connected With Abuses of Commerce: Evil Practices Connected With Commerce: Illustrative of Intercourse With the Apostasy Commerce: Increased the Wealth of Nations and Individuals Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Chapmen Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Merchants Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Traffickers Commerce: Persons of Distinction Engaged In Commerce: Success In, Led to Pride Commerce: The Barter of One Commodity for Another Commerce: The Exchange of Commodities for Money Commerce: Transportation of Passengers Related Terms |
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