Topical Bible: Gold: Uphaz

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Uphaz is mentioned in the Bible as a source of fine gold, noted for its purity and value. The term "Uphaz" appears in two significant passages within the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Jeremiah and Daniel. These references highlight the esteemed quality of gold from this location, which has intrigued scholars and theologians alike.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah 10:9 : "Hammered silver is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz—the work of a craftsman and of the hands of a goldsmith. Their clothing is blue and purple, all fashioned by skilled workers."

2. Daniel 10:5 : "I lifted up my eyes and looked, and behold, there was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist."

In these passages, Uphaz is associated with high-quality gold, comparable to the finest materials used in craftsmanship and adornment. The mention of gold from Uphaz in Jeremiah 10:9 is part of a broader critique of idolatry, where the prophet contrasts the lifeless idols made by human hands with the living God. The gold from Uphaz, despite its beauty and value, is ultimately used in the creation of these idols, emphasizing the futility of worshiping man-made objects.

In Daniel 10:5, the reference to a man dressed in linen with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz adds to the majestic and awe-inspiring vision experienced by Daniel. The description of the man's attire, including the gold from Uphaz, underscores the splendor and divine nature of the vision, suggesting a heavenly messenger or being of great significance.

Historical and Geographical Considerations:

The exact location of Uphaz remains uncertain, with various theories proposed by scholars. Some suggest that Uphaz may be a variant of the name "Ophir," another biblical location renowned for its gold. Others propose that Uphaz could be a region in Arabia or a place known to ancient traders for its precious metals. Despite the ambiguity surrounding its precise location, the consistent association of Uphaz with high-quality gold indicates its importance in the ancient world as a source of wealth and luxury.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the references to gold from Uphaz serve to illustrate broader biblical themes. In Jeremiah, the mention of Uphaz highlights the contrast between the transient beauty of earthly treasures and the eternal nature of God. In Daniel, the use of Uphaz gold in the vision signifies the divine glory and authority of the heavenly messenger, reinforcing the message of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His divine plan.

The biblical portrayal of gold from Uphaz, therefore, not only reflects the material wealth and craftsmanship of the ancient world but also serves as a metaphor for spiritual truths, reminding believers of the ultimate value found in God alone.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 10:9
Silver spread into plates is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the workman, and of the hands of the founder: blue and purple is their clothing: they are all the work of cunning men.
Nave's Topical Index

Strong's Hebrew

210. Uphaz -- a region where gold is found
... Uphaz. Perhaps a corruption of 'Owphiyr; Uphaz, a famous gold region -- Uphaz. see
HEBREW 'Owphiyr. 209, 210. Uphaz. 211 . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/210.htm - 6k

Library

Letter xxxvii. To Marcella.
... of which the two following are samples: (1) Rhetitius identifies Tharshish with
Tarsus, and (2) he supposes that Uphaz (in the phrase "gold of Uphaz") is the ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xxxvii to marcella.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper, and the city
was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm