Topical Encyclopedia Gold, a precious metal highly valued for its beauty and rarity, holds significant importance in biblical history and religious art. In the context of the Bible, "beaten work" refers to the process of hammering gold into thin sheets or intricate designs, a technique that was employed in the construction of sacred objects and adornments for the Tabernacle and Temple.Biblical References and Usage The use of gold in beaten work is prominently mentioned in the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus. God provided Moses with detailed instructions for crafting various elements of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the use of gold in its construction. Exodus 25:31-36 describes the making of the golden lampstand: "Then you are to make a lampstand of pure gold. It must be made of hammered work: its base and shaft, its cups, its buds, and its petals shall be of one piece." This passage highlights the skill and artistry required to create such a sacred object, reflecting the divine craftsmanship intended for worship. The cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant also exemplify the use of beaten gold. In Exodus 25:18 , God commands, "And make two cherubim of hammered gold at the ends of the mercy seat." These cherubim, crafted from a single piece of gold, symbolize the presence of God and His divine protection over the Ark, underscoring the sacredness of the materials and the meticulous artistry involved. Symbolism and Significance Gold, in its purest form, symbolizes divinity, purity, and eternal value. The use of beaten gold in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings signifies the holiness and perfection of God's dwelling place among His people. The meticulous process of hammering gold into shape reflects the transformative power of divine craftsmanship, where raw material is shaped into objects of beauty and reverence. The beaten work of gold also serves as a reminder of the covenant between God and Israel. The Ark of the Covenant, adorned with gold cherubim, represents God's promise and His presence with His chosen people. The use of gold in this context is not merely decorative but serves a profound theological purpose, illustrating the glory and majesty of God. Artistic and Cultural Context In the ancient Near East, gold was a symbol of wealth and power, often used in the construction of temples and palaces. The Israelites, having been influenced by their time in Egypt, would have been familiar with the techniques of working with gold. The artisans, such as Bezalel and Oholiab, who were appointed to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle, were endowed with divine wisdom and skill to execute these intricate designs (Exodus 31:1-6). The tradition of using gold in religious art continued into the construction of Solomon's Temple, where gold was extensively used to overlay the inner sanctuary and its furnishings (1 Kings 6:20-22). This lavish use of gold not only demonstrated the wealth and prosperity of Israel under Solomon's reign but also reflected the splendor and holiness of the house of God. In summary, the use of gold in beaten work within the biblical narrative is a testament to the intersection of divine instruction, artistic skill, and theological symbolism. It underscores the importance of beauty and craftsmanship in worship, serving as a tangible expression of the divine presence and covenantal relationship between God and His people. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 9:15And king Solomon made two hundred targets of beaten gold: six hundred shekels of beaten gold went to one target. Nave's Topical Index Library A Memorial Sketch by John Watson (Ian Maclaren) George Buchanan, Scholar The Death of Cyrus. Chaldaean Civilization The Confessions of St. Augustin Index of Subjects Letter Xlviii. To Pammachius. Letter xxii. To Eustochium. Babylonia and Assyria Book 1. The Iranian Conquest Resources Will there literally be streets of gold in heaven? | GotQuestions.orgIs it possible for gold dust to come down during a church service? | GotQuestions.org Why did the Magi bring gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Gold: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gold used in the Arts in Ornamenting the Priests' Garments Gold used in the Arts: Apparel Gold used in the Arts: Beaten Work Gold used in the Arts: Bedsteads Made of Gold used in the Arts: Crowns Made of Gold used in the Arts: Into Ornaments Gold used in the Arts: Made Into Wire Threads and Worked Into Embroidered Tapestry Gold used in the Arts: Modeled Into Forms of Fruits Gold used in the Arts: Overlaying With Gold used in the Arts: Shields of Gold used in the Arts: The Lampstands Made of, for the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Mercy Seat and Cherubims Gold was Used for Overlaying Cherubims in Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Floor of Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying the Ark Gold was Used for Overlaying the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Overlaying the Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Throne of Solomon Gold was Used for Sacred Candlesticks Gold was Used for Sacred Utensils Gold: Abundance of, in Solomon's Reign Gold: Altar Lamps, and Other Articles Made of Gold: Jews Condemned for Multiplying Gold: Kings of Israel not to Multiply Gold: Liable to Canker and Rust Gold: Most Valuable when Pure and Fine Gold: Offerings of, for Tabernacle Gold: Offerings of, for Temple Gold: Priestly and Royal Garments Adorned With Gold: Refined and Tried by Fire Gold: Taken in War, Dedicated to God Gold: The Patriarchs Were Rich In Gold: Vessels and Utensils Made of, for the Tabernacle Related Terms |
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