Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a metal of significant importance in biblical times, is first mentioned in the context of its use in the construction and crafting of tools and weapons. The earliest reference to iron in the Bible is found in Genesis 4:22, where it is associated with Tubal-Cain, a descendant of Cain. The verse states: "Zillah also gave birth to Tubal-Cain, a forger of every implement of bronze and iron. The sister of Tubal-Cain was Naamah" (Genesis 4:22). This passage highlights Tubal-Cain as a skilled craftsman, indicating the early development of metallurgy and the use of iron in human civilization.The use of iron in biblical times marked a significant technological advancement from the earlier reliance on stone and bronze. Iron's durability and strength made it a valuable resource for creating tools and weapons, which played a crucial role in the daily life and military endeavors of ancient peoples. The transition from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age is reflected in the biblical narrative, underscoring the evolving capabilities and sophistication of early societies. In Deuteronomy 3:11, iron is mentioned in the context of King Og of Bashan, whose bedstead is described as being made of iron: "For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of the Rephaim. Behold, his bedstead was a bedstead of iron. Is it not in Rabbah of the Ammonites? Nine cubits was its length, and four cubits its width, according to the standard cubit" (Deuteronomy 3:11). This reference not only illustrates the use of iron in significant objects but also serves to emphasize the might and stature of King Og. Iron's symbolic significance is also evident in the biblical text. It is often associated with strength and resilience, as seen in passages like Job 19:24, where Job wishes his words to be inscribed with "an iron stylus and lead, engraved in the rock forever" (Job 19:24). The imagery of iron here conveys permanence and indelibility, reflecting the enduring nature of the material. The use of iron in the construction of the Temple is another notable mention. In 1 Chronicles 22:3, David prepares materials for the building of the Temple, including iron: "David provided a large quantity of iron to make nails for the doors of the gateways and for the fittings, as well as more bronze than could be weighed" (1 Chronicles 22:3). This preparation underscores the importance of iron in sacred architecture and its role in the worship practices of Israel. Throughout the biblical narrative, iron serves as a symbol of strength, technological progress, and divine provision. Its first recorded use in the Bible, associated with Tubal-Cain, marks the beginning of a new era in human craftsmanship and ingenuity, setting the stage for its continued significance in the history and culture of the ancient Near East. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 8:9A land wherein you shall eat bread without scarceness, you shall not lack any thing in it; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills you may dig brass. Nave's Topical Index Job 28:2 Isaiah 60:17 Library That all Marvels are not of Nature's Production, but that Some are ... The Return of the Exiles The Power of Little Things. Palestine under Pagan Kings. The First Theban Empire Miracles of Healing Solicited by the Sufferers. An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... The Unjust Steward - Dives and Lazarus - Jewish Agricultural Notes ... Panegyric on the Splendor of Affairs. The Royal Marriage Feast. Resources What are some biblical examples of dream interpretation? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Tubal-Cain in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the Revived Roman Empire? | GotQuestions.org Iron: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iron of Greater Gravity than Water Iron of Severe Exercise of Power Iron of Small Comparative Value Iron used from the Earliest Age Iron: (Seared With) Insensibility of Conscience Iron: First Recorded Use of Ax Iron: First Recorded Use of Bedstead Iron: First Recorded Use of Breastplate Iron: First Recorded Use of Chariot Iron: First Recorded Use of Fetters Iron: First Recorded Use of File Iron: First Recorded Use of Furnace Iron: First Recorded Use of Gate Iron: First Recorded Use of Harrow Iron: First Recorded Use of Horn Iron: First Recorded Use of Idols Iron: First Recorded Use of Melted Iron: First Recorded Use of Ore of Iron: First Recorded Use of Pans Iron: First Recorded Use of Pen Iron: First Recorded Use of Pillars Iron: First Recorded Use of Rods for Scourging Iron: First Recorded Use of Stones of Iron: First Recorded Use of Threshing Instruments Iron: First Recorded Use of Tools Iron: First Recorded Use of Used in the Temple Iron: First Recorded Use of Vessels Iron: First Recorded Use of Weapons Iron: First Recorded Use of Yokes Iron: from the North Hardest and Best Iron: Great Quantity of, Provided for the Temple Iron: Made Into: Graving Tools Iron: Made Into: Implements for Husbandry Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges Iron: Made Into: Tools for Artificers Iron: Made Into: Weapons of War Iron: Miraculously Made to Swim Iron: Mode of Purifying, Taken in War Iron: Taken in War, often Dedicated to God Iron: The Land of Canaan Abounded With Related Terms |
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