Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a significant metal in biblical times, is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures. Its use in tools and weapons marks a pivotal development in ancient technology and society. The Bible provides insights into the early use of iron, reflecting its importance in the daily life and warfare of ancient civilizations.The first explicit mention of iron in the Bible is found in Genesis 4:22, which states, "Zillah also gave birth to Tubal-Cain, a forger of every implement of bronze and iron." . Tubal-Cain, a descendant of Cain, is noted as a skilled craftsman, indicating that the knowledge and use of iron tools were present from the early generations of humanity. This passage highlights the role of iron in the advancement of human industry and craftsmanship. Iron's significance is further underscored in the context of warfare. In 1 Samuel 13:19-22, the Philistines' control over iron technology is described: "Now there was no blacksmith to be found throughout all the land of Israel, because the Philistines had said, 'Otherwise the Hebrews will make swords or spears.' So all Israel went down to the Philistines, each to sharpen his plowshare, his mattock, his axe, or his sickle." . This passage illustrates the strategic advantage held by the Philistines due to their monopoly on ironworking, which they used to suppress the Israelites by limiting their access to iron weapons. The use of iron tools and weapons is also evident in the construction and fortification of cities. In Deuteronomy 3:11, the bedstead of Og, king of Bashan, 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 breadth, according to the common cubit." . This reference to iron in the context of a royal artifact suggests its value and durability, suitable for significant and lasting constructions. Iron's role in biblical times extends beyond tools and weapons to symbolize strength and resilience. In Job 28:2, the process of extracting iron from the earth is mentioned: "Iron is taken from the earth, and copper is smelted from ore." . This verse reflects the labor-intensive process of mining and refining iron, underscoring its value and the effort required to obtain it. The biblical narrative also uses iron metaphorically to convey strength and judgment. In Psalm 2:9, the Messiah is prophesied to rule with a rod of iron: "You will break them with an iron scepter; You will shatter them like pottery." . This imagery emphasizes the authority and power associated with iron, portraying it as a symbol of divine strength and justice. Throughout the Bible, iron is depicted as a crucial element in the development of human civilization, warfare, and industry. Its presence in the biblical text reflects its historical and cultural significance, illustrating the technological advancements and societal changes brought about by its use. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 6:7And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready before it was brought thither: so that there was neither hammer nor ax nor any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building. Nave's Topical Index Library Acts xvi. 13, 14 The First Apology of Justin, the Martyr The First Theban Empire Preliminary A Sermon to Open Neglecters and Nominal Followers of Religion A Traveler's Note-Book Concerning Worship. Solomon's Temple Spiritualized The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The Memphite Empire Resources What does it mean that iron sharpens iron? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the symbolism in Amos, e.g., sledges with iron teeth (Amos 1:3), murdered pregnant women (Amos 1:13), burning bones (Amos 2:1), destroyed roots (Amos 2:9), and hooks (Amos 4:2)? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 2? | 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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