Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a metal of significant importance in biblical times, is mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures. Its use in various forms, including tools, weapons, and vessels, highlights its value and utility in ancient societies. The first recorded use of iron vessels in the Bible is found in the context of the Israelites' interactions with neighboring cultures and their own development as a nation.The earliest explicit mention of iron in the Bible is in Genesis 4:22, where Tubal-cain is described as "a forger of every implement of bronze and iron." This indicates that the knowledge and use of iron were present from the early generations of humanity. However, the specific use of iron for vessels is not detailed until later in the biblical narrative. In the period of the Judges and the early monarchy, iron became increasingly prominent. The Philistines, known for their advanced metallurgy, had a significant influence on the Israelites' access to iron. 1 Samuel 13:19-22 describes a time when "there was no blacksmith to be found throughout all the land of Israel, for the Philistines said, 'Otherwise the Hebrews will make swords or spears.'" This passage underscores the strategic control the Philistines exerted over iron technology, which included not only weapons but likely extended to other iron implements and vessels. The use of iron vessels is implied in the broader context of iron's utility. In 1 Kings 6:7, during the construction of Solomon's Temple, it is noted that "the house, while it was being built, was made of stone prepared at the quarry, and no hammer or chisel or any iron tool was heard in the house while it was being built." This suggests that iron tools and possibly vessels for carrying and mixing materials were essential in large construction projects. Furthermore, the prophetic literature often uses iron as a symbol of strength and durability, which can be extrapolated to its use in vessels. For instance, in Ezekiel 4:3, the prophet is instructed to take an iron plate and set it as a wall between himself and the city, symbolizing an impenetrable barrier. This metaphorical use of iron underscores its practical applications, including the crafting of durable vessels. Iron's significance is also highlighted in the context of divine judgment and strength. In Deuteronomy 28:23, as part of the curses for disobedience, it is said, "The sky over your head will be bronze, and the earth beneath you iron." This imagery conveys the harshness and unyielding nature of iron, reflecting its physical properties and its use in everyday life, including vessels that would withstand the rigors of daily use. In summary, while the Bible does not provide a detailed account of the first use of iron vessels, the historical and cultural context, along with the symbolic references to iron, suggest that iron vessels were an integral part of ancient life. The control and use of iron technology, as seen in the interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors, underscore its importance in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 6:24And they burnt the city with fire, and all that was therein: only the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, they put into the treasury of the house of the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Library The Return of the Exiles Palestine under Pagan Kings. The First Apology of Justin, the Martyr The First Theban Empire The Potter and the Clay An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Paul a Pattern of Prayer The Ten virgins. The Last King of Judah The Divine Word Resources What is the story of Deborah and Barak? | GotQuestions.orgFriendship ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is an ox goad / oxgoad in the Bible? | 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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