In biblical times, seals were commonly used as a means of authenticating documents, decrees, and other important communications. These seals, often made of stone, metal, or clay, bore an engraved design or inscription that was pressed into soft material like clay or wax to leave an impression. This practice was a vital part of ancient Near Eastern culture and is frequently referenced in the Bible, symbolizing authority, authenticity, and ownership.

Biblical Instances of Seals in Decrees:

1. The Sealing of the Law: In the book of Nehemiah, the leaders of Israel, along with the priests and Levites, sealed a written covenant to follow God's law. Nehemiah 9:38 states, "In view of all this, we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing, and our leaders, our Levites, and our priests are affixing their seals to it." This act of sealing the covenant signified the people's commitment to adhere to the decrees of God.

2. The Decree of Darius: In the book of Daniel, King Darius issued a decree that was sealed with his own signet ring. Daniel 6:17 recounts, "A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that nothing could be changed regarding Daniel." The seal served as a mark of the king's authority and the irrevocability of the decree.

3. The Decree of Ahasuerus: In the book of Esther, King Ahasuerus issued a decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. Esther 8:8 records, "Now you may write in the king’s name as you please with regard to the Jews, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for a decree written in the name of the king and sealed with the king’s signet ring cannot be revoked." The use of the king's seal ensured the decree's authenticity and permanence.

4. The Sealing of the Tomb: In the New Testament, after Jesus' crucifixion, the chief priests and Pharisees requested that Pilate secure the tomb. Matthew 27:66 states, "So they went and secured the tomb by sealing the stone and posting the guard." The seal on the tomb was a Roman mark of authority, intended to prevent tampering and to signify the official nature of the action.

Symbolic Significance of Seals:

Seals in the Bible often carry a deeper symbolic meaning beyond their practical use. They represent the authority and sovereignty of the one who issues the decree. In a spiritual sense, seals can also signify God's ownership and protection over His people. For instance, in the book of Revelation, the sealing of the 144,000 (Revelation 7:3-4) symbolizes God's protection and claim over His faithful servants.

In summary, seals in biblical times were crucial for signifying the authenticity and authority of decrees and documents. They served as a powerful symbol of commitment, ownership, and the unchangeable nature of the decrees they authenticated.1 Kings 21:8
So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and sent the letters to the elders and to the nobles that were in his city, dwelling with Naboth.
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Esther 8:8
Write you also for the Jews, as it likes you, in the king's name, and seal it with the king's ring: for the writing which is written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no man reverse.
Nave's Topical Index

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