Topical Bible: Seal: A Stamp Used for Signifying Documents: Deeds

◄ Seal: A Stamp Used for Signifying Documents: Deeds ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, seals were commonly used as a means of authenticating documents, including deeds, letters, and other important writings. A seal typically consisted of a stamp or engraved object, often made of stone, metal, or clay, which was pressed into soft clay or wax to leave an impression. This impression served as a signature or mark of authority, ensuring the document's authenticity and integrity.

Historical Context and Usage

Seals were an essential part of ancient Near Eastern culture and were used by individuals of various social standings, from kings and officials to merchants and private citizens. The use of seals is well-documented in archaeological findings, with numerous examples discovered in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant. These seals often bore intricate designs, including symbols, names, and titles, reflecting the identity and authority of the owner.

Biblical References

The Bible contains several references to the use of seals, highlighting their importance in legal and official matters. One notable example is found in the book of Jeremiah, where the prophet purchases a field and seals the deed as part of the transaction:

"Then I took the deed of purchase—the sealed copy with its terms and conditions, as well as the open copy—and I gave this deed to Baruch son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah, in the presence of my cousin Hanamel and of the witnesses who had signed the deed and of all the Jews sitting in the courtyard of the guard." (Jeremiah 32:11-12)

This passage illustrates the formal process of sealing a deed, which involved witnesses and the creation of both sealed and open copies of the document. The sealed copy served as a secure and unalterable record of the transaction.

Another significant mention of seals is found in the book of Esther, where King Xerxes uses his signet ring to seal official decrees:

"Write in the king’s name whatever pleases you concerning 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." (Esther 8:8)

Here, the seal of the king's signet ring signifies the irrevocable nature of the decree, underscoring the authority and finality associated with sealed documents.

Symbolic Significance

Beyond their practical use, seals also carry symbolic significance in the Bible. They often represent authority, ownership, and protection. In the Song of Solomon, the seal is used metaphorically to express love and commitment:

"Set me as a seal over your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. Its flames are fiery flames, the fiercest blaze of all." (Song of Solomon 8:6)

In this poetic context, the seal symbolizes an unbreakable bond and enduring devotion.

Conclusion

Seals in the Bible serve as a testament to the cultural and legal practices of the ancient world, reflecting the importance of authenticity and authority in human transactions. They also carry deeper symbolic meanings, illustrating themes of commitment, protection, and divine authority throughout Scripture.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 32:10
And I subscribed the evidence, and sealed it, and took witnesses, and weighed him the money in the balances.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Of the Sacraments.
... faith is truth in performing promises, they have used it for ... shall the Lord not be
able to stamp his creatures ... to circumcision, when he terms it a seal of the ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 14 of the sacraments.htm

The Theology of St. Hilary of Poitiers.
... but it bears less of the stamp of Hilary's ... the exact impression taken from a seal,
belongs to ... belief of Christendom regarding the powers normally used by Christ ...
/.../chapter ii the theology of st.htm