Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, silver was a highly valued metal, often used for crafting various items, including cups. The use of silver cups is mentioned in several instances throughout the Scriptures, highlighting their significance in both practical and symbolic contexts.One of the most notable references to a silver cup is found in the account of Joseph in the Book of Genesis. Joseph, who had risen to a position of power in Egypt, used a silver cup as part of a test for his brothers. In Genesis 44:2, Joseph instructs his steward, "Put my cup, the silver one, in the mouth of the youngest one's sack, along with the silver for his grain." This cup becomes a pivotal element in the narrative, as it is later discovered in Benjamin's sack, leading to a dramatic confrontation between Joseph and his brothers. The silver cup here serves as a tool for reconciliation and revelation, ultimately bringing Joseph's family back together. Silver cups were not only used in personal and familial contexts but also held ceremonial importance. In the context of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, silver was one of the precious metals used for various sacred vessels and utensils. While specific references to silver cups in the context of temple worship are not detailed, the use of silver in sacred settings underscores its value and purity, qualities that were esteemed in worship practices. The use of silver cups can also be seen as a reflection of wealth and status. In the ancient Near East, owning items made of silver was a sign of prosperity. This is evident in the broader biblical narrative, where silver is frequently mentioned alongside gold as a measure of wealth and divine blessing. For instance, in 1 Kings 10:21, it is noted that "all King Solomon’s drinking vessels were of gold, and all the vessels of the House of the Forest of Lebanon were of pure gold. None were of silver, because silver was considered worthless in the days of Solomon." This hyperbolic statement emphasizes the abundance and opulence of Solomon's reign, where even silver, a valuable metal, was deemed of lesser worth compared to gold. In summary, silver cups in the Bible are emblematic of both practical utility and deeper symbolic meanings. They appear in narratives that highlight themes of reconciliation, divine providence, and the social status of individuals. The presence of silver cups in biblical accounts reflects the broader cultural and religious significance of silver as a precious metal in ancient times. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 44:2And put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of the youngest, and his corn money. And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken. Nave's Topical Index Library On Costly Vessels. No Gods which are Made with Hands. How Solomon Grew Rich, and Fell Desperately in Love with Women and ... Concerning John of Gichala. Josephus Uses Stratagems against the ... Hyrcanus Receives the High Priesthood, and Ejects Ptolemy Out of ... How Cyrus, King of the Persians, Delivered the Jews Out Of Of the Building of this Temple How Amon Reigned Instead of Manasseh; and after Amon Reigned ... Antipater is Convicted by Bathyllus; but He Still Returns from ... Esther, the Queen. Resources What is the significance of thirty pieces of silver? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the Christian themes in The Silver Chair? | GotQuestions.org Is Zechariah 11:12-13 a Messianic prophecy? | GotQuestions.org Silver: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Silver for Ornamentation of, and in the Manufacture of, the Utensils for the Tabernacle Silver of Saints Purified by Affliction Silver of the Medo-Persian Kingdom Silver of the Tongue of the Just Silver of the Words of the Lord Silver used As Money from the Earliest Times Silver: (Dross of) of the Wicked Silver: (Labour of Seeking For) of Diligence Required For Silver: (Reprobate) the Wicked Silver: Baskets (Rv), or Filigree (Margin, RV) Silver: Generally Found in an Impure State Silver: Given by David and his Subjects for Making the Temple Silver: Given by the Israelite for Making the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Beds or Couches Silver: Made Into: Candlesticks Silver: Made Into: Ornaments and Hooks for the Pillars of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Ornaments for the Person Silver: Made Into: Sockets for the Boards of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Thin Plates Silver: Made Into: Wires (Alluded To) Silver: Often Given As Presents Silver: Purified, Called: Choice Silver Silver: Purified, Called: Refined Silver Silver: Taken in War often Consecrated to God Silver: Taken in War Purified by Fire Silver: Tarshish Carried on Extensive Commerce In Silver: The Patriarchs Rich In Silver: The Working In, a Trade Silver: Veins of, Found in the Earth Silver: Very Abundant in the Reign of Solomon Silver: Wisdom to be Esteemed More Than Related Terms |