Topical Bible: Table: An Article of Furniture: Made of Silver

◄ Table: An Article of Furniture: Made of Silver ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, tables were essential articles of furniture used for various purposes, including dining, offerings, and ceremonial functions. While wood was the most common material for constructing tables, the Bible also makes mention of tables made from more precious materials, such as silver, which signified wealth, status, and divine service.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The use of silver in the construction of tables is not explicitly detailed in the Bible; however, silver as a material holds significant symbolic meaning throughout Scripture. Silver often represents purity, redemption, and divine refinement. In the context of furniture, a table made of silver would likely symbolize a place of honor and sanctity, suitable for offerings or sacred gatherings.

Temple and Tabernacle Context

In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, precious metals, including silver, were extensively used. While the Bible does not specifically mention tables made of silver in these holy places, the use of silver in sacred contexts is well-documented. For instance, silver sockets were used in the Tabernacle's construction (Exodus 26:19), and silver trumpets were crafted for calling the congregation (Numbers 10:2).

The presence of silver in the Tabernacle and Temple underscores its importance in worship and its association with holiness and divine presence. A table made of silver, though not explicitly mentioned, would align with the use of precious materials in these sacred spaces.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, tables were often used in religious rituals and as symbols of hospitality and fellowship. A table made of silver would have been a luxurious item, likely reserved for the wealthy or for use in royal or religious settings. Such a table would serve not only a functional purpose but also a symbolic one, representing the host's status and the sacredness of the gathering.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, a silver table could be seen as a metaphor for the purity and refinement required in worship and service to God. Just as silver is refined to remove impurities, believers are called to live lives of holiness and dedication. The imagery of a silver table can remind Christians of the sanctity of communion with God and the importance of approaching Him with a pure heart.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide explicit examples of tables made of silver, the symbolic use of silver throughout Scripture offers insight into the potential significance of such an item. In a biblical context, a silver table would represent purity, honor, and divine service, aligning with the broader themes of redemption and holiness found throughout the Word of God.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 28:16
And by weight he gave gold for the tables of show bread, for every table; and likewise silver for the tables of silver:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Great Furnace for a Great Soul
... two cups of wine are placed on the table, and she ... was able to steal so cunningly
every article of value ... for the family was gambled away, furniture and clothes ...
/.../cable/the fulfilment of a dream of pastor hsis/chapter xi the great furnace.htm

The Close of the Theban Empire
... irruption of the Phrygians into the high table-land which ... falling on the neck behind,
an article of apparel ... to be content with old-fashioned furniture of the ...
/.../chapter iiithe close of the.htm

Letter xxii. To Eustochium.
... If he sees a pillow that takes his fancy or an elegant table-cover"or indeed any
article of household furniture"he praises it, looks admiringly at it ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xxii to eustochium.htm

A Peal of Bells
... stables." The words must then mean""The furniture of the ... holiness was written, so
in every article that shall be ... you must not think that the table, and the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/a peal of bells.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... staff of servants required for supplying the table exceeded all ... the State, I believe
reference to be made to a ... were deposited as much of each article of food ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

Imperial Tombs.
... he tore up the letters, upset the table, dashed upon ... beginning of the present century,
every article has disappeared. ... of this rich piece of furniture must have ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter iv imperial tombs.htm

Answers to Prayer
... of a colored boy to carry the furniture; put up ... questions, but sat down to the dinner
table and turned ... I needed a certain article of clothing, and one night ...
//christianbookshelf.org/various/the wonders of prayer/answers to prayer.htm

The Memphite Empire
... in a neighbouring hole the funerary furniture, flint implements ... time terminated in
a bare wind-swept table-land. ... mystic virtue of numbers was an article of faith ...
/.../chapter iithe memphite empire.htm

Philippians i. 11-Aug
... Was not your table once deluged with wine? ... Is it because your vessels, your couches,
your furniture are not formed of silver? ... and article Manichees in indices. ...
/.../homily ii philippians i 11-aug.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... a clerk with us would have his table or desk ... a house in the town, a trousseau, furniture,
slaves, or ... a second wife during her lifetime; a special article of the ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm