In biblical times, warfare was a common aspect of life, and various weapons and defensive tools were employed by soldiers, including spearmen. The term "target" in the context of spearmen refers to a type of shield or protective gear used to defend against enemy attacks, particularly those involving projectiles or close combat weapons like spears.

Biblical References:

The Bible provides several references to shields and protective gear used by warriors, though the specific term "target" as used in some translations may not always appear in the Berean Standard Bible. However, the concept of a shield or protective device is prevalent throughout the Scriptures.

In 1 Samuel 17:7, the description of Goliath's armor includes a shield-bearer who went before him, indicating the importance of protective gear in battle: "The shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s beam, and the iron point of his spear weighed six hundred shekels. In addition, his shield-bearer went before him."

The use of shields is also mentioned in 2 Chronicles 14:8, where King Asa's army is described: "Asa had an army of three hundred thousand men from Judah, bearing large shields and spears, and two hundred eighty thousand men from Benjamin, bearing regular shields and drawing bows. All these were mighty men of valor."

Historical and Cultural Context:

In ancient Near Eastern warfare, shields were an essential part of a soldier's equipment. They were typically made from wood, leather, or metal and varied in size and shape. The primary purpose of a shield was to protect the warrior from incoming attacks, whether from arrows, spears, or swords. Shields could be round, oval, or rectangular and were often carried by foot soldiers and spearmen.

The role of the spearman was crucial in ancient military formations. Spearmen were often positioned in the front lines, using their long spears to keep the enemy at bay while being protected by their shields. The combination of spear and shield allowed for both offensive and defensive maneuvers, making spearmen a versatile and formidable force on the battlefield.

Symbolic Significance:

In the Bible, shields often carry symbolic meanings beyond their practical use in warfare. They are frequently used metaphorically to describe God's protection and strength. For instance, in Psalm 18:2, David declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."

This metaphorical use underscores the belief in God's providence and protection over His people, likening His care to the defensive security provided by a shield in battle.

Conclusion:

The concept of a target or shield used by spearmen in biblical times highlights the importance of protection and defense in ancient warfare. It also serves as a powerful metaphor for divine protection, illustrating the enduring theme of God's safeguarding presence in the lives of believers.2 Chronicles 14:8
And Asa had an army of men that bore targets and spears, out of Judah three hundred thousand; and out of Benjamin, that bore shields and drew bows, two hundred and fourscore thousand: all these were mighty men of valor.
Nave's Topical Index

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... Both spearmen and archers were for the most part pure ... as couriers or aides-de-camp;
they used neither saddle ... exercises, fencing, and shooting at a target; the war ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

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