Topical Encyclopedia The term "plated" in the context of the Bible often refers to objects that are overlaid or covered with a thin layer of precious metal, such as gold or silver. This technique was commonly used in ancient craftsmanship to enhance the beauty and value of various items, including sacred objects used in worship and ceremonial practices.Biblical References: 1. The Tabernacle and Its Furnishings: The construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus, provides several instances of items being plated with gold. For example, the Ark of the Covenant was overlaid with pure gold both inside and out (Exodus 25:11). The use of gold plating signified the holiness and divine nature of the objects associated with God's presence. 2. The Altar of Incense: The Altar of Incense, another key element of the Tabernacle, was also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold (Exodus 30:3). This altar was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God, and its gold plating underscored its sacred purpose. 3. The Temple of Solomon: Solomon's Temple, a permanent structure that replaced the portable Tabernacle, featured extensive use of gold plating. The inner sanctuary, or the Most Holy Place, was overlaid with pure gold, including the altar and the cherubim (1 Kings 6:20-22). This lavish use of gold highlighted the glory and majesty of God, whom the Temple was built to honor. 4. Idolatrous Practices: In contrast to the sacred use of plating in the worship of Yahweh, the Bible also mentions the use of gold and silver plating in the context of idolatry. For instance, idols were often crafted from wood and then plated with precious metals to give them an appearance of worth and power (Isaiah 30:22). The prophets condemned such practices, emphasizing the futility of worshiping man-made objects. Symbolism and Significance: In the biblical narrative, the act of plating objects with gold or silver serves as a symbol of purity, value, and divine presence. The use of precious metals in the construction of sacred items reflects the Israelites' desire to honor God with the best of their resources. Gold, in particular, is associated with kingship and divinity, making it a fitting material for objects used in the worship of the Almighty. The contrast between the use of plating in the worship of God and in idolatrous practices underscores a recurring biblical theme: the distinction between true worship and false worship. While gold-plated objects in the Tabernacle and Temple were meant to draw the worshiper's heart toward God, idols plated with gold or silver were deceptive, leading people away from the truth. Cultural and Historical Context: The technique of plating, particularly with gold, was a common practice in the ancient Near East. It allowed artisans to create objects that appeared to be made entirely of precious metal, while conserving resources. This method was not only practical but also served to communicate wealth, power, and religious devotion. In summary, the concept of "plated" in the Bible is closely tied to the themes of worship, holiness, and the distinction between the sacred and the profane. Whether in the context of the Tabernacle, the Temple, or the denunciation of idols, plating serves as a powerful visual and symbolic element in the biblical narrative. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Plate.Strong's Hebrew 6858. tsepheth -- probably plated capital (of a pillar)... 6857, 6858. tsepheth. 6859 . probably plated capital (of a pillar). Transliteration: tsepheth Phonetic Spelling: (tseh'-feth) Short Definition: capital. ... /hebrew/6858.htm - 6k 642. aphuddah -- an ephod Library Letter to Veranus Thereafter He Appeared to Anna his Wife, Saying: Fear Not... Special Efforts On Shoes. The God of the Living. Behaviour in the Baths. For whom and with what Object Written. Substitution The Forgotten Preacher. Of Divine Wisdom. Thesaurus Plated (29 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Plated (29 Occurrences). Exodus 25:11 It is to be plated inside and out with the best gold, with an edge of gold all round it (BBE). ... /p/plated.htm - 14k Gold-plated (1 Occurrence) Rods (76 Occurrences) Plate (34 Occurrences) Bases (80 Occurrences) Winged (69 Occurrences) Designs (118 Occurrences) Ornamented (14 Occurrences) Edge (150 Occurrences) Width (58 Occurrences) Resources Should we have a Christmas tree? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Herod's temple? | GotQuestions.org Plated: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Plated (29 Occurrences)Exodus 25:11 Exodus 25:24 Exodus 25:28 Exodus 26:29 Exodus 26:32 Exodus 26:37 Exodus 27:6 Exodus 30:3 Exodus 36:34 Exodus 36:36 Exodus 37:4 Exodus 37:15 Exodus 37:26 Exodus 38:6 1 Kings 6:20 1 Kings 6:28 1 Kings 6:32 1 Kings 6:35 1 Kings 10:18 2 Kings 18:16 2 Chronicles 3:4 2 Chronicles 3:5 2 Chronicles 3:7 2 Chronicles 3:8 2 Chronicles 3:9 2 Chronicles 9:17 Proverbs 26:23 Isaiah 30:22 Habakkuk 2:19 Subtopics Related Terms |