Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, rings were significant both as personal adornments and as symbols of authority and covenant. They are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, reflecting their multifaceted role in ancient Near Eastern culture.Symbol of Authority and Power Rings often symbolized authority and power, particularly signet rings, which were used to seal documents and decrees. In Genesis 41:42, Pharaoh gives Joseph his signet ring, signifying Joseph's new position of authority over Egypt: "Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his finger, put it on Joseph’s finger, clothed him in garments of fine linen, and placed a gold chain around his neck" . This act of giving a ring was a transfer of power and trust, indicating Joseph's elevated status. Similarly, in the book of Esther, King Xerxes gives his signet ring to Haman and later to Mordecai, allowing them to issue decrees in the king's name (Esther 3:10, 8:2). The ring served as a tangible representation of the king's authority, enabling the holder to act with the king's power. Covenant and Commitment Rings also symbolize covenant and commitment. In the parable of the prodigal son, the father places a ring on his returning son's finger as a sign of restoration and acceptance back into the family (Luke 15:22). This gesture signifies the son's reinstatement and the father's unconditional love and forgiveness. Adornment and Wealth Rings were also worn as ornaments, indicating wealth and status. In the Song of Solomon, the beloved is described with imagery that includes jewelry, suggesting beauty and value (Song of Solomon 1:10-11). In James 2:2, the presence of a man wearing a gold ring in the assembly is used to illustrate partiality based on outward appearances: "Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in" . Idolatry and Pagan Practices In some instances, rings are associated with idolatry and pagan practices. The Israelites, while in the wilderness, used their gold earrings to create the golden calf, an act of rebellion against God (Exodus 32:2-4). This incident highlights how jewelry, including rings, could be misused in the context of idol worship. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, rings were crafted from various materials, including gold, silver, and bronze. They were often engraved with symbols or inscriptions, serving both decorative and functional purposes. The use of rings as signets was widespread, and they were considered valuable possessions. Spiritual Lessons The biblical references to rings offer spiritual lessons about authority, identity, and the dangers of materialism. They remind believers of the importance of using power responsibly, the value of being restored to God's family, and the need to guard against the allure of wealth and status. Overall, rings in the Bible are rich in symbolism, reflecting themes of authority, covenant, and the human tendency to misuse God's gifts. ATS Bible Dictionary RingsOrnaments for the ears, nose, legs, arms, or fingers. The antiquity of rings appears from Scripture and from profane authors. Judah left his ring with Tamar, Genesis 1:1-50:26 38:18. When Pharaoh committed the government of Egypt to Joseph, he gave him his ring from his finger, Genesis 41:42. After the victory of the Israelites over the Midianites, they offered to the Lord the rings, the bracelets, and the golden necklaces taken from the enemy. Numbers 31:50. The Israelitish women wore rings, not only on their fingers, but also in their nostrils and their ears, and on their ankles. See BRACELETS. James distinguishes a man of wealth and dignity by the ring of gold on his finger, James 2:2. At the return of the prodigal son, his father ordered a handsome apparel for his dress, and that a ring should be put on his finger, Luke 15:22. The ring was used chiefly as a signet to seal with, and Scripture generally assigns it to princes and great persons; as the king of Egypt, Joseph, Ahaz, Jezebel, king Ahasuerus, his favorite Haman, Mordecai, king Darius, etc., 1 Kings 21:8 Esther 3:10 Jeremiah 22:24 Daniel 6:17. The patents and orders of these princes were sealed with their rings or signets, an impression from which was their confirmation. See SEAL, SEALING. Strong's Hebrew 2836b. chashaq -- to furnish with fillets or rings... 2836a, 2836b. chashaq. 2837 . to furnish with fillets or rings. Transliteration: chashaq Short Definition: bands. Word Origin denominative ... /hebrew/2836b.htm - 5k 2885. tabbaath -- signet ring, ring, signet 5141. nezem -- a ring (worn as an ornament) 1551. galil -- a cylinder, rod, circuit, district, also a district ... 2884. Tabbaoth -- an Israelite 5824. izqah -- a signet ring Library The Altar. The Rings. The Laver. Hark! How all the Welkin Rings How Intent the Ruler Ought to be on Meditations in the Sacred Law. Concerning the Garments of the Priests, and of the High Priest. Psalm 51 Gideon's Brave Band Among the People, and with the Pharisees High Priest A Compendious view of the Christian Life. Concerning the Tabernacle which Moses Built in the Wilderness for ... Thesaurus Rings (46 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Rings (46 Occurrences). ... Exodus 25:12 You shall cast four rings of gold for it, and put them in its four feet. ... /r/rings.htm - 20k Ear-rings (12 Occurrences) Nose-rings (5 Occurrences) Finger-rings (3 Occurrences) Signet-rings (2 Occurrences) Arm-rings (1 Occurrence) Foot-rings (1 Occurrence) Breastpiece (21 Occurrences) Breast-plate (22 Occurrences) Corners (56 Occurrences) Resources What are the Christian themes in “The Lord of the Rings”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about nose rings / getting a nose ring? | GotQuestions.org Should married Christians wear wedding rings? | GotQuestions.org Rings: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Rings (46 Occurrences)James 2:2 Genesis 35:4 Exodus 25:12 Exodus 25:14 Exodus 25:15 Exodus 25:26 Exodus 25:27 Exodus 26:28 Exodus 26:29 Exodus 27:4 Exodus 27:7 Exodus 28:23 Exodus 28:24 Exodus 28:26 Exodus 28:27 Exodus 28:28 Exodus 30:4 Exodus 32:2 Exodus 32:3 Exodus 35:22 Exodus 36:33 Exodus 36:34 Exodus 37:3 Exodus 37:5 Exodus 37:13 Exodus 37:14 Exodus 37:27 Exodus 38:5 Exodus 38:7 Exodus 39:16 Exodus 39:17 Exodus 39:19 Exodus 39:20 Exodus 39:21 Numbers 31:50 Judges 8:24 Judges 8:26 Esther 1:6 Song of Songs 1:10 Song of Songs 5:14 Isaiah 3:21 Ezekiel 1:18 Ezekiel 16:12 Daniel 6:17 Hosea 2:13 Hosea 10:10 Subtopics Rings of Kings used for Sealing Decrees Rings of Kings: Given to Favourites As a Mark of Honor Rings: (Put on the Hands) Favour Rings: Made of Gold and Set With Precious Stones Rings: Numbers of, Taken from Midianites Rings: Rich Men Distinguished By Rings: Women of Rank Adorned With Related Terms Neck-ornaments (2 Occurrences) |
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