Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, arrows are frequently used as symbols of God's judgment, divine retribution, and the swift execution of His will. The imagery of arrows being "bright and polished" conveys a sense of readiness, precision, and effectiveness in fulfilling their intended purpose. This entry explores the significance of arrows in the Bible, particularly focusing on their description as bright and polished.Symbolism and Usage Arrows in the Bible often symbolize the instruments of God's judgment and the means by which He enacts His justice. They are depicted as tools of warfare, both in the physical and spiritual realms. The brightness and polish of arrows suggest their preparedness and the certainty of their impact. Biblical References 1. Divine Judgment and Warfare: In the context of divine judgment, arrows are portrayed as instruments of God's wrath against the wicked. In Habakkuk 3:11, the prophet describes a vision of God's power: "Sun and moon stood still in their places at the flash of Your flying arrows, at the brightness of Your shining spear." Here, the brightness of the arrows underscores their divine origin and the fearsome nature of God's intervention. 2. Precision and Readiness: The polished nature of arrows indicates their readiness for use. In Isaiah 49:2, the Servant of the Lord is described metaphorically: "He made My mouth like a sharp sword; He hid Me in the shadow of His hand. He made Me into a polished arrow; He concealed Me in His quiver." This passage highlights the preparation and precision with which God equips His chosen instruments for their mission. 3. Protection and Deliverance: While arrows are often associated with judgment, they can also symbolize protection and deliverance for God's people. In Psalm 91:5, the psalmist assures the faithful: "You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day." The polished arrow, in this context, represents the threats from which God shields His followers. Theological Implications The imagery of bright and polished arrows serves to remind believers of God's sovereignty and His active role in the world. It emphasizes the certainty of His plans and the inevitability of His justice. The polished arrow, ready and effective, reflects the divine precision with which God executes His will, whether in judgment or deliverance. Conclusion The biblical portrayal of arrows as bright and polished offers a vivid illustration of God's power and purpose. Through this imagery, Scripture communicates the readiness and effectiveness of divine action, whether in judgment against the wicked or in protection and deliverance for the righteous. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 49:2And he has made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand has he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver has he hid me; Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 51:11 Library Under his Shadow. A Pair of Friends Striking Similes Death and Life in Christ Under Ban of the Ritual Our Manifesto The Sunday-School Teacher --A Steward The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty The Close of the Theban Empire Resources What does the Bible say about deliverance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of shigionoth in Habakkuk? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Arrows of Devices of the Wicked Arrows: (Broken), of Destruction of Power Arrows: (Falling from the Hand), of the Paralysing Power Arrows: Deadly and Destructive Weapons Arrows: Discharged with Great Force Arrows: Discharged: Against Enemies Arrows: Discharged: At a Mark for Amusement Arrows: Discharged: At the Beasts of the Earth Arrows: Discharged: from a Bow Arrows: Discharged: from Engines Arrows: Fleetness of, Alluded To Arrows: The Ancients Divined By Related Terms |
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