Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, arrows often symbolize the attacks and schemes of the wicked, representing both physical and spiritual threats. The imagery of arrows is used throughout Scripture to convey the danger and harm that the wicked can inflict upon the righteous. This entry explores the metaphorical use of arrows in the Bible, particularly as they relate to the devices of the wicked.Biblical References 1. Psalm 11:2 · "For behold, the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrow on the string to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart." This verse illustrates the covert and malicious intent of the wicked, who prepare their attacks in secret, aiming to harm those who are righteous and upright. 2. Psalm 64:3-4 · "who sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows, ambushing the innocent in seclusion, shooting suddenly, without fear." Here, arrows symbolize the destructive power of words. The wicked use deceit and slander as weapons, launching verbal attacks that can wound as deeply as physical arrows. 3. Proverbs 25:18 · "Like a club or sword or sharp arrow is a man who bears false witness against his neighbor." This proverb equates false testimony with a sharp arrow, emphasizing the severe damage that lies and deceit can cause to individuals and communities. 4. Ephesians 6:16 · "In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." In the New Testament, Paul uses the imagery of flaming arrows to describe the spiritual attacks from the devil. The shield of faith is presented as the defense against these fiery darts, highlighting the importance of faith in spiritual warfare. Symbolism and Interpretation Arrows, in the context of the devices of the wicked, symbolize the various forms of attack that the unrighteous employ against the faithful. These can be direct physical threats, as well as more insidious forms of harm such as lies, slander, and spiritual temptations. The use of arrows as a metaphor underscores the precision and intent behind these attacks, as well as their potential to cause significant harm. The Bible consistently portrays the wicked as those who plot and scheme against the righteous, often using deceit and treachery as their weapons. The imagery of arrows serves to remind believers of the reality of these threats and the need for vigilance and reliance on God's protection. Defense Against the Arrows Scripture provides guidance on how to defend against the arrows of the wicked. The Psalms frequently call upon God as a refuge and shield, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine protection. In Ephesians 6, the armor of God is described as essential for withstanding the attacks of the evil one, with faith being particularly highlighted as a means to extinguish the fiery arrows. The righteous are encouraged to trust in God's justice and deliverance, as seen in Psalm 7:13, where God is depicted as preparing His own arrows against the wicked: "He has prepared His deadly weapons; He ordains His arrows against the pursuers." This assurance of divine retribution serves as a comfort to those who are targeted by the schemes of the wicked. In summary, the arrows of the devices of the wicked represent the various forms of attack that the unrighteous use against the faithful. Through faith, reliance on God's protection, and adherence to His word, believers are equipped to withstand these assaults and remain steadfast in their righteousness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 11:2For, see, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow on the string, that they may privately shoot at the upright in heart. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... Psalm CXL. Blessing and Cursing Letter cxlvii. To Sabinianus. Moses --Making Haste The Fourth Season, Trinidad Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness ... The Worst Things Work for Good to the Godly After Eutropius Having Been Found Outside the Church had Been ... Resources What is the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the relationship between David and Jonathan? | GotQuestions.org What is the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14)? | 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 |