Topical Bible: Chariots: Carriages for Travelling

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Topical Encyclopedia

Chariots in the biblical context are often depicted as vehicles of war, but they also served as carriages for travel and transportation. These wheeled vehicles were typically drawn by horses and were a symbol of power and prestige in ancient times. The use of chariots is mentioned throughout the Bible, highlighting their significance in both military and civilian life.

Historical Context and Construction

Chariots were a significant technological advancement in the ancient Near East, with their use dating back to the early second millennium BC. They were constructed primarily of wood, with wheels that were often reinforced with metal. The chariot's design allowed for speed and maneuverability, making it an effective tool for both warfare and travel.

Biblical References

In the Bible, chariots are frequently associated with the Egyptians, who were renowned for their chariotry. In Exodus 14:6-7, Pharaoh's pursuit of the Israelites is described: "So Pharaoh prepared his chariot and took his army with him. He took six hundred of the best chariots, along with all the other chariots of Egypt, with officers over all of them." This passage illustrates the military might and reliance on chariots by the Egyptians.

Chariots were also used by the Israelites, although initially, they were less prominent in Israelite warfare. King Solomon is noted for his accumulation of chariots, which signified his wealth and power. 1 Kings 10:26 states, "Solomon accumulated chariots and horses; he had fourteen hundred chariots and twelve thousand horses, which he stationed in the chariot cities and also with him in Jerusalem."

Symbolism and Prophetic Imagery

Chariots often symbolize strength and divine intervention in the Bible. In 2 Kings 2:11, the prophet Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind accompanied by "a chariot of fire and horses of fire," signifying God's power and presence. Similarly, in Psalm 68:17, the chariots of God are described as "tens of thousands and thousands of thousands," emphasizing the might and majesty of the divine.

Prophetic literature also uses chariots as symbols of judgment and deliverance. In Isaiah 66:15, the Lord's coming is depicted with chariots: "For behold, the LORD will come with fire—His chariots are like a whirlwind—to execute His anger with fury and His rebuke with flames of fire."

Chariots in Daily Life

Beyond their military use, chariots served as a means of transportation for the elite. They were used for travel, ceremonial purposes, and as a display of wealth and status. The account of Joseph in Genesis 41:43 illustrates this, as Pharaoh had Joseph ride in his second chariot as a sign of his authority: "He had Joseph ride in his second chariot, and men called out before him, 'Make way!' So he placed him over all the land of Egypt."

Conclusion

Chariots in the Bible are multifaceted, serving as instruments of war, symbols of divine power, and vehicles for travel and prestige. Their presence in biblical narratives underscores the cultural and historical importance of chariots in the ancient world.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 46:29
And Joseph made ready his chariot, and went up to meet Israel his father, to Goshen, and presented himself to him; and he fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Pilgrim's Progress
... he was to go some part of the way that I was travelling, methought I got ... came into
her mind, by swarms, all her unkind, unnatural, and ungodly carriages to her ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

The Holy War,
... there is no brass or steel,[5] no horses or wheeled chariots, no fire and ... Well may
the world wonder, how a poor travelling tinker could gain the extraordinary ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... Even the roads were no longer at all safe, because masters, turned out of their
carriages, ran humbly before their slaves sitting in the places of their masters ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm