Topical Bible: Copper Brass: Characterised by Strength

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Copper and its alloy, brass, hold significant places in the biblical narrative, symbolizing strength, durability, and divine craftsmanship. These metals are mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures, often in contexts that highlight their robust and enduring nature.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. Construction of Sacred Objects: Copper and brass were integral in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, underscoring their importance in sacred architecture. In Exodus 27:1-2 , God commands Moses to construct the altar of burnt offering using acacia wood overlaid with bronze (a term often used interchangeably with brass in biblical translations). This altar, a central element of worship, signifies the strength and resilience required for the atonement of sins.

2. The Bronze Serpent: In Numbers 21:9 , Moses crafts a bronze serpent and mounts it on a pole, providing a means of healing for the Israelites bitten by venomous snakes. This act not only demonstrates the physical strength of the metal but also its symbolic power as an instrument of divine salvation and protection.

3. Solomon's Temple: The grandeur of Solomon's Temple is accentuated by the extensive use of bronze. In 1 Kings 7:15-16 , the two pillars named Jachin and Boaz, cast in bronze, stand at the entrance of the Temple, representing stability and strength. The use of bronze in these pillars highlights the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people.

4. Prophetic Imagery: The prophets often use copper and brass metaphorically to convey messages of strength and judgment. In Ezekiel 1:7 , the prophet describes the feet of the living creatures as "gleaming like polished bronze," symbolizing the steadfastness and divine authority of God's messengers.

5. Armor and Warfare: Copper and brass are also associated with warfare and protection. In 1 Samuel 17:5-6 , Goliath's armor is described as being made of bronze, emphasizing his formidable strength and the challenge he posed to the Israelites. This imagery serves to highlight the might of human strength in contrast to the spiritual strength embodied by David, who ultimately defeats Goliath with faith and divine assistance.

Theological Implications

The use of copper and brass in the Bible extends beyond their physical properties to embody spiritual truths. These metals, characterized by their strength and resilience, serve as reminders of God's enduring power and the steadfastness required of His followers. They are employed in contexts that emphasize divine protection, judgment, and the permanence of God's promises.

In the biblical worldview, the strength of copper and brass is not merely a physical attribute but a reflection of the spiritual fortitude that believers are called to embody. As materials that withstand the test of time, they symbolize the eternal nature of God's word and the unwavering faith expected of His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 40:18
His bones are as strong pieces of brass; his bones are like bars of iron.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... features are not so marked, and are characterised by greater ... on each leg eighteen
rings of solid brass as thick ... the finger, and three rings of copper above the ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... coat of scale mail and the helmet of brass; their weapons ... a great reputation among
them for his bravery and bodily strength. ... He is thus characterised in the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm