Copper, often referred to in biblical texts as brass or bronze, is a metal of significant importance in the ancient world, including the biblical narrative. It was widely used for various purposes, including the crafting of fetters, which are chains or shackles used to bind prisoners.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 3:34 : "Your hands were not bound, nor your feet put in fetters of bronze. As one falls before the wicked, you have fallen." This verse highlights the use of bronze fetters as a metaphor for captivity and restraint, contrasting the freedom of the innocent with the binding of the guilty.

2. 2 Kings 25:7 : "Then they put out the eyes of Zedekiah, bound him with bronze shackles, and took him to Babylon." This passage recounts the tragic fate of King Zedekiah, who was captured by the Babylonians. The use of bronze shackles signifies the severity of his captivity and the humiliation of being led away in chains.

3. Judges 16:21 : "Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes, and took him down to Gaza, binding him with bronze shackles. He was forced to grind grain in the prison." This verse describes the capture of Samson by the Philistines. The use of bronze fetters here underscores the complete subjugation and humiliation of Samson, once a mighty judge of Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near East, copper and its alloys, such as bronze, were highly valued for their durability and strength. The process of alloying copper with tin to create bronze made it a preferred material for tools, weapons, and restraints. The use of bronze for fetters indicates the intent to securely bind individuals, preventing escape and ensuring control over captives.

The biblical use of bronze fetters often symbolizes the consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God. Captivity and bondage are recurring themes in the Bible, serving as both literal and metaphorical representations of the spiritual state of those who turn away from divine commandments.

Symbolism and Theological Implications:

In a theological context, the imagery of fetters made of copper or bronze can be seen as a representation of the bondage of sin. Just as physical fetters restrict movement and freedom, sin binds individuals, preventing them from living in the fullness of God's grace. The breaking of such fetters, therefore, symbolizes liberation and redemption, themes central to the Christian message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

The use of copper and bronze in the construction of fetters also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over nations and rulers. Despite the strength and durability of these materials, they are ultimately subject to God's will, as seen in the eventual liberation of His people from physical and spiritual captivity.Judges 16:21
But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in the prison house.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 25:7
And they slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and put out the eyes of Zedekiah, and bound him with fetters of brass, and carried him to Babylon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Absurdity and Impiety of the Heathen Mysteries and Fables ...
... caldron, or the Cirrh??an tripod, or the Dodonian copper. ... another, taking an image
of Hercules made of wood ... practiced the art of working in brass, maimed in ...
/.../clement/exhortation to the heathen/chapter ii the absurdity and impiety.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... The mountains contained copper, iron, lead, some gold ... in pursuit of the Cimmerians,
made their appearance ... themselves through the Caspian Gates into the basin ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... You would never think of attributing to me the opinion that all things are eventually
to be restored to one condition, and to be made up again into one body. ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /

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