Topical Bible: Copper Brass: Made Into: Lavers

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In the context of biblical history and religious practices, copper and its alloy, brass, hold significant importance, particularly in the construction of sacred objects used in the Tabernacle and the Temple. One of the notable uses of copper brass was in the making of lavers, which were large basins used for ceremonial washing by the priests.

Biblical References:

The use of copper brass in the construction of lavers is primarily documented in the Old Testament. In Exodus 30:18, God commands Moses to make a bronze basin, or laver, for washing: "You are to make a bronze basin for washing, with a bronze stand. Place it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it." . This laver was essential for the priests to cleanse themselves before performing their duties, symbolizing purification and readiness to serve in the presence of God.

Further elaboration on the construction and use of lavers is found in the account of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 7:23-26, the text describes the "Sea of cast metal," a large basin made by Hiram, a skilled craftsman from Tyre, under Solomon's direction. This massive laver was made of cast bronze and was used for the purification rituals of the priests: "He made the Sea of cast metal, circular in shape, measuring ten cubits from rim to rim and five cubits high. It took a line of thirty cubits to measure around it." .

Symbolism and Function:

The lavers, made from copper brass, served both a practical and symbolic function in Israelite worship. Practically, they provided the necessary means for the priests to wash their hands and feet, ensuring cleanliness before entering the holy spaces or performing sacrifices. Symbolically, the act of washing in the laver represented spiritual purification and the removal of sin, preparing the priests to approach God with a pure heart.

The choice of copper brass for these sacred objects is significant. Copper, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, symbolizes strength and endurance. The reflective quality of polished brass may also have served as a reminder of the need for self-examination and reflection before God.

Craftsmanship and Contribution:

The craftsmanship involved in creating these lavers was of the highest order, reflecting the importance of the objects in the religious life of Israel. The artisans, like Hiram, were chosen for their skill and expertise, ensuring that the lavers were not only functional but also beautiful and worthy of their sacred purpose.

The contribution of these lavers to the worship practices of ancient Israel underscores the meticulous care and reverence with which the Israelites approached their relationship with God. The use of copper brass in their construction highlights the blend of artistry and devotion that characterized the creation of sacred objects in biblical times.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 30:18
You shall also make a laver of brass, and his foot also of brass, to wash with: and you shall put it between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and you shall put water therein.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 7:38
Then made he ten lavers of brass: one laver contained forty baths: and every laver was four cubits: and on every one of the ten bases one laver.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... to supply the cedar wood, iron, copper, brass, tin, gold ... Therefore he not only made
a treaty with Hiram ... Hiram constructed of bright, burnished brass, an immense ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/hiram the inspired artificer.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... should be transposed, to bring the verse into harmony with ... whom were added a body
of charioteers made up of ... scale mail and the helmet of brass; their weapons ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm