Topical Encyclopedia Gold, a precious metal of great value, is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing wealth, purity, and divine glory. Its significance is evident from the earliest biblical narratives to the prophetic visions of the New Testament.Biblical References and Symbolism Gold is first mentioned in Genesis 2:11-12, where the land of Havilah is described as having good gold. This early reference sets the stage for gold's enduring association with abundance and prosperity. Throughout the Old Testament, gold is a symbol of wealth and status. For instance, Abram is described as "very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold" (Genesis 13:2). In the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, gold is used extensively, signifying the holiness and majesty of God's dwelling place. Exodus 25-28 details the use of gold in the Ark of the Covenant, the lampstand, and the priestly garments, underscoring its role in worship and divine service. The Temple built by Solomon is famously adorned with gold, as described in 1 Kings 6:21-22: "So Solomon overlaid the inside of the temple with pure gold, and he extended gold chains across the front of the inner sanctuary, which he overlaid with gold." Gold also serves as a metaphor for purity and refinement. In Job 23:10, the process of testing and refining is likened to gold: "But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold." This imagery is echoed in Proverbs 17:3, which states, "A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold, but the LORD is the tester of hearts." Warnings Against Misuse While gold is a symbol of divine blessing, the Bible also warns against its misuse and the dangers of materialism. The Israelites' creation of the golden calf (Exodus 32) serves as a cautionary tale against idolatry and the misplacement of trust in material wealth. In the New Testament, Jesus advises against storing up treasures on earth, where "moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19). The Apostle Paul reiterates this warning in 1 Timothy 6:10, stating, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." This admonition highlights the potential for gold and wealth to lead individuals away from faith and righteousness. Eschatological Visions In the Book of Revelation, gold is prominently featured in the depiction of the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. Revelation 21:18 describes the city's walls as being made of jasper and the city itself as pure gold, "as pure as glass." This imagery conveys the splendor and perfection of God's eternal kingdom. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, gold is a multifaceted symbol representing both the blessings of God and the potential pitfalls of human greed. Its enduring value and beauty serve as reminders of the divine glory and the call to purity and faithfulness. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 28:15,16It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library A Valuable Legacy. Rarity the Only Cause which Makes Such Things Valuable. The True Gold and Its Testing Against Excessive Fondness for Jewels and Gold Ornaments. Against those who Say that the Holy Ghost is not to be Numbered ... The Christian Alone Rich. Letter iv. On the Reading and Study of the Holy Scriptures How David Brought under the Philistines, and the Moabites, and the ... The Water-Mark of John's Gospel. Silence Should not Remain Unbroken, nor Should it Arise from ... Resources What is sacrilege? What does it mean to be sacrilegious? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Pishon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of the lampstand in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Gold: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gold used in the Arts in Ornamenting the Priests' Garments Gold used in the Arts: Apparel Gold used in the Arts: Beaten Work Gold used in the Arts: Bedsteads Made of Gold used in the Arts: Crowns Made of Gold used in the Arts: Into Ornaments Gold used in the Arts: Made Into Wire Threads and Worked Into Embroidered Tapestry Gold used in the Arts: Modeled Into Forms of Fruits Gold used in the Arts: Overlaying With Gold used in the Arts: Shields of Gold used in the Arts: The Lampstands Made of, for the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Mercy Seat and Cherubims Gold was Used for Overlaying Cherubims in Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Floor of Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying the Ark Gold was Used for Overlaying the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Overlaying the Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Throne of Solomon Gold was Used for Sacred Candlesticks Gold was Used for Sacred Utensils Gold: Abundance of, in Solomon's Reign Gold: Altar Lamps, and Other Articles Made of Gold: Jews Condemned for Multiplying Gold: Kings of Israel not to Multiply Gold: Liable to Canker and Rust Gold: Most Valuable when Pure and Fine Gold: Offerings of, for Tabernacle Gold: Offerings of, for Temple Gold: Priestly and Royal Garments Adorned With Gold: Refined and Tried by Fire Gold: Taken in War, Dedicated to God Gold: The Patriarchs Were Rich In Gold: Vessels and Utensils Made of, for the Tabernacle Related Terms |
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