Topical Bible: Head: (Covered) of Defence and Protection

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In biblical literature, the concept of the "head" often symbolizes leadership, authority, and protection. The covering of the head, particularly in the context of defense and protection, carries significant theological and cultural implications.

Biblical Context and Symbolism

1. Head as a Symbol of Authority and Leadership: The head is frequently used in the Bible to denote authority and leadership. For instance, Christ is described as the head of the church, symbolizing His authority and protective role over His followers (Ephesians 5:23: "For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior").

2. Head Covering as a Sign of Protection: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, covering the head was often associated with protection and respect. This is reflected in various biblical passages where head coverings are mentioned in the context of divine protection and reverence. For example, in 1 Corinthians 11:4-7, Paul discusses head coverings in the context of worship, linking them to honor and propriety.

3. Helmet of Salvation: The metaphor of the "helmet of salvation" in Ephesians 6:17 (BSB: "And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God") illustrates the protective aspect of the head covering. The helmet, as part of the armor of God, signifies the protection of the mind and spirit through salvation, safeguarding believers against spiritual attacks.

4. Cultural Practices and Head Coverings: In biblical times, head coverings were also a cultural practice that signified modesty and respect. For women, covering the head was a sign of submission and honor, as seen in 1 Corinthians 11:5-6 (BSB: "And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for it is just as if her head were shaved").

Theological Implications

The covering of the head as a form of defense and protection underscores the biblical theme of God's providence and care. Just as a physical helmet protects the head in battle, spiritual coverings—such as faith, salvation, and divine authority—offer believers protection against spiritual adversities.

Conclusion

The concept of the head, particularly when covered, serves as a powerful symbol of defense and protection in the Bible. It reflects both the cultural practices of the time and the deeper theological truths about God's authority, salvation, and the spiritual armor provided to believers. Through these symbols, the Bible communicates the importance of divine protection and the believer's role in maintaining spiritual integrity and honor.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 140:7
O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Songs of the Fugitive.
... Jehovah is his "shield." With bowed and covered head he had ... Thou art the lifter up
of mine head." He was an ... patient resignation (ver.1); of God's defence (ver.2 ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclaren/the life of david/xv the songs of the.htm

The Sack of Rome
... gleaming in the coats of mail which covered them from ... The Emperor, diadem on head,
bowed to the people ... the pillage of a place without defence, already enfeebled ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bertrand/saint augustin/i the sack of rome.htm

The Second Book
... to show that his love and protection are constantly with ... that should plead in his
defence; he was ... walking," the Scripture says, "with covered head, and barefoot ...
//christianbookshelf.org/salvian/on the government of god/the second book.htm

The Bishop of Hippo
... man of the miserable crowds which the Saviour covered with His ... and even the Proconsulate
at the head of armed ... were firmly attached to the defence of Catholicism ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bertrand/saint augustin/i the bishop of hippo.htm

The Close of the Theban Empire --(Continued)
... hurriedly performed, and the grave-diggers covered the mummies ... of the outbreak could
reach head-quarters. ... the anxious vigils of the night under his protection. ...
/.../chapter ithe close of the.htm

How to Make Use of Christ for Steadfastness, in a Time when Truth ...
... relations unto his people, as their head, husband, brother ... his glorious truths, that
are now covered over with ... all they can lose in the defence and maintenance ...
/.../brown/christ the way the truth and the life/chapter xv how to make.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... of a jerboa or a hare, which we misname the cucupha-headed sceptre.* He put on the
many-coloured diadems of the gods, the head-dresses covered with feathers ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

Gifts Received for the Rebellious
... as the mercy seat, or propitiation, which covered the ark ... every accusation and
threatening, that our Head is in ... they in Him as in their strong tower of defence. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/newton/messiah vol 2/sermon xxix gifts received for.htm

Of the Blessings with which the Creator Has Filled this Life ...
... on the surface; for as to what is covered up and ... ought rather, as the weaker sex,
to enjoy such a defence. ... it drinks the wisdom of God at the fountain-head? ...
/.../augustine/city of god/chapter 24 of the blessings with.htm

Sennacherib (705-681 BC )
... spreading through the neighbouring tribes, brought together for their defence a
confused ... Like a lion I raged, I donned my harness, I covered my head with my ...
/.../chapter isennacherib 705-681 b c.htm