Topical Bible: Horns: Wearing of, Alluded To

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical literature, horns are often symbolic, representing strength, power, and authority. The imagery of horns is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, and while the physical wearing of horns is not explicitly detailed as a common practice, the metaphorical use of horns is significant in conveying divine and earthly power.

Symbolism of Horns in Scripture

Horns are frequently used in the Bible to symbolize strength and power. This symbolism is rooted in the natural world, where animals with horns, such as bulls and rams, are often seen as powerful and dominant. In the biblical context, horns are often associated with kings and leaders, symbolizing their authority and might.

In the Book of Daniel, horns are used to represent kings and kingdoms. Daniel 7:24 states, "The ten horns are ten kings who will rise from this kingdom. After them another king, different from the earlier ones, will rise and subdue three kings." Here, the horns symbolize the power and authority of these kings.

Similarly, in the Book of Revelation, horns are used to depict power and authority. Revelation 17:12 says, "The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but will receive authority as kings along with the beast for one hour." The horns in this passage symbolize the temporary power granted to these kings.

Horns as a Symbol of Divine Power

Horns are also used to symbolize divine power and protection. In the Psalms, God is often referred to as the "horn of salvation," indicating His strength and ability to save. Psalm 18:2 declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."

This metaphorical use of horns emphasizes God's power and His role as a protector and savior for His people. The imagery of the horn as a source of salvation underscores the strength and reliability of God's deliverance.

Cultural and Historical Context

While the Bible does not explicitly describe the physical wearing of horns, the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East provides insight into the significance of horns. In some ancient cultures, horns were worn as part of ceremonial attire or as symbols of rank and authority. This practice may have influenced the biblical use of horns as symbols of power.

In ancient Israel, the altar of burnt offering in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple had horns on its corners. These horns were significant in the sacrificial system and were associated with atonement and sanctuary. Exodus 27:2 describes the altar: "Make a horn at each of the four corners, so that the horns and the altar are of one piece, and overlay it with bronze."

Conclusion

The biblical use of horns as symbols of power, authority, and divine protection is a rich and multifaceted theme. While the physical wearing of horns is not explicitly detailed in Scripture, the metaphorical use of horns conveys important theological truths about God's strength and the authority granted to earthly rulers. Through these symbols, the Bible communicates the enduring power and sovereignty of God and His appointed leaders.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Psalm 75:5,10
Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Ezekiel xiii. 22
... drive the Syrians before him, he made himself horns of iron ... in the text were in the
habit of wearing pillows, or ... the expression to which I have alluded can only ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/arnold/the christian life/lecture xx ezekiel xiii 22.htm

The Immaculate Conception
... of a man and of an ox, with three horns, one in ... Nazareth stood before the altar,
one of them wearing grander vestments ... [40] This interpretation, alluded to but ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ii the immaculate conception.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... Were the regent of the stars"Tishtrya, the bull with golden horns, Sirius, the ... where
the ceremony was to take place, and there the priest, wearing the tiara ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... while the general crowd of courtiers could only enter unshod; that of kissing the
knees and not the feet of the "good god," and that of wearing the panther's ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... these absurd and wicked feelings are fast wearing away before ... waters, and not the
broken cisterns alluded to in ... beast with seven heads and ten horns, to get ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm