Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a significant metal in biblical times, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as a symbol of strength, durability, and sometimes oppression. Its extraction and use are indicative of the technological advancements of ancient civilizations, including those mentioned in the Bible.Biblical References and Symbolism Iron is first mentioned in Genesis 4:22, where Tubal-cain is described as "a forger of every implement of bronze and iron." This early reference highlights the importance of ironworking skills in the development of tools and weapons, which were crucial for both daily life and warfare. In Deuteronomy 8:9, the Promised Land is described as "a land where you will eat food without scarcity, in which you will not lack anything, a land whose stones are iron and from whose hills you can dig copper." This passage underscores the abundance of natural resources, including iron, that God provided for the Israelites, symbolizing His provision and blessing. Iron is also used metaphorically in the Bible to represent strength and resilience. In Job 40:18, the behemoth's bones are described as "tubes of bronze, his limbs like rods of iron," illustrating the creature's formidable strength. Similarly, in Daniel 2:40, the fourth kingdom is depicted as "strong as iron," emphasizing its power to crush and break all things. Iron as a Tool and Weapon The use of iron for tools and weapons is evident throughout the biblical narrative. In 1 Samuel 13:19-22, the Philistines' control over ironworking technology is noted, as they prevented the Israelites from having blacksmiths to make swords and spears. This strategic advantage highlights the critical role of iron in military dominance. Iron's role in construction is also significant. In 1 Kings 6:7, the temple built by Solomon is described as being constructed with "dressed stones," and "neither hammer nor chisel nor any iron tool was heard in the temple while it was being built." This indicates the precision and care taken in the temple's construction, where iron tools were used offsite to prepare the materials. Iron in Prophecy and Judgment Iron is often associated with judgment and oppression in prophetic literature. In Isaiah 48:4, God describes the Israelites as "obstinate, and your neck is an iron sinew and your forehead is bronze," symbolizing their stubbornness and resistance to His commands. Similarly, in Revelation 2:27, the authority of Christ is depicted as ruling with "an iron scepter," signifying His unyielding and just rule over the nations. Cultural and Historical Context The extraction and use of iron in biblical times reflect the broader historical context of the ancient Near East. Iron smelting and forging were advanced technologies that required significant skill and knowledge. The ability to produce iron tools and weapons marked a significant technological leap from the earlier Bronze Age, leading to increased agricultural productivity and military capability. In summary, iron in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol representing strength, provision, and sometimes judgment. Its presence in the biblical narrative underscores the technological and cultural advancements of the time, as well as the spiritual lessons conveyed through its metaphorical use. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 28:2Iron is taken out of the earth, and brass is molten out of the stone. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Gold and Silver not Superior in Origin or in Utility to Other ... Jewish views on Trade, Tradesmen, and Trades' Guilds Psalm CXLIX. In the Beginning God Made the Heaven and the Earth. The Primitive Church. Canaan on Earth Demonstration v. --Of Wars. What the Ruler's Discrimination Should be Between Correction and ... Demonstration xxi. --Of Persecution. The Tomb of Jesus Resources What is the story of Deborah and Barak? | GotQuestions.orgFriendship ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is an ox goad / oxgoad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Iron: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iron of Greater Gravity than Water Iron of Severe Exercise of Power Iron of Small Comparative Value Iron used from the Earliest Age Iron: (Seared With) Insensibility of Conscience Iron: First Recorded Use of Ax Iron: First Recorded Use of Bedstead Iron: First Recorded Use of Breastplate Iron: First Recorded Use of Chariot Iron: First Recorded Use of Fetters Iron: First Recorded Use of File Iron: First Recorded Use of Furnace Iron: First Recorded Use of Gate Iron: First Recorded Use of Harrow Iron: First Recorded Use of Horn Iron: First Recorded Use of Idols Iron: First Recorded Use of Melted Iron: First Recorded Use of Ore of Iron: First Recorded Use of Pans Iron: First Recorded Use of Pen Iron: First Recorded Use of Pillars Iron: First Recorded Use of Rods for Scourging Iron: First Recorded Use of Stones of Iron: First Recorded Use of Threshing Instruments Iron: First Recorded Use of Tools Iron: First Recorded Use of Used in the Temple Iron: First Recorded Use of Vessels Iron: First Recorded Use of Weapons Iron: First Recorded Use of Yokes Iron: from the North Hardest and Best Iron: Great Quantity of, Provided for the Temple Iron: Made Into: Graving Tools Iron: Made Into: Implements for Husbandry Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges Iron: Made Into: Tools for Artificers Iron: Made Into: Weapons of War Iron: Miraculously Made to Swim Iron: Mode of Purifying, Taken in War Iron: Taken in War, often Dedicated to God Iron: The Land of Canaan Abounded With Related Terms |
    |