Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a strong and durable metal, is mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, often symbolizing strength and resilience. However, it is also noted for its use in the creation of idols, which were objects of false worship and a direct violation of the commandments given by God to the Israelites.The use of iron in idol-making is indicative of the broader practice of idolatry that plagued the ancient Near Eastern cultures, including those surrounding Israel. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against adopting these practices, as they were called to worship the one true God. Despite these warnings, the allure of idolatry, often involving iron and other metals, proved to be a persistent temptation. In the prophetic literature, the making of idols from iron is condemned as a futile and rebellious act against God. Isaiah, for instance, speaks against the folly of idol-making, highlighting the absurdity of worshiping objects crafted by human hands. Although the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention iron in the context of idol-making in Isaiah, the prophet's broader denunciation of idolatry encompasses all materials used for such purposes. The Book of Jeremiah also addresses the issue of idolatry, emphasizing the worthlessness of idols. Jeremiah 10:3-5 states, "For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut down a tree from the forest; it is shaped with a chisel by the hands of a craftsman. They adorn it with silver and gold and fasten it with hammer and nails, so that it will not totter." While this passage does not explicitly mention iron, the use of tools and metal fastenings implies the involvement of various metals, including iron, in the construction of idols. Ezekiel, another prophet, vividly describes the idolatrous practices of the Israelites, which included the use of metals. In Ezekiel 22:18-20 , the Lord declares, "Son of man, the house of Israel has become dross to Me; all of them are copper, tin, iron, and lead inside the furnace; they are the dross of silver. Therefore, this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Because all of you have become dross, behold, I will gather you into Jerusalem. Just as one gathers silver, copper, iron, lead, and tin into the furnace to blow fire on it and melt it, so I will gather you in My anger and wrath, put you inside, and melt you.’" Here, iron is listed among the metals that symbolize the impurities and sins of the people, including their idolatrous practices. The New Testament, while not directly addressing the use of iron in idol-making, continues the theme of warning against idolatry. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, admonishes believers to flee from idolatry and to worship God in spirit and truth, recognizing the futility of idols made from any material. Throughout the biblical narrative, the use of iron in the creation of idols serves as a powerful reminder of the human tendency to turn away from God and towards the worship of created things. The biblical authors consistently call God's people to reject idolatry in all its forms and to remain faithful to the covenant relationship with the Lord. Torrey's Topical Textbook Daniel 5:4,23They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Vanity of Idols. Of Marcellus, Bishop of Apamea, and the Idols' Temples Destroyed ... Image Worship Condemned by Scripture. Of the Golden Age, of Images, and Prometheus, who First Fashioned ... What the Ruler's Discrimination Should be Between Correction and ... Ezekiel xiii. 22 Messiah's Entrance into Jerusalem The Life of St. George Martyr National Wealth The Persecutions. Resources What are some biblical examples of dream interpretation? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Tubal-Cain in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the Revived Roman Empire? | 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 |
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