Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionIron, a metal of significant importance in biblical times, is mentioned numerous times throughout the Scriptures. Its properties, uses, and symbolic meanings are woven into the biblical narrative. One of the notable characteristics of iron is its density, which is greater than that of water, causing it to sink when placed in water. This physical property is implicitly referenced in the Bible and serves as a backdrop for certain miraculous events. Biblical References 1. 2 Kings 6:1-7: The most direct biblical reference to iron's density is found in the account of the floating axe head. The sons of the prophets, under the leadership of Elisha, went to the Jordan River to cut down trees for building a new dwelling. As one of them was felling a tree, the iron axe head fell into the water. The man cried out to Elisha, distressed because the axe was borrowed. Elisha asked where it fell, cut a stick, and threw it into the water at that spot, causing the iron to float. This miracle highlights the supernatural intervention of God, as iron, by its nature, would sink in water. The Berean Standard Bible records this event: "The man of God asked, 'Where did it fall?' When he showed him the place, Elisha cut a stick and threw it there, and made the iron float" (2 Kings 6:6). 2. Job 28:2: Iron is mentioned in the context of mining and the extraction of valuable resources. "Iron is taken from the earth, and copper is smelted from ore" (Job 28:2). This verse underscores the significance of iron as a resource and its role in the development of tools and weapons, which were essential for survival and warfare in ancient times. 3. Deuteronomy 8:9: The Promised Land is described as a place where iron is abundant: "a land where you will eat food without scarcity, where you will lack nothing, a land whose stones are iron and from whose hills you can dig copper" (Deuteronomy 8:9). This abundance of iron signifies the prosperity and strength that God promised to the Israelites. Symbolic Meaning Iron, due to its strength and durability, often symbolizes power and authority in the Bible. It is used metaphorically to describe the strength of nations and the hardness of certain hearts. For instance, in Daniel 2:40, the fourth kingdom is described as strong as iron, breaking and crushing all others. Theological Implications The miracle of the floating axe head in 2 Kings 6 serves as a testament to God's power over the natural world. It illustrates that God can override the natural laws He established, demonstrating His sovereignty and care for His people. This event also emphasizes the importance of faith and reliance on God's provision, even in seemingly trivial matters. Conclusion The biblical references to iron, particularly its greater gravity than water, provide insight into the historical and spiritual context of the Scriptures. Iron's physical properties and symbolic meanings enrich the biblical narrative, offering lessons on God's power, provision, and the strength He imparts to His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Kings 6:5But as one was felling a beam, the ax head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Yet Speaking. Sin's Writing and Its Erasure The Insults Received by Jesus in the Court of Caiphas. Instructions to Catechumens. Second Instruction. Of Passages from the Holy Scriptures, and from the Apocrypha ... The Poor in Spirit are Enriched with a Kingdom Introduction. Acts xix. 21, 23 Excerpts of Theodotus; Resources What does it mean that iron sharpens iron? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the symbolism in Amos, e.g., sledges with iron teeth (Amos 1:3), murdered pregnant women (Amos 1:13), burning bones (Amos 2:1), destroyed roots (Amos 2:9), and hooks (Amos 4:2)? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 2? | 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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