Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the shield was a fundamental component of military defense, serving as a crucial piece of armor for soldiers in battle. The shield is frequently mentioned throughout the Bible, symbolizing protection, faith, and divine intervention.Description and Types The shield, in its various forms, was designed to protect the warrior from the weapons of the enemy. Typically made from wood and covered with leather, shields were often reinforced with metal to withstand blows from swords, spears, and arrows. The Bible references different types of shields, including the smaller buckler and the larger, body-covering shield. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance In the Scriptures, the shield is not only a physical object but also a powerful symbol of God's protection and faithfulness. The psalmist declares, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped" (Psalm 28:7). This verse highlights the shield as a metaphor for divine protection, emphasizing trust in God as a source of security. The shield is also associated with faith in the New Testament. In Ephesians 6:16, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to "take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one" . Here, the shield represents faith as a defense against spiritual attacks, underscoring the importance of steadfast belief in God's promises. Historical Context In ancient Israel, shields were an integral part of a soldier's equipment. The Bible records the use of shields in various military contexts. For instance, King Solomon is noted for making "two hundred large shields of hammered gold" (1 Kings 10:16), demonstrating the importance and value placed on this piece of armor. The use of shields is also evident in the accounts of battles and warfare. In 2 Chronicles 14:8, King Asa's army is described as having "shields and spears," indicating their preparedness for combat. The shield's role in battle was not only defensive but also strategic, as it allowed soldiers to form protective formations, such as the famous Roman testudo or "tortoise" formation, which may have been similar to tactics used by ancient armies. Cultural and Theological Insights The shield's significance extends beyond its military function, permeating the cultural and theological landscape of the Bible. It serves as a reminder of God's covenant with His people, as seen in Genesis 15:1, where God tells Abram, "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward" . This assurance of divine protection and reward underscores the relational aspect of God's promises. Moreover, the shield is a testament to the believer's reliance on God's strength rather than their own. In Psalm 18:30, it is written, "As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him" . This verse encapsulates the essence of the shield as a symbol of trust and refuge in the Lord. In summary, the shield in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol representing physical protection, spiritual faith, and divine assurance. Its presence in Scripture serves as a powerful reminder of God's unwavering protection and the believer's call to trust in His providence. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 10:16,17And king Solomon made two hundred targets of beaten gold: six hundred shekels of gold went to one target. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 14:26,27 Library A Discourse Useful Phrases Appendix iv. An Abstract of Jewish History from the Reign of ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Reaction against Egypt The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal The Memphite Empire The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Resources Who was Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWas Jesus a pacifist? | GotQuestions.org What are phylacteries? | GotQuestions.org Arms: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Military Arms for Sieges: Battering Rams Military Arms for Sieges: Engines for Casting Stones Military Arms of Conquered Nations Taken Away to Prevent Rebellion Military Arms of the Vanquished: Sometime Burned Military Arms of the Vanquished: Sometimes Kept As Trophies Military Arms of the Vanquished: Taken off Them Military Arms were Provided by Individuals Themselves Military Arms were Provided: from the Public Arsenals Military Arms: Armouries Built For Military Arms: Before Using: Anointed Military Arms: Before Using: Burnished Military Arms: Before Using: Tried and Proved Military Arms: Defensive: Buckler Military Arms: Defensive: Called Armour Military Arms: Defensive: Called Harness Military Arms: Defensive: Coat of Mail, Breastplate, Habergeon, or Brigandine Military Arms: Defensive: Girdle Military Arms: Defensive: Greaves Military Arms: Defensive: Helmet Military Arms: Defensive: Shield Military Arms: Defensive: Target Military Arms: Great Stores of, Prepared Military Arms: Hung of the Walls of Cities Military Arms: Inferior to Wisdom Military Arms: Judgments of God Military Arms: Made of Iron, Steel, or Brass Military Arms: Not Worn in Ordinary Times Military Arms: Offensive: Battle-Axe Military Arms: Offensive: Bow and Arrows Military Arms: Offensive: Called Instruments of Death Military Arms: Offensive: Called Instruments of War Military Arms: Offensive: Called Weapons of War Military Arms: Offensive: Dagger Military Arms: Offensive: Dart or Javelin Military Arms: Offensive: Hand Staff Military Arms: Offensive: Sling Military Arms: Offensive: Spear or Lance Military Arms: Offensive: Sword Military Arms: Offensive: Two-Edged Sword Military Arms: Often Given As Presents Military Arms: Part of, Borne by Armour-Bearers Military Arms: Put on at the First Alarm Military Arms: Spiritual Armour Military Arms: Spiritual Weapons Related Terms |
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