Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the development and use of military arms made from iron, steel, and brass reflect the technological advancements and strategic necessities of ancient warfare. These materials, known for their strength and durability, played a significant role in the military history of the Israelites and their neighboring nations.Iron Weapons Iron, a symbol of strength and resilience, is frequently mentioned in the Bible in the context of warfare. The transition from bronze to iron weaponry marked a significant technological advancement. The Philistines, known for their ironworking skills, posed a formidable threat to Israel due to their superior weaponry. In 1 Samuel 13:19-22 , it is noted that "no blacksmith could be found in all the land of Israel, because the Philistines had said, 'The Hebrews must not make swords or spears for themselves.'" This passage highlights the strategic advantage held by the Philistines and the Israelites' dependence on them for sharpening their agricultural tools, which doubled as weapons. The use of iron in military arms is also evident in the description of Goliath's armor. In 1 Samuel 17:5-7 , Goliath's "bronze helmet" and "coat of scale armor" weighing "five thousand shekels of bronze" are mentioned, but his "iron spearhead" weighing "six hundred shekels" underscores the formidable nature of his weaponry. Steel Weapons While the term "steel" as understood in modern metallurgy does not appear in the biblical text, the concept of hardened iron or high-quality metal is implied. The strength and sharpness associated with steel-like materials are metaphorically referenced in the Bible. For instance, in Job 20:24 , it is written, "Though he flees from an iron weapon, a bronze-tipped arrow will pierce him." This passage, while not explicitly mentioning steel, suggests the use of advanced metalworking techniques to enhance the lethality of weapons. Brass Weapons Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is often mentioned in the Bible in the context of armor and decorative elements rather than offensive weaponry. However, its use in military applications is not entirely absent. The description of Goliath's armor in 1 Samuel 17 includes "bronze greaves" and a "bronze javelin," indicating the use of brass-like materials for protective gear. In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, brass was used extensively for various implements and fixtures, symbolizing strength and endurance. While not directly related to military arms, this usage underscores the material's importance and availability in the ancient Near East. Symbolism and Spiritual Implications The use of iron, steel, and brass in military arms carries symbolic weight in the biblical narrative. These materials often represent human strength and technological prowess, which can be contrasted with divine power and protection. In passages such as Psalm 20:7 , "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God," the reliance on military technology is juxtaposed with faith in God's sovereignty. The prophetic literature also uses these materials metaphorically to describe God's judgment and protection. In Isaiah 45:2 , the LORD declares, "I will go before you and level the mountains; I will break down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron." Here, the imagery of breaking through strong materials signifies divine intervention and the overcoming of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. In summary, the biblical references to military arms made of iron, steel, and brass reflect both the historical realities of ancient warfare and the deeper spiritual truths about reliance on God versus human strength. These materials, while essential for physical battles, ultimately serve as reminders of the greater spiritual battles faced by God's people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 20:24He shall flee from the iron weapon, and the bow of steel shall strike him through. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 17:5,6 Library The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty By, Through, Unto The Holy War, The Sixth vision "On Earth" 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 |