Military Arms: Made of Iron, Steel, or Brass
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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 20:24
He shall flee from the iron weapon, and the bow of steel shall strike him through.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 17:5,6
And he had an helmet of brass on his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... earrings, and necklaces, while from their arms, necks, and ... reign, and he also held
a military command in ... with a conical roof; some of them were made of closely ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

By, Through, Unto
... idea of being made safe, and being made sound ... passage, and is entirely accordant
with the military metaphor, which ... though the world is all in arms without, 'ye ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture ephesians peter/by through unto.htm

The Holy War,
... are described with an extraordinary knowledge of military terms and ... When she betook
herself unto her arms, Fought her ... while the iron is hot, made this further ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm

The Sixth vision "On Earth"
... The fourth, Napoleon's military tyranny, &c., &c ... dominion over Israel's People, City,
and Land is made known ... his breast and his arms of silver, (two) 3. verse 32 ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the sixth vision on earth.htm

Resources
Who was Hur in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Was Jesus a pacifist? | GotQuestions.org

What are phylacteries? | GotQuestions.org

Arms: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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Subtopics

Arms

Arms and Armor

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

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Military Arms: Judgments of God
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