Topical Encyclopedia The bow and arrows are among the earliest and most frequently mentioned weapons in the Bible, serving as a primary tool for warfare, hunting, and defense. The use of the bow and arrow is depicted throughout the Old Testament, symbolizing strength, skill, and divine judgment.Historical Context and Usage The bow and arrow were essential components of ancient Near Eastern military technology. Bows were typically made from wood, horn, or a combination of materials to enhance flexibility and strength. Arrows were crafted from wood, with tips made of stone, bone, or metal, and fletched with feathers to ensure stability in flight. In biblical times, the bow was a symbol of military prowess and personal valor. Warriors skilled in archery were highly valued, and their expertise could turn the tide of battle. The bow's range allowed for engagement with the enemy from a distance, providing a strategic advantage. Biblical References The bow and arrow are mentioned numerous times in the Bible, often in the context of warfare and divine intervention. In Genesis 21:20, God is with Ishmael as he grows up in the wilderness, and he becomes an archer: "And God was with the boy, and he grew up and settled in the wilderness and became a great archer." The bow is also a metaphor for strength and judgment. In Psalm 7:12-13, the imagery of God preparing His bow is used to describe divine retribution: "If one does not repent, God will sharpen His sword; He has bent and strung His bow. He has prepared His deadly weapons; He ordains His arrows with fire." In 1 Samuel 18:4, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, gives his bow to David as a sign of their covenant and friendship: "Then Jonathan removed the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, his sword, his bow, and his belt." The bow is also associated with the tribe of Benjamin, known for their skill in archery. In 1 Chronicles 12:2, the Benjamites are described as being ambidextrous with the bow: "They were archers who could use both the right hand and the left to sling stones and shoot arrows from the bow. They were kinsmen of Saul from Benjamin." Symbolism and Prophetic Imagery The bow and arrow are often used symbolically in prophetic literature. In Habakkuk 3:9, the bow is a symbol of God's power and readiness to execute judgment: "You brandished Your bow; You called for many arrows. Selah. You split the earth with rivers." In Revelation 6:2, the rider on the white horse is given a bow, symbolizing conquest and victory: "So I looked and saw a white horse, and its rider held a bow. And he was given a crown, and he rode out to overcome and conquer." Cultural and Theological Significance The bow and arrow, as instruments of war, reflect the broader biblical themes of conflict, divine justice, and deliverance. They serve as reminders of the need for reliance on God for protection and victory. The imagery of the bow in Scripture underscores the belief in God's sovereignty and His role as the ultimate warrior and judge. Throughout the Bible, the bow and arrow are not only tools of human warfare but also instruments through which God's purposes are fulfilled, whether in judgment or in the deliverance of His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 48:22Moreover I have given to you one portion above your brothers, which I took out of the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 22:34 Library The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The First Theban Empire The Reaction against Egypt The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Close of the Theban Empire Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation 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 The Holy War, 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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