The spear or lance is one of the most ancient and widely used weapons in biblical times, serving as a primary offensive tool in warfare. Its significance is evident throughout the Old and New Testaments, where it is frequently mentioned in the context of battles, personal combat, and as a symbol of power and authority.

Description and Use:
The spear typically consisted of a long wooden shaft with a pointed metal tip, often made of iron or bronze. The length of the spear allowed soldiers to engage the enemy from a distance, providing a tactical advantage in both individual and group combat scenarios. The lance, a variation of the spear, was often longer and used by cavalry for charging at opponents.

Biblical References:
The spear is mentioned numerous times in the Bible, highlighting its importance in ancient warfare. In 1 Samuel 17:7, the spear of Goliath is described: "The shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s beam, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels. In addition, his shield bearer went before him." This description emphasizes the formidable nature of Goliath's weapon, underscoring the challenge faced by David.

In 2 Samuel 2:23, the spear is depicted in a deadly encounter: "But Asahel refused to give up the pursuit; so Abner struck him in the stomach with the butt of his spear, and the spear came out through his back. He fell there and died on the spot." This passage illustrates the lethal effectiveness of the spear in close combat.

The spear also served as a symbol of authority and leadership. In 1 Samuel 18:10-11, King Saul's spear is mentioned: "The next day a spirit from God rushed upon Saul, and he began to prophesy inside the house. While David was playing the harp as usual, Saul was holding a spear, and he hurled it, thinking, 'I will pin David to the wall.' But David eluded him twice." Here, the spear represents Saul's authority and his intent to harm David, who was anointed by God.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance:
Beyond its physical use, the spear holds symbolic meaning in Scripture. It often represents human strength and military might, which can be contrasted with reliance on God. In Isaiah 2:4, the prophet envisions a future where instruments of war, including spears, are transformed into tools of peace: "Then they will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer take up the sword against nation, nor will they train anymore for war."

The spear also appears in the New Testament, notably at the crucifixion of Jesus. In John 19:34, a Roman soldier pierces Jesus' side with a spear: "Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out." This act fulfills Old Testament prophecy and holds deep theological significance, symbolizing the sacrificial death of Christ and the outpouring of grace and redemption.

Conclusion:
The spear or lance, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a powerful symbol of both human conflict and divine intervention. Its presence in Scripture underscores the realities of ancient warfare while also pointing to deeper spiritual truths about God's sovereignty and the ultimate hope for peace.1 Samuel 26:7
So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 50:42
They shall hold the bow and the lance: they are cruel, and will not show mercy: their voice shall roar like the sea, and they shall ride on horses, every one put in array, like a man to the battle, against you, O daughter of Babylon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... against him," and was, therefore, offensive to the ... Xth century BC The Philistine
arms are described at ... Egyptians, who were unrivalled in military operations at ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... Budilu carried his arms against these tribes, and obtained successes over the Turuki ...
it as a purely Assyrian term used to designate the military confines or ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

Justinian.
... who held the country under military occupation, but ... even Persians, in figure, language,
arms, and customs ... seventy-one heretical or offensive propositions of ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter iv justinian.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... and disaster; they flew to arms full of ... the establishment of a systematically organised
military power within ... flashing sword, and the glittering spear; and a ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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