Topical Bible: Military Arms were Provided: from the Public Arsenals

Bible > Topical > Military Arms were Provided

◄ Military Arms were Provided: from the Public Arsenals ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the provision of military arms from public arsenals is a concept that underscores the organized and communal approach to warfare in ancient Israel. The distribution and management of weapons were crucial for the defense and expansion of the nation, reflecting both divine providence and human responsibility in safeguarding the people of God.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides several instances where military arms were systematically stored and distributed from public arsenals. This practice highlights the importance of preparedness and strategic planning in the defense of Israel. The centralization of weaponry ensured that the nation could respond effectively to threats and maintain order.

One notable example is found during the reign of King David, who established a well-organized military structure. David's leadership included the collection and storage of arms, which were essential for his numerous military campaigns. The Bible records that David "took the shields of gold that were carried by the servants of Hadadezer and brought them to Jerusalem" (2 Samuel 8:7). This act not only demonstrated his military prowess but also contributed to the arsenal of the nation.

King Solomon, David's son, continued this legacy by further enhancing the military capabilities of Israel. Solomon's reign was marked by peace and prosperity, yet he maintained a formidable military presence. The construction of fortified cities and the storage of chariots and horses are indicative of a well-maintained arsenal. "Solomon accumulated chariots and horses; he had fourteen hundred chariots and twelve thousand horses, which he stationed in the chariot cities and also with him in Jerusalem" (1 Kings 10:26).

New Testament Considerations

While the New Testament does not focus on military arsenals in the same manner as the Old Testament, the concept of preparedness and defense remains relevant. The spiritual application of being equipped for battle is emphasized, as seen in the Apostle Paul's exhortation to the Ephesians: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This metaphorical use of military imagery underscores the importance of being spiritually armed and ready for the challenges faced by believers.

Theological Implications

The provision of military arms from public arsenals in the Bible reflects a balance between divine sovereignty and human agency. While God is ultimately the protector of Israel, the responsibility of the leaders to prepare and equip the nation for defense is evident. This duality serves as a reminder of the partnership between God and His people in fulfilling His purposes on earth.

The organized approach to military preparedness also illustrates the communal aspect of Israelite society. The collective effort in maintaining and distributing arms underscores the unity and shared responsibility among the tribes of Israel. This unity was essential for the survival and success of the nation in a hostile environment.

In summary, the provision of military arms from public arsenals in the Bible highlights the importance of preparedness, strategic planning, and communal responsibility in the defense of God's people. Through the examples of leaders like David and Solomon, the biblical narrative demonstrates the necessity of both divine guidance and human effort in achieving victory and maintaining peace.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 11:12
And in every several city he put shields and spears, and made them exceeding strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 26:14
And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the host shields, and spears, and helmets, and habergeons, and bows, and slings to cast stones.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Preparations for the Invasion of Greece.
... the conveyance of troops or of military stores. ... stores, on the other hand, the arms,
the supplies ... The circumstances were these: After crossing the Halys, which ...
//christianbookshelf.org/abbott/xerxes/chapter iv preparations for the.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... earrings, and necklaces, while from their arms, necks, and ... and he also held a military
command in ... of procedure of the European traders were doubtless similar ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... When a war was imminent, a military levy was ... and a dagger; the light troops were
provided only with ... Considerable quantities of all these arms were stored in ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... One part at least of the military staff had become ... of the Balikh, had taken up arms
on hearing of the brief successes of Tiushpa, but were pitilessly crushed ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm

The Bible
... They were scattered from one end of the earth to the other. ... cohorts, every man in
the nation capable of bearing arms or in any wise doing military duty is ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/haldeman/christ christianity and the bible/the bible.htm