Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, seals, often referred to as signets, played a significant role in various aspects of life, including legal, commercial, and personal affairs. These seals were typically engraved stones or metal pieces used to make an impression on clay or wax, serving as a mark of authenticity, authority, or ownership. The use of seals is well-documented throughout the Scriptures, reflecting their importance in ancient Near Eastern culture.Historical and Cultural Context Seals were commonly worn as rings, known as signet rings, and were used by individuals of authority to endorse documents, secure possessions, and signify agreements. The imagery or inscriptions on a seal were unique to the owner, making it a personal identifier. The practice of sealing documents and items was widespread in the ancient world, including among the Israelites, Egyptians, Babylonians, and Persians. Biblical References 1. Authority and Ownership: Seals were a symbol of authority and ownership. In Genesis 41:42, Pharaoh gives Joseph his signet ring as a sign of authority: "Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his finger, put it on Joseph’s finger, clothed him in garments of fine linen, and placed a gold chain around his neck." 2. Legal and Commercial Use: Seals were used in legal transactions to validate documents. In Jeremiah 32:10, the prophet records a property purchase: "I signed and sealed the deed, called in witnesses, and weighed out the silver on the scales." 3. Security and Protection: Seals were used to secure and protect items or places. In Daniel 6:17, a stone is placed over the mouth of the lions' den, and it is sealed with the king's signet ring: "A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that nothing could be changed regarding Daniel." 4. Symbol of Covenant: Seals also symbolized covenants and promises. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is described as a seal for believers, marking them as God's own. Ephesians 1:13 states, "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit." 5. Divine Authority: In the book of Revelation, seals are used to denote divine authority and the unfolding of God's plan. Revelation 5:1 describes a scroll with seven seals: "Then I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals." Symbolic Significance Seals in the Bible often carry a deeper symbolic meaning, representing God's authority, protection, and covenant with His people. The imagery of sealing is used to convey the security and assurance of God's promises, as well as the authenticity of His word and actions. The concept of being sealed by the Holy Spirit underscores the believer's secure position in Christ and the guarantee of their inheritance. Conclusion The use of seals, or signets, in the Bible reflects their multifaceted role in ancient society as tools of authentication, authority, and protection. They serve as powerful symbols of God's covenantal relationship with His people and His sovereign control over history. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 38:18,25And he said, What pledge shall I give you? And she said, Your signet, and your bracelets, and your staff that is in your hand. And he gave it her, and came in to her, and she conceived by him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Thousand Years in which the Dragon or Satan is bound, with ... Faith Stopping the Mouths of Lions Of the Times of Christ's Birth and Passion, and of Jerusalem's ... Further Proofs, from Ezekiel. Summary of the Prophetic Argument ... That Thy Resurrection Might be Believed among the Gainsayers, they ... Imperial Caesar A Compendious view of the Christian Life. An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Who was John Calvin? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the strengths and weaknesses of the pre-wrath view of the rapture? | GotQuestions.org What is The Acts of Paul and Thecla? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Seals: Appropriation of Saints to God by the Spirit Seals: Generally Worn As Rings or Bracelets Seals: Impressions of Attached to all Royal Decrees Seals: Impressions of Attached to Covenants Seals: Impressions of Attached to Lease and Transfers of Property Seals: Impressions of Attached to the Victims Approved for Sacrifice, Alluded To Seals: Impressions of Frequently Taken in Clay Seals: Impressions of Set Upon Treasures Seals: Impressions of Used for Security Seals: Impressions of Were Given by Kings As a Badge of Authority Seals: Inscriptions Upon, Alluded To Seals: Precious Stones Set in Gold Used As Related Terms |
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