Topical Bible: Seals: Inscriptions Upon, Alluded To

◄ Seals: Inscriptions Upon, Alluded To ►

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In the ancient Near East, seals were significant tools used for authentication, security, and authority. They were typically made of stone, metal, or clay and bore inscriptions or images that identified the owner or conveyed a specific message. In the biblical context, seals are mentioned in various passages, symbolizing authority, ownership, and the inviolability of a document or decree.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. Authority and Ownership: Seals in the Bible often denote authority and ownership. In Genesis 41:42, Pharaoh gives Joseph his signet ring, symbolizing the transfer 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." This act signifies Joseph's elevation to a position of power and trust.

2. Security and Authenticity: Seals were used to secure documents and ensure their authenticity. In Esther 8:8, King Ahasuerus instructs Mordecai and Esther to write a decree concerning the Jews and seal it with the king's signet ring: "Now you may write in the king’s name as you please concerning the Jews, and seal it with the king’s signet ring; for a decree written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s signet ring cannot be revoked." The seal guaranteed the decree's authenticity and unchangeability.

3. Divine Seal: In the New Testament, seals also carry a spiritual significance. In Ephesians 1:13, believers are described as being sealed with the Holy Spirit: "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit." This seal represents God's ownership and the security of the believer's salvation.

4. Judgment and Protection: The Book of Revelation uses seals to depict divine judgment and protection. Revelation 7:3-4 describes the sealing of the 144,000 servants of God: "Do not harm the land or sea or trees until we have sealed the foreheads of the servants of our God." This seal serves as a mark of protection for God's people during the end times.

5. Inviolability: The sealing of the tomb of Jesus is a notable example of the use of seals to ensure inviolability. In Matthew 27:66, the tomb is sealed to prevent tampering: "So they went and secured the tomb by sealing the stone and posting the guard." Despite this human effort to secure the tomb, the resurrection of Jesus demonstrates the ultimate authority of God over human actions.

Cultural and Historical Context

Seals in the biblical era were often cylindrical or stamp-like, engraved with the owner's name, title, or a symbolic image. They were pressed into clay or wax to leave an impression, serving as a signature or mark of authenticity. The use of seals was widespread among various cultures, including the Egyptians, Babylonians, and Persians, reflecting a common practice in the ancient world.

Theological Implications

The use of seals in Scripture underscores themes of authority, authenticity, and divine protection. They serve as a metaphor for God's sovereign control and the security of His promises. The sealing of believers with the Holy Spirit is a profound assurance of their identity and inheritance in Christ, reflecting the unbreakable bond between God and His people.

In summary, seals in the Bible are rich in symbolism and significance, representing authority, security, and divine assurance. They illustrate the cultural practices of the time while conveying deep theological truths about God's relationship with humanity.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Timothy 2:19
Nevertheless the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal, The Lord knows them that are his. And, Let every one that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Introduction
... in which we had been called upon to disbelieve. ... And yet the cuneiform inscriptions
have smoothed away all ... have been discovered, bearing the seals and addresses ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/introduction.htm

Symbolic Ornaments of the Church
... instead of the cross, at the beginning of inscriptions. ... Ecclesiastical seals are
commonly made in this form ... jewels, which he afterward bestows upon some person ...
/.../regester/the worship of the church/symbolic ornaments of the church.htm

Pagan Cemeteries.
... action of the air began to tell upon it, and ... The number of spurious inscriptions
concocted for the occasion is ... No sooner had the seals been broken, and the lid ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter vi pagan cemeteries.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... for its prowess, without cavalry or bowmen, had rushed upon and overthrown the ... who
are called Ethiopians by Herodotus and the cuneiform inscriptions, paid no ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... These reminiscences are alluded to in the prologue of the Holy ... who was to make a
violent attack upon the town ... The mace and town seals were carried off as plunder ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm