Topical Encyclopedia Silver, a precious metal highly valued in biblical times, was often utilized for various purposes, including the crafting of thin plates. These plates were used in religious, ornamental, and practical applications, reflecting the metal's significance and versatility.Biblical References and Uses 1. Tabernacle and Temple Use: Silver played a crucial role in the construction and adornment of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. In Exodus, we see detailed instructions for the use of silver in the Tabernacle's construction. While the Bible does not explicitly mention silver being made into thin plates for the Tabernacle, the extensive use of silver in its construction suggests that it could have been fashioned into various forms, including plates, for decorative and functional purposes. 2. Craftsmanship and Artistry: The skill of craftsmen in working with silver is highlighted in the Bible. In Isaiah 40:19, the prophet speaks of an idol being overlaid with gold and silver, indicating the use of thin metal sheets in idol-making: "To an idol that a craftsman casts and a metalworker overlays with gold and fits with silver chains?" . This suggests that silver was indeed fashioned into thin plates for overlaying objects, demonstrating the artisans' expertise in metalwork. 3. Symbol of Wealth and Status: Silver, often mentioned alongside gold, was a symbol of wealth and status. In biblical times, possessing silver in any form, including thin plates, was indicative of prosperity. The use of silver plates in various objects would have been a display of affluence and divine blessing. 4. Religious Significance: Silver's use in religious contexts underscores its purity and value. In Numbers 7:13, during the dedication of the altar, offerings included silver plates: "His offering was one silver dish weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, one silver basin weighing seventy shekels according to the sanctuary shekel, both filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering" . This passage highlights the use of silver plates in sacred offerings, emphasizing their importance in worship and dedication ceremonies. 5. Symbolic Meaning: Silver, often associated with redemption and purification, carries symbolic meaning in the Bible. The process of refining silver is used metaphorically to describe spiritual purification and the testing of faith. In Psalm 12:6, the psalmist writes, "The words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace, like gold purified sevenfold" . This imagery of refining suggests that silver, even when made into thin plates, represents purity and divine truth. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, silver was a common medium of exchange and a standard of wealth. Its malleability made it ideal for crafting into various forms, including thin plates. These plates could be used for overlaying wooden structures, creating decorative items, or serving as currency. The ability to hammer silver into thin sheets allowed artisans to maximize its use and display its beauty in intricate designs. The biblical narrative reflects the cultural and economic significance of silver, illustrating its role in both everyday life and sacred practices. The use of silver plates in religious ceremonies and offerings highlights the metal's esteemed status and its association with divine worship. In summary, silver, when made into thin plates, served multiple purposes in biblical times, from religious offerings to symbols of wealth and artistry. Its presence in the biblical text underscores its enduring value and multifaceted role in the ancient world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Jeremiah 10:9Silver spread into plates is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the workman, and of the hands of the founder: blue and purple is their clothing: they are all the work of cunning men. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Concerning the Tabernacle which Moses Built in the Wilderness for ... The Oracles. The New Testament Text and Its History. Chaldaean Civilization The Tomb of the Pharaoh Tales by the Way The Reaction against Egypt The Close of the Theban Empire --(Continued) Heavenly Worship The Northern Mountains Resources What kind of divination did Joseph do in Genesis 44:5, 15? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did God judge the sin of Achan so severely? | GotQuestions.org Silver: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Silver for Ornamentation of, and in the Manufacture of, the Utensils for the Tabernacle Silver of Saints Purified by Affliction Silver of the Medo-Persian Kingdom Silver of the Tongue of the Just Silver of the Words of the Lord Silver used As Money from the Earliest Times Silver: (Dross of) of the Wicked Silver: (Labour of Seeking For) of Diligence Required For Silver: (Reprobate) the Wicked Silver: Baskets (Rv), or Filigree (Margin, RV) Silver: Generally Found in an Impure State Silver: Given by David and his Subjects for Making the Temple Silver: Given by the Israelite for Making the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Beds or Couches Silver: Made Into: Candlesticks Silver: Made Into: Ornaments and Hooks for the Pillars of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Ornaments for the Person Silver: Made Into: Sockets for the Boards of the Tabernacle Silver: Made Into: Thin Plates Silver: Made Into: Wires (Alluded To) Silver: Often Given As Presents Silver: Purified, Called: Choice Silver Silver: Purified, Called: Refined Silver Silver: Taken in War often Consecrated to God Silver: Taken in War Purified by Fire Silver: Tarshish Carried on Extensive Commerce In Silver: The Patriarchs Rich In Silver: The Working In, a Trade Silver: Veins of, Found in the Earth Silver: Very Abundant in the Reign of Solomon Silver: Wisdom to be Esteemed More Than Related Terms |
    |