Topical Encyclopedia Silver, a precious metal highly valued in ancient times, frequently appears in the biblical narrative as a symbol of wealth, trade, and divine blessing. In the context of warfare, silver often held a significant role, not only as spoils of war but also as an offering consecrated to God. This practice underscores the belief that all victories and their resultant gains ultimately belong to the Lord, and thus, a portion is dedicated to Him in acknowledgment of His providence and sovereignty.Biblical Instances of Silver in War: 1. The Conquest of Jericho: In the conquest of Jericho, the Israelites were commanded to devote the silver and other metals to the Lord. Joshua 6:19 states, "For all the silver and gold and all the articles of bronze and iron are holy to the LORD; they must go into His treasury." This directive highlights the principle that the firstfruits of victory, including valuable metals, were to be set apart for God, signifying His role as the true victor and provider. 2. David's Campaigns: King David, known for his military prowess, also dedicated spoils of war to the Lord. In 2 Samuel 8:11 , it is recorded, "King David dedicated these articles to the LORD, as he had done with the silver and gold from all the nations he had subdued." This act of consecration was a testament to David's recognition of God's hand in his military successes and his commitment to honoring God with the wealth acquired through these victories. 3. The Temple Treasury: The dedication of silver and other precious metals to the temple treasury was a common practice, serving both as a means of worship and as a resource for the maintenance and adornment of the temple. In 1 Chronicles 26:20 , it is noted, "Now their fellow Levites were in charge of the treasuries of the house of God and the treasuries of the dedicated things." This included the silver taken in war, which was set apart for sacred purposes, reflecting the belief that material wealth should serve divine ends. Theological Implications: The consecration of silver taken in war to God carries profound theological implications. It reflects the understanding that God is the ultimate source of victory and prosperity. By dedicating a portion of the spoils to God, the Israelites acknowledged His lordship over all aspects of life, including military success. This practice also served as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, wherein blessings were to be used in service to Him and His purposes. Furthermore, the act of consecrating silver and other spoils of war to God can be seen as a form of worship, expressing gratitude and reverence. It underscores the principle that material wealth, while valuable, is secondary to spiritual devotion and obedience to God's commands. Through these acts of dedication, the Israelites demonstrated their commitment to honoring God above all else, recognizing that their true treasure lay not in earthly riches but in their relationship with the Almighty. Torrey's Topical Textbook Joshua 6:19But all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are consecrated to the LORD: they shall come into the treasury of the LORD. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 8:11 1 Kings 15:15 Library St Gregory the Great (Ad 540-604) A Peal of Bells How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The And ii. The Memorable Hymn. "And when they had Sung an Hymn, they Went Out ... Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Otho, Bishop of Bamberg. Thoughts Upon Our Call and Election. Vive Jesus. Preface. The Bishop Elect and Consecrate Resources What is the significance of thirty pieces of silver? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the Christian themes in The Silver Chair? | GotQuestions.org Is Zechariah 11:12-13 a Messianic prophecy? | 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 |