Topical Encyclopedia Silver, a precious metal highly valued in biblical times, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures in various contexts, including its acquisition during warfare and its purification process. The Bible provides insights into the significance of silver, both materially and spiritually, reflecting its role in ancient society and its symbolic meanings.Taken in War In the ancient Near East, silver was often acquired as spoils of war. Victorious armies would seize silver along with other valuables from defeated foes. This practice is illustrated in several biblical accounts. For instance, in the conquest of Jericho, the Israelites were commanded to dedicate all silver and gold to the Lord's treasury (Joshua 6:19): "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 underscores the belief that silver, as a valuable commodity, was to be consecrated to God, reflecting His sovereignty over all material wealth. The acquisition of silver through warfare also served as a means of economic gain and resource accumulation for the victors. In 2 Chronicles 25:6, we read about King Amaziah of Judah hiring mercenaries with silver: "He also hired 100,000 mighty warriors from Israel for a hundred talents of silver." This passage highlights the use of silver as a currency and a tool for military strategy, demonstrating its importance in the political and economic landscape of the time. Purified by Fire The purification of silver by fire is a process frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing refinement and purification. The process of refining silver involves heating it to a high temperature to remove impurities, leaving behind pure metal. This imagery is used metaphorically in Scripture to describe God's refining work in the lives of His people. In Malachi 3:3 , the prophet speaks of the Lord as a refiner: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will present offerings to the LORD in righteousness." This verse portrays God as a divine refiner, purifying His people to make them righteous and acceptable before Him. The refining process, though intense and sometimes painful, is necessary for spiritual growth and holiness. Similarly, in Proverbs 17:3 , the refining of silver is used to illustrate the testing of the human heart: "A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold, but the LORD is the tester of hearts." This proverb emphasizes that just as silver is tested and purified by fire, so too are human hearts tested by God to reveal their true character and intentions. The imagery of silver being purified by fire serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative work of God in the lives of believers. It signifies the removal of sin and impurities, leading to a life that reflects the purity and holiness of God. In summary, silver in the Bible is depicted as a valuable resource often acquired through warfare and subject to purification by fire. These themes highlight the material and spiritual significance of silver, illustrating its role in ancient society and its symbolic representation of God's refining work in the lives of His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 31:22,23Only the gold, and the silver, the brass, the iron, the tin, and the lead, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library How Zerah, King of the Ethiopians, was Beaten by Asa; and How Asa ... Zechariah How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The Letter x. To Paul, an Old Man of Concordia. Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Of the Priesthood of Aaron. Psalm LXXXV. The Self-Examination And ii. Resources Why does Matthew 27:9 attribute the prophecy to Jeremiah when it is from Zechariah? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any conclusive proof of God? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of dross in the Bible? | 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 |
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