Topical Encyclopedia Silver, a precious metal known for its white and shining appearance, holds significant symbolic and practical value throughout the Bible. Its mention in Scripture often conveys themes of purity, wealth, and redemption, reflecting its esteemed status in ancient cultures.Symbolism and Purity Silver's lustrous quality is frequently associated with purity and refinement. In the process of refining, silver is purified by removing impurities, a metaphor used in the Bible to describe spiritual purification. Psalm 12:6 states, "The words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace, like gold purified sevenfold." This verse highlights the purity and perfection of God's words, likening them to refined silver. Wealth and Commerce In biblical times, silver was a standard of wealth and a medium of exchange. It was used in trade and as currency, often mentioned alongside gold. Genesis 13:2 notes, "And Abram had become extremely wealthy in livestock and silver and gold." This reference underscores silver's role as a measure of wealth and prosperity. Silver was also used in the construction of the Tabernacle, indicating its value and importance in worship. Exodus 26:19 describes the use of silver bases for the Tabernacle's frames, signifying the preciousness of the materials dedicated to God's dwelling place. Redemption and Atonement Silver's role in redemption is notably illustrated in the concept of the "redemption price." In the Old Testament, silver was used to redeem individuals or property. Leviticus 27:16 outlines the valuation of property dedicated to the Lord, with silver serving as the standard for redemption. The New Testament also reflects on silver's association with betrayal and redemption. Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15) is a poignant reminder of silver's dual symbolism as both a measure of value and a tool in the narrative of salvation. Moral and Ethical Lessons The Bible uses silver to teach moral and ethical lessons, often contrasting its material value with spiritual truths. Proverbs 10:20 states, "The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value." Here, silver symbolizes the worth of righteous speech, emphasizing the greater value of moral integrity over material wealth. Divine Judgment and Refinement Silver's refining process serves as a metaphor for divine judgment and purification. Malachi 3:3 describes God as a refiner and purifier of silver, purging the Levites so they may present offerings in righteousness. This imagery conveys the idea of God refining His people, removing impurities to produce holiness and righteousness. Conclusion Silver, with its white and shining appearance, is a multifaceted symbol in the Bible. Its use in Scripture spans themes of purity, wealth, redemption, and moral instruction, reflecting its enduring significance in biblical narratives and teachings. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 68:13,14Though you have lien among the pots, yet shall you be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library "Thy King Cometh" Naaman The Road to Pella The Return of the Exiles "We have Seen his Star" Delivered from Prison Meanwhile, the Marquis Fontenelle had Been Nearly a Fortnight in ... God's People Delivered. God's People Delivered What is the Sanctuary? 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 |