Topical Encyclopedia The bow, an ancient weapon for shooting arrows, is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing both physical warfare and spiritual truths. It is a tool of both defense and offense, used by hunters and warriors alike. The bow's significance extends beyond its practical use, often representing strength, skill, and divine judgment.Biblical References and Symbolism The bow is first mentioned in Genesis 21:20, where God is with Ishmael as he grows up in the wilderness and becomes an archer. This early reference sets the stage for the bow's recurring presence in the narratives of the Old Testament. The bow is associated with the tribe of Benjamin, known for their skill in archery, as noted in 1 Chronicles 8:40: "The sons of Ulam were mighty men of valor, archers, and they had many sons and grandsons, 150 in all." In the context of warfare, the bow is a symbol of military might and prowess. In 2 Samuel 1:18, David laments the deaths of Saul and Jonathan, instructing the people to learn the "Song of the Bow," highlighting the importance of archery in Israel's military history. The bow is also a metaphor for strength and victory, as seen in Psalm 18:34: "He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze." Divine Judgment and Protection The bow is often used metaphorically to describe God's power and judgment. In Habakkuk 3:9, the prophet describes God's readiness to execute judgment: "You brandished Your bow; You called for many arrows. Selah." This imagery underscores the bow as an instrument of divine retribution, emphasizing God's sovereignty and justice. Conversely, the bow is also a symbol of God's covenant and protection. In Genesis 9:13, God sets the rainbow in the sky as a sign of His covenant with Noah, promising never to flood the earth again: "I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth." Here, the bow is a reminder of God's mercy and faithfulness. Spiritual Warfare In the New Testament, the bow is less frequently mentioned but retains its symbolic significance in the context of spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:16 speaks of the "shield of faith" to extinguish the "fiery darts of the wicked one," implying the use of arrows in spiritual battles. The imagery of the bow and arrow serves as a reminder of the Christian's need for spiritual vigilance and reliance on God's strength. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, the bow for shooting arrows is a multifaceted symbol, representing human skill, divine judgment, and spiritual warfare. Its presence in Scripture underscores themes of strength, protection, and the ever-present reality of conflict, both physical and spiritual. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Chronicles 12:2They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow, even of Saul's brothers of Benjamin. Torrey's Topical Textbook Strong's Hebrew 7198. qesheth -- a bow... qush Definition a bow NASB Word Usage archers* (3), arrows (1), bow (54 ... in the original sense (of qowsh) of bending: a bow, for shooting (hence, figuratively ... /hebrew/7198.htm - 6k Library Hazael Makes an Expedition against the People of Israel and the ... Faithful unto Death. Dilemma and Deliverance Psalm LXXVIII. Joseph Attacked by the Archers David and Jonathan. David the Shepherd Youth. The Earth Brings Forth, as if by Suppuration... True Prayer --True Power! The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty Resources What does it mean and when will it happen that every knee shall bow? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about bowing or kneeling in prayer? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to worship the starry host or the host of the heavens (Zephaniah 1:5)? | GotQuestions.org Bow: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bow: A Weapon used by the Elamites Bow: A Weapon: David Instructed the Israelites in the Use of, by Writing a War Song To Bow: A Weapon: Made of Brass (R. V.) The Bow of the Tongue of the Wicked The Bow of the Vanquished, Broken and Burned The Bow used Expertly by Benjamites The Bow used Expertly by Elamites The Bow used Expertly by Lydians The Bow used Expertly by Philistines The Bow used Expertly by Sons of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh The Bow: (When Broken) the Overthrow of Power The Bow: (When Deceitful) the Hypocrite The Bow: Called the Battle Bow The Bow: Drawn With Full Force The Bow: Given As a Token of Friendship The Bow: Held in the Left Hand The Bow: Often Furnished by the State The Bow: Sometimes Used in Hunting The Bow: The Jews Taught to Use The Bow: Those Who Used, Called: Archers The Bow: Those Who Used, Called: Bowmen Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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