Topical Bible: The Cedar used In Making Chariots

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Topical Encyclopedia

The cedar tree, known for its durability, fragrance, and majestic stature, holds a significant place in biblical history and literature. Among its many uses, cedar wood was notably employed in the construction of chariots, a fact that underscores its importance in ancient craftsmanship and warfare.

Biblical References and Historical Context

Cedar wood is frequently mentioned in the Bible, often symbolizing strength and beauty. The cedars of Lebanon, in particular, were renowned for their superior quality. In the context of chariots, cedar's robust nature made it an ideal material for constructing these essential vehicles of war and transportation.

While the Bible does not explicitly state that cedar was used for chariots, its properties and the historical context suggest its use. Chariots were a critical component of ancient military strategy, and the need for strong, reliable materials would have made cedar an attractive choice. The wood's resistance to decay and insects, combined with its lightweight nature, would have contributed to the effectiveness and longevity of chariots.

Symbolism and Significance

Cedar's use in chariots can also be seen as symbolic. In biblical literature, cedar often represents power and prestige. For instance, in 1 Kings 10:26-29, Solomon's accumulation of chariots and horses is described, highlighting the wealth and military might of his reign. Although the text does not specify the materials used, the association of cedar with Solomon's other building projects, such as the temple and his palace, suggests its possible use in his chariots as well.

The use of cedar in chariots can also be linked to the broader theme of divine provision and blessing. The abundance of cedar in Lebanon and its availability for Israel's use can be seen as a testament to God's provision for His people, equipping them with the resources needed for defense and prosperity.

Cultural and Theological Implications

The choice of cedar for chariots reflects the broader cultural and theological milieu of the ancient Near East. Cedar's prominence in construction and its symbolic associations with strength and endurance would have resonated with the biblical audience, reinforcing themes of divine favor and the establishment of a strong, God-ordained kingdom.

Moreover, the use of cedar in chariots can be viewed through the lens of stewardship. The careful selection and utilization of resources like cedar demonstrate a commitment to excellence and responsibility in fulfilling God's purposes. This aligns with the biblical principle of using one's gifts and resources wisely for the glory of God and the benefit of His people.

Conclusion

The cedar's role in the construction of chariots, while not explicitly detailed in Scripture, is supported by its historical and symbolic significance. Its use underscores themes of strength, divine provision, and the responsible stewardship of resources, reflecting the broader narrative of God's interaction with His people throughout biblical history.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Songs 3:9
King Solomon made himself a chariot of the wood of Lebanon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

How Solomon Grew Rich, and Fell Desperately in Love with Women and ...
... were so much exercised, in order to their making a fine ... He had on a white garment,
and used to take his ... stones in the street; and so multiplied cedar trees in ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 7 how solomon grew.htm

Nineveh.
... alabaster, and the rooms decked with cedar, gilding, and ... was a proud and ambitious
monarch, who used his Israelite ... up the walls of Nineveh, and making the most ...
//christianbookshelf.org/yonge/the chosen people/lesson ix nineveh.htm

Christ Glorified as the Builder of his Church
... Afflictions cannot sanctify us, except as they are used by Christ ... no hammering us
with the rod, no making us ... No, beloved, if the cedar could see itself after it ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 4 1858/christ glorified as the builder.htm

Under Ban of the Ritual
... the room to another table similarly equipped for plan-making. ... was the flood-tide
wharf, but it was used now only ... than a long bow; the huge cedar-masted cangias ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter ii under ban of.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... had against him 2500 chariots containing three men each, making 7500 charioteers ...
celebrated archers of Egypt, whose long bows and arrows, used with deadly ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

A Discourse
... That Lebanon is used figuratively by the inspired writers there ... pillars, for that
they were made of cedar; but what ... for the devil, and for the making of her a ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm

The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea
... The making of bricks ... the stamp of Dungi are found among the materials used in the ...
The interior was panelled with cedar or cypress"rare woods procured as ...
/.../chapter iithe temples and the.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... sculpture in ivory, engraving on gems, and glass-making. ... Had he been ill-used, the
Phoenicians living ... precious vases, slaves, lapis-lazuli, chariots and horses ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... reaping a rich harvest of spoil"chariots fully equipped, 600 ... of Nairi; Assur-nazir-
pal now used it as ... of this measure were not long in making themselves felt ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Sennacherib (705-681 BC )
... the peaks of Nipur, had been making frequent descents ... those which the Mediterranean
natives used for their ... style, with woodwork of fragrant cedar and cypress ...
/.../chapter isennacherib 705-681 b c.htm