Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, warfare is a recurring theme, and the Scriptures provide detailed accounts of the various weapons employed by ancient armies. These weapons, often crafted from materials readily available in the ancient Near East, reflect the technological advancements and strategic necessities of the time.Swords and Daggers: The sword is one of the most frequently mentioned weapons in the Bible. It was a symbol of power and authority, often used in close combat. In 1 Samuel 17:51, David uses Goliath's own sword to behead him after defeating the giant with a sling and a stone. The sword was typically made of bronze or iron, with the latter becoming more prevalent as ironworking technology advanced. Spears and Javelins: Spears were versatile weapons used for both throwing and thrusting. They are mentioned in numerous biblical accounts, such as when Saul attempted to pin David to the wall with his spear (1 Samuel 18:11). The spear's length allowed soldiers to engage enemies from a distance, providing a tactical advantage in battle. Bows and Arrows: Archery was a critical component of ancient warfare, providing a means to strike from afar. The bow and arrow are mentioned in several passages, including 2 Samuel 1:22, which speaks of the bow of Jonathan. Archers were valued for their ability to weaken enemy forces before close combat ensued. Slings: The sling was a simple yet effective weapon, famously used by David to defeat Goliath (1 Samuel 17:49). Made from leather or woven materials, slings could hurl stones with great force and accuracy. This weapon was particularly useful for shepherds and soldiers who required a lightweight and easily transportable means of defense. Shields and Armor: Defensive equipment was as crucial as offensive weapons in biblical warfare. Shields, often made of wood and covered with leather, were used to protect soldiers from arrows and other projectiles. Ephesians 6:16 metaphorically refers to the "shield of faith," highlighting its protective significance. Armor, including helmets and breastplates, provided additional protection, as seen in the description of Goliath's formidable gear (1 Samuel 17:5-6). Chariots: Chariots were a significant military innovation, offering mobility and speed on the battlefield. They are frequently mentioned in the context of the Egyptian army, such as during the pursuit of the Israelites in Exodus 14:7. Chariots were typically drawn by horses and manned by a driver and a warrior, who would engage the enemy with bows or spears. Siege Weapons: While less frequently detailed, siege warfare is alluded to in the Bible. Battering rams and other siege engines were used to breach city walls, as implied in Ezekiel 4:2. These devices were essential for conquering fortified cities, a common objective in ancient military campaigns. Miscellaneous Weapons: Other weapons mentioned include clubs, axes, and maces, which were used in various contexts. Judges 3:31 mentions Shamgar, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad, demonstrating the use of unconventional weapons in times of necessity. The biblical accounts of warfare and the weapons used therein provide insight into the martial culture of ancient Israel and its neighbors. These narratives not only depict historical events but also convey spiritual truths and moral lessons, as the battles often symbolize the struggle between good and evil. Torrey's Topical Textbook Joshua 1:14Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but you shall pass before your brothers armed, all the mighty men of valor, and help them; Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 18:11 Greek 3696. hoplon -- a tool, implement, weapon ... an instrument; plur: arms, weapons. 3696 -- properly, an implement (normally used for ). In the NT, 3696 ("instrument") is always in the (" to wage war"). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3696.htm - 7k Library War! War! War! 2 Cor. x. 1, 2 How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The The War of Truth How the Philistines Made Another Expedition against the Hebrews ... The Doom of the Antichrist The Expedition of the Philistines against the Hebrews and the ... The Holy War, The Sword of the Spirit The Net Broken Resources What does the Bible say about killing in war? Is killing in war a sin? | GotQuestions.orgDoes Bible prophecy predict that there will be a World War 3 (III, three) before the end times? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible say anything about holy war? | GotQuestions.org War: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics War with Endurance of Hardness War with Steadfastness in the Faith War without Earthly Entanglements War: Be Clothed in White Clothing War: Be Confessed by Christ in the Presence of God the Father War: Be Pillars in the Temple of God War: Called "The Armor of God" War: Called "The Armor of Light" War: Called "The Armor of Righteousness" War: Called the Good Fight of Faith War: Eat from the Tree of Life War: Enemy Harangued by the General of the Opposing Side War: Frequently Long Continued War: Frequently Sore and Bloody War: God: Gives the Victory In War: God: Scatters Those Who Delight In War: God: Strengthens his People For War: God: Taught his People the Art of War: Have a White Stone, and in It a New Name Written War: Have Power Over the Nations War: Have the Name of God Written Upon Them by Christ War: Large Armies Frequently Engaged In War: Mere Professors do not Maintain War: Not be Hurt by the Second Death War: Not Have Their Names Blotted out of the Book of Life War: Often Arises from the Opposition of Friends or Relatives War: Often Attended by Cruelty War: Often Attended by Devastation War: Often Attended by Pestilence War: Often Sent As a Punishment for Sin War: Originates in the Lusts of Men War: Over all That Exalts Itself War: Preceded by Great Preparation War: Saints are all Engaged In War: Sit With Christ on his Throne War: Strengthened by Christ In War: Symbolized by a Red Horse War: The Breastplate of Righteousness War: The Contest Between Antichrist and the Church War: The Contest of Saints With the Enemies of Their Salvation War: The Jews: Frequently Engaged in (See Joshua Chapters 6 Through 11) War: The Malignity of the Wicked War: The Preparation of the Gospel War: Those Who Overcome In, Will Eat of the Hidden Manna War: To be on the Right Hand and Left, an Idiom Meaning: "To Attack and to Defend." War: Under Christ, As Our Captain Related Terms War-carriages (76 Occurrences) |
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