Gold is one of the most frequently mentioned metals in the Bible, symbolizing wealth, purity, and divine glory. Its first mention is in Genesis 2:11-12, where the land of Havilah is noted for its good gold. Gold's intrinsic value and beauty made it a symbol of wealth and status throughout biblical history. It was used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, signifying the holiness and majesty of God. In Exodus 25:11, God commands Moses to overlay the Ark of the Covenant with pure gold, highlighting its sacredness.

Gold also represents spiritual purity and divine wisdom. In Job 23:10, Job compares his trials to the refining of gold, indicating a process of purification: "But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold." In the New Testament, gold is mentioned in the context of the Magi's gifts to Jesus, symbolizing His kingship (Matthew 2:11).

Silver

Silver, like gold, is a precious metal mentioned frequently in the Bible, often symbolizing redemption and truth. It was used as currency and in trade, as seen in Genesis 23:16, where Abraham purchases the cave of Machpelah with silver. Silver's role in commerce is further highlighted in the betrayal of Jesus, where Judas Iscariot receives thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15).

In the Old Testament, silver is associated with the redemption of the firstborn (Numbers 18:16) and the atonement money (Exodus 30:11-16). The refining process of silver is used metaphorically to describe the purification of God's people, as in Malachi 3:3: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver."

Bronze

Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of strength and judgment. It was used in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, particularly in items associated with sacrifice and cleansing. The bronze altar and the bronze basin in the Tabernacle (Exodus 27:1-8, 30:18) were essential for the sacrificial system, symbolizing the need for purification and atonement.

Bronze is also associated with divine judgment and strength. In Deuteronomy 28:23, the heavens are described as bronze during times of disobedience, indicating a lack of rain and divine favor. The bronze serpent in Numbers 21:9, which Moses lifted up for the healing of the Israelites, prefigures Christ's crucifixion and the salvation it brings.

In prophetic literature, bronze often symbolizes the enduring strength of God's kingdom, as seen in Daniel's vision of the statue with legs of iron and feet partly of iron and partly of clay (Daniel 2:33). The use of bronze in these contexts underscores its role as a symbol of both divine judgment and protection.