Gold stripping, within the context of the Bible, refers to the act of removing gold from objects, often as a form of desecration, judgment, or as a means of repurposing valuable materials. This practice is mentioned in several instances throughout the Scriptures, highlighting both the material and symbolic significance of gold in biblical times.

Biblical Instances:

1. Destruction and Desecration:
In times of conquest and judgment, gold stripping was a common practice. One notable instance is the stripping of gold from the Temple in Jerusalem. In 2 Kings 24:13 , it is recorded, "As the LORD had declared, Nebuchadnezzar removed all the treasures from the house of the LORD and the royal palace, and he cut into pieces all the gold articles that Solomon king of Israel had made for the temple of the LORD." This act was not only a physical removal of wealth but also a symbolic act of divine judgment and the loss of God's favor.

2. Repurposing for Idolatry:
Gold stripping also occurred when the Israelites repurposed gold for idolatrous practices. In Exodus 32:2-4 , Aaron instructs the people to strip off their gold earrings to create the golden calf: "So Aaron told them, 'Take off the gold earrings that are on your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me.' Then all the people took off their gold earrings and brought them to Aaron. He took the gold from their hands, and with an engraving tool he fashioned it into a molten calf." This incident underscores the ease with which the Israelites turned from worshiping God to idolatry, using the very gold that was meant to be a blessing.

3. Symbol of Humiliation:
Gold stripping can also symbolize humiliation and defeat. In Isaiah 39:2 , Hezekiah shows the Babylonian envoys all the treasures of his house, including the gold. Later, Isaiah prophesies that these treasures will be carried off to Babylon, signifying the impending humiliation and captivity of Judah: "And Hezekiah welcomed the envoys and showed them what was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his entire armory—everything found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them."

Theological Implications:

Gold, throughout the Bible, is often associated with wealth, purity, and divine blessing. However, the act of gold stripping reveals the transient nature of material wealth and the consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the dangers of idolatry and pride. The stripping of gold, whether as a result of divine judgment or human folly, illustrates the broader biblical theme that true security and value are found not in earthly treasures but in a right relationship with God.