Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the lance was a weapon commonly used by soldiers and warriors, often mentioned in the context of battle and warfare. The lance, a type of spear, was typically a long wooden shaft with a pointed metal tip, designed for thrusting or throwing. It was an essential part of the ancient military arsenal, valued for its reach and effectiveness in combat.Old Testament References The use of lances is implied in several Old Testament passages, where they are often associated with the military might of various nations. While the term "lance" itself is not frequently used in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is closely related to the spear, which is mentioned numerous times. In 1 Samuel 17:7, the description of Goliath's weaponry includes a spear, which can be understood as a type of lance due to its size and purpose: "The shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s rod, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels. In addition, his shield bearer went before him." This passage highlights the formidable nature of such weapons in the hands of a skilled warrior. The prophet Joel, in his call to prepare for war, alludes to the transformation of agricultural tools into weapons, which may include lances: "Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears. Let the weak say, ‘I am strong!’" (Joel 3:10). This imagery underscores the urgency and totality of the call to arms, suggesting that even common implements could be repurposed as weapons like lances. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not explicitly mention lances, the Roman soldiers who occupied Judea during this period were known to use such weapons. The Roman lance, or pilum, was a key component of the Roman military's effectiveness, designed to penetrate enemy shields and armor. The crucifixion account in John 19:34 provides an indirect reference to a lance: "Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out." This act, performed by a Roman soldier, demonstrates the use of a spear-like weapon in a non-combat situation, highlighting its role in Roman military practices. Symbolic and Spiritual Significance In a spiritual context, the lance can symbolize the piercing nature of sin and the need for divine protection. The imagery of weapons in the Bible often serves as a metaphor for spiritual warfare, where believers are called to arm themselves with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). While the lance is not specifically mentioned in this passage, the concept of being equipped for spiritual battle is a recurring theme. The lance, as a weapon of war, also serves as a reminder of the ultimate peace that God promises. In prophetic visions of the future, such as in Isaiah 2:4, there is a promise of a time when "They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer take up the sword against nation, nor will they train anymore for war." This vision of peace contrasts with the current reality of conflict, offering hope for a future where instruments of war, including lances, are transformed into tools for life and growth. Strong's Hebrew 7420. romach -- a spear, lance... Word Origin from an unused word Definition a spear, lance NASB Word Usage lances (1), spear (5), spears (9). buckler, javelin, lancet, spear. ... /hebrew/7420.htm - 6k Library Unhappy Souls! Stricken through with all These Barbarisms as with ... Overcoming Great Difficulties Of Circumcision and the Supercession of the Old Law. The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty The First Theban Empire Argument. --When the Saints were Apprehended, St. Perpetua ... The Bishop Elect and Consecrate School Days When Appius Told his Mother and his Sister what Augustus had Said ... The Last Few Decades have Been Marked by a Special Cultivation of ... Thesaurus Lances (1 Occurrence)...Lances (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 18:28 They cried aloud, and cut themselves after their manner with knives and lances, until the blood gushed out on them. ... /l/lances.htm - 6k Lancer Lancet Tilt (2 Occurrences) Knives (12 Occurrences) Louder (10 Occurrences) Lance (7 Occurrences) Gushed (6 Occurrences) Artillery (1 Occurrence) Slashed (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Lances (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 18:28 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |