Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, iron is a significant material, often symbolizing strength and power. The first recorded use of iron in the context of a horn is found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of 1 Kings. This reference is tied to the prophet Zedekiah, who used iron horns as a prophetic symbol.Biblical Reference: 1 Kings 22:11 states, "Now Zedekiah son of Chenaanah had made for himself iron horns and declared, 'This is what the LORD says: With these you will gore the Arameans until they are destroyed.'" Context and Significance: The context of this passage is a prophetic encounter during the reign of King Ahab of Israel. Ahab, in alliance with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, sought to reclaim Ramoth-gilead from the Arameans. Before going into battle, Ahab consulted his prophets, who unanimously predicted victory. Among these prophets was Zedekiah, who dramatized his prophecy by crafting iron horns. The use of iron horns by Zedekiah was a symbolic act intended to convey the message of divine empowerment and assured victory over the Arameans. In ancient Near Eastern culture, horns were often associated with strength and dominance, and the use of iron, a strong and durable metal, further emphasized the message of invincibility and divine support. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the use of iron horns by Zedekiah can be seen as an example of prophetic symbolism in the Old Testament. Prophets often used physical objects to convey spiritual truths or divine messages. In this instance, the iron horns were meant to visually and tangibly represent the power and might that the Lord would supposedly grant to Israel in battle. However, the narrative also serves as a cautionary tale about false prophecy. Despite the confident declarations of Zedekiah and the other prophets, the true prophet Micaiah warned of disaster, which ultimately came to pass. This highlights the importance of discerning true prophetic messages from those that merely align with human desires or political agendas. Cultural and Historical Context: Iron was a valuable and relatively advanced material in the ancient world, marking a technological advancement from the earlier Bronze Age. Its use in tools, weapons, and symbolic objects like Zedekiah's horns underscores its significance in biblical times. The crafting of iron horns would have been a notable act, drawing attention to the message being delivered. In summary, the first recorded use of iron in the form of horns in the Bible is a vivid example of prophetic symbolism, reflecting themes of strength, divine intervention, and the complexities of discerning true prophecy. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 22:11And Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah made him horns of iron: and he said, Thus said the LORD, With these shall you push the Syrians, until you have consumed them. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 18:10 Micah 4:13 Library "In the Volume of the Book it is Written of Me" (Heb. . . The First Theban Empire An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... The Power of Little Things. Scriptural Predictions of an Apostasy. A Sermon to Open Neglecters and Nominal Followers of Religion Interpretation of Prophecy. 1875-1877. Mrs. Way's Sewing --Class for Jewesses --Bible Flower ... On the Great Athanasius, Bishop of Alexandria. Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ... Resources What is the story of Deborah and Barak? | GotQuestions.orgFriendship ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org What is an ox goad / oxgoad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Iron: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iron of Greater Gravity than Water Iron of Severe Exercise of Power Iron of Small Comparative Value Iron used from the Earliest Age Iron: (Seared With) Insensibility of Conscience Iron: First Recorded Use of Ax Iron: First Recorded Use of Bedstead Iron: First Recorded Use of Breastplate Iron: First Recorded Use of Chariot Iron: First Recorded Use of Fetters Iron: First Recorded Use of File Iron: First Recorded Use of Furnace Iron: First Recorded Use of Gate Iron: First Recorded Use of Harrow Iron: First Recorded Use of Horn Iron: First Recorded Use of Idols Iron: First Recorded Use of Melted Iron: First Recorded Use of Ore of Iron: First Recorded Use of Pans Iron: First Recorded Use of Pen Iron: First Recorded Use of Pillars Iron: First Recorded Use of Rods for Scourging Iron: First Recorded Use of Stones of Iron: First Recorded Use of Threshing Instruments Iron: First Recorded Use of Tools Iron: First Recorded Use of Used in the Temple Iron: First Recorded Use of Vessels Iron: First Recorded Use of Weapons Iron: First Recorded Use of Yokes Iron: from the North Hardest and Best Iron: Great Quantity of, Provided for the Temple Iron: Made Into: Graving Tools Iron: Made Into: Implements for Husbandry Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges Iron: Made Into: Tools for Artificers Iron: Made Into: Weapons of War Iron: Miraculously Made to Swim Iron: Mode of Purifying, Taken in War Iron: Taken in War, often Dedicated to God Iron: The Land of Canaan Abounded With Related Terms |
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