Topical Encyclopedia The term "javelin" in the context of the Bible refers to a type of spear or heavy lance used primarily as a weapon of war. It is mentioned in several passages, illustrating its significance in ancient military practices and its symbolic representation of power and aggression.Biblical References: 1. 1 Samuel 17:6 · In the account of David and Goliath, the Philistine giant Goliath is described as having a javelin among his formidable array of weapons: "He had bronze greaves on his legs and a bronze javelin slung between his shoulders." This depiction emphasizes the javelin as a weapon of strength and intimidation, suitable for a warrior of Goliath's stature. 2. 1 Samuel 18:10-11 · King Saul's use of the javelin is noted during his attempts to harm David: "The next day a spirit of distress sent from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied inside the house. While David was playing the harp as usual, Saul had a spear in his hand, and he hurled it, thinking, 'I will pin David to the wall.' But David eluded him twice." Here, the javelin symbolizes Saul's growing jealousy and hostility towards David, as well as the divine protection over David. 3. 1 Samuel 19:9-10 · Again, Saul's aggression is highlighted: "But an evil spirit from the LORD came upon Saul as he was sitting in his house with his spear in hand. And as David was playing the harp, Saul tried to pin him to the wall with the spear, but David eluded him, and the spear struck the wall." The repeated use of the javelin by Saul underscores his persistent intent to harm David, despite David's loyalty and service. 4. 2 Samuel 23:18 · The javelin is also associated with the valor of David's mighty men. Abishai, the brother of Joab, is noted for his prowess with the javelin: "Now Abishai the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief of the Three. And he wielded his spear against three hundred men, whom he killed, and won a name along with the Three." This passage highlights the javelin as a weapon of great skill and effectiveness in battle. Symbolism and Usage: In the biblical narrative, the javelin serves as a symbol of military might and personal aggression. It is often associated with figures of authority and power, such as Goliath and King Saul, and is used to convey themes of conflict, divine protection, and the struggle between good and evil. The javelin's presence in these accounts reflects the broader cultural and historical context of warfare in the ancient Near East, where such weapons were integral to the art of war. The javelin's role in the Bible also underscores the importance of divine intervention and protection. Despite the threat posed by such a formidable weapon, figures like David are repeatedly shown to be under God's protection, evading harm and ultimately triumphing over their adversaries. This theme resonates with the broader biblical message of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 39:9And they that dwell in the cities of Israel shall go forth, and shall set on fire and burn the weapons, both the shields and the bucklers, the bows and the arrows, and the hand staves, and the spears, and they shall burn them with fire seven years: Nave's Topical Index Library The Rise of the Assyrian Empire Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Last Days of the Old Eastern World The Iranian Conquest Resources Was Goliath one of the Nephilim? | GotQuestions.orgWho was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What was the leviathan? | GotQuestions.org Javelin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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