The concept of the wheel, while not extensively detailed in the Bible, appears in several contexts that provide insight into its symbolic and practical significance in biblical times. The wheel is often associated with movement, progress, and divine intervention.

1. The Wheel in Ezekiel's Vision:

One of the most prominent mentions of wheels in the Bible is found in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 1:15-21, the prophet describes a vision of four living creatures, each accompanied by a wheel. These wheels are described as "a wheel within a wheel" and are full of eyes all around. The passage states:

"As I looked at the living creatures, I saw a wheel on the ground beside each creature with its four faces. The appearance of the wheels and their workmanship was like the gleam of beryl, and all four had the same likeness. Their appearance and workmanship was like a wheel within a wheel. As they moved, they went in any of the four directions, without turning as they moved. Their rims were high and awesome, and all four rims were full of eyes all around." (Ezekiel 1:15-18)

This vision is often interpreted as a representation of God's omnipresence and omniscience, with the wheels symbolizing the divine ability to move and act in all directions without limitation. The eyes on the rims suggest God's all-seeing nature.

2. The Wheel as a Symbol of Judgment:

In Proverbs, the wheel is used metaphorically to describe the process of judgment and discipline. Proverbs 20:26 states:

"A wise king winnows out the wicked and drives the threshing wheel over them."

Here, the wheel is associated with the threshing process, where grain is separated from chaff. This imagery conveys the idea of a wise ruler executing justice and purging evil, much like the threshing wheel separates wheat from chaff.

3. The Wheel in Daily Life:

While the Bible does not provide detailed descriptions of the wheel's use in daily life, it is understood that wheels were an essential part of ancient technology. They were used in chariots, carts, and other vehicles, facilitating transportation and trade. The wheel's invention marked a significant advancement in human civilization, allowing for more efficient movement of goods and people.

4. The Wheel in Symbolic Language:

The wheel is also used symbolically in other parts of Scripture. In James 3:6, the tongue is compared to a small fire that can set a great forest ablaze, and it is described as "setting the whole course of one's life on fire." The Greek word used here, "trochos," can be translated as "wheel," suggesting the cyclical and pervasive nature of the tongue's influence.

5. The Wheel in Apocalyptic Literature:

In apocalyptic literature, such as the visions in Daniel and Revelation, the wheel can be seen as part of the imagery that conveys the complexity and majesty of divine revelation. While not always explicitly mentioned, the concept of movement and the unfolding of God's plan is often depicted through dynamic and intricate imagery, of which the wheel is a part.

In summary, the wheel in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing divine presence, judgment, and the advancement of human civilization. Its appearances in Scripture, though limited, carry profound theological and practical implications.