Topical Bible: Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges

◄ Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Iron, a metal of significant importance in biblical times, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures for its strength and utility. The use of iron in the construction of various objects, including nails and hinges, is indicative of its essential role in ancient craftsmanship and daily life.

Nails

Iron nails are referenced in the Bible as tools of construction and instruments of fastening. The use of iron nails is notably mentioned in the context of the construction of the Temple. In 1 Chronicles 22:3, it is recorded, "David provided a large quantity of iron to make nails for the doors of the gateways and for the fittings, as well as more bronze than could be weighed." This passage highlights the preparation and provision of materials for the building of the Temple, emphasizing the importance of iron nails in ensuring the stability and durability of the sacred structure.

The use of nails is also symbolically significant in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, where iron nails were used to affix Him to the cross. Although the specific mention of iron is not detailed in the Gospel accounts, the cultural and historical context suggests that iron nails were the likely material used. This event is central to Christian theology, representing the sacrifice of Christ for the redemption of humanity.

Hinges

While the Bible does not explicitly mention iron hinges, the use of iron in making hinges can be inferred from the broader context of iron's application in construction and craftsmanship. Hinges, as pivotal components in doors and gates, would have required a material that provided both strength and durability. Iron, known for its robustness, would have been an ideal choice for such purposes.

The significance of doors and gates in biblical literature often extends beyond their physical function, symbolizing access, protection, and transition. In Proverbs 26:14, the metaphor of a door turning on its hinges is used to describe the sluggard: "As a door turns on its hinges, so does a sluggard on his bed." This imagery underscores the functional importance of hinges, which allow for movement and operation, much like the role of iron in facilitating the construction and use of doors.

In summary, iron's application in making nails and hinges reflects its indispensable role in ancient construction and its symbolic presence in biblical narratives. The strength and utility of iron made it a valuable resource for creating objects that were essential for both practical and spiritual purposes.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 22:3
And David prepared iron in abundance for the nails for the doors of the gates, and for the joinings; and brass in abundance without weight;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Chaldaean Civilization
... by the sword: and when the use of iron became widespread ... applied equally to adopted
children, but made no distinction ... or fugitives who had fallen into the hands ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... a wooden door supported on bronze hinges, and surmounted ... who pared and polished his
nails, perfumers who ... was bolted, ground to flour, and made into bread and ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

Satan's Banquet
... of it, but it was so strong that it made him blind ... the gates of brass, and cut the
bars of iron in sunder ... You are come into the land "Beulah," and you begin to ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/satans banquet.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... It was a type of that temple not made with hands ... of pure gold as shining glass, and
into which none ... thousand talents of silver; brass, and iron without weight ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm