Topical Bible: The Horse: Sold in Fairs and Markets

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The horse, a noble and powerful creature, holds a significant place in biblical history and literature. While the Bible does not provide extensive details on the commercial aspects of horse trading, it does offer insights into the role and value of horses in ancient societies, including their sale in fairs and markets.

Biblical Context and Significance

Horses are mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, often symbolizing strength, power, and military might. In the ancient Near East, horses were primarily associated with warfare and chariots, as seen in passages like Exodus 14:9, where Pharaoh's army pursued the Israelites with horses and chariots. The horse's association with military power is further emphasized in Psalm 20:7, which states, "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God."

Trade and Commerce

The trade of horses is implicitly referenced in the Bible, particularly in the context of Solomon's reign. Solomon, known for his wisdom and wealth, engaged in extensive trade networks, including the acquisition of horses. 1 Kings 10:28-29 notes, "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue. A chariot could be imported from Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and a horse for a hundred and fifty. Likewise, they exported them to all the kings of the Hittites and to the kings of Aram."

This passage highlights the commercial exchange of horses, indicating that they were valuable commodities in international trade. The mention of specific prices for horses and chariots underscores their economic importance and the structured nature of their trade.

Fairs and Markets

While the Bible does not explicitly describe fairs and markets dedicated to the sale of horses, it is reasonable to infer their existence based on the broader context of ancient trade practices. Markets and fairs were central to economic life in the ancient world, serving as hubs for the exchange of goods, including livestock. The presence of horses in these settings would have been a natural extension of their role in trade and commerce.

The prophetic literature also alludes to the bustling activity of markets. Ezekiel 27:14 mentions the trade of horses in the context of Tyre's extensive commercial network: "From Beth-togarmah they exchanged horses, war horses, and mules for your wares." This passage suggests that horses were among the valuable goods traded in the markets of powerful city-states like Tyre.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

In addition to their economic value, horses held cultural and religious significance. They were often associated with the power and prestige of kings and rulers. However, the Bible also warns against placing undue trust in horses and military might, as seen in Isaiah 31:1 : "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the abundance of chariots and in the multitude of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD."

This admonition reflects a broader biblical theme that emphasizes reliance on God rather than on human strength or resources. Despite their importance in trade and warfare, horses are ultimately portrayed as instruments that should not replace faith in divine providence.

In summary, while the Bible does not provide detailed accounts of horse fairs and markets, it offers a glimpse into the economic and cultural significance of horses in ancient times. Through trade, horses became integral to the wealth and power of nations, yet the scriptures consistently remind believers to place their trust in God above all else.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 27:14
They of the house of Togarmah traded in your fairs with horses and horsemen and mules.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 18:13
And cinnamon, and odors, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned
... an ox, [546] or a cow, [547] and, for little more, a horse. ... 565] The large fairs
(Yeridin) were ... in which greengrocery and all kinds of meat were sold (the Beth ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter i in jerusalem when.htm

Directions to Church-Wardens, &C.
... wain-man, carman, drover, horse-courser, waggoner ... church-ales, drinkings, musters,
markets, fairs, temporal courts or ... thought superfluous being sold towards the ...
/.../prideaux/directions to church-wardens/directions to church-wardens &c.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... of it, they farmed it out, they sold it, they ... Herodotus affirms that in his time
marriage markets were held regularly, as in our own time fairs are held ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... Whence came the invisible power that struck Paul from his horse? ... Having so often
sold thyself to me to work wickedness, wilt thou forsake me now? ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... Sudan passed through her emporia on its way to attract customers in the markets
of Tyre ... lest his men should be crushed by the Thessalian and Persian horse if he ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm