Jump to: ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia The anvil is a tool commonly associated with blacksmithing, used as a sturdy surface upon which metal can be hammered and shaped. While the anvil itself is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept and practice of metalworking are present throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the technological and cultural practices of ancient times.Biblical Context and Symbolism In the Bible, metalworking is often associated with craftsmanship and skill. The process of shaping metal, which would have involved the use of an anvil, is indicative of human ingenuity and the ability to transform raw materials into useful objects. This is seen in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, where skilled artisans crafted intricate designs from gold, silver, and bronze (Exodus 31:3-5; 1 Kings 7:13-14). The imagery of metalworking, including the use of tools like the anvil, is also employed metaphorically in Scripture. For instance, the refining of metals is used as a metaphor for God's purification of His people. In Malachi 3:2-3 , it is written, "But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He will be like a refiner’s fire, like a launderer’s soap. And He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver." Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Near Eastern cultures, blacksmiths were essential for the production of tools, weapons, and various implements necessary for daily life. The presence of blacksmiths and their tools, such as anvils, underscores the advanced state of technology and craftsmanship during biblical times. The Philistines, for example, are noted for their control over iron technology, which gave them a military advantage over the Israelites (1 Samuel 13:19-22). The anvil, though not directly mentioned, would have been a critical component in the work of these craftsmen. The process of heating, hammering, and shaping metal on an anvil would have been a familiar sight in ancient Israelite society, contributing to the economy and warfare capabilities of the time. Theological Reflections The concept of the anvil and metalworking can also be seen as a reflection of God's creative power and His work in shaping and molding His creation. Just as a blacksmith uses an anvil to transform raw metal into a finished product, God is depicted as the divine craftsman who shapes the destinies of nations and individuals according to His will. In Isaiah 44:12 , the prophet describes the work of a blacksmith: "The blacksmith takes a tool and works with it in the coals; he shapes an idol with hammers, he forges it with the might of his arm." This passage highlights the skill and effort involved in metalworking, which can be seen as a parallel to the divine craftsmanship of God in forming and refining His people. Overall, while the anvil itself is not directly mentioned in the biblical text, its role in the broader context of metalworking provides valuable insights into the technological, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of the biblical world. Easton's Bible Dictionary The rendering of the Hebrew word , "beaten," found only in Isaiah 41:7. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) An iron block, usually with a steel face, upon which metals are hammered and shaped.2. (n.) Anything resembling an anvil in shape or use. 3. (n.) the incus. See Incus. 4. (v. t.) To form or shape on an anvil; to hammer out; as, anviled armor. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ANVILan'-vil (pa`am): The word is used only once to mean anvil. The passage (Isaiah 41:7) refers to the custom still very common of workmen encouraging each other at their work. See CRAFTS. Just how pretentious the anvil of the ancients was we do not know. Most work requiring striking or beating, from the finest wrought jewelry to the largest copper vessels, is now done on an anvil shaped like an inverted letter L which is driven into a block of wood, or into the ground, or into a crack between two of the stone slabs of the workman's floor. The only massive anvils seen in the country today are modern and of foreign make. Strong's Hebrew 6471. paam -- a beat, foot, anvil, occurrence... 6470, 6471. paam. 6472 . a beat, foot, anvil, occurrence. Transliteration: paam Phonetic Spelling: (pah'-am) Short Definition: times. ... /hebrew/6471.htm - 6k Library The Anvil of Experience. Fire and Anvil for Leaders. Shaping a Prayer on the Anvil of the Knees. Quiet Talks about Jesus Exhortations. The Northern Iron and the Steel Sin Immeasurable The Stony Heart Removed Heart's-Ease A Greater than Solomon Thesaurus Anvil (1 Occurrence)... 2. (n.) Anything resembling an anvil in shape or use. 3. (n.) the incus. See Incus. 4. (vt) To form or shape on an anvil; to hammer out; as, anviled armor. ... /a/anvil.htm - 8k Goldsmith (6 Occurrences) Stock (16 Occurrences) Nails (16 Occurrences) Web (5 Occurrences) Fasteneth (2 Occurrences) Founder (5 Occurrences) Float (4 Occurrences) Fastens (2 Occurrences) Refiner (10 Occurrences) Resources Anvil: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Anvil (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 41:7 Subtopics Anvil: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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