In the context of the Bible, the term "array" is often used to describe the arrangement or organization of people, objects, or garments. The concept of arrays can be seen in various aspects of biblical life, including military formations, priestly garments, and ceremonial settings. The term is used both literally and metaphorically throughout the Scriptures.

Military Arrays

One of the most common uses of the term "array" in the Bible is in reference to military formations. The Israelites, like other ancient Near Eastern peoples, organized their armies in specific formations for battle. In 1 Samuel 17:8, Goliath challenges the Israelites, who are "arrayed for battle" against the Philistines. The organization and readiness of an army were crucial for success in warfare, and the Bible often highlights the importance of being properly arrayed for battle.

Priestly Garments

The concept of arrays is also significant in the description of priestly garments. In Exodus 28, God provides detailed instructions for the garments of the high priest, which are to be made with specific materials and designs. These garments are described as being "arrayed" in a manner that reflects the holiness and glory of God. The high priest's attire, including the ephod, breastplate, and robe, serves as a physical representation of the spiritual responsibilities and the sanctity of the priestly office.

Ceremonial and Festive Arrays

Arrays are also mentioned in the context of ceremonial and festive occasions. In Esther 6:8, King Ahasuerus orders that Mordecai be honored by being arrayed in royal garments. This act of arraying someone in fine clothing is a symbol of honor and distinction. Similarly, in the parable of the wedding banquet in Matthew 22:11-12, the king notices a guest who is not arrayed in wedding clothes, highlighting the importance of being properly prepared and adorned for significant events.

Metaphorical Uses

The Bible also uses the concept of arrays metaphorically to describe spiritual truths. In Ephesians 6:11, believers are exhorted to "put on the full armor of God," which can be understood as being arrayed in spiritual armor to stand against the schemes of the devil. This metaphorical use emphasizes the need for spiritual readiness and the protection that comes from being clothed in God's truth and righteousness.

Conclusion

The concept of arrays in the Bible underscores the importance of order, preparation, and proper presentation, whether in physical, ceremonial, or spiritual contexts. Through various uses of the term, the Scriptures convey the significance of being properly arrayed in accordance with God's commands and purposes.

Of the Exposition of the Resurrection, the Judgment, and Other ...
... however, that we are to dispute against each several type of perverse men, and that
all their wrong opinions are to be refuted by set arrays of argumentations ...
/.../on the catechising of the uninstructed/chapter 7 of the exposition of.htm

On Filthy Speaking.
... rule holds with regard to hearing and seeing in the case of what is obscene, the
divine Instructor, following the same course with both, arrays those children ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter vi on filthy speaking.htm

The Apostolic Churches the Voice of the Apostles Let the Heretics ...
... This she seals with the water (of baptism), arrays with the Holy Ghost, feeds with
the Eucharist, cheers with martyrdom, [2238] and against such a discipline ...
/.../the prescription against heretics/chapter xxxvi the apostolic churches the.htm

1 John ii. 13
... Hence John does not say: Ye will overcome the evil one, that power in the evil one,
which in all those respects arrays itself in opposition to the divine; but ...
//christianbookshelf.org/neander/the first epistle of john/1 john ii 13.htm

1 John iv. 4-6
... In the assurance of the victory of God's omnipotence, over all which arrays itself
against him, they are assured that, virtually, they have already overcome ...
//christianbookshelf.org/neander/the first epistle of john/1 john iv 6-apr.htm

Of Temptations
... it, yet he takes it not from me; counsel me, father; what ought I do?" To whom Brother
Giles made the reply following: "My brother, when a king arrays one of ...
/.../the little flowers of st francis of assisi/chapter ix of temptations.htm

The Pinnacle of the Temple.
... 11, 12, ";The angels shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot
against a stone." But Christ arrays against him another passage, which defines ...
/.../section 44 the pinnacle of.htm

Psalm 65:1. 1-5. First Part. LM Public Prayer and Praise.
... PAUSE. 5 Let Babel fear when Sion prays; Babel, prepare for long distress When
Sion's God himself arrays In terror, and in righteousness. ...
/.../watts/the psalms of david/psalm 65 1 0 1-5 first part.htm

Savior, when Night Involves the Skies
... Thee, Victor of the grave and hell,. Thee, source of life's eternal morn. When noon
her throne in light arrays,. To thee my soul triumphant springs; ...
/.../daily prayer through the week 8.htm

Psalm 65 Part 1 Public Prayer and Praise.
... Babel, prepare for long distress,. When Zion's God himself arrays. In terror
and in righteousness. With dreadful glory God fulfils. ...
/.../watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/psalm 65 part 1 public.htm

Arrays (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Arrays (1 Occurrence). Esther 6:8 let the royal
apparel be brought with which the king arrays himself, and ...
/a/arrays.htm - 6k

Arraying (1 Occurrence)

/a/arraying.htm - 6k

Arrest (22 Occurrences)

/a/arrest.htm - 45k

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