Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, boxes were used for various practical and ceremonial purposes, often crafted from materials such as wood, stone, or metal. While the Bible does not frequently mention boxes explicitly, their presence and utility can be inferred from several passages and historical contexts.Materials and Craftsmanship Boxes in ancient Israel were likely made from locally available materials. Wood was a common choice, with cedar and acacia being particularly valued for their durability and resistance to decay. Stone boxes, such as ossuaries, were used for burial purposes, while metal boxes, often made of bronze or gold, were used for storing valuable items. Uses in Daily Life Boxes served as containers for storing personal items, food, and valuables. In 2 Kings 12:9-10, a chest (or box) was used in the temple to collect money for repairs: "Then Jehoiada the priest took a chest, bored a hole in its lid, and set it beside the altar, on the right side as one enters the house of the LORD. The priests who guarded the threshold put into the chest all the money that was brought into the house of the LORD." Religious and Ceremonial Uses Boxes also played a role in religious practices. The Ark of the Covenant, while not explicitly called a "box," functioned as a sacred container holding the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a jar of manna (Hebrews 9:4). Crafted from acacia wood and overlaid with gold, the Ark was central to Israelite worship and symbolized God's presence among His people. In the New Testament, the alabaster box is mentioned in the context of anointing Jesus. In Matthew 26:7, a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume from an alabaster jar, demonstrating her devotion and foreshadowing His burial: "a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He was reclining at the table." Symbolic Significance Boxes can also carry symbolic meanings in Scripture. The act of storing or preserving items in a box can represent the safeguarding of spiritual truths or treasures. In 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul uses the metaphor of "jars of clay" to describe how the treasure of the gospel is held in human vessels, emphasizing the contrast between the preciousness of the message and the frailty of its carriers. Cultural and Historical Context Understanding the use of boxes in biblical times requires considering the cultural and historical context. Boxes were not merely utilitarian objects but often held significant value and meaning. They were crafted with care and used in ways that reflected the social and religious practices of the time. In summary, while the Bible does not frequently mention boxes, their presence is implied in various contexts, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. From temple chests to alabaster jars, boxes played a role in the daily and spiritual lives of biblical figures, reflecting the culture and values of ancient Israel. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Plural of Box.Greek 1049. gazophulakion -- treasury ... treasury. From gaza and phulake; a treasure-house, ie A court in the temple for the collection-boxes -- treasury. see GREEK gaza. see GREEK phulake. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1049.htm - 6k 2878. korban -- an offering Strong's Hebrew 1004. bayith -- a house... root Definition a house NASB Word Usage armory* (1), beneath (1), Beth-ashbea* (1), Beth-togarmah* (2), between* (2), boxes (1), buildings (2), daughter (1 ... /hebrew/1004.htm - 7k Library The Circumcision of Jesus The Abiding of the Spirit the Glory of the Church Personal Notes: Relics Nearby that the Three Kings had Given to ... The Last Words in the Temple. Choosing Her Course 1869-1870. Emigration of Families --A visitor's Impressions --The ... The Provinces. Jesus and the Bethany Sisters. The Best Beloved Outward Bound Thesaurus Boxes (3 Occurrences)...Boxes (3 Occurrences). ... Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and the sashes, and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (ASV BBE DBY YLT NAS RSV). ... /b/boxes.htm - 7k Perfume-boxes (1 Occurrence) Scent-boxes (1 Occurrence) Boxer (1 Occurrence) Box (13 Occurrences) Boxing Alabaster (6 Occurrences) Perfumed (10 Occurrences) Scent (6 Occurrences) Libraries Resources What are phylacteries? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.org How could the laws of God be written on doorframes, gates, and foreheads? | GotQuestions.org Boxes: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Boxes (3 Occurrences)Mark 12:41 Acts 19:24 Isaiah 3:20 Subtopics Related Terms |
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