Corselets, also known as breastplates or body armor, are protective garments worn over the torso to shield the wearer from weapons in battle. In biblical times, corselets were an essential part of a soldier's armor, providing defense against arrows, swords, and other weapons. The use of corselets is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in ancient warfare and their symbolic significance in spiritual teachings.

Biblical References

1. 1 Samuel 17:5 · In the account of David and Goliath, Goliath is described as wearing a bronze corselet: "He had a bronze helmet on his head and wore a coat of scale armor of bronze weighing five thousand shekels." This description emphasizes the formidable appearance and strength of Goliath, underscoring the challenge David faced.

2. 2 Chronicles 26:14 · King Uzziah of Judah is noted for equipping his army with various weapons and armor, including corselets: "Uzziah provided shields, spears, helmets, armor, bows, and slingstones for the entire army." This passage illustrates the military preparedness and strategic planning during Uzziah's reign.

3. Isaiah 59:17 · In a metaphorical sense, the prophet Isaiah describes God as wearing righteousness as a breastplate: "He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on His head; He put on garments of vengeance and wrapped Himself in zeal as in a cloak." Here, the corselet symbolizes divine protection and justice.

Symbolic Significance

In addition to their practical use in warfare, corselets hold symbolic meaning in the Bible, particularly in the context of spiritual armor. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, uses the imagery of armor to describe the spiritual defenses available to believers:

· Ephesians 6:14 · "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place." The breastplate, or corselet, of righteousness represents the protection that living a righteous life provides against spiritual attacks.

Historical Context

Corselets in biblical times were typically made of metal, such as bronze or iron, and were designed to cover the chest and back. They could be constructed from overlapping scales or plates, providing flexibility and protection. The weight and design of a corselet varied depending on the materials used and the wealth or status of the wearer.

Cultural and Theological Insights

The use of corselets in the Bible reflects the broader cultural practices of ancient Near Eastern societies, where warfare was a common aspect of life. The emphasis on armor in biblical narratives serves to highlight the physical and spiritual battles faced by God's people. The metaphorical use of armor, particularly in the New Testament, underscores the importance of spiritual readiness and the protective power of faith and righteousness.

In summary, corselets in the Bible are both literal pieces of military equipment and powerful symbols of spiritual defense. They remind believers of the need for both physical and spiritual preparedness in the face of life's challenges.

The Adventures of Saint Anthony of Italy.
... First she conducted him to a brazen tower where were a hundred corselets and
other martial furniture of the knights slain by the Giant. ...
/.../kingston/the seven champions of christendom/chapter seven the adventures of.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8. <. ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Corselets (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Corselets (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:20 the headtires,
and the ankle chains, and the sashes, and the perfume ...
/c/corselets.htm - 6k

Coat (54 Occurrences)
... The "harness" (1 Kings 22:34), "breastplate" (Isaiah 59:17), and "brigandine" (Jeremiah
46:4), were probably also corselets or coats of mail. (see ARMOUR.). ...
/c/coat.htm - 25k

Corselet (2 Occurrences)

/c/corselet.htm - 7k

Corslets (1 Occurrence)

/c/corslets.htm - 6k

Habergeon (3 Occurrences)
... breast. Such linen corselets have been found in Egypt. The word used in
these verses is tahra, which is of Egyptian origin. The ...
/h/habergeon.htm - 8k

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