Fire-baskets, also known as braziers, are containers used to hold burning coals or wood, providing heat and light. In biblical times, these were essential for various domestic and religious purposes. The use of fire-baskets is implied in several passages of Scripture, reflecting their significance in ancient Near Eastern culture.

Biblical References and Usage

While the term "fire-basket" is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept is evident in descriptions of activities involving fire and coals. For instance, in Jeremiah 36:22-23 , we read about King Jehoiakim sitting in his winter house with a fire burning in the brazier before him. This passage illustrates the use of a fire-basket for warmth during the colder months.

In the context of religious practices, fire-baskets were likely used in the tabernacle and temple for burning incense and offerings. Leviticus 16:12 describes the high priest taking a censer full of burning coals from the altar before the LORD, which suggests the use of a portable container for carrying fire. Although the term "censer" is used, it serves a similar function to a fire-basket in this context.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Fire-baskets were not only practical but also held symbolic meaning. Fire, in biblical symbolism, often represents God's presence, judgment, and purification. The controlled use of fire in a basket or brazier could symbolize the containment and proper channeling of divine power. In Isaiah 6:6-7 , a seraphim uses tongs to take a live coal from the altar and touches Isaiah's lips, symbolizing purification and the removal of sin.

Practical Considerations

In ancient Israelite society, fire-baskets would have been made from materials capable of withstanding high temperatures, such as bronze or iron. Their design would allow for adequate air circulation to keep the coals burning efficiently. The portability of fire-baskets made them versatile for use in various settings, from domestic households to religious ceremonies.

Conclusion

Fire-baskets, though not frequently mentioned directly in Scripture, played a vital role in the daily and spiritual life of the Israelites. They provided warmth, facilitated worship, and symbolized deeper spiritual truths. Understanding their use and significance enhances our comprehension of biblical narratives and the cultural context of the ancient Near East.Fire-baskets (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 4:14
Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks, the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put a leather cover over all these, and put its rods in their places.
(BBE)

Fire-baskets (1 Occurrence)
Fire-baskets. Fire, Fire-baskets. Firebrand . Multi-Version Concordance
Fire-baskets (1 Occurrence). Numbers 4:14 Placing ...
/f/fire-baskets.htm - 6k

Firebrand (3 Occurrences)

/f/firebrand.htm - 9k

Meat-hooks (5 Occurrences)
... Numbers 4:14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks,
the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put ...
/m/meat-hooks.htm - 8k

Spades (9 Occurrences)
... Numbers 4:14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks,
the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put ...
/s/spades.htm - 9k

Placing (44 Occurrences)
... Numbers 4:14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks,
the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put ...
/p/placing.htm - 20k

Leather (34 Occurrences)
... Numbers 4:14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks,
the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put ...
/l/leather.htm - 17k

Rods (76 Occurrences)
... Numbers 4:14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks,
the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put ...
/r/rods.htm - 27k

Cloth (57 Occurrences)
... Numbers 4:14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks,
the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put ...
/c/cloth.htm - 24k

Fire (602 Occurrences)

/f/fire.htm - 78k

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