Mantelets, in the context of biblical warfare, refer to protective shields or coverings used during sieges to safeguard soldiers from enemy attacks. These devices were typically employed during assaults on fortified cities, providing a mobile defense against arrows, stones, and other projectiles launched by defenders on city walls.

Biblical References:

While the term "mantelet" itself does not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is closely related to the military tactics and siege warfare described in the Old Testament. The use of protective coverings during sieges is implied in several passages that describe the construction of siege works and the protection of soldiers.

In the book of Ezekiel, the prophet describes the siege of Jerusalem, which includes the use of various siege instruments. Ezekiel 4:2 states, "Then lay siege against it, build a siege wall, raise up a ramp, pitch military camps against it, and place battering rams all around it." Although mantelets are not explicitly mentioned, the description of siege works suggests the use of protective devices to shield soldiers as they approached the city walls.

Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern warfare, mantelets were commonly used by armies to protect their troops during sieges. These structures were often made of wood and covered with hides or other materials to absorb the impact of enemy missiles. Mantelets could be wheeled or carried by soldiers, allowing them to advance towards enemy fortifications while minimizing casualties.

The use of mantelets reflects the strategic importance of siege warfare in biblical times. Cities were often heavily fortified, and direct assaults without adequate protection could result in significant losses. By employing mantelets, attackers could approach city walls more safely, increasing their chances of breaching defenses and capturing the city.

Symbolic Interpretation:

From a spiritual perspective, the concept of a mantelet can be seen as a metaphor for divine protection. Just as soldiers relied on physical shields to guard against enemy attacks, believers are encouraged to seek God's protection in the spiritual battles they face. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, speaks of the "shield of faith" as part of the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:16), which believers are to take up to extinguish the fiery arrows of the evil one.

In this sense, the mantelet serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual vigilance and reliance on God's strength and protection in the face of adversity.

The First Theban Empire
... at work, the archers endeavoured, by the accuracy of their aim, to clear the enemy
from the curtain, while soldiers sheltered behind movable mantelets tried to ...
/.../chapter iiithe first theban empire.htm

Paul Before his Conversion.
... shepherds, travellers, sailors, and soldiers. The same material was also
used for mantelets, shoes, and beds. The Cilician origin of ...
/.../schaff/history of the christian church volume i/section 30 paul before his.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

Mantelets (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Mantelets (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:22 the festival robes,
and the mantles, and the shawls, and the satchels; (See JPS). ...
/m/mantelets.htm - 6k

Mantelet (1 Occurrence)

/m/mantelet.htm - 7k

Mantle (35 Occurrences)

/m/mantle.htm - 21k

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