Mortar

In biblical times, mortar was a crucial building material used for construction and various other purposes. It is a mixture of sand, water, and a binding agent, typically lime or clay, used to bond stones or bricks together. The use of mortar is mentioned in several passages throughout the Bible, highlighting its importance in ancient architecture and daily life.

One of the earliest references to mortar is found in the account of the Tower of Babel. Genesis 11:3 states, "They said to one another, 'Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly.' So they used brick instead of stone, and tar instead of mortar." This passage indicates that while mortar was commonly used, the builders of Babel opted for tar as a binding agent, showcasing the versatility and experimentation in construction techniques of the time.

In Egypt, the Israelites were subjected to harsh labor, which included making bricks with mortar. Exodus 1:14 describes their plight: "They made their lives bitter with hard labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in all their hard labor, the Egyptians used them