Topical Bible: Horse: Exported: from Babylon

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In the biblical context, horses hold significant importance, often symbolizing strength, power, and military might. The exportation of horses from Babylon is a noteworthy aspect, reflecting the ancient trade practices and the strategic value placed on these animals.

Biblical References:

The Bible provides several references to horses, particularly in the context of their use in warfare and as symbols of wealth and power. While the specific mention of horses being exported from Babylon is not directly stated, the broader narrative of horse trade and acquisition is evident in the Scriptures.

1. Military Use and Symbolism:
Horses were primarily used in warfare, pulling chariots and serving as mounts for soldiers. In the ancient Near East, including Babylon, horses were a crucial component of military strength. The Bible often associates horses with the might of armies. For instance, in Jeremiah 50:37 , it is written, "A sword is against her horses and chariots and against all the foreigners in her ranks. They will become like women. A sword is against her treasures; they will be plundered."

2. Trade and Acquisition:
The acquisition of horses was a significant aspect of trade in the ancient world. Solomon, known for his wealth and wisdom, engaged in extensive trade, including the importation of horses. While the primary source mentioned is Egypt, the broader region, including Babylon, was involved in such trade networks. 1 Kings 10:28-29 states, "Solomon’s horses were imported from Egypt and Kue; the royal merchants purchased them from Kue. A chariot could be imported from Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and a horse for a hundred and fifty. Likewise, they exported them to all the kings of the Hittites and to the kings of Aram."

3. Prophetic Imagery:
Horses are also used in prophetic imagery, symbolizing impending judgment or divine intervention. In the context of Babylon, the imagery of horses often accompanies prophecies of conquest and destruction. For example, in Habakkuk 1:8 , the Chaldeans are described: "Their horses are swifter than leopards, fiercer than wolves at dusk. Their horsemen charge ahead; their cavalry comes from afar. They fly like a vulture swooping down to devour."

Historical Context:

Babylon, as a major power in the ancient Near East, was involved in extensive trade and military campaigns. The exportation of horses from Babylon would have been part of the broader economic and military strategies of the empire. Horses were not only valuable for their role in warfare but also as a symbol of prestige and power.

The strategic importance of horses is further underscored by the fact that they were often targeted in military campaigns, as disabling an enemy's cavalry could significantly weaken their military capabilities. The biblical narrative reflects this understanding, emphasizing the role of horses in the rise and fall of empires.

In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly mention the exportation of horses from Babylon, the broader context of horse trade and their symbolic and practical significance in the ancient world is well-documented. The references to horses in the Scriptures highlight their importance in military, economic, and prophetic contexts, underscoring their value in the ancient Near Eastern societies, including Babylon.

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Ezra 2:66
Their horses were seven hundred thirty and six; their mules, two hundred forty and five;
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Nehemiah 7:68
Their horses, seven hundred thirty and six: their mules, two hundred forty and five:
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Library

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... FAILURE OF URARTU AND RE-CONQUEST Of SYRIA"EGYPT AGAIN UNITED UNDER ETHIOPIAN
AUSPICES"PIONKHI"THE DOWNFALL OF DAMASCUS, OF BABYLON, AND OF ISRAEL. ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... to seek the prototype of the alphabet elsewhere"either in Babylon, in Asia ... branch
of industry; it had also a population which imported and exported more raw ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

The Memphite Empire
... They possessed great flocks of goats or sheep, but the horse and camel were ... iron,
oxides of copper and manganese, and turquoises, which they exported to the ...
/.../chapter iithe memphite empire.htm