Topical Encyclopedia Ivory in the BibleIvory, a precious material derived from the tusks of elephants, is mentioned several times in the Bible as a symbol of wealth, luxury, and opulence. It was highly valued in ancient times for its beauty and rarity, often used in the creation of ornate objects, furniture, and decorations. The use of ivory is indicative of the prosperity and affluence of those who possessed it. In the construction of Solomon's temple and palace, ivory was used extensively, showcasing the grandeur and splendor of his reign. In 1 Kings 10:18, the Bible describes Solomon's throne: "Then the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold." This passage highlights the luxurious nature of ivory, as it was combined with gold to create a symbol of royal authority and magnificence. The prophet Amos also references ivory in his denunciation of the excesses of the wealthy in Israel. In Amos 6:4, he criticizes those who "lie on beds of ivory and lounge on their couches," indicating that ivory was used in the construction of lavish furniture, further emphasizing the indulgence and moral decay of the affluent. Chittim in the Bible Chittim, also known as Kittim, is a term used in the Bible to refer to a region or people associated with the islands and coastlands of the Mediterranean. The name is believed to be derived from Kition, an ancient city on the island of Cyprus, which was known for its trade and commerce. Over time, the term Chittim came to represent various maritime peoples and regions, including parts of Greece and Italy. In the prophetic literature, Chittim is often mentioned in the context of military power and foreign influence. For example, in Daniel 11:30, the "ships of Kittim" are described as coming against the king of the North, symbolizing a formidable naval force. This reference underscores the strategic importance of Chittim as a center of maritime activity and its role in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. The connection between ivory and Chittim is not explicitly detailed in the Bible, but the trade networks of the Mediterranean, including those associated with Chittim, would have facilitated the exchange of luxury goods such as ivory. The wealth and influence of Chittim as a trading hub would have made it a likely source or intermediary for the distribution of ivory throughout the region. Cultural and Historical Context The use of ivory in ancient Israel and the broader Near Eastern context reflects the interconnectedness of various cultures through trade and commerce. Ivory was imported from distant lands, including Africa and India, and its presence in Israelite society indicates the reach and influence of international trade networks. The association of Chittim with maritime trade further highlights the significance of these networks in the dissemination of luxury goods. As a people known for their seafaring capabilities, the inhabitants of Chittim would have played a crucial role in the movement of valuable commodities, including ivory, across the Mediterranean and beyond. In summary, ivory and Chittim are both emblematic of the wealth and complexity of ancient societies, illustrating the interplay between material culture, trade, and biblical narrative. The references to ivory in the Bible serve as a testament to the opulence of certain periods and individuals, while Chittim represents the broader context of international relations and commerce in the ancient world. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:6Of the oaks of Bashan have they made your oars; the company of the Ashurites have made your benches of ivory, brought out of the isles of Chittim. Nave's Topical Index Library Israel in Canaan. Resources What was the significance of the horns of the altar (Amos 3:14)? | GotQuestions.orgIvory: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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