Topical Encyclopedia Ivory, a precious material derived from the tusks of elephants and other animals, is mentioned several times in the Bible, often symbolizing wealth, luxury, and opulence. Its use in ancient times was primarily for decorative purposes, and it was highly valued in trade and craftsmanship.1. Solomon's Throne and Wealth: King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom and wealth, had a throne made of ivory, overlaid with fine gold. This throne is described in 1 Kings 10:18: "Then the king made a great throne of ivory and overlaid it with pure gold." The use of ivory here underscores the grandeur and splendor of Solomon's reign, reflecting the prosperity and artistic achievement of Israel during his time. 2. Ahab's Palace: The opulence of the Northern Kingdom of Israel is highlighted by the mention of ivory in the construction of King Ahab's palace. In 1 Kings 22:39, it is recorded: "As for the rest of the acts of Ahab, along with all his accomplishments and the ivory house he built, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel?" This reference indicates the luxurious lifestyle and the extent of wealth accumulated by Ahab. 3. Trade and Commerce: Ivory was a significant commodity in ancient trade, as evidenced by its mention in the context of Tyre's extensive trading network. Ezekiel 27:15 describes the trade of ivory: "The men of Dedan were your merchants; many coastlands were your customers; they paid you with ivory tusks and ebony." This passage highlights the value placed on ivory and its role in the economic exchanges of the ancient world. 4. Symbol of Decadence: The prophet Amos speaks against the excesses of the wealthy in Israel, using ivory as a symbol of their indulgence and moral decay. In Amos 6:4, he declares: "You lie on beds inlaid with ivory and lounge on your couches. You dine on choice lambs and fattened calves." Here, ivory is associated with the complacency and self-indulgence of those who have turned away from righteousness. 5. Craftsmanship and Artistry: The Song of Solomon, a poetic book celebrating love and beauty, uses ivory metaphorically to describe the beloved's features. In Song of Solomon 5:14, the beloved's hands are likened to "rods of gold set with beryl, his body is an ivory panel inlaid with sapphires." This imagery conveys the exquisite beauty and craftsmanship associated with ivory. Throughout the Scriptures, ivory serves as a symbol of wealth, artistry, and sometimes moral decline. Its presence in biblical narratives provides insight into the cultural and economic contexts of the ancient Near East, reflecting both the splendor and the potential pitfalls of material prosperity. Nave's Topical Index Songs 5:14His hands are as gold rings set with the beryl: his belly is as bright ivory overlaid with sapphires. Nave's Topical Index Songs 7:4 Ezekiel 27:15 Library Of Passages from the Holy Scriptures, and from the Apocrypha ... Apprehending God The Old Testament and Archeology Psalm LXXVI. The Hebrew Prophecies. "The Sun of Righteousness" The Bible Book ii. English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. The Sixth vision "On Earth" 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 |