Topical Bible: Spear: Stored in the Tabernacle

◄ Spear: Stored in the Tabernacle ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The spear, a weapon commonly used in ancient warfare, holds a significant place in biblical history and symbolism. Within the context of the Tabernacle, the spear is mentioned in relation to its storage and ceremonial use, reflecting its importance in Israelite culture and religious practice.

Biblical References and Context

The spear is first introduced in the Bible as a weapon of war and a tool for hunting. It is mentioned in various contexts, from the battlefield to personal defense. However, its presence in the Tabernacle is particularly noteworthy, as it signifies the intersection of martial readiness and divine service.

In 1 Samuel 21:8-9, we find a reference to a spear stored in a sacred place: "David said to Ahimelech, 'Do you have a spear or a sword on hand? I did not bring my sword or my weapons with me, because the king’s business was urgent.' The priest replied, 'The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom you killed in the Valley of Elah, is here; it is wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod. If you want it, take it, for there is no other but that one here.' And David said, 'There is none like it; give it to me.'" While this passage specifically mentions a sword, it highlights the practice of storing significant weapons in sacred spaces, suggesting that spears, too, could have been stored in the Tabernacle or similar holy sites.

Symbolism and Significance

The spear, as a weapon, symbolizes strength, protection, and divine judgment. In the context of the Tabernacle, it may also represent the readiness of God's people to defend their faith and community. The storage of weapons like spears in sacred spaces underscores the belief that physical and spiritual battles are intertwined, and that divine guidance is essential in both realms.

The spear's presence in the Tabernacle can also be seen as a reminder of God's past deliverances and victories. Just as the sword of Goliath served as a tangible reminder of God's power and David's faith, a spear stored in the Tabernacle would serve as a testament to God's provision and protection.

Cultural and Historical Insights

In ancient Israel, the spear was a common weapon among soldiers and warriors. Its design varied, but typically it consisted of a long shaft with a pointed metal tip. The spear was used for thrusting in close combat and could also be thrown as a projectile. Its effectiveness in battle made it a staple in the armory of Israelite warriors.

The storage of weapons in sacred spaces like the Tabernacle reflects the cultural practice of dedicating significant items to God. This practice was not unique to Israel; many ancient cultures stored weapons in temples as offerings to their deities, symbolizing the dedication of military victories to divine powers.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the spear stored in the Tabernacle can be seen as a symbol of God's sovereignty over both spiritual and earthly realms. It serves as a reminder that while human efforts and weapons are necessary, ultimate victory comes from the Lord. The presence of such items in the Tabernacle emphasizes the belief that God is the ultimate protector and warrior for His people.

In summary, the spear stored in the Tabernacle represents a confluence of faith, history, and divine protection. It serves as a powerful symbol of God's involvement in the lives of His people, both in times of peace and conflict.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 23:9
Moreover Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David's, which were in the house of God.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Last Things
... December 31, 1865 at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by ... its matchless power
to Ithuriel's spear, with which ... goods beforehand, or he that stored them up ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/last things.htm

New Uses for Old Trophies
... At the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. ... Hang up the shield, hang up the spear,
let Jehovah's name ... fight, the trophies which we win should be stored; for they ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/new uses for old trophies.htm

All Fulness in Christ
... our altar, our priest, our incense, our tabernacle, our all ... The Father has stored
up in Christ Jesus, as in ... the nails, and his heart to the spear; that blessed ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/all fulness in christ.htm

The Procession of Sorrow
... At the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. ... It was one of Death's castles; here he
stored his gloomiest trophies; he was the grim lord ... And unbelief the spear.". ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 9 1863/the procession of sorrow.htm

Treatise on the Priesthood. Book vi.
... while he has all his skill stored up in ... enemies breastplate or shield, sword and
spear, yet the ... in danger at the last day, into thine everlasting tabernacle. ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/treatise on the priesthood book 6.htm

A Song among the Lilies
... At the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. ... for a single moment the delight which
is stored up in ... side of our Beloved, that deep gash of the spear from which ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 20 1874/a song among the lilies.htm

On the Soul and the Resurrection.
... Because, you see, so to understand, manipulate, and dispose the soulless matter,
that the art which is stored away in such mechanisms becomes almost like a ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/on the soul and the 2.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... extreme age to annoy those who came up to worship, and they were even accused of
improper behaviour towards the women who "served at the door of" the tabernacle ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm