Silver, a precious metal, holds significant value and symbolism throughout the Bible. It is frequently mentioned in the context of wealth, trade, and craftsmanship. In the ancient Near East, silver was a standard medium of exchange and a measure of wealth, often used in transactions and as a form of currency.

In the Old Testament, silver is first mentioned in the context of Abraham, who was "very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold" (Genesis 13:2). This highlights its importance as a symbol of prosperity and divine blessing. Silver was also used in the construction of the Tabernacle, as seen in Exodus 26:19, where silver bases were used for the frames of the sanctuary, signifying its purity and value in worship.

The prophetic books often use silver metaphorically to describe the refining process of God's people. In Malachi 3:3, the Lord is depicted as a refiner and purifier of silver, symbolizing the purification of the Levites. Similarly, in Proverbs 17:3, "The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart" , illustrating the process of divine testing and refinement.

In the New Testament, silver continues to represent wealth and material possessions. The betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15) underscores the theme of greed and the corrupting power of money. This act of betrayal fulfilled the prophecy found in Zechariah 11:12-13, further emphasizing the prophetic significance of silver.

Cedar

Cedar, a durable and aromatic wood, is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength, beauty, and longevity. The cedar tree, particularly the famed cedars of Lebanon, was highly prized in the ancient world for its quality and resistance to decay.

In the construction of sacred spaces, cedar played a prominent role. King Solomon used cedar wood extensively in building the Temple in Jerusalem, as described in 1 Kings 6:9-10: "So he built the temple and finished it, and he covered the temple with beams and boards of cedar" . The use of cedar in the Temple's construction signifies the grandeur and permanence of God's dwelling place among His people.

Cedar is also associated with royal and luxurious living. Solomon's palace, known as the "House of the Forest of Lebanon," was constructed with cedar, highlighting its association with majesty and opulence (1 Kings 7:2-3). The wood's fragrance and beauty made it a symbol of prosperity and divine favor.

In the poetic and prophetic literature, cedar trees often symbolize strength and stability. Psalm 92:12 states, "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, and grow like a cedar in Lebanon" , using the cedar as a metaphor for the flourishing and enduring nature of the righteous. Similarly, in Ezekiel 31:3, Assyria is compared to a cedar in Lebanon, illustrating its former power and majesty before its downfall.

Cedar's significance extends to its use in purification rituals. In Leviticus 14:4, cedar wood is part of the cleansing ceremony for leprosy, symbolizing purification and restoration. This use underscores cedar's role in representing holiness and renewal in the biblical narrative.