The imagery of white horses in the Bible is a powerful symbol that appears primarily in apocalyptic and prophetic contexts. These horses are often associated with divine intervention, victory, and purity. The most notable references to white horses are found in the Book of Revelation, where they play a significant role in the unfolding of eschatological events.

Revelation 6:2
The first mention of a white horse in the Book of Revelation occurs in Revelation 6:2: "I looked, and behold, a white horse, and its rider had a bow. A crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer." This passage introduces the first of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. The rider on the white horse is often interpreted as a symbol of conquest or victory. Some scholars suggest that this figure represents Christ or the spread of the Gospel, while others view it as a representation of earthly conquest and the beginning of tribulation.

Revelation 19:11-14
The second significant appearance of white horses is found in Revelation 19:11-14: "Then I saw heaven standing open, and there before me was a white horse, and its rider is called Faithful and True. With righteousness He judges and wages war. He has eyes like blazing fire, and many royal crowns on His head. He has a name written on Him that only He Himself knows. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is The Word of God. The armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and pure, follow Him on white horses." In this passage, the rider on the white horse is clearly identified as Jesus Christ, returning in glory to judge and wage war against the forces of evil. The white horse symbolizes His purity, righteousness, and ultimate victory over sin and death. The armies of heaven, also on white horses, signify the saints and angels who accompany Christ in His triumphant return.

Symbolism and Interpretation
In biblical symbolism, the color white often represents purity, holiness, and victory. The white horses in Revelation are thus emblematic of divine power and the triumph of good over evil. The imagery of the white horse and its rider serves to reassure believers of Christ's ultimate victory and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Old Testament References
While the New Testament provides the most explicit references to white horses, the Old Testament also contains imagery that can be associated with divine chariots and horses. For example, in 2 Kings 2:11, Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind by a chariot of fire and horses of fire, symbolizing divine intervention and the prophet's ascension to heaven. Similarly, in Zechariah 6:1-8, the prophet sees four chariots with horses of different colors, which are sent out to patrol the earth, representing God's sovereign control over the nations.

Cultural and Historical Context
In the ancient Near East, horses were often associated with warfare and conquest. A white horse, in particular, was a symbol of a victorious king or general returning from battle. This cultural understanding enhances the biblical imagery, as the white horse becomes a fitting symbol for Christ, the King of Kings, who returns to establish His reign.

The white horses in the Bible, therefore, serve as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty, the certainty of His promises, and the hope of ultimate redemption for believers.