Topical Bible: Copper Brass: Made Into: Pillars

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Topical Encyclopedia

Copper, often referred to as brass in biblical contexts, holds significant importance in the construction and ornamentation of sacred spaces in the Bible. This metal, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, was extensively used in the making of pillars, which served both functional and symbolic purposes in ancient Israelite worship.

Biblical References:

1. Solomon's Temple:
The most notable use of copper in the form of pillars is found in the construction of Solomon's Temple. The two pillars, named Jachin and Boaz, were crafted by Hiram, a skilled artisan from Tyre. These pillars stood at the entrance of the temple, symbolizing strength and stability. The Bible describes these pillars in detail: "He cast two bronze pillars, each eighteen cubits high and twelve cubits in circumference. He also made two capitals of cast bronze to set on the tops of the pillars; each capital was five cubits high" (1 Kings 7:15-16). The intricate design included pomegranates and chains, showcasing the artistry and significance of these structures.

2. Tabernacle and Other Structures:
While the most famous pillars were those of Solomon's Temple, copper was also used in the construction of the Tabernacle and other sacred structures. The use of copper in these contexts underscored the metal's role in creating a space that was both sacred and enduring. Exodus 27:10-11 describes the use of bronze bases for the pillars of the Tabernacle's courtyard, highlighting the metal's foundational role.

Symbolism and Significance:

In the biblical narrative, pillars often symbolize strength, permanence, and the presence of God. The use of copper, a metal that can withstand the elements and maintain its integrity over time, reinforces these themes. The pillars of Solomon's Temple, in particular, were not merely structural but also carried deep spiritual meaning. They represented the establishment of God's covenant with Israel and the enduring nature of His promises.

Craftsmanship and Artistry:

The creation of copper pillars required exceptional skill and artistry. The Bible notes the involvement of Hiram, a craftsman renowned for his expertise in working with metals. This collaboration between Solomon and Hiram highlights the importance of skilled labor in the service of God, as well as the value placed on beauty and craftsmanship in worship.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, the use of copper and bronze was widespread, and these metals were often associated with divine attributes. The Israelites' use of copper in their religious structures reflects both their cultural context and their theological beliefs. The choice of copper for the temple pillars aligns with the broader ancient practice of using durable and precious materials in places of worship.

In summary, the use of copper brass in the form of pillars in biblical times underscores the metal's significance in religious architecture and its symbolic representation of divine strength and permanence. The detailed descriptions in the Bible reflect the importance of these structures in the spiritual life of ancient Israel.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 7:15,16
For he cast two pillars of brass, of eighteen cubits high apiece: and a line of twelve cubits did compass either of them about.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... had to supply the cedar wood, iron, copper, brass, tin, gold ... Hiram constructed of
bright, burnished brass, an immense ... All the furnishings were also made by Hiram ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/hiram the inspired artificer.htm

To the Rev. Andrew Brandram
... before them was a large heap of pieces of iron, brass, and copper; they were ... and
poetical divinity of the heathen Theocracy had probably been made; but the ...
/.../borrow/letters of george borrow/to the rev andrew brandram.htm

The City of Benares.
... Of late years the enchased brass vessels made in ... with gold leaf, spread over plates
of copper overlaying the ... him in the first instance obeisance must be made. ...
/.../life and work in benares and kumaon 1839-1877/chapter vii the city of.htm

The Procession of Amen
... with palm and nelumbo leaves, and copper censers as ... something other than his mere
appearance made him conspicuous ... tied at its upper corners to brass rings sunk ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter iv the procession of.htm

The Great Stone Face
... insomuch that whatever was iron or brass in other ... of the coach window, and dropped
some copper coins upon ... accorded into one strain, and made delightful music ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the great stone face.htm

Importance of Small Things in Religion
... and he begins working away upon the brass, erases here ... again, and they will become
dirty, frown, copper works. ... my lord and duke they would have made room"they ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 6 1860/importance of small things in.htm

Monos
... These garments, and perhaps a brass pot, were probably all ... was plain how the Bocas
had been made; for here ... at the mouth, in intense black and copper and olive ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter vi monos.htm

The Absurdity and Impiety of the Heathen Mysteries and Fables ...
... caldron, or the Cirrh??an tripod, or the Dodonian copper. ... And another, taking an image
of Hercules made of wood ... a doctor, and not only a brass-worker among the ...
/.../clement/exhortation to the heathen/chapter ii the absurdity and impiety.htm

The Presentation of the Blessed virgin in the Temple
... was made of quite short spikes of brass wire set ... similar"wide funnels made of thin
copper, ending in ... straight and some crooked, and so made an accompaniment ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/iii the presentation of the.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... on each leg eighteen rings of solid brass as thick ... the finger, and three rings of
copper above the ... have seized Megiddo." The Egyptians had made little progress ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm