Introduction

Copper and brass hold significant symbolic and practical roles in the biblical narrative, often representing strength, durability, and divine judgment. These metals are frequently mentioned in the context of God's decrees, illustrating His unchanging nature and sovereign will. The decrees of God, as understood in Christian theology, refer to His eternal plan and purpose, which He has ordained for His creation. This entry explores the biblical symbolism of copper and brass in relation to God's decrees, drawing from various scriptural references.

Symbolism of Copper and Brass

In the Bible, copper and brass are often used interchangeably, with brass being an alloy of copper and zinc. These metals are noted for their resilience and are frequently associated with divine attributes and actions. For instance, in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, copper and brass were used extensively, symbolizing God's strength and purity.

Biblical References

1. The Tabernacle and Temple: In Exodus 27:1-3, the altar of burnt offering is described as being made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze (a term often used interchangeably with brass). This altar, central to the sacrificial system, signifies God's provision for atonement and His decree of redemption through sacrifice. The use of bronze underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people.

2. The Bronze Serpent: In Numbers 21:8-9, God instructs Moses to make a serpent of bronze and set it on a pole, so that anyone bitten by a snake could look at it and live. This event foreshadows the ultimate decree of salvation through Christ, as referenced in John 3:14-15. The bronze serpent symbolizes God's provision and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan.

3. The Bronze Sea: In 1 Kings 7:23-26, Solomon's Temple features a large basin known as the "Bronze Sea," used for ceremonial washing by the priests. This symbolizes purification and the cleansing decreed by God for those who serve Him, reflecting His holiness and the necessity of purity in worship.

4. Judgment and Strength: In Ezekiel 1:7, the prophet describes the feet of the living creatures as being like burnished bronze, symbolizing strength and the execution of God's judgment. This imagery is echoed in Revelation 1:15, where Christ is depicted with feet like bronze glowing in a furnace, representing His authority and the certainty of His decrees.

Theological Implications

The use of copper and brass in these contexts highlights key aspects of God's decrees:

· Sovereignty: God's decrees are unchangeable and eternal, much like the enduring nature of these metals. They reflect His absolute authority over creation and history.

· Judgment and Redemption: The metals' association with altars and the bronze serpent underscores God's decrees concerning sin, judgment, and redemption. They point to the necessity of atonement and the provision of salvation through Christ.

· Holiness and Purity: The use of bronze in the Temple's furnishings signifies the holiness required by God and the purification He decrees for His people.

Conclusion

Copper and brass serve as powerful symbols in the biblical narrative, illustrating the strength, purity, and unchanging nature of God's decrees. Through these metals, Scripture communicates profound truths about God's sovereign will, His provision for redemption, and the holiness He demands from His people.Zechariah 6:1
And I turned, and lifted up my eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came four chariots out from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A view of God's Glory
... rain from skies which had been like brass before; but ... His brother passed a red-hot
copper bowl before his face ... golden floor is made of the solemn decrees of the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 54 1908/a view of gods glory.htm

Importance of Small Things in Religion
... I respect your Church decrees, but not so as I venerate ... and he begins working away
upon the brass, erases here ... it is nothing but a bag of copper." "Look once ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 6 1860/importance of small things in.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... The mountains contained copper, iron, lead, some gold and silver,* several kinds
of ... impending downfall of the oppressor: "Jahveh is a jealous God and avengeth ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... I shall avoid all pretence of saying less than I mean, and similar subterfuges of
hypocrisy which are hateful in God's sight; and, though my words may be ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /

What was the significance of the bronze laver? | GotQuestions.org

What was Nehushtan? | GotQuestions.org

What was the brazen altar? | GotQuestions.org

Brass: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus