Topical Encyclopedia Iron, a metal of significant importance in biblical times, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures as a symbol of strength and durability. Its use in the form of bars is particularly noteworthy, as it often represents impenetrable fortifications or unyielding oppression.In the ancient Near East, iron was a valuable resource, and its ability to be forged into strong bars made it an essential material for construction and defense. The Bible references iron bars in various contexts, illustrating both physical and metaphorical strength. One of the most vivid depictions of iron bars is found in the context of fortifications and gates. In Psalm 107:16 , the psalmist declares, "For He has broken down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron." This verse highlights God's power to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, symbolized by the iron bars that would typically secure a city against invaders. Iron bars also appear in the context of oppression and captivity. In Isaiah 45:2 , God promises to Cyrus, "I will go before you and level the mountains; I will break down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron." Here, the bars of iron represent the barriers and chains that hold people in bondage, and God's intervention is portrayed as a liberation from these constraints. The use of iron bars as a metaphor for strength and resilience is further emphasized in the prophetic literature. In Jeremiah 28:13-14 , the prophet speaks of an iron yoke: "Go and tell Hananiah, 'This is what the LORD says: You have broken a wooden yoke, but in its place you have fashioned an iron yoke.' For this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'I have put an iron yoke on the neck of all these nations, to make them serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and they will serve him.'" The iron yoke signifies the unbreakable and harsh rule of Babylon over the nations, contrasting with the lighter, more breakable wooden yoke. In the New Testament, iron continues to symbolize strength and authority. In Revelation 2:27 , the victorious believers are promised, "He will rule them with an iron scepter; He will shatter them like pottery—just as I have received authority from My Father." The iron scepter represents the unyielding and righteous rule of Christ, emphasizing His ultimate authority and power. Throughout the Bible, iron bars serve as a powerful symbol of both human and divine strength. Whether representing the fortifications of a city, the chains of captivity, or the authority of a ruler, iron bars underscore the themes of power, resilience, and the ability to overcome formidable challenges through divine intervention. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 107:16For he has broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 45:2 Library Whether Christ Made any Stay in Hell? Shoes of Iron, and Strength Sufficient: a New Year's Promise The Prison-House. Nothing Escapes God's Knowledge. ... Christ the Breaker The Persecutions. The Peace of God Imperial Tombs. The Ascension of Messiah to Glory The Resurrection. Resources What are some biblical examples of dream interpretation? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Tubal-Cain in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the Revived Roman Empire? | GotQuestions.org Iron: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Iron of Greater Gravity than Water Iron of Severe Exercise of Power Iron of Small Comparative Value Iron used from the Earliest Age Iron: (Seared With) Insensibility of Conscience Iron: First Recorded Use of Ax Iron: First Recorded Use of Bedstead Iron: First Recorded Use of Breastplate Iron: First Recorded Use of Chariot Iron: First Recorded Use of Fetters Iron: First Recorded Use of File Iron: First Recorded Use of Furnace Iron: First Recorded Use of Gate Iron: First Recorded Use of Harrow Iron: First Recorded Use of Horn Iron: First Recorded Use of Idols Iron: First Recorded Use of Melted Iron: First Recorded Use of Ore of Iron: First Recorded Use of Pans Iron: First Recorded Use of Pen Iron: First Recorded Use of Pillars Iron: First Recorded Use of Rods for Scourging Iron: First Recorded Use of Stones of Iron: First Recorded Use of Threshing Instruments Iron: First Recorded Use of Tools Iron: First Recorded Use of Used in the Temple Iron: First Recorded Use of Vessels Iron: First Recorded Use of Weapons Iron: First Recorded Use of Yokes Iron: from the North Hardest and Best Iron: Great Quantity of, Provided for the Temple Iron: Made Into: Graving Tools Iron: Made Into: Implements for Husbandry Iron: Made Into: Nails and Hinges Iron: Made Into: Tools for Artificers Iron: Made Into: Weapons of War Iron: Miraculously Made to Swim Iron: Mode of Purifying, Taken in War Iron: Taken in War, often Dedicated to God Iron: The Land of Canaan Abounded With Related Terms |
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