Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, shields were not only essential for protection in warfare but also served as symbols of status and divine favor. The use of gold in the construction or decoration of shields is mentioned in several passages, highlighting the wealth and splendor associated with certain periods and figures in Israel's history.Solomon's Golden Shields One of the most notable instances of golden shields is found during the reign of King Solomon. Solomon, known for his wisdom and wealth, commissioned the making of shields covered with gold as part of his extensive building projects and displays of opulence. In 1 Kings 10:16-17 , it is recorded: "King Solomon made two hundred large shields of hammered gold; six hundred shekels of gold went into each shield. He also made three hundred small shields of hammered gold; three minas of gold went into each shield. And the king put them in the House of the Forest of Lebanon." These shields were not primarily for battle but were likely used for ceremonial purposes and as a demonstration of the kingdom's prosperity. The House of the Forest of Lebanon, where these shields were stored, served as an armory and a symbol of Solomon's grandeur. Rehoboam's Replacement of Golden Shields The golden shields of Solomon's era were later replaced during the reign of his son, Rehoboam. After Shishak, the king of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem and took away the treasures of the temple and the royal palace, including the golden shields, Rehoboam made replacements. However, these were made of bronze, indicating a decline in wealth and prestige. As recorded in 1 Kings 14:25-27 : "In the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign, Shishak king of Egypt came up and attacked Jerusalem. He seized the treasures of the house of the LORD and of the royal palace. He took everything, including all the gold shields that Solomon had made. Then King Rehoboam made bronze shields in their place and committed them to the care of the captains of the guard who protected the entrance to the king’s palace." Symbolism and Significance The use of gold in shields symbolizes not only wealth but also divine blessing and protection. Gold, being a precious and incorruptible metal, often represents purity and holiness in biblical literature. The presence of golden shields in the royal armory would have been a powerful symbol of God's favor and the king's authority. In the broader biblical narrative, shields often symbolize God's protection over His people. While the physical shields of gold were tangible symbols of earthly power and divine favor, the spiritual metaphor of God as a shield is prevalent throughout Scripture. For instance, in Psalm 3:3 , David declares, "But You, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head." Thus, the golden shields of the Bible serve as a reminder of the intersection between divine providence and human authority, reflecting both the glory of earthly kingdoms and the ultimate protection offered by God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 8:7And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to Jerusalem. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 10:17 Library Guests at an Imperial Banquet Boniface, Apostle of the Germans. And ii. The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty The Old Testament and Archeology The Reaction against Egypt A Discourse The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The First Theban Empire A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... Resources What does it mean to be still and know that I am God? | GotQuestions.orgIs God perfect? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of perfection in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shields in Times of Peace Were Hung up in Towers or Armouries Shields of the Vanquished, often Burned Shields were Scarce in Israel in the Days of Deborah and Barak Shields: A Disgrace to Lose, or Throw Away Shields: A Part of Defensive Armour Shields: Before War: Gathered Together Shields: Before War: Often Made Red Shields: Before War: Uncovered Shields: Frequently Made of, or Covered With: Brass Shields: Frequently Made of, or Covered With: Gold Shields: Kinds of Often Borne by an Armour Bearer Shields: Kinds of The Buckler or Target Shields: Kinds of The Small Shield Shields: Many of the Israelites Used, With Expertness Shields: Provided by the Kings of Israel in Great Abundance Shields: Said to Belong to God Related Terms Strengthened (113 Occurrences) |
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