Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, shields are frequently mentioned as essential items of warfare and protection, symbolizing strength and divine favor. The kings of Israel, particularly during the united and divided monarchy periods, are noted for their provision of shields in great abundance, reflecting both their military prowess and their commitment to safeguarding the nation.Historical Context and Significance Shields in ancient Israel were primarily used by soldiers to protect themselves in battle. They were typically made of wood and covered with leather, sometimes reinforced with metal. The provision of shields by the kings of Israel signifies not only the preparation for physical warfare but also the spiritual readiness to defend the nation against its enemies. Biblical References 1. Solomon's Golden Shields: King Solomon, renowned for his wealth and wisdom, is noted for making shields of gold. 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, while not used in battle, symbolized the prosperity and divine blessing upon Solomon's reign. 2. Rehoboam's Bronze Shields: After the division of the kingdom, Rehoboam, Solomon's son, faced the invasion of Shishak, king of Egypt, who took away the treasures of the temple and the royal palace, including the golden shields. In response, Rehoboam made bronze shields to replace them. As recorded in 1 Kings 14:27 : "So King Rehoboam made bronze shields to replace them and assigned these to the commanders of the guard who protected the entrance to the king’s palace." This act demonstrated a pragmatic approach to maintaining royal dignity and military readiness despite the loss. 3. Jehoshaphat's Military Reforms: King Jehoshaphat of Judah, known for his religious reforms and military organization, also provided shields in abundance. In 2 Chronicles 17:2 , it is noted: "He stationed troops in all the fortified cities of Judah and put garrisons in the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured." Jehoshaphat's actions ensured that the nation was well-defended and prepared for any external threats. Symbolism and Theological Implications In the biblical worldview, shields are not merely physical objects but carry deep symbolic meaning. They represent God's protection over His people. Psalm 18:2 declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." This verse highlights the belief that ultimate protection comes from God, who is the true shield of Israel. The abundance of shields provided by the kings of Israel underscores their role as protectors of the nation, entrusted with the responsibility to lead and defend God's chosen people. Their actions reflect a commitment to both physical and spiritual security, ensuring that the nation remains under the divine protection and guidance of the Lord. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 11:12And in every several city he put shields and spears, and made them exceeding strong, having Judah and Benjamin on his side. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Chronicles 26:14 2 Chronicles 32:5 Library A Discourse The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire The Desire of the Righteous Granted; The Reaction against Egypt Footnotes A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ... Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ... Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: 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) |