Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the imagery of shields, particularly those of defeated foes, being burned is a recurring theme that symbolizes the complete and utter defeat of enemies and the triumph of God's people. This act of burning the shields of the vanquished serves as a powerful metaphor for divine victory and the establishment of peace through God's intervention.Biblical References: 1. Psalm 46:9 : "He makes wars to cease throughout the earth; He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the shields in the fire." This verse highlights God's sovereignty over warfare and His ability to bring about peace by destroying the instruments of war. The burning of shields signifies the end of conflict and the establishment of divine order. 2. Ezekiel 39:9 : "Then those who dwell in the cities of Israel will go out, kindle fires, and burn the weapons—the small and large shields, the bows and arrows, the clubs and spears. For seven years they will use them to make fires." In this prophetic vision, the burning of shields and other weapons is a sign of God's deliverance of Israel from its enemies. The act of using these weapons as fuel for fire underscores the totality of the victory and the abundance of peace that follows. Symbolism and Theological Significance: The burning of shields in the biblical context is rich with symbolism. It represents the dismantling of military power and the futility of human efforts against the divine will. The act of burning is not merely a practical disposal of enemy equipment but a ceremonial declaration of God's supremacy and the futility of opposing Him. From a theological perspective, the burning of shields can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate peace that God promises to His people. It is a reminder that true security and peace come not from human strength or military might but from reliance on God. The imagery serves to encourage believers to trust in God's providence and His ability to bring about justice and peace. Historical Context: In ancient warfare, shields were essential defensive tools, often made of wood and covered with leather or metal. They were symbols of a warrior's strength and protection. The destruction of these shields, therefore, was a significant act, indicating not only the defeat of the enemy but also the removal of their power and protection. The practice of burning the shields of the defeated can also be understood within the broader context of ancient Near Eastern customs, where the destruction of enemy weapons was a common practice to prevent their reuse and to demonstrate the victor's dominance. Application for Believers: For contemporary believers, the imagery of burning the shields of the vanquished serves as a powerful reminder of God's ultimate victory over evil. It encourages Christians to lay down their own "shields"—their reliance on worldly power and self-sufficiency—and to trust in God's strength and provision. The theme calls believers to live in the peace that God provides, assured of His control over all circumstances and His promise of eternal peace through Jesus Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 39:9And they that dwell in the cities of Israel shall go forth, and shall set on fire and burn the weapons, both the shields and the bucklers, the bows and the arrows, and the hand staves, and the spears, and they shall burn them with fire seven years: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The First Theban Empire The Puritan Conflict. The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Reaction against Egypt 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) |
    |