The spear is a prominent weapon mentioned throughout the Bible, often symbolizing warfare, authority, and divine intervention. It was a common tool in ancient warfare, used by various figures in biblical narratives. The spear's significance is highlighted through its association with notable biblical characters and events.

Old Testament References

1. Joshua and the Conquest of Canaan: Joshua, the leader of Israel after Moses, used a spear as a signal during the conquest of Ai. In Joshua 8:18, the LORD instructs Joshua, "Hold out your spear toward Ai, for I will deliver the city into your hands." This act of holding out the spear was a divine command that led to Israel's victory.

2. Saul and His Spear: King Saul, the first king of Israel, is frequently associated with the spear. In 1 Samuel 18:10-11, Saul, in a fit of jealousy and rage, attempts to pin David to the wall with his spear. The spear here symbolizes Saul's authority and his growing instability as king.

3. David's Encounters with Spears: David, before becoming king, had several encounters involving spears. In 1 Samuel 26:7-12, David and Abishai infiltrate Saul's camp and take Saul's spear and water jug as evidence of their presence, demonstrating David's respect for Saul's anointed position despite Saul's pursuit to kill him.

4. Goliath's Spear: The Philistine giant Goliath is described as having a massive spear. In 1 Samuel 17:7, it is noted, "The shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s rod, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels." Goliath's spear represents the formidable challenge faced by Israel, which David overcomes with faith and a sling.

5. Abner and Joab: Abner, the commander of Saul's army, and Joab, David's military leader, both wielded spears. In 2 Samuel 2:23, Abner kills Asahel with the butt of his spear, highlighting the spear's dual function as both a weapon and a symbol of military prowess.

New Testament References

While the New Testament does not focus heavily on the use of spears in warfare, it does mention a spear in the context of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In John 19:34, a Roman soldier pierces Jesus' side with a spear, fulfilling the prophecy that "not one of His bones will be broken" (John 19:36) and symbolizing the completion of His sacrificial death.

Symbolism and Usage

The spear, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a symbol of power, authority, and divine intervention. It is often associated with leaders and warriors, representing their strength and capability in battle. The spear also serves as a tool for God's purposes, as seen in the accounts of Joshua and David.

In biblical times, spearmen were integral to military formations, providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. The spear's reach and versatility made it a favored weapon among ancient armies, including those of Israel and its adversaries.

Overall, the spear's presence in biblical narratives underscores themes of conflict, leadership, and divine sovereignty, reflecting the historical and spiritual context of the times.Psalm 68:30
Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter you the people that delight in war.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 23:23
And he called to him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen three score and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Treatise on the Priesthood. Book vi.
... In such a tempest I used to pass the time ... suddenly seize some young lad, one of those
brought up ... these enemies breastplate or shield, sword and spear, yet the ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/treatise on the priesthood book 6.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty
... chariot"lances, javelins, and daggers, curved spear, club, and ... name of the Uauaiu
was, indeed, used as a generic term to distinguish all those tribes which ...
/.../chapter iiithe eighteenth theban dynasty.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of Israel, who could not be called kings owing ... and west, cuneiform writing was almost
entirely used, attempts had ... Moab did not as yet occupy those regions; the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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