Topical Bible: The Horse: Fierce and Impetuous

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The horse, a creature of strength and majesty, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of power, speed, and war. Its fierce and impetuous nature is highlighted in various passages, reflecting both its physical attributes and its role in human affairs.

Symbol of Strength and War

In biblical times, horses were primarily associated with warfare and military might. The horse's strength and speed made it an invaluable asset in battle. In Job 39:19-25, the Lord describes the horse's might and fearlessness: "Do you give strength to the horse or adorn his neck with a mane? Do you make him leap like a locust, striking terror with his proud snorting? He paws in the valley and rejoices in his strength; he charges into battle. He laughs at fear, frightened of nothing; he does not turn back from the sword. A quiver rattles at his side, along with a flashing spear and lance. Trembling with excitement, he devours the distance; he cannot stand still when the ram’s horn sounds. At the blast of the horn, he snorts with fervor. He catches the scent of battle from afar—the shout of captains and the cry of war."

This passage vividly portrays the horse's impetuous nature, emphasizing its eagerness and readiness for battle. The horse's ability to charge fearlessly into conflict underscores its role as a symbol of military power.

Instrument of God's Judgment

Horses are also depicted as instruments of divine judgment. In the prophetic visions of Zechariah and Revelation, horses play a significant role in conveying God's messages and executing His will. Zechariah 6:1-8 describes four chariots with horses of different colors, representing the four spirits of heaven going out from standing before the Lord of all the earth. These horses are sent to patrol the earth, signifying God's sovereign control over the nations.

In Revelation 6:1-8, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are introduced, each riding a horse of a different color, symbolizing conquest, war, famine, and death. These horses and their riders are agents of God's judgment, unleashed upon the earth to fulfill His divine purposes.

Symbol of Human Pride and Reliance

The Bible also warns against placing undue trust in horses and chariots as symbols of human pride and reliance on military strength. Psalm 20:7 declares, "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." This verse serves as a reminder that true security and victory come not from earthly power but from reliance on God.

Similarly, Isaiah 31:1 cautions, "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the abundance of chariots and in the multitude of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD." Here, the prophet warns against seeking alliances and military aid from foreign powers instead of trusting in God's protection and provision.

Symbol of God's Majesty and Deliverance

Despite the warnings against misplaced trust, horses are also used to depict God's majesty and deliverance. In Habakkuk 3:8, the prophet envisions God riding on horses as He comes to deliver His people: "Were You angry at the rivers, O LORD? Was Your wrath against the streams? Did You rage against the sea when You rode on Your horses, on Your chariots of salvation?" This imagery highlights God's power and His ability to save His people with might and authority.

In conclusion, the horse in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing strength, war, divine judgment, human pride, and God's majesty. Its fierce and impetuous nature serves as a powerful reminder of both the potential for human reliance on earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 39:21,24
He paws in the valley, and rejoices in his strength: he goes on to meet the armed men.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Treatise to Prove that no one Can Harm the Man who Does not ...
... racked, and oppressed, and the audacious, impetuous, low and low ... which constitute
the virtue of the horse, not the ... to the very clouds: and this fierce heat has ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/a treatise to prove that.htm

Striking Similes
... J. Jealousy, fierce as the fires. K. ... Like a stalled horse that breaks loose and goes
at a ... eagle in the morning glare breasting the whirlwind with impetuous flight ...
/.../kleiser/fifteen thousand useful phrases/section viii striking similes.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... The Assyrian artist has shown the head and legs of the second horse in profile behind
the first, but he has forgotten to represent the rest of its body, and ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Footnotes
The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning. <. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/footnotes.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... Half a century rolls by, during which we have a dim perception of the subdued crash
of falling empires, and of the trampling of armies in fierce fight; then ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm