In the ancient world, the horse was a vital means of transportation and communication, particularly in the context of conveying posts or messages. The Bible, while not extensively detailing the use of horses for postal services, provides glimpses into their role in communication and transportation, especially in the context of royal and military affairs.

Historical Context

The use of horses for conveying messages can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where speed and reliability were crucial for maintaining communication across vast empires. In the biblical context, horses were primarily associated with chariots and warfare, but their role in communication is implied through various passages.

Biblical References

One of the clearest references to the use of horses for conveying messages is found in the book of Esther. In Esther 8:10, it is recorded: "Mordecai wrote in the name of King Xerxes, sealed it with the king’s signet ring, and sent letters by mounted couriers who rode fast horses, bred from the royal mares." . This passage highlights the use of horses specifically bred for speed, indicating their importance in delivering urgent messages across the Persian Empire.

Similarly, in 2 Chronicles 30:6, we see the use of couriers: "So the couriers went throughout Israel and Judah with letters from the king and his officials, according to the command of the king, saying, 'Children of Israel, return to the LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, that He may return to you who are left, who have escaped from the hand of the kings of Assyria.'" . While horses are not explicitly mentioned, the role of couriers suggests the use of swift transportation, likely involving horses.

Symbolism and Significance

In the biblical narrative, horses often symbolize strength, speed, and the ability to execute the king's commands swiftly. The use of horses for conveying posts underscores the importance of communication in maintaining the unity and governance of a kingdom. The swift delivery of messages was essential for the administration of justice, the coordination of military efforts, and the dissemination of royal decrees.

Cultural and Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the use of horses for conveying messages can be seen as a reflection of divine providence in ensuring that God's purposes are communicated and fulfilled. The speed and reliability of horses in delivering messages can be likened to the swiftness of God's word in reaching His people, as seen in passages like Psalm 147:15: "He sends forth His command to the earth; His word runs swiftly." .

In conclusion, while the Bible does not provide extensive details on the use of horses for postal services, the references that do exist highlight their significance in ancient communication systems. The use of horses for conveying posts serves as a testament to the importance of swift and reliable communication in the administration of ancient kingdoms, reflecting broader themes of divine order and providence in the biblical narrative.2 Kings 9:17-19
And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Esther 8:10
And he wrote in the king Ahasuerus' name, and sealed it with the king's ring, and sent letters by posts on horseback, and riders on mules, camels, and young dromedaries:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A Treatise to Prove that no one Can Harm the Man who Does not ...
... which constitute the virtue of the horse, not the ... floor, they threshed no grain,
they used no winnowing ... their enemies it became a grave; conveying the former ...
/.../chrysostom/on the priesthood/a treatise to prove that.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1832 to the Beginning ...
... certain eccentricities in his public administrations, conveying instruction more ...
hands of men, may be so used as to ... the 10th of April, on horse back intending ...
/.../chapter 12 from the close.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... pronounced curve, and a quiver full of arrows made from reeds.* Their horsemen,
like those of other warlike nations II of the East, used neither saddle nor ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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