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◄ Shield: Covered when not in Use►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the shield was an essential piece of armor for warriors, providing protection against the weapons of their enemies. The shield is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing both physical and spiritual defense. When not in use, shields were often covered to protect them from the elements and to maintain their readiness for battle.

Physical Description and Use

Shields in ancient Israel were typically made from wood and covered with leather or metal. They varied in size and shape, with some being large enough to cover the entire body, while others were smaller and more maneuverable. The covering of a shield when not in use was a practical measure to prevent damage from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors that could weaken its structure or effectiveness.

Biblical References

The Bible provides numerous references to shields, both in literal and metaphorical contexts. In1 Kings 10:17, we read about King Solomon's wealth and the shields he made: "He 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 likely ceremonial, were still covered and stored when not in use to preserve their splendor and value.

In2 Samuel 1:21, David laments the death of Saul and Jonathan, saying, "O mountains of Gilboa, may you have neither dew nor rain, nor fields of offerings. For there the shield of the mighty was defiled, the shield of Saul, no longer anointed with oil." This passage highlights the importance of maintaining a shield's condition, as an unprotected shield could become defiled and lose its effectiveness.

Spiritual Symbolism

The shield is also a powerful symbol of God's protection and faithfulness. InPsalm 18:2, David 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." Here, the shield represents God's unwavering protection over His people, a defense that is always ready and reliable.

Ephesians 6:16 speaks of the "shield of faith" as part of the full armor of God: "In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." This metaphorical shield, like its physical counterpart, must be maintained and ready for use, symbolizing the believer's need to nurture and protect their faith against spiritual attacks.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, the practice of covering shields when not in use was common among various cultures. This practice ensured that the shields remained in optimal condition for battle. The Israelites, like their neighbors, understood the importance of maintaining their military equipment, as evidenced by the biblical accounts of their warfare and preparation.

The covering of shields also had ceremonial significance. In some instances, shields were adorned and displayed as symbols of power and prestige, as seen in Solomon's golden shields. These shields, while not used in battle, were still covered to preserve their beauty and significance.

In summary, the shield, both as a physical object and a spiritual metaphor, holds a significant place in biblical literature. Its covering when not in use underscores the importance of readiness and preservation, whether in the context of ancient warfare or the spiritual battles faced by believers.

Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 22:6
And Elam bore the quiver with chariots of men and horsemen, and Kir uncovered the shield.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Sheltering Wing
... 'His truth shall be thyshield and buckler... It is of nouse trying to persuade ourselves
that that is... the same to him as to another who isnot covered with His...

A Challenge and aShield
... Happy shall you and I be if, thoughcovered with sin... Up with yourshield, and say,
"Yes, it is all true... and it will be perfectly satisfied: it willnot go to...

Sunday after Ascension Day
... as if they had secured their nobility, theirshield and helmet... result were all evil
to be tolerated andcovered up... For they donot makeuse of the gifts of their...

New Uses for Old Trophies
... Hang up theshield, hang up the spear, let Jehovah's name be... a great salvation when
we first came home as prodigalscovered with rags, will henot help us...

Of the Fact that Devils Struggle with Mennot Without Effort on...
... our souls to destroy them: and let them becovered with shame... I will break them and
they shallnot be able to... Take hold of arms andshield: and rise up to help...

Christ Teaching by Parables
... this. "The HoneyShield." It is said that wasps and bees willnot
sting a person whose skin iscovered with honey. And...

The Dream of St. Ursula
... dainty fringe; and beside it her seat,not at all... three-legged stool like a
music-stool,covered with crimson... The princess'sshield is at the head of it, and...

The Scaffolding Left in the Body
... a few grains of sand or a tinyshield so buried... month the human foetus is often thickly
covered with somewhat... uselessness may only mean that we donot know its...

Christ's Kingly Office
... Thou, O Lord, art ashield for me.' Psalm 3:3. When... and storms be up, and the church
almostcovered with waves... Saynot, as those Jews, We have no king but Caesar...

Judas.
... a desire to be with One who couldshield him from... pierced him; then in indignant
grief hecovered his head... And Judas didnot scruple touse this power that...