Helmet
Summary
A defensive covering for the head worn by soldiers in battle, made of bronze or brass, and used metaphorically in Scripture for spiritual protection.
☩Physical Helmet
The Hebrew word 'koba' and Greek 'perikephalaia' describe the soldier's head covering. Goliath wore a bronze helmet (1 Samuel 17:5), and King Saul offered David armor including a helmet (1 Samuel 17:38). King Uzziah equipped his army with helmets (2 Chronicles 26:14). Jeremiah 46:4 and Ezekiel 23:24 mention helmets among military equipment. Ancient helmets varied from leather caps to elaborate bronze constructions covering the entire head and neck.
☩Spiritual Application
Paul uses the helmet in spiritual warfare imagery. In Ephesians 6:17, believers are to 'take the helmet of salvation'—the assurance of salvation protecting the mind from doubt and despair. In 1 Thessalonians 5:8, the helmet is 'the hope of salvation,' emphasizing confident expectation of God's deliverance. Isaiah 59:17 pictures God Himself wearing 'a helmet of salvation,' the divine warrior coming to rescue His people.
Related Verses10 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Helmet," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).