Ivory
“Tooth (referring to elephant tusks)”
Summary
A precious material obtained from elephant tusks, highly valued in biblical times for luxury items and royal adornment.
☩Sources and Trade
Ivory in Scripture comes primarily from the tusks of the elephant, though hippopotamus teeth were also used. Solomon's trading fleet brought ivory from Tarshish along with gold, silver, apes, and peacocks. Tyre received ivory from Dedan, and the merchants of Sheba traded in it. The Hebrew word for ivory (shen) means 'tooth,' accurately reflecting its origin.
☩Royal Use
Ivory was associated with royalty and great wealth. Solomon made a great throne of ivory overlaid with gold, described as unprecedented in any kingdom. King Ahab built an 'ivory house,' indicating extensive use of ivory inlay in the palace construction. The psalmist describes royal palaces adorned with ivory. Archaeological excavations at Samaria have uncovered remarkable ivory carvings from this period.
☩Decorative Applications
Ivory was used for various decorative and luxury purposes. The beds of the wealthy were described as inlaid with ivory, representing opulent living that the prophets condemned. Ships were fitted with ivory; the description of Tyrian ships mentions benches or decks made of ivory. Personal items such as combs, boxes, and jewelry were carved from ivory.
☩Symbolic Usage
In the Song of Solomon, ivory appears as a metaphor for beauty and value. The beloved's body is described as ivory work, and his neck as a tower of ivory. The imagery conveys purity, smoothness, and preciousness. In Revelation, ivory appears among the luxury goods whose trade will cease when Babylon falls, representing worldly wealth and commerce.
Related Verses13 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Ivory," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Ivory," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. III (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).