Ivory
Artifactsâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
Ivory was a highly valued material sourced from African and Asian elephants, extensively used in the ancient Near East for crafting ornate furniture, musical instruments, and personal adornments, with archaeological evidence confirming its presence in Israelite palaces and temples.
What is the meaning of Ivory in the Bible?
Ivory was a highly valued material sourced from African and Asian elephants, extensively used in the ancient Near East for crafting ornate furniture, musical instruments, and personal adornments, with archaeological evidence confirming its presence in Israelite palaces and temples.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the trade and use of ivory clarifies the economic networks and artistic sophistication of ancient Israel, demonstrating how imported luxury materials were integrated into the material culture of biblical kings and elites.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Ivory in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ivory clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.