Topical Encyclopedia Mining, the process of extracting valuable minerals or other geological materials from the earth, is an ancient practice referenced in the Bible. The Scriptures provide insights into the significance of mining in biblical times, highlighting its role in the economy, craftsmanship, and symbolism.Biblical References to Mining 1. Job 28:1-11: The book of Job offers a vivid description of mining activities, illustrating the effort and skill involved in extracting precious resources. Job 28:1-2 states, "Surely there is a mine for silver and a place where gold is refined. Iron is taken from the earth, and copper is smelted from ore." This passage underscores the value placed on metals and the human ingenuity required to obtain them. 2. Deuteronomy 8:9: The Promised Land is described as a place rich in natural resources, including minerals. Deuteronomy 8:9 mentions, "a land where you will eat food without scarcity, where you will lack nothing, a land whose stones are iron and from whose hills you can mine copper." This highlights the abundance and providence of God in providing for His people. 3. 1 Kings 10:22: King Solomon's wealth and trade are partially attributed to mining and the acquisition of precious metals. The verse notes, "For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with the fleet of Hiram. Once every three years, the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks." This indicates the extensive trade networks and the importance of mined resources in Solomon's reign. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Mining in the Bible often serves as a metaphor for the pursuit of wisdom and understanding. Just as miners search deep within the earth for valuable ores, believers are encouraged to seek divine wisdom with diligence and perseverance. · Proverbs 2:4-5: "If you seek it like silver and search it out like hidden treasure, then you will discern the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God." This passage likens the quest for wisdom to mining, emphasizing the effort required to attain spiritual insight. · Job 28:12-28: Following the description of mining, Job reflects on the elusive nature of wisdom, stating that it cannot be found in the land of the living and is more valuable than gold or precious stones. This underscores the belief that true wisdom comes from God alone. Economic and Cultural Impact Mining was a significant economic activity in biblical times, contributing to the wealth and development of societies. The extraction and trade of metals like gold, silver, iron, and copper were crucial for crafting tools, weapons, and ornaments. These materials were not only practical but also held cultural and religious significance, often used in the construction of sacred objects and places, such as the Tabernacle and the Temple. Conclusion Mining in the Bible is portrayed as a vital industry that required skill and perseverance. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, reminding believers of the value of seeking God's truth with the same dedication as miners searching for precious metals. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Mine.2. (n.) The act or business of making mines or of working them. 3. (a.) of or pertaining to mines; as, mining engineer; mining machinery; a mining region. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MINE; MININGmin, min'-ing: In Job 28:1-11 we have the only Biblical reference to mines. The writer very likely derived his information either from personal observation or from a description by an eyewitness, of the mining operations of Sinai (see METALS). No traces of ancient mines have yet been found in Palestine and Syria. What metals were taken out came from the superficial strata. The mines of Upper Egypt have already been mentioned. Burton and other travelers in Northern Arabia and the Red Sea country have found there evidences of ancient mining operations. Library Tapestry Threads. Choked Channels. Volume ii. , Part B. The Memphite Empire Volume ii. , Part C. The First Theban Empire The Long, Rough Road He Trod Preface The Believer's Challenge The Traitor Prince. The Husbandman and his Operations The Meaning of the Name Stromata or Miscellanies. Thesaurus Mining... 3. (a.) of or pertaining to mines; as, mining engineer; mining machinery; a mining region. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MINE; MINING. ... /m/mining.htm - 8k Mine (2991 Occurrences) Crafts (2 Occurrences) Job (60 Occurrences) Gad (78 Occurrences) Well (2882 Occurrences) Dirt (9 Occurrences) Miniature (1 Occurrence) Metals (1 Occurrence) Metal (69 Occurrences) Resources Should Christians recycle? How should a Christian view recycling? | GotQuestions.orgWill bitcoin / cryptocurrency be the one-world currency of the end times? | GotQuestions.org Why should we read the Bible / study the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Mining: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |