Bible Dictionaries
Ivory

Easton's Bible Dictionary

(Heb. pl. shenhabbim, the "tusks of elephants") was early used in decorations by the Egyptians, and a great trade in it was carried on by the Assyrians (Ezekiel 27:6; Revelation 18:12 ). It was used by the Phoenicians to ornament the box-wood rowing-benches of their galleys, and Hiram's skilled workmen made Solomon's throne of ivory (1 Kings 10:18 ). It was brought by the caravans of Dedan (Isaiah 21:13 ), and from the East Indies by the navy of Tarshish (1 Kings 10:22 ). Many specimens of ancient Egyptian and Assyrian ivory-work have been preserved. The word Habbim Is derived from the Sanscrit Ibhas , Meaning "elephant," preceded by the Hebrew article (ha); and hence it is argued that Ophir, from which it and the other articles mentioned in 1 Kings 10:22 were brought, was in India.