the Week of Proper 28 / Ordinary 33
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Bible Dictionaries
Throne
Smith's Bible Dictionary
or Throne. The Hebrew word so translated, applies to any elevated seat occupied by a person in authority, whether a high priest, 1 Samuel 1:9; a judge, Psalms 122:5; or a military chief, Jeremiah 1:16. The use of a chair, in a country where the usual postures were squatting, and reclining, was at all times regarded as a symbol of dignity. 2 Kings 4:10; Proverbs 9:14.
In order to specify a throne, in our sense of the term, it was necessary to add to the word, the notion of royalty; hence, the frequent occurrence of such expressions as "throne of the kingdom." Deuteronomy 17:18; 1 Kings 1:46; 2 Chronicles 7:18.
The characteristic feature in the royal throne was its elevation: Solomon's throne was approached by six steps, 1 Kings 10:19; 2 Chronicles 9:18; and Jehovah's throne is described as "high and lifted up." Isaiah 6:1. The materials and workmanship of Solomon's throne were costly. It was made of wood inlaid with ivory, and then covered with gold, except where the ivory showed. It was furnished with arms or "stays." The steps were also lined with pairs of lions.
As to the form of chair, we are only informed in 1 Kings 10:19, that "the top was round behind." The king sat on his throne, on state occasions. At such times, he appeared in his royal robes. The throne was the symbol of supreme power and dignity. Genesis 41:40. Similarly, "to sit upon the throne," implied the exercise of regal power. Deuteronomy 17:18; 1 Kings 16:11.
These files are public domain.
Smith, William, Dr. Entry for 'Throne'. Smith's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/sbd/t/throne.html. 1901.
