Bench
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Bench in the Bible?
The Hebrew term 'arak, translated as bench, refers to the ornate decking or seating of a Tyrian merchant ship described in Ezekiel 27:6, which was constructed from ivory and boxwood to signify luxury and maritime trade.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this specific detail clarifies the vivid commercial imagery in Ezekiel's prophecy, illustrating the wealth and craftsmanship associated with Tyre's maritime industry and enhancing the reader's understanding of the economic context within the biblical narrative.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Bench were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Bench in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Bench clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Ezekiel 27:6
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Bench." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/bench/