Ivory
ArtifactsWhat 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
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Ivory were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ivory in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ivory clarify?
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
"Ivory." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ivory/