Bible Dictionary

Archer

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An archer is a person who shoots with a bow. Archers were used in hunting and warfare, and the bow can represent strength or military power.

Definition

An archer is a person who shoots with a bow. Archers served in hunting and warfare, and the bow could symbolize strength or military power.

Biblical Usage

Scripture mentions archers in battles involving Saul and the Philistines. Breaking the bow represents the removal of power, while strengthening the bow represents increased strength.

Historical Background

Archery was an ancient skill, and Persian archers were especially renowned in the biblical material.

Scripture References

1 Chronicles 10:3 Genesis 21:20 Genesis 27:3 1 Samuel 31:3 Hosea 1:5 Jeremiah 49:35 Genesis 49:24 Isaiah 13:18 Jeremiah 50:9 Jeremiah 50:14 Jeremiah 50:29 Jeremiah 50:42

Related Figures

Saul

Historical Bible Dictionaries

Easton's Bible Dictionary
A shooter with the bow (1 Chr. 10:3). This art was of high antiquity (Gen. 21:20; 27:3). Saul was wounded by the Philistine archers (1 Sam. 31:3). The phrase “breaking the bow” (Hos. 1:5; Jer. 49:35) is equivalent to taking away one’s power, while “strengthening the bow” is a symbol of its increase (Gen. 49:24). The Persian archers were famous among the ancients (Isa. 13:18; Jer. 49:35; 50:9, 14, 29, 42. (See BOW).
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