Bible Dictionaries
Chain

Easton's Bible Dictionary

  • A part of the insignia of office. A chain of gold was placed about Joseph's neck (Genesis 41:42 ); and one was promised to (Daniel 5:7 ). It is used as a symbol of sovereignty (Ezekiel 16:11 ). The breast-plate of the high-priest was fastened to the ephod by golden chains (Exodus 39:17,21 ).

  • It was used as an ornament (Proverbs 1:9; Song of Solomon 1:10 ). The Midianites adorned the necks of their camels with chains (Judges 8:21,26 ).

  • Chains were also used as fetters wherewith prisoners were bound (Judges 16:21; 2 Samuel 3:34; 2 Kings 25:7; Jeremiah 39:7 ). Paul was in this manner bound to a Roman soldier (Acts 28:20; Ephesians 6:20; 2 Timothy 1:16 ). Sometimes, for the sake of greater security, the prisoner was attached by two chains to two soldiers, as in the case of Peter (Acts 12:6 ).

    Copyright Statement
    These dictionary topics are from M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain.
    Bibliography Information
    Easton, Matthew George. Entry for 'Chain'. Easton's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/​dictionaries/​eng/​ebd/​c/chain.html. 1897.
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