What is pitch in the Bible? This term, often found in the biblical texts, refers to a type of resinous substance that has been used for various purposes throughout history. Pitch, derived from trees such as pine, cedar, and fir, is known for its sticky, tar-like consistency and has been utilized for its durability and waterproofing properties. In this article, we will explore the significance of pitch in the Bible, its various uses, and its representation in different biblical passages.
The use of pitch in the Bible can be traced back to the Old Testament, where it is mentioned in various contexts. One of the earliest references to pitch can be found in Genesis 6:14, where Noah is instructed to make an ark with pitch: “Make yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and out with pitch.” This passage highlights the importance of pitch as a material for constructing the ark, which was meant to protect Noah and his family from the great flood.
Pitch also plays a significant role in the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the book of Exodus. In Exodus 27:3-4, it is mentioned that the altar of incense should be made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, and its four rings should be made of gold and attached to the altar with pitch: “Make an altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and three cubits wide, and two cubits high. Its horns shall be of one piece with it, and you shall overlay it with bronze.” The use of pitch in this context suggests its ability to provide a strong and durable connection between the altar and its rings.
Another notable mention of pitch in the Bible is found in the book of 2 Samuel 6:6-7, where the ark of the covenant is carried on poles covered with leather strips: “And David and all the house of Israel played before the Lord on all manner of instruments of cymbals, harps, lyres, and lutes, with shouting and with trumpets and with the voice of the horn. And King David wore a linen ephod. So all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the Lord with shouting, with the sound of the trumpet, and with the voice of the horn, playing on the cymbals, and with the voice of the trumpet.” The leather strips, likely made from animal hides, would have been coated with pitch to provide a waterproof seal and prevent the poles from rotting.
Pitch’s durability and waterproofing properties also make it a valuable material for the construction of ships, as mentioned in the book of Ezekiel 27:5-6: “By your tariffs and your tolls you have filled my merchants’ houses. You have enriched the heart of the proud with violence, and you have shed human blood on the sea. You have broken your ships in the sea with an east wind.” This passage suggests that pitch was used to coat the hulls of ships, making them more resistant to water damage and ensuring their longevity.
In conclusion, pitch in the Bible is a versatile and valuable material with various uses, from constructing the ark and the Tabernacle to covering the poles of the ark and protecting ships from water damage. Its mention in the biblical texts highlights the importance of pitch as a resource that has been utilized by ancient civilizations for its durability and practical applications. By exploring the significance of pitch in the Bible, we gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of the texts and the people who lived during that time.
