In scripture different "materials" are often used in prophecy dreams and visions to convey meaning. Additionally different materials were also used for constructing different aspects of the tabernacle and temple - again this seemed to be linked to the meaning or role of that part of the temple with it being built according to the pattern seen in heaven.
Within this context I'm specifically interested in the meaning behind the use of the matieral "Bronze". Is there an understood "shared/common" meaning behind its symbology ? Potentially linked to Timothy 2 regarding "Vessels of honour"
My feeling based on reading through its usage is that potentially Bronze is a pointer to the "physical" or "earthly" realm (Gods footstool) and also a certain level of "purification" through earthly sacrifices. This allows followers into the "outer court" of the temple - but no further into the holy places where higher levels of purification are required represented by silver and Gold. Curious to see if anyone has a deeper understanding of this symbology in scripture.
Edit: Its been noted that in the prophetic imagery the meaning can vary based on the properties of the metal that are being emphasised (color, strength, purity). As such I would be primarily interested in hearing opinions of the meaning in the specific context of the temple/tabernacle construction. THNX
EG: Bronze use in Temple Construction
Bronze Laver / Molten Sea. Exodus 30:18
Brazen Altar (for burnt offerings) Exodus 27:1
Bronze Pillars in Solomons Temple Kings 7:14
Bronze use in Prophetic imagery (many additional examples not listed)
Numbers 21:9
So Moses made a bronze serpent and put it on the flag pole; and it came about, that if a serpent bit someone, and he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.
Isaiah 48:4
“Because I know that you are obstinate, And your neck is an iron sinew And your forehead bronze,
Zecharia 6:1
And again I lifted up my eyes and saw four chariots coming out from between two mountains of bronze.
Revelation 2:18
These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze.
Job 37:18 Verse Concepts
“Can you, with Him, spread out the skies, Strong as a molten mirror?
Job 41:27
“He regards iron as straw, Bronze as rotten wood.