Brass and the Scriptures

Brass is used for some very important items in the scriptures: the brass serpent, the Liahona, and the brass plates. Why brass?

From a practical standpoint, brass is highly workable and corrosion-resistant. This makes it a great choice for something like writing scripture and history on. It needs to be easy to etch and last over time. Making a serpent out of metal? The workability of brass is perfect.

But what if we consider some of the properties of brass from a spiritual and symbolic perspective?

As previously mentioned, workability and corrosion resistance are two valuable properties of brass. This metal also has unique acoustic properties that allow it to resonate and carry sound well.

Let's consider these properties as they relate to the historical items mentioned above. We know that the brass serpent is a type of Christ, a symbol that the Israelites could look to for healing. For those who heard the command of God and looked, they were healed. The resonance of brass fits symbolically because God's voice reaches all the ends of the earth; it is beautiful, but we must choose to listen to it. When we do, we are healed. How does workability fit into the equation? God is often described as firm, steadfast, and eternal, with added emphasis that He does not change and is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Perhaps the pliability is not about God changing, but more about Him meeting people where they are - in a unique way for each individual. Finally, the lack of corrosion - God will never fade. He is eternal, and as such, brass is an appropriate symbol of his eternity.

Applying the same thoughts to the brass plates and the Liahona - both are given by God to guide us. While all three properties are equally applicable here, I especially love the thought of the acoustic resonance. It is in the scriptures that we have the most access to hearing God. We can hear Him at any time of the day or night, as we have constant access to His words. I love that the scriptures were written on brass - a metal that resonates and amplifies sound. If we allow them to, the scriptures will amplify the voice of God in our lives.