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[The Bible is an “Eastern” ^[2] book.  It was written many years ago in the “East” which today we refer to as “The Middle East.”  As such, there are many customs and idioms that are not familiar to the “Western” mind.]

In our modern times, it would be uncommon for kings, presidents, or prime ministers to be present on the battlefield. But in the lands and times of the Bible, it was commonplace for kings to be present and to even fight in the battles. In fact, this custom was carried out well into the Middle Ages.

In the Bible there are many accounts of kings fighting in battles, and some were even mortally wounded, Understanding that in those days kings did indeed fight in the battles helps us understand the meaning of God bearing His arm.

Kingly Robes

The robes of kings in the Bible times were long garments with long sleeves.  In times of battle, the king would remove his robe.  The sleeves would then be tied together in a knot.  The knotted robe would then be put over his head so that his robe would now be behind him, held by the knotted portion which was now around his neck.

This indicated to all those present, as well as to the enemy, that the king was not hindered in any way.  His arms were free and unobstructed.  He was now prepared to fight, with nothing to obstruct him.

Does God Have Arms?

There are places in the Bible that talk about God’s arm, or His arms.  But does God really have arms?  No.  The Bible says that God is a spirit.  Giving God human characteristics is a figure of speech. It helps us understand Him better. And many times, it adds great emphasis to what we are reading.

Arms are a symbol of strength.  So when you read about God promising to deliver the Children of Israel out of Egypt with a “stretched out arm,” it is showing God’s great power and might to do such a thing.  That is much more emphatic than to just simply say, “I will redeem you.”

Making Bare His Holy Arm

When you read that God made His holy arm bare, it is not only indicative of His strength and power, but also of His willingness.  He has removed His robe.  He is ready to go to work.  He is ready and willing to fight for you and me.

Perhaps we might have more confidence in God when we call upon Him for help, if we were to remember that He indeed does bare His arm for us.  Sadly, most people do not feel worthy of God helping them in such a dramatic fashion.  They think, “Oh, maybe a little bit of help, but certainly not taking off His robe and going to battle on my account.  Who am I that He should do something like that?”

Are you a parent?  I am.  Would you hesitate to help your child with your resources?  I wouldn’t.  The Bible says that we are God’s dear children.  That is either just a nice religious phrase, or it is literally true.  We are His children and the Bible says that nothing can separate us from His love.

If there are so many, many places in the Scriptures that encourage us to call upon God for help, then why should we not expect that as a loving Father, He will indeed help us?  Perhaps we ought to stop looking at our weaknesses and shortcomings and instead put our focus on our powerful and delivering God, Who is our Father.  Picture Him taking His robe off and bearing His arms for you, because He loves you.

Exodus 6:6:
Wherefore say unto the children of Israel, I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with a stretched out arm, and with great judgments:

Isaiah 52:10:
The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.

Deuteronomy 33:27 (NIV)
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemy before you.

(For more “Eastern Eye” articles, Click Here ^[3], or click The Eastern Eye tab above.)

Mike Verdicchio
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There are a number of books that you can read to get insight on customs, manners, idioms and meanings from the Eastern culture in which the Bible was written.  The best I know of were written by by Bishop K. C. Pillai.  I have had the pleasure of listening to recorded teaching by him.

He wrote three books, and they are hard to find, and are usually over priced.  But, if you want to you can check this link to see what Amazon has to offer. Light Through an Eastern Window ^[4]

Another great resource that I have used for years is a book called, “Manners and Customs of the Bible,” by James Freeman. Mine was printed in 1972 and I know they have newer additions. For the newest edition, just click the link and it will take you to Amazon.
The New Manners and Customs of the Bible (Pure Gold Classics) ^[5]