sil'-ver (keceph; argurion, arguros): Silver was known in the earliest historic times. Specimens of early Egyptian and Babylonian silver work testify to the skill of the ancient silversmiths. In Palestine, silver objects have been found antedating the occupation of the land by the Hebrews. This metal was used for making all kinds of ornamental objects. In the mound of Gezer were found bowls, vases, ladles, hairpins, rings and bracelets of silver. The rings and settings for scarabs or seals were commonly of this metal. The first mention of silver in the Bible is in
Ge 13:2, where it says that Abraham was rich in cattle, in silver and gold. At that time it was commonly used in exchange in the form of bars or other shapes. Coins of that metal were of a much later date (
Ge 20:16;
23:15;
24:53;
37:28, etc.). Booty was collected in silver (
Jos 6:19); tribute was paid in the same (
1Ki 15:19). It was also used for jewelry (
Ge 44:2). The Children of Israel systematically despoiled the Egyptians of their silver before the exodus (
Ex 3:22;
11:2;
12:35, etc.).
Ex 20:23 implies that idols were made of it. It was largely used in the fittings of the tabernacle (
Ex 26 ) and later of the temple (
2Ch 2 ).