108 Silver Bull

Museum Description: Silver Bull with Gold Inlay

Room: 54/Case: 2/Number: ME 135851

Scripture: Exodus 32:4

We do not know the size of the golden calf that was created, which would have depended on the amount of gold jewellery collected.  Perhaps it could have looked something like this.  This one is made out of silver, with gold only being used for the inlays.

When the Israelites were waiting for Moses as he received the Ten Commandments, they evidently were not very patient.  They persuaded Aaron to make an idol for them to worship, directly against one of the very commandments Moses was receiving.  Why did they choose the form of a calf or young bull?  Perhaps this was because they were familiar with the image and practice from their time in Egypt.  The Apis bull was venerated to such a degree they were even embalmed and mummified when they died.  Over 60 examples have been found at just one site.  Other similar or related artefacts are on display in The British Museum.