121 Leather Belt

Museum Description: Chest Armour

Room: 65/Case: 13/Number: EA 71832

Scripture: Ephesians 6:14

Christians are encouraged to have "the belt of truth fastened around your waist".  This is labelled as a chest guard, but is similar to a soldier's belt.  It was not just a narrow strip of leather as most belts are today, but a wide band providing both support and protection.  In the same way the truth helps us to stand firm despite trials we may face.

Armour is often mentioned in the Bible.  When he went to fight Goliath, David removed the armour given to him by Saul.  It was too heavy for him, plus it was Jehovah he trusted in rather than the protection the armour would give.  A soldier's equipment had two elements, the offensive part (arms) such as a sword, club, bow and arrows, or a javelin.  There was also the defensive part (armour) to protect the body, essentially a second skin made of a tough material such as leather or metal.  In the spiritual battle that Christians face we "take up the complete suit of armour from God" - Ephesians 6:13.    Other similar or related artefacts are on display in The British Museum.