Elements mentioned in the Tanach (תנ"ך)
Several elements from the periodic table are mentioned in the Tanach (Hebrew Bible), often in relation to materials used for construction, worship, and wealth. Below is a list of eight of these elements along with an approximate number of times they are mentioned, based on biblical references and context. Seven of these elements are metals (Au, Ag, Cu, Fe, Pb, Sn), one (Sb, Antimony) is a metalloid and one (S, sulfur) is non-metal. See Periodic table.
| Symbol | Element | Hebrew Name | Mentions | Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Au | Gold | זהב (Zahav) | Over 400 times | Construction of the Tabernacle, Temple, wealth, and ornamentation. |
| Ag | Silver | כסף (Kesef) | Over 200 times | Currency, offerings, and Temple construction. |
| Cu | Copper/Bronze | נחושת (Nechoshet) | Over 130 times | Altar construction, vessels, weapons, and tools. |
| Fe | Iron | ברזל (Barzel) | Over 90 times | Weaponry, tools, and construction materials. |
| Pb | Lead | עופרת (Opheret) | 3 times | Refining metals and sinking of Pharaoh's army. |
| Sn | Tin | בדיל (Badil) | 4 times | Used during metal refining processes. |
| S | Sulfur/Brimstone | גפרית (Gophrith) | 7 times | Divine punishment and destruction (Sodom and Gomorrah). |
| Sb | Antimony | פוך (Pukh) | 3 times | Used as a cosmetic for painting the eyes. |