Meaning of CHAINS

Several Greek and Hebrew words are translated into modern languages with the word "chains."

(a) After the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, Jeremiah was “in chains,” that is, a prisoner with several companions (Jer. 40:1-4).

In a metaphorical sense it is used to indicate the chains of affliction or pain, and sometimes the word "ropes" is used, which indicates that many prisoners were bound with ropes and not with metal chains (Jb. 36:8).

(b) It also indicates the series of stars in the firmament, especially the constellations of the Pleiades and Orion (Jb. 38:31). Some versions, such as the New Spanish Bible, translate the Hebrew word as "ties" or "binds," in this passage, instead of "chains."

(c) The word can also be used to designate jewelry (Ex. 28:14). Some versions such as the Reina-Valera translate the Hebrew word here as "cords." It also designates ornamental motifs in Solomon's temple (1 Kings 7:17; 2 Chron. 3:5) and the chains adorned with idols (Is. 40:19).

(d) Designates, in a metaphorical sense, God's care for Jerusalem (Ez. 16:11). Sometimes the king gave his favorite a chain or necklace (Dan. 5:29).

(e) In a general sense it is used of everything that binds, binds or unites, whether in a material or moral sense (Acts 26:29; Heb. 11:36; Eph. 6:20; Jude 6).
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