Behind | The Rain “Bow”

The Rain “Bow”

Perhaps they remind you of God’s ancient promise, or you may be thinking more scientifically of reflection, refraction and dispersion of light through water. But what really did the rainbow mean?

Here a Neo-Assyrian king depicts himself in his palace with one of the most ancient weapons, a bow and arrow. Could the rain bow be a military symbol?

Look carefully at the bow in this relief. The great Neo-Assyrian king is receiving tribute from a kneeling vassal, and his bow in this position implies no aggression.

This same gesture appears here. The offending party has been defeated and bows in submission to their conqueror, who offers the sign of no more aggression. Next time you see a rainbow in the sky, think of God in a non-aggressive position. 

The Flood story has both judgment and grace. Grace is shown not only by saving a remnant from judgment, but also as a new creation emerges, God makes a promise never to flood the earth again.