Why Is Clay Used in the Bible?
Clay As a Symbol
There are several instances given in the Bible referring to clay. In Job 33:6 it states: I also am formed out of the clay. In Psalm 40:2, there is a reference to the “miry clay” symbolizing our lives before we were saved. In one of the miracles of Christ we find a reference to clay being made and put upon the eyes of the blind man (see John 9:6,11,14,15).
Another passage that refers to clay is found in Isaiah 64:8: But now, 0 Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
This passage gives the relationship described in the work of a potter (one who molds and models clay vessels) with the natural clay. The word potter could be translated as “the one who formed us”; the clay represents that which is pliable and submissive, and the potter represents the one who has absolute authority over the clay. (LIBERTY BIBLE COMMENTARY, Vol. 1, p. 1419).
There are many other Scripture references to the work of God likened unto a potter’s molding of clay.
All of these Scriptures give an analogy which describe the way God remolds our lives in order for us to be fit vessels of honor unto Christ. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and met for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work (2 Timothy 2:21).
