By Tam Jengoa (Australia)
Gold, a much-treasured substance all through the ages have been desired by all civilisations; yes, from the beginning of humanity. What exactly makes gold more desirable than all other substances; why do we crave so much for it?
I have thought about this for some while and couldn’t stop wondering why humans place so much value on a material used to make earrings, nose rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc to the extent we call the most treasured liquid (after water) ‘black gold’!
As a scientist and engineer, the most notable property of gold I know is its electrical conductivity; it is the element that conducts electricity the most; that’s why there’s no unmatched parallel to it in the electronic industry. However, long before electricity was discovered, there has been so much vested interest in gold mining.
What then made the ancients desire gold; what was it that made the civilisations of old interested in this metal? Apparently, the answer lies in the fact that the element is very resistant to corrosion; perhaps it’s the best at such.
Things made of gold were sure to last thousands of generations without losing their lustre. This explains why gold has been treasured in temples, palaces and royal courts. The only other metal that competes favourably is Platinum.
Gold reminds us of our innate desire for longevity without losing value, long life without the effects of ageing; and ultimately, our longing for eternity. You see, humans were originally created to not die. This is why we are always emotional at the passing away of a beloved one even when we consider them to have lived long.
I’m therefore not surprised that many of the ornaments in the Tabernacle were either made of, or overlaid with, this precious metal. This is also true of King Solomon’s temple and the items in it.
Interestingly, God’s eternal city on earth, the New Jerusalem, will have its streets paved with … you name it, GOLD! How wonderful it would be to walk on such streets.
Believing in Jesus is what grants us access there; let’s not be distracted by today’s devilish tricks but strive to be there. Let’s endeavour to meet in that eternal city. See you there.
