The biblical texts do not explicitly mention antimony by name. Antimony is a metallic chemical element. In ancient times, substances containing antimony, particularly stibnite (antimony sulfide), were utilized as cosmetics, especially as kohl for darkening the eyelids. While the Old Testament references various metals and minerals employed for practical and ornamental purposes, a direct correlation to the element antimony is absent. Any potential association would be through its presence within compounds used in ancient practices.
The importance of understanding the potential for indirectly referencing antimony lies in appreciating the material culture of the biblical world. Examining the use of cosmetics and other materials provides insights into the daily lives, social customs, and technological capabilities of ancient civilizations mentioned in the Bible. Although direct identification of antimony is lacking, recognizing the potential presence of antimony-containing compounds allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the materials utilized and their significance within the historical context of the biblical narratives. The benefits of such research lie in the interdisciplinary nature, bridging biblical studies with archaeology and material science.
