What is the reason that "fire" is often referred to as "wood" in the Bible, instead of coal or oil?

Fire is a powerful and captivating element that has captured the imagination of mankind for centuries. In the Bible, fire is often referred to as "wood" instead of coal or oil, which may seem confusing at first glance. However, when we delve deeper into the biblical context and the cultural significance of fire, the reason behind this becomes clearer.

One important aspect to consider is the cultural and historical context in which the Bible was written. During the time when the Bible was authored, wood was the primary source of fuel for making fire. The imagery of fire being associated with wood in the Bible reflects the everyday life of the people of that time. Wood was readily available and used for cooking, heating, and sacrifices, making it a natural symbol for fire in the biblical narratives.

Additionally, the association of fire with wood carries symbolic and spiritual significance. In the Bible, fire is often used as a symbol of purification, divine presence, and judgment. The use of "wood" to represent fire may underscore the transformative and purifying nature of fire in the biblical teachings.

For example, in the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18), the significance of fire as a divine manifestation is highlighted, and the use of wood to build the altar emphasizes the sacredness of the fire that consumes the offering.

Furthermore, the choice of "wood" to represent fire in the Bible may also be rooted in the practicality and accessibility of wood as a fuel source. Unlike coal or oil, wood can be easily obtained from the natural environment and does not require extensive extraction or processing. This aligns with the pastoral and agrarian lifestyle of the ancient Israelites, where wood was a fundamental resource for sustenance and survival.

In a broader theological sense, the association of fire with wood in the Bible may also carry symbolic parallels to the concept of Christ as the ultimate sacrifice. The imagery of wood and fire evokes the notion of atonement, as seen in the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22, where Abraham prepares to sacrifice his son on the altar made of wood. This foreshadows the redemptive act of Jesus Christ, who, like the wood, becomes the means through which the fire of divine love and sacrifice is manifested.