The term or theme "Apples of Gold" is originally derived from the Bible, the Book of Proverbs, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver ..." (Proverbs 25:11 NKJV).
Among Christians, these words have become a popular and cherished theme, used for ministries, book titles, and even businesses. Exactly why people have been drawn to this particular term within a single verse of the bible is not clear, except perhaps because of its combined poetic sensibilty and commercial appeal. It has inspired both ministries such as Apples of Gold ministries as well as businesses such as Apples of Gold Jewelry.
Mainly, "apples of gold", has come to be known as a theme that lends itself to a variety of ideas and connects to a spiritual, Christian basis of thought.
"This is one of my favorite themes and I've used it in the past a few times for different functions. It revolves around Proverbs 25:11 and the words we speak which is always a timely subject" (Creative Laddies Ministries).
An examination of the Proverb itself may be helpful in understanding the attraction to this theme:
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold
In settings of silver
Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold
Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear (Provebers 25:11-12 NKJV).
In the first half of this popular verse, the importance of carefully chosen words, a common wisdom theme, is highlighted by their comparison with objects of fine craftsmanship and value. A similar comparison is made in the second half of this verse; two pieces of fine jewelry are compared to a sound relationship between the wise teacher's rebuke and the receptive pupil. The implied comparison says one of two things:
(1) A rebuke is as valuable as fine gold jewelry
(2) A wise rebuke and the receptive ear go together like two pieces of matching jewelry (New Geneve Study Bible, 973).
The New Living Translation of the Bible translates the proverb into a more contemporary, albeit, slightly less poetic version as well as bringing to the subject the softer and more modern conception of giving and receiving "timely advice" and "valid criticism":
Timely advice is as lovely as golden apples in a silver basket.
Valid criticism is as treasured by the one who heeds it as jewelry made from finest gold (Proverbs 25:11 NLT).
Category: Christianity stubs
