The pyramids of Egypt are some of the most iconic structures in human history. Their massive size, precise architecture and alignment with constellations imply advanced astronomical knowledge and construction skills. Given their prominence, some have wondered if the pyramids are mentioned in the Bible.
The short answer is no, the pyramids are never directly mentioned in the Bible. There are a few indirect references to structures that may hint at the pyramids, but their identification is speculative. Overall, the pyramids appear to have little significance in the biblical narrative.
The most well-known pyramids are the Pyramids of Giza located just outside Cairo. These include the Great Pyramid built for Khufu around 2560 BC, as well as smaller pyramids built for Khafre and Menkaure. However, there are over 100 ancient pyramids in Egypt, with most dating to the Old Kingdom period from 2686–2181 BC.
The pyramids were tombs for the pharaohs and powerful symbols of their divine authority. This occurred during a time period well before the Exodus and Israelite Sojourn in Egypt described in the Bible. Biblical figures like Abraham, Joseph and Moses lived around 1900–1200 BC, about 1000 years after the main pyramid building age.
The Bible does make over 600 references to Egypt, but does not specifically mention their famous pyramids. Descriptions of the plagues, Exodus, wilderness wanderings and Egyptian power conflicts focus on the royal cities, gods and army – not the tombs of pharaohs a millennium earlier.
The two potential references to pyramids or similar triangular structures are:
Isaiah 19:19-20
“In that day there will be an altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the Lord at its border. It will be a sign and a witness to the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt.”
Some speculate this “pillar” might refer to the Great Pyramid at Giza near the border of Lower and Upper Egypt. But the context implies a future messianic era where Egypt worships the true God. So while possible, any connection to the Great Pyramid is inconclusive.
Zechariah 4:7
“What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain. And he shall bring forward the top stone amid shouts of ‘Grace, grace to it!’”
The “great mountain” here may symbolize opposition to rebuilding the temple. Some propose the “top stone” describes a pyramid capstone. But the meaning is unclear and better fits the temple mount which obstructs rebuilding.
Beyond these disputed texts, there are a few general observations on pyramids in the Bible:
1. Pyramids Were Likely Known in Biblical Times
Stories like Joseph ruling Egypt (Genesis 41) and Moses adopting Egyptian education (Acts 7:22) indicate a cultural awareness of Egypt. While not mentioned directly, the ancient pyramids would have been hard for Biblical figures to miss or ignore.
2. The Bible May Subtly Critique Egyptian Pride
The pyramids were monuments to pharaohs seeking eternal rule on earth and ascent to the afterlife. The Bible condemns such pride and human attempts at immortality apart from God.
“Your pomp is brought down to Sheol, the sound of your harps; maggots are laid as a bed beneath you, and worms are your covers.” (Isaiah 14:11)
This hints the amazing yet vain pyramids were not worth mentioning compared to God’s truth and purposes.
3. Later Bible Authors May Have Been Less Familiar with Pyramids
Moses and prophets like Isaiah would have had firsthand knowledge of Egypt. But after the Exile, this faded over generations. Later Bible authors may simply not have thought or known much about the pyramids.
Their audiences also changed. Early on, Israel defined itself over against Egypt and its idols. Later, Assyria, Babylon and finally Rome became the main Reference points. The pyramids simply may not have been very relevant.
In summary, the pyramids of Egypt are never directly mentioned in the Bible. Their construction occurred long before central biblical events. However, the pyramids likely formed part of the background cultural knowledge of biblical figures like Moses. Their role as extravagant monuments to divine kings may implicitly contrast with biblical values.
While clearly important architectural achievements, the pyramids appear to have little direct significance in the biblical narrative. The focus is on God’s actions in history and his plan of redemption, not the tombs of past earthly rulers.
Some oblique pyramid references are possible, but have inconclusive evidence. Overall, the biblical authors do not pay much attention to the pyramids compared to issues like idolatry, injustice, the Exodus, prophecy, and God’s unfolding plan in Israel and through the Messiah.
The pyramids are more a curiosity than a central biblical concern. Though impressive, they fade in significance compared to the revelation of God, His law, His Son, and the gospel extended to all nations – including Egypt.
So in summary, no the pyramids are not mentioned directly in the Bible. They form an incidental part of the background, but not the main focus which lies elsewhere.
The enormous pyramids captivate our imagination today, yet appear to be largely ignored in the scriptural narrative. There God instead reveals things often hidden to the wise of this world yet spiritually monumental in His kingdom.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord.” (Isaiah 55:8)