In biblical times, door-pillars were significant architectural and symbolic elements in both domestic and sacred structures. These vertical supports were integral to the construction of doorways, providing stability and framing the entrance. The Hebrew term often associated with door-pillars is "mezuzah," which, in its broader sense, refers to the doorpost itself, though it is more commonly known today as the small case affixed to doorposts containing scripture.

Architectural Significance

Door-pillars were essential in ancient Near Eastern architecture, serving both functional and decorative purposes. They were typically made from wood or stone, materials that were readily available and durable. In the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, door-pillars were crafted with great care and often adorned with carvings or overlaid with precious metals, reflecting their importance in the sacred space.

Biblical References

The Bible contains several references to door-pillars, highlighting their role in both everyday life and religious practice. In Exodus 12:7, during the first Passover, the Israelites were instructed to apply the blood of the lamb to the doorposts and lintel of their houses: "Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat the lamb." This act was a sign for the Lord to pass over the houses of the Israelites during the final plague in Egypt, symbolizing protection and deliverance.

In the construction of Solomon's Temple, door-pillars were part of the detailed craftsmanship that characterized this holy edifice. 1 Kings 6:31-33 describes the entrance to the inner sanctuary: "For the entrance of the inner sanctuary, he made doors of olive wood with five-sided doorposts. The double doors were of olive wood. He carved on them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, and overlaid them with gold, hammered evenly over the carvings."

Symbolic Meaning

Door-pillars also carry symbolic meaning in Scripture, often representing strength, stability, and the threshold between the sacred and the profane. In Proverbs 9:1, wisdom is personified as a woman who "has built her house; she has hewn out her seven pillars." This imagery suggests a well-founded and secure dwelling, with pillars symbolizing the support and permanence of wisdom.

In the New Testament, the concept of door-pillars can be seen metaphorically in Revelation 3:12, where Jesus promises, "The one who overcomes, I will make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will never again leave it." Here, the pillar represents a place of honor and permanence in God's eternal kingdom.

Cultural and Religious Practices

In Jewish tradition, the mezuzah, a small case containing scrolls of Torah verses, is affixed to the doorposts of Jewish homes. This practice is derived from Deuteronomy 6:9, which commands, "Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates." The mezuzah serves as a constant reminder of God's presence and commandments, echoing the ancient significance of door-pillars as markers of faith and covenant.

Door-pillars, therefore, are more than mere structural elements; they are imbued with deep spiritual and cultural meaning, serving as reminders of God's protection, the sanctity of the home, and the enduring strength of faith.Door-pillars (2 Occurrences)

2 Kings 18:16
And at that time Hezekiah had the gold from the doors of the Lord's house, and from the door-pillars plated by him, cut off and gave it to the king of Assyria.
(BBE)

Isaiah 6:4
And the bases of the door-pillars were shaking at the sound of his cry, and the house was full of smoke.
(BBE)

Door-pillars (2 Occurrences)
Door-pillars. Door-opening, Door-pillars. Doorpost . Multi-Version
Concordance Door-pillars (2 Occurrences). 2 Kings ...
/d/door-pillars.htm - 7k

Doorpost (5 Occurrences)

/d/doorpost.htm - 8k

Door-opening (2 Occurrences)
Door-opening. Door-keepers, Door-opening. Door-pillars . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Door-keepers, Door-opening. Door-pillars . Reference Bible.
/d/door-opening.htm - 7k

Plated (29 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 18:16 And at that time Hezekiah had the gold from the doors of the Lord's
house, and from the door-pillars plated by him, cut off and gave it to the ...
/p/plated.htm - 14k

Trembled (43 Occurrences)
... (YLT). Isaiah 6:4 And the bases of the door-pillars were shaking at the sound
of his cry, and the house was full of smoke. (See NAS). ...
/t/trembled.htm - 19k

Bases (80 Occurrences)
... NIV). Isaiah 6:4 And the bases of the door-pillars were shaking at the sound
of his cry, and the house was full of smoke. (BBE). Isaiah ...
/b/bases.htm - 29k

Shaking (162 Occurrences)
... (BBE). Isaiah 6:4 And the bases of the door-pillars were shaking at the
sound of his cry, and the house was full of smoke. (BBE). ...
/s/shaking.htm - 35k

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