Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, an "ensign" refers to a standard, banner, or signal used for rallying troops, marking locations, or signifying important messages. The concept of an ensign is rich with symbolic meaning throughout the Scriptures, often representing divine guidance, protection, and the gathering of God's people.Old Testament References 1. Numbers 2:2 : "The Israelites are to camp around the Tent of Meeting at a distance from it, each man under his standard with the banners of his family." Here, the term "standard" is synonymous with an ensign, indicating the organized structure and identity of the tribes of Israel as they encamped around the Tabernacle. Each tribe's ensign served as a rallying point and a symbol of their unique identity within the nation. 2. Isaiah 11:10 : "On that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples. The nations will seek Him, and His place of rest will be glorious." This prophetic passage speaks of the Messiah, the Root of Jesse, as a banner or ensign for the nations. It signifies the gathering of people to the Messiah, highlighting His role as a unifying and guiding figure for all nations. 3. Isaiah 11:12 : "He will raise a banner for the nations and gather the exiles of Israel; He will collect the scattered of Judah from the four corners of the earth." The ensign here represents God's call to His people, a divine signal for the return and restoration of Israel. It underscores the theme of redemption and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. 4. Isaiah 18:3 : "All you people of the world, you who dwell on the earth, when a banner is raised on the mountains, you will see it, and when a trumpet sounds, you will hear it." This verse emphasizes the visibility and audibility of God's signals to the world. The ensign serves as a universal call to attention, indicating significant divine action or revelation. Symbolic and Theological Significance The ensign in biblical literature often symbolizes divine authority and the presence of God among His people. It serves as a reminder of God's covenant and His promises to lead, protect, and gather His people. The ensign is not merely a physical object but a representation of spiritual truths and divine intervention in human history. In the context of prophecy, the ensign frequently points to the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of His kingdom. It is a symbol of hope and expectation, calling the faithful to look forward to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. New Testament Implications While the term "ensign" is not explicitly used in the New Testament, the concept is present in the imagery of Christ as the unifying figure for all believers. Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate standard or banner under which all nations are gathered, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and establishing a new covenant with humanity. The ensign, therefore, is a powerful biblical motif that encapsulates themes of identity, divine guidance, and eschatological hope. It serves as a visual and spiritual reminder of God's ongoing relationship with His people and His sovereign plan for the world. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 74:4Your enemies roar in the middle of your congregations; they set up their ensigns for signs. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 5:26 Isaiah 11:10,12 Isaiah 18:3 Isaiah 30:17 Isaiah 31:9 Zechariah 9:16 Library The Twenty-First Article they Absolutely Condemn, Because we do ... Elements of Prophetic Interpretation. Dialogue i. --The Immutable. A Summary of Experience and a Body of Divinity How God Works in the Hearts of Men. Footnotes Blair -- the Hour and the Event of all Time The Unity of the Divine Essence in Three Persons Taught, in ... Confessio Belgica. The Mystery Resources Is it true that Jesus was crucified above the tomb of Adam? | GotQuestions.orgEnsign: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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