Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, the term "pillar" is often used figuratively to convey strength, support, and permanence. This metaphorical usage is prevalent throughout Scripture, symbolizing various spiritual truths and principles.1. Symbol of Strength and Stability: In the book of Revelation, the victorious believer is promised a place as a pillar in the temple of God. Revelation 3:12 states, "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 the enduring and unshakeable position of the faithful in God's eternal kingdom, signifying strength and stability. 2. Representation of God's Presence and Guidance: The imagery of a pillar is also used to describe God's presence and guidance. In the wilderness, the Israelites were led by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). These pillars were not only physical manifestations but also symbolic of God's constant guidance and protection over His people. 3. Metaphor for Leadership and Support: In Galatians 2:9 , Paul refers to James, Cephas (Peter), and John as "pillars" of the church. This metaphor highlights their roles as foundational leaders who provide support and guidance to the early Christian community. Their steadfastness in faith and doctrine serves as a model for others to follow. 4. Emblem of Truth and Doctrine: The church itself is described as a "pillar and foundation of the truth" in 1 Timothy 3:15 . This figurative language underscores the church's role in upholding and disseminating the truth of the Gospel. As a pillar, the church is tasked with maintaining doctrinal purity and providing a stable witness to the world. 5. Image of Judgment and Consequence: The account of Lot's wife, who was turned into a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26), serves as a figurative warning against disobedience and looking back to a sinful past. This transformation into a pillar symbolizes the permanence of God's judgment and the consequences of failing to heed His commands. 6. Sign of Memorial and Witness: Pillars are also used as memorials or witnesses to significant events or covenants. In Genesis 28:18-22 , Jacob sets up a stone pillar at Bethel to commemorate his vision of the ladder reaching to heaven and to mark the place where God confirmed His covenant with him. This act of setting up a pillar serves as a lasting witness to God's promises and Jacob's vow. In summary, the figurative use of "pillar" in the Bible encompasses a range of meanings, from strength and stability to guidance, leadership, truth, judgment, and memorial. Each usage enriches the understanding of spiritual truths and the believer's relationship with God. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 3:12Him that overcomes will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God: and I will write on him my new name. Nave's Topical Index Library And Whereas Celsus Ought to have Recognised the Love of Truth ... Whether Circumcision was a Preparation For, and a Figure of ... Interpretation of Prophecy. Blessed Henry Suso's Preface to his Book Zwingli's Distinctive Doctrines. On Baptism. The Deeds of Some Holy Persons who Devoted Themselves to a ... Preface to the First Edition. The Doctrine of the Last Things. Appendix ii. Conflation and the So-Called Neutral Text. Resources What is the Shekinah glory? | GotQuestions.orgShould Catholic tradition have equal or greater authority than the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is Absalom's Monument? | GotQuestions.org Pillar: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pillar by Absalom, to Keep his Name Alive Pillar by Jacob, his Covenant With Laban Pillar by Joshua, the Crossing of the Jordan River Pillar by Moses, the Covenant Between Jehovah and Israel Pillar by Samuel, the Defeat of the Philistines Pillar: Broken and Carried to Babylon Pillar: Monuments Erected to Commemorate Events by Jacob, his Vision of Angels Pillar: Monuments of Idolatry, to be Destroyed Pillar: Pillar of Salt, Lot's Wife Turned To Pillar: Prophecy of One in Egypt Related Terms Standing-pillar (3 Occurrences) El-elohe-Israel (1 Occurrence) |
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