Topical Encyclopedia
In biblical literature, the term "roll" often refers to a scroll, a rolled-up piece of parchment or papyrus used for writing. This form of document was prevalent in ancient times and is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures. The roll, or scroll, serves as a significant symbol and similitude in various biblical contexts, representing divine revelation, judgment, and the recording of events or decrees.
Symbol of Divine RevelationThe roll is prominently featured as a symbol of divine revelation. In
Ezekiel 2:9-10, the prophet Ezekiel describes a vision in which he sees a hand stretched out to him, holding a scroll. The scroll is written on both sides with words of lamentation, mourning, and woe. This imagery underscores the comprehensive nature of God's message to His people, as well as the gravity of the prophetic words conveyed through Ezekiel.
Instrument of JudgmentThe roll also serves as an instrument of judgment. In
Jeremiah 36, the prophet Jeremiah is instructed by God to write all the words spoken to him on a scroll. This scroll is then read to the people of Judah as a warning of impending judgment due to their disobedience. When King Jehoiakim hears the words of the scroll, he cuts it with a knife and throws it into the fire, symbolizing his rejection of God's message. Despite this act, God commands Jeremiah to write another scroll, demonstrating the enduring nature of divine judgment and the futility of attempting to thwart God's plans.
Record of DecreesIn the New Testament, the roll is depicted as a record of decrees.
Revelation 5:1-2 describes a scroll in the right hand of Him who sits on the throne, sealed with seven seals. This scroll represents the unfolding of God's redemptive plan and the ultimate judgment of the world. The opening of the seals by the Lamb, who is worthy, signifies the execution of divine decrees and the fulfillment of God's purposes in history.
Symbol of Prophetic CommissionThe roll is also a symbol of prophetic commission. In
Ezekiel 3:1-3, God instructs Ezekiel to eat the scroll, which is sweet as honey in his mouth. This act signifies the internalization of God's message by the prophet, equipping him to speak to the house of Israel. The sweetness of the scroll reflects the delight and satisfaction found in receiving and proclaiming God's word, despite the challenging nature of the message.
ConclusionThroughout the Bible, the roll serves as a powerful symbol and similitude, representing divine revelation, judgment, and the recording of God's decrees. Its presence in both the Old and New Testaments highlights the continuity of God's communication with humanity and the unfolding of His sovereign will.
Nave's Topical Index
Zechariah 5:2-4And he said to me, What see you? And I answered, I see a flying roll; the length thereof is twenty cubits, and the breadth thereof ten cubits.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Introduction.
... inclined plane, that the other will roll also, because ... into the number almost all
similitudes indiscriminately. ... to the language of dramatic symbols rather than ...
//christianbookshelf.org/arnot/the parables of our lord/introduction.htm
Resources
Does the Bible contain allegory? | GotQuestions.orgIs Christmas a pagan holiday? | GotQuestions.orgWhen the Bible is translated into English, how do the translators decide what punctuation to use? | GotQuestions.orgSymbols: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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