Topical Encyclopedia Obelisks are tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monuments which end in a pyramid-like shape at the top. Originating in ancient Egypt, these structures were typically made of stone and were often inscribed with hieroglyphs. They were erected to honor the sun god Ra and were believed to act as a bridge between the heavens and the earth. The obelisk's shape was thought to represent a ray of the sun, symbolizing the divine light and power of the sun god.Obelisks in the Bible While the Bible does not explicitly mention obelisks by name, it does refer to similar structures and the idolatrous practices associated with them. In the context of the ancient Near East, obelisks were often linked to pagan worship, which the Israelites were commanded to avoid. The Bible frequently warns against the worship of idols and the adoption of pagan customs. In the book of Exodus, God commands the Israelites to destroy the altars, break the sacred stones, and cut down the Asherah poles of the Canaanites (Exodus 34:13). Although obelisks are not specifically mentioned, the command to destroy these objects of pagan worship reflects a broader prohibition against idolatry. The prophet Jeremiah also speaks against the idolatrous practices of the nations surrounding Israel. In Jeremiah 43:13 , it is written, "He will demolish the sacred pillars of the temple of the sun in the land of Egypt, and He will burn down the temples of the gods of Egypt." This passage highlights the association of obelisks with sun worship and the judgment pronounced against such practices. Symbolism and Significance In the biblical worldview, obelisks and similar structures symbolize the idolatry and false worship that the Israelites were to reject. The presence of these monuments in neighboring cultures served as a constant reminder of the temptation to stray from the worship of the one true God. The biblical injunctions against idolatry emphasize the importance of exclusive devotion to God and the rejection of all forms of idol worship. Historical Context The historical context of obelisks in the Bible is rooted in the broader cultural and religious practices of the ancient Near East. Obelisks were prominent in Egyptian religious architecture and were often erected at the entrances of temples. They were considered sacred and were believed to house the spirit of the deity they honored. The Israelites, having been delivered from Egypt, were well aware of the religious significance of obelisks and other idolatrous symbols. The biblical narrative consistently calls the people of God to remember their deliverance from Egypt and to remain faithful to the covenant established with Yahweh. Modern Reflections In contemporary times, obelisks can be found in various parts of the world, often as historical artifacts or as part of modern architectural designs. While they may no longer hold the same religious significance as they did in ancient Egypt, their presence serves as a reminder of the biblical call to discernment and faithfulness in worship. The biblical perspective encourages believers to remain vigilant against the influences of idolatry and to uphold the worship of God alone. Strong's Hebrew 4676. matstsebah -- a pillar, stump... Word Origin from natsab Definition a pillar, stump NASB Word Usage obelisks (1), pillar (19), pillars (16), stump (2). garrison, standing image, pillar. ... /hebrew/4676.htm - 6k Library The Heathen Gods were Simply Men. Philadelphia 'Fruit which is Death' Letter Lxxi. (AD 403. ) Letter clxxii. (AD 416. ) The Hardening in the Sacred Scripture. Of the Fact that Idolatry Has Been Subverted by the Name of Christ ... The Religious Revolution Egypt and Greece. Imperial Tombs. Thesaurus Obelisks (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Obelisks (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 43:13 He shall also break the pillars of Beth Shemesh, that is in the ... /o/obelisks.htm - 6k Obelisk On (40792 Occurrences) Obeth Garrison (15 Occurrences) Wings (81 Occurrences) Fire (602 Occurrences) Egypt (596 Occurrences) Chemosh (8 Occurrences) Resources What was a sacred stone in Leviticus? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Obelisks (1 Occurrence)Jeremiah 43:13 Subtopics Related Terms |