Topical Encyclopedia The term "Sheep-market" is a reference found in the context of ancient Jerusalem, specifically in relation to the temple and its surrounding areas. The Sheep-market is mentioned in the Gospel of John, where it is associated with the Pool of Bethesda. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as follows:"Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Hebrew is called Bethesda, and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades." (John 5:2) Historical and Cultural Context The Sheep-market, or more accurately, the Sheep Gate, was one of the gates in the walls of Jerusalem. It was located near the temple and was traditionally used for bringing sheep into the city, particularly those intended for sacrifice. The proximity of the Sheep Gate to the temple underscores its importance in the religious life of ancient Israel, as sheep were a central element in the sacrificial system prescribed in the Mosaic Law. The Sheep-market would have been a bustling area, especially during times of religious festivals such as Passover, when large numbers of sheep were required for sacrifices. The market facilitated the buying and selling of sheep, ensuring that worshippers could obtain the necessary animals for their offerings. Biblical Significance The mention of the Sheep-market in John 5:2 is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it situates the Pool of Bethesda in a specific and recognizable location within Jerusalem, providing historical and geographical context for the events described in the Gospel. The Pool of Bethesda was known for its healing properties, and the narrative of Jesus healing a man there highlights His authority and compassion. Secondly, the Sheep-market's connection to the sacrificial system serves as a backdrop for understanding the role of Jesus as the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29). The imagery of sheep and sacrifice is deeply woven into the fabric of biblical theology, pointing to Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity. The Sheep-market, therefore, is not merely a physical location but also a symbolic reminder of the sacrificial system that foreshadowed Christ's atoning work. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, the Sheep-market and its associated imagery invite reflection on the nature of sacrifice and redemption. The sacrificial system of the Old Testament, with its emphasis on the shedding of blood for the atonement of sin, finds its fulfillment in the New Testament through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Sheep-market, as a place where sacrificial animals were brought and sold, serves as a tangible reminder of the cost of sin and the provision of God for reconciliation with His people. In summary, the Sheep-market is a significant location within the biblical narrative, rich with historical, cultural, and theological meaning. It provides insight into the practices of ancient Israel and serves as a backdrop for understanding the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Easton's Bible Dictionary Occurs only in John 5:2 (marg., also R.V., "sheep-gate"). The word so rendered is an adjective, and it is uncertain whether the noun to be supplied should be "gate" or, following the Vulgate Version, "pool." Greek 4262. probatikos -- of sheep ... sheep market. From probaton; relating to sheep, ie (a gate) through which they were led into Jerusalem -- sheep (market). see GREEK probaton. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4262.htm - 6k Library Sabbath Cure at Bethesda. The Third Miracle in John's Gospel At the Unknown' Feast in Jerusalem, and by the Pool of Bethesda. Bethesda and the Sanhedrin The Fifth Day in Passion-Week - Make Ready the Passover!' Thesaurus Sheepmarket/s/sheepmarket.htm - 6k Sheep-market (1 Occurrence) Market (24 Occurrences) Sheep (413 Occurrences) Doorways (26 Occurrences) Public (99 Occurrences) Beth-zatha (1 Occurrence) Sheepmaster (1 Occurrence) Sheep-keepers (1 Occurrence) Tongue (160 Occurrences) Resources What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that “zeal for your house will consume me” in John 2:17? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of sheep in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sheep-market (1 Occurrence)John 5:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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