Topical Encyclopedia A summer-house, in the context of biblical times, refers to a structure or dwelling used primarily during the warmer months. These structures were often designed to provide relief from the intense heat of the summer sun, offering a place of rest and refreshment. The concept of a summer-house is mentioned in the Bible, providing insight into the lifestyle and architectural practices of ancient cultures.Biblical References: 1. Judges 3:20 · "Ehud then approached him while he was sitting alone in the cool of his upper room, and said, 'I have a message from God for you.' As the king rose from his seat..." . In this passage, the "cool of his upper room" can be understood as a type of summer-house, a place where King Eglon of Moab sought respite from the heat. This upper room was likely designed to catch the breeze, providing a cooler environment. 2. Amos 3:15 · "I will tear down the winter house along with the summer house; the houses adorned with ivory will be destroyed, and the great houses will come to an end," declares the LORD. . Here, the prophet Amos speaks of both winter and summer houses, indicating that wealthier individuals had separate residences for different seasons. The summer-house would have been constructed to maximize comfort during the hot season, possibly featuring open designs and shaded areas. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Israel and surrounding regions, the climate necessitated adaptations in living arrangements. The summer-house was an architectural response to the seasonal changes, providing a space that was cooler and more comfortable during the hot months. These structures were often built with materials and designs that facilitated airflow and reduced heat, such as high ceilings, open windows, and shaded courtyards. The existence of both summer and winter houses, as mentioned in Amos, suggests a level of affluence and the ability to construct multiple dwellings. This practice was likely limited to the wealthier classes, as ordinary people would not have had the resources to maintain separate homes for different seasons. Symbolic and Theological Implications: The mention of summer-houses in the Bible can also carry symbolic weight. In Amos 3:15, the destruction of both summer and winter houses serves as a metaphor for the impending judgment and the futility of relying on material wealth for security. The opulence of such homes, adorned with ivory, is contrasted with the transient nature of human achievements in the face of divine judgment. From a theological perspective, the summer-house can be seen as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly comforts and the importance of seeking refuge in God rather than in material possessions. The biblical narrative often emphasizes the need for humility and reliance on divine providence, rather than on the trappings of wealth and luxury. In summary, the concept of a summer-house in the Bible provides a glimpse into the daily life and societal structures of ancient times, while also offering deeper spiritual lessons about the nature of true security and the impermanence of worldly riches. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SUMMER-HOUSE(beth ha-qayits): Amos 3:15 notes it as part of the judgment on Israel that Yahweh would smite "the winter-house with the summer-house." It belonged to the luxury of the period that kings and wealthy persons had separate residences for the cold and hot seasons. This is the only mention of "the summer-house," but Eglon's "cool upper room" (Judges 3:20, the King James Version and the English Revised Version "summer parlour," not in this case a separate building) may be compared. Library For a Garden-Seat, or Summer-House. Diamond Said Nothing to his Mother About his Adventures. ... Nanny was not Fit to be Moved for Some Time Yet... The visitation Heinrich Albert Ordinances. The Reverent Dutch Wesley Receives the Freedom of Perth That Diamond had Fallen Fast Asleep is Very Evident from the ... As they Flew, So Fast they Went that the Sea Slid Away from under ... Thesaurus Summerhouse... (n.) A rustic house or apartment in a garden or park, to be used as a pleasure resort in summer. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SUMMER-HOUSE. ... /s/summerhouse.htm - 7k Summer-house (4 Occurrences) Winter-house (2 Occurrences) Private (32 Occurrences) King's (375 Occurrences) Locking (2 Occurrences) Winterhouse (1 Occurrence) Demolished (15 Occurrences) Mansions (5 Occurrences) Adorned (20 Occurrences) Resources What was the significance of the horns of the altar (Amos 3:14)? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Xerxes in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What was the purpose of a dowry (Genesis 31:15)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Summer-house (4 Occurrences)Judges 3:20 Judges 3:23 Judges 3:24 Amos 3:15 Subtopics Related Terms |