Topical Encyclopedia In ancient biblical times, the construction of houses on city walls was a common architectural practice, particularly in fortified cities. This practice is evidenced in several biblical accounts and reflects the strategic and practical considerations of ancient urban planning.Biblical References One of the most notable examples of houses built on city walls is found in the account of Rahab in the Book of Joshua. Rahab, a resident of Jericho, lived in a house that was part of the city wall. This is explicitly mentioned in Joshua 2:15: "Then she let them down by a rope through the window, for her house was in the wall; she lived in the wall." Rahab's house provided a strategic advantage, allowing her to assist the Israelite spies by helping them escape the city. The construction of houses on city walls served multiple purposes. It maximized the use of space within the city, which was often limited by the surrounding fortifications. Additionally, these houses could serve as part of the defensive structure, with windows or openings that allowed inhabitants to observe and respond to external threats. Historical and Cultural Context In the ancient Near East, cities were frequently fortified with walls to protect against invasions and raids. These walls were substantial structures, often wide enough to accommodate dwellings. The integration of residential spaces into the city walls reflects the ingenuity of ancient builders in optimizing available resources and space. The practice of building houses on city walls also highlights the social and economic dynamics of ancient cities. Those who lived in such houses, like Rahab, were often in a position to interact with both the city's inhabitants and outsiders, such as travelers or traders. This location could provide opportunities for commerce and communication, as well as responsibilities related to the city's defense. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the account of Rahab and her house on the wall carries significant implications. Rahab's faith and actions, as described in the Book of Joshua, led to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as noted in the genealogy presented in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 1:5). Her account exemplifies themes of redemption and divine providence, illustrating how God can use individuals and their circumstances for His purposes. Moreover, the imagery of houses on city walls can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's life. Just as these houses were integral to the city's defense, believers are called to be vigilant and steadfast in their faith, standing firm against spiritual adversaries. The strategic placement of these houses serves as a reminder of the importance of being watchful and prepared in one's spiritual journey. Conclusion The practice of building houses on city walls in biblical times provides valuable insights into the architectural, social, and spiritual dimensions of ancient life. Through the lens of Scripture, these structures reveal the interplay between human ingenuity and divine purpose, offering lessons that continue to resonate with believers today. Torrey's Topical Textbook Joshua 2:15Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was on the town wall, and she dwelled on the wall. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 11:33 Library A Description of Some Parts of Ancient Jerusalem. The "Little Knife" Insurrection The City of Benares. In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned The City of the "Elegant Gate"[*] Peter of Chelcic, 1419-1450. The City of Gold Palestine under Pagan Kings. The Conquest of Babylon. The City of God Resources What is a house blessing? Is a house blessing biblical? | GotQuestions.orgIs a house dedication a biblical concept? | GotQuestions.org How could the laws of God be written on doorframes, gates, and foreheads? | GotQuestions.org Houses: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Houses in Cities, Built in Streets Houses of Brick or Clay: Easily Broken Through Houses of Brick or Clay: Often Swept Away by Torrents Houses of Brick or Clay: Plastered Houses of Criminals, Desolated Houses: (Building of) of Great Prosperity Houses: (Built and not Inhabited) of Calamity Houses: (Insecurity of) of Earthly Trust Houses: (On a Rock) the Hope of Saints Houses: (On Sand) the Delusive Hope of Hypocrites Houses: (To Inhabit Those, Built by Others) Abundant Feelings Houses: Accessible from the Outside Houses: Admission To, Gained by Knocking at the Door Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Ceiled and Painted Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Hung With Rich Tapestries Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Inlaid With Ivory Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Large and Airy Houses: Apartments of, Were often: Warmed With Fires Houses: Built of Hewn or Cut Stone Houses: Built of Stone and Wood Houses: Custom of Fastening Nails, in Walls of, Alluded To Houses: Deep and Solid Foundations Required For Houses: Desolation of, Threatened As a Punishment Houses: Divided Into Apartments Houses: Doors of, How Fastened Houses: Doors of, Low and Small for Safety Houses: Entered by a Gate or Door Houses: had often Detached Apartments for Secrecy and for Strangers Houses: had often Several Stories Houses: Law Respecting the Sale of Houses: Often Broken Down to Repair City Walls Before Sieges Houses: Often Built on City Walls Houses: Serpents often Lodged in Walls of Houses: Sometimes Built Without Foundation Houses: Street Windows of, High and Dangerous Houses: The Courts of, Large and Used As Apartments Houses: The Flat Roofs of had often Booths on Them Houses: The Flat Roofs of had often Idolatrous Altars on Them Houses: The Flat Roofs of Often Covered With Week Grass Houses: The Flat Roofs of Resorted to in Grief Houses: The Flat Roofs of Surrounded With Battlements Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Devotion Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Drying Flax Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Exercise Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Making Proclamations Houses: The Flat Roofs of Used for Secret Conference Houses: Upper Apartments of, the Best, and Used for Entertainments Houses: when Finished Were Usually Dedicated Related Terms |
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