Topical Bible: Watchmen were Relieved by Turns

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Topical Encyclopedia

In ancient Israel, the role of a watchman was crucial for the safety and security of cities and communities. Watchmen were stationed on city walls, towers, or other strategic locations to observe and report any approaching danger, such as enemy armies or other threats. The practice of watchmen being relieved by turns ensured that there was always a vigilant eye on the horizon, maintaining constant vigilance and readiness.

Biblical References and Context

The concept of watchmen is mentioned throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in both a literal and metaphorical sense. In Isaiah 62:6 , the prophet declares, "On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest." This passage underscores the continuous duty of watchmen, who were expected to remain alert and active at all times.

The practice of being relieved by turns is implied in the structure of their duties. In Nehemiah 4:22-23 , during the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, Nehemiah instructs, "At that time I also said to the people, 'Let every man and his servant stay inside Jerusalem at night, so they can serve as guards by night and workers by day.' Neither I nor my brothers nor my men nor the guards with me took off our clothes; each had his weapon, even when he went for water." This passage suggests a system of shifts, where individuals took turns guarding and working, ensuring that the city was protected at all times.

Symbolic and Spiritual Significance

Beyond their practical role, watchmen also held symbolic and spiritual significance in the Bible. They were often seen as representatives of spiritual vigilance and moral responsibility. Ezekiel 33:7 states, "As for you, son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me." Here, the prophet Ezekiel is appointed as a spiritual watchman, tasked with warning the people of Israel about impending judgment and calling them to repentance.

The notion of being relieved by turns can also be applied to the spiritual life of believers. Just as physical watchmen needed rest and support, spiritual watchmen—those who pray, intercede, and uphold the faith—require the support and participation of the entire community. This communal responsibility ensures that the spiritual well-being of the community is maintained without ceasing.

Practical Implications

The system of watchmen being relieved by turns reflects a practical approach to maintaining security and vigilance. It acknowledges human limitations and the need for rest, while also emphasizing the importance of continuous protection. This principle can be applied to various aspects of life, including spiritual disciplines, community responsibilities, and leadership roles.

In summary, the practice of watchmen being relieved by turns is a testament to the balance between human effort and divine oversight. It serves as a reminder of the need for constant vigilance, both in the physical and spiritual realms, and the importance of communal participation in safeguarding the well-being of the community.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Nehemiah 7:3
And I said to them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against his house.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Advance of Xerxes into Greece.
... of wounded men writhing in agony, of watchmen and sentinels ... Their suspense was very
soon relieved by a messenger ... and smaller vessels of the fleet were put into ...
//christianbookshelf.org/abbott/xerxes/chapter viii the advance of.htm

From his Entrance on the Ministry in 1815, to his Commission to ...
... we find his commission as one of the Lord's watchmen sealed upon ... thou hast now in
view, to get relieved in some ... And when his eyes were opened, what did he see? ...
/.../chapter ii from his entrance.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... bosom for charity. Here the proselytes were entertained, here the beggars
were relieved, and received alms. These gates were seldom ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Close of the Theban Empire --(Continued)
... roof furnished shelter for the watchmen.* The outermost ... the West!" formed the basis,
relieved at intervals ... or slaves of the deceased were, therefore, obliged ...
/.../chapter ithe close of the.htm