Topical Bible: Watchmen were Stationed: On the Walls of Cities

Bible > Topical > Watchmen were Stationed

◄ Watchmen were Stationed: On the Walls of Cities ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In ancient biblical times, watchmen played a crucial role in the defense and security of cities. Stationed on the walls, these vigilant sentinels were responsible for observing and reporting any approaching danger, whether it be an invading army or any other threat to the city's safety. The role of the watchman is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, symbolizing both physical and spiritual vigilance.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah 62:6 : "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 verse highlights the continuous duty of the watchmen, emphasizing their role in maintaining constant vigilance over the city. It also underscores the spiritual aspect of their duty, as they are associated with those who call upon the Lord, suggesting a dual role of physical and spiritual guardianship.

2. Ezekiel 33:6 : "But if the watchman sees the sword coming and fails to blow the trumpet to warn the people, and the sword comes and takes away a life, then that one is taken away in his iniquity, but I will hold the watchman accountable for his blood." This passage illustrates the grave responsibility placed upon the watchmen. Their duty to sound the alarm is not only a matter of civic duty but also a moral obligation, with severe consequences for negligence.

3. 2 Kings 9:17 : "Now the watchman was standing on the tower in Jezreel, and he saw the company of Jehu as he came, and said, 'I see a company.' And Joram said, 'Take a horseman and send him to meet them and let him say, "Is it peace?"'" This account demonstrates the practical function of the watchman in identifying and reporting the approach of individuals or groups, allowing the city's leaders to respond appropriately.

Symbolic and Spiritual Significance:

The role of the watchman extends beyond the physical realm, serving as a metaphor for spiritual vigilance and responsibility. In the prophetic books, watchmen are often depicted as those who are called to warn the people of impending spiritual danger and to call them to repentance. This spiritual dimension is evident in the writings of the prophets, where the watchman becomes a symbol of the prophetic voice, tasked with delivering God's messages to His people.

Responsibilities and Qualities:

Watchmen were expected to possess certain qualities, including alertness, reliability, and courage. Their position required them to remain awake and attentive, often during the night, to ensure the safety of the city. The effectiveness of a watchman depended on his ability to accurately perceive threats and communicate them promptly to the city's inhabitants and leaders.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near East, cities were often fortified with walls to protect against invasions and raids. The walls served as both a physical barrier and a vantage point for watchmen. The strategic placement of watchmen on these walls was a common practice, reflecting the military and administrative organization of the time. The presence of watchmen was a testament to the city's preparedness and vigilance in the face of potential threats.

In summary, the stationing of watchmen on the walls of cities in biblical times was a practice of great importance, both practically and symbolically. Their role as guardians and heralds of warning is a recurring theme in Scripture, serving as a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance, both in the physical and spiritual realms.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 62:6
I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: you that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Consecrated Ministry
... Their work has been likened to that of watchmen. In ancient times sentinels were
often stationed on the walls of cities, where, from points of vantage, they ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 34 a consecrated ministry.htm

The Preacher as a Patriot.
... As the watchman, stationed on his tower over the city ... Thus did these watchmen search
out the moral and religious ... They were even, after doing God's work on His ...
/.../stalker/the preacher and his models/lecture iii the preacher as.htm

"The Time of Trouble. "
... But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every ... the cause of the oppressed
than were their ablest ... As the watchmen are accosted, "What of the night ...
/.../the great controversy between christ and satan /39 the time of trouble.htm

The Time of Trouble
... But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every ... the cause of the oppressed
than were their ablest ... As the watchmen are accosted, "What of the night ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the great controversy/chapter 39 the time of.htm