Topical Encyclopedia The walls of Jerusalem hold significant historical, theological, and symbolic importance throughout the biblical narrative. These fortifications have been central to the city's defense, identity, and spiritual symbolism, representing both physical protection and divine presence.Historical Background The earliest mention of Jerusalem's walls can be traced back to the Jebusites, the original inhabitants of the city. When King David captured Jerusalem, he established it as the capital of Israel, fortifying the city and expanding its walls (2 Samuel 5:6-9). Under King Solomon, the city walls were further enhanced as part of his extensive building projects, which included the construction of the First Temple (1 Kings 3:1). The walls of Jerusalem faced numerous sieges and destructions throughout history. The most notable destruction occurred in 586 BC when the Babylonians, under King Nebuchadnezzar, breached the walls, leading to the city's fall and the subsequent Babylonian exile (2 Kings 25:10). The walls lay in ruins until the return of the Jewish exiles. Reconstruction under Nehemiah The reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls is a pivotal event recorded in the Book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah, a Jewish cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes, received permission to return to Jerusalem and rebuild its walls. Despite opposition from surrounding enemies, Nehemiah led the people in this monumental task, completing the walls in just 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15). This rebuilding effort was not only a physical restoration but also a spiritual renewal for the Jewish people, symbolizing God's faithfulness and protection. Symbolic Significance In the biblical narrative, the walls of Jerusalem symbolize more than mere physical barriers. They represent God's protection and the sanctity of the city. The psalmist declares, "As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people both now and forevermore" (Psalm 125:2). This imagery underscores the divine safeguarding of Jerusalem and its inhabitants. The walls also serve as a metaphor for spiritual fortification. In Isaiah, the prophet speaks of salvation as walls and bulwarks: "In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: 'We have a strong city; He sets up salvation as walls and ramparts'" (Isaiah 26:1). This highlights the idea that true security comes from God’s deliverance and righteousness. Prophetic and Eschatological Views Prophetically, the walls of Jerusalem are significant in eschatological visions. The Book of Revelation describes the New Jerusalem with great, high walls, symbolizing the eternal security and glory of God's redeemed people (Revelation 21:12). This vision reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His kingdom. Conclusion The walls of Jerusalem, throughout biblical history, have been a testament to the city's resilience, the faithfulness of God, and the spiritual fortitude of His people. They continue to be a powerful symbol of divine protection and the hope of restoration. Subtopics of the Cities Walls of Babylon of the Cities Walls of Bashan, Destroyed by the Israelites of the Cities Walls of Beth-Shan of the Cities Walls of Jericho of the Cities Walls of the New Jerusalem of the Cities Walls: Houses Built Upon Walls of Cities were Battered by Besieging Armies Walls of Cities were Broad and Places of Public Resort Walls of Cities were Strongly Manned in War Walls of Cities: Adroitness of Soldiers in Scaling Alluded To Walls of Cities: Custom of Dedicating Walls of Cities: Danger of Approaching Too Near To, in Time of War Walls of Cities: Destruction of, a Punishment and Cause of Grief Walls of Cities: Frequently Laid in Ruins Walls of Cities: had Towers Built on Them Walls of Cities: Houses often Built On Walls of Cities: Houses Sometimes Broken Down to Repair, and Fortify Walls of Cities: Idolatrous Rites Performed On Walls of Cities: Kept by Watchmen Night and Day Walls of Cities: Often Very High Walls of Cities: Persons Let Down From Walls of Cities: Sometimes Burned Walls of Cities: Strongly Fortified Walls of Cities: The Bodies of Enemies Sometimes Fastened On, As a Disgrace Walls of Cities: The Falling of, Sometimes Occasioned Great Destruction Walls of Houses: Could be Easily Dug Through Walls of Houses: had Nails or Pegs Fastened Into Them when Built Walls of Houses: Liable to Leprosy Walls of Houses: Often Infested With Serpents Walls of Houses: The Seat Next, Was the Place of Distinction Walls of Houses: Usually Plastered Walls of Ordinances As a Protection to the Church Walls of the Church As a Protection to the Nation Walls of the Protection of God Walls of the Wealth of the Rich in his own Conceit Walls of Those Who Afford Protection Walls were Probably often Strengthened With Plates of Iron or Brass Walls: (Bowing or Tottering) of the Wicked Under Judgments Walls: (Brazen) of Prophets in Their Testimony Against the Wicked Walls: (Daubed With Untempered Mortar) of the Teaching of False Walls: (Of Partition) Separation of Jews and Gentiles Walls: Designed for Separation Walls: Frequently Made of Stone and Wood Together Walls: Hyssop Frequently Grew On Walls: Miracles Connected With: Falling of the Walls of Jericho Walls: Miracles Connected With: Handwriting on the Wall of Belshazzar's Palace Walls: Small Towns and Villages Were not Surrounded By Related Terms |
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