The Benjamin Gate is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of the city of Jerusalem. It is named after the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The gate likely served as an entry point on the northern side of Jerusalem, which bordered the territory of Benjamin. In Jeremiah 37:13 , the prophet Jeremiah is apprehended at the Benjamin Gate, indicating its importance as a place of passage and security: "But when he reached the Benjamin Gate, the captain of the guard, whose name was Irijah son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah, was there. He arrested Jeremiah the prophet, saying, 'You are deserting to the Chaldeans!'"

The gate's strategic location made it a critical point for defense and commerce, as it connected Jerusalem with the northern regions. It is also mentioned in Zechariah 14:10, which describes the future restoration and expansion of Jerusalem, highlighting the Benjamin Gate as a landmark in the city's topography.

First Gate

The First Gate is referenced in the book of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 14:10 , which states: "The whole land will be transformed into a plain from Geba to Rimmon, south of Jerusalem. But Jerusalem will be raised up and remain in its place, from the Benjamin Gate to the site of the First Gate, to the Corner Gate, and from the Tower of Hananel to the royal winepresses." This passage suggests that the First Gate was part of the city's fortifications and played a role in the delineation of Jerusalem's boundaries.

The exact location and historical details of the First Gate are not extensively documented in the biblical text, but its mention alongside other significant landmarks indicates its importance in the city's structure. It may have been one of the earlier gates constructed during the expansion of Jerusalem, serving as a point of entry and exit for the inhabitants and visitors of the city.

Corner Gate

The Corner Gate is another notable gate of Jerusalem, mentioned in several biblical passages. In 2 Kings 14:13 , it is recorded that King Jehoash of Israel broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Ephraim Gate to the Corner Gate, a distance of about four hundred cubits. This event underscores the Corner Gate's role in the city's defenses and its vulnerability during times of conflict.

The Corner Gate is also mentioned in 2 Chronicles 26:9, where King Uzziah is credited with fortifying Jerusalem, including the construction of towers at the Corner Gate. This indicates the gate's strategic importance in the city's military architecture. Additionally, in Jeremiah 31:38 , the Corner Gate is part of the prophetic vision of Jerusalem's future expansion: "'The days are coming,' declares the LORD, 'when this city will be rebuilt for Me, from the Tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate.'"

The Corner Gate's repeated mention in the context of Jerusalem's fortifications and prophetic visions highlights its significance in the biblical narrative as a symbol of strength and divine promise for the city.