Jump to: Smith's • ISBE • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "canopy" is often associated with protection, covering, and divine presence. The concept of a canopy appears in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing both physical and spiritual shelter.Old Testament References The Hebrew word often translated as "canopy" is "chuppah," which can denote a bridal chamber or a protective covering. In Isaiah 4:5-6, the prophet speaks of a canopy as a symbol of God's protection over His people: "Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over her assemblies a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; for over all the glory there will be a canopy. It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain" . Here, the canopy represents God's presence and His safeguarding of Jerusalem, reminiscent of the pillar of cloud and fire that guided the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 13:21-22). The imagery of a canopy is also present in the context of marriage. In ancient Jewish tradition, a chuppah is a wedding canopy under which a couple stands during their marriage ceremony, symbolizing the home they will build together. This tradition finds its roots in biblical times, reflecting the intimate and covenantal relationship between God and His people, often depicted as a marriage (Hosea 2:19-20). New Testament Implications While the New Testament does not explicitly use the term "canopy," the concept of divine protection and covering is evident. In the person of Jesus Christ, believers find their ultimate refuge and shelter. The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 1:13-14 about the Holy Spirit as a seal and guarantee of our inheritance, providing a spiritual covering and assurance of God's promises. The imagery of a canopy can also be seen in the eschatological hope of the New Jerusalem, where God's presence will dwell with His people eternally. Revelation 21:3 states, "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This ultimate fulfillment of God's protective presence is akin to a divine canopy over His redeemed creation. Symbolism and Theological Significance Theologically, the canopy serves as a powerful symbol of God's covenantal relationship with His people. It signifies His commitment to protect, guide, and dwell among them. The canopy is a reminder of the divine shelter provided to believers, both in their earthly journey and in the eternal promise of God's kingdom. In a broader sense, the canopy reflects the overarching theme of God's sovereignty and care. Just as a physical canopy offers shade and protection, God's presence provides spiritual security and peace. This imagery encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to seek refuge under His divine covering, assured of His faithfulness and love. Smith's Bible Dictionary CanopyJudith 10:21; 13:9; 16:19. The canopy of Holofernes is the only one mentioned. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A covering fixed over a bed, dais, or the like, or carried on poles over an exalted personage or a sacred object, etc. chiefly as a mark of honor.2. (n.) An ornamental projection, over a door, window, niche, etc. 3. (n.) Also, a rooflike covering, supported on pillars over an altar, a statue, a fountain, etc. 4. (v. t.) To cover with, or as with, a canopy. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CANOPYkan'-o-pi (chuppah, from a root meaning "to enclose" or "cover"): Isaiah 4:5 the King James Version has "defence," the English Revised Version "canopy," the American Standard Revised Version "covering," the last being best, though "canopy" has much in its favor. In Psalm 19:5 (Hebrew 19:6) chuppah is used of the bridegroom's chamber and in Joel 2:16 of the bride's. Among the Hebrews the chuppah was originally the chamber in which the bride awaited the groom for the marital union. In Judith 10:21; 13:9, 15; 16:19 the word canopy occurs as the English equivalent of the Greek konopeion, which was primarily a mosquito-net and then a canopy over a bed, whether for useful or for decorative purposes. Strong's Hebrew 8237. shaphrur -- perhaps splendor, pavilion, canopy... shaphrur or shaphrir. 8238 . perhaps splendor, pavilion, canopy. Transliteration: shaphrur or shaphrir Phonetic Spelling: (shaf-roor') Short Definition: canopy ... /hebrew/8237.htm - 6k 2646. chuppah -- a canopy, chamber 6632. tsab -- a litter 5521. sukkah -- a thicket, booth 6210. eres -- a couch, divan Library The Royal Pair in their Glorious Chariot The Seventh vision "In Heaven" The Dream of St. Ursula The Friend Whose Years do not Fail. Rev. W. Arthur, MA All Mankind Guilty; Or, Every Man Knows More than He Practises. The Adventure of the Three Sons of Saint George. The Early Life of St. Joseph One of Paul's Prayers The Good Samaritan There are Certain Moments in Life which Seem Weighted with the ... Thesaurus Canopy (8 Occurrences)... 3. (n.) Also, a rooflike covering, supported on pillars over an altar, a statue, a fountain, etc. 4. (vt) To cover with, or as with, a canopy. Int. ...CANOPY. ... /c/canopy.htm - 10k Vault (2 Occurrences) Tester (5 Occurrences) Pavilion (11 Occurrences) State (51 Occurrences) Glow (3 Occurrences) Tilt (2 Occurrences) Throne (181 Occurrences) Dais (3 Occurrences) Bonnet (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the canopy theory? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the firmament in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did the people in Genesis live such long lives? | GotQuestions.org Canopy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Canopy (8 Occurrences)2 Samuel 22:12 1 Kings 7:6 2 Kings 16:18 Psalms 18:11 Isaiah 4:5 Isaiah 40:22 Jeremiah 43:10 Ezekiel 41:25 Subtopics Related Terms Unintelligible (3 Occurrences) |
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